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Debating between CenturyLink and Xfinity for internet service? Each provider offers similar perks and pricing. However, there are a few key differences between their plans, like internet speeds and availability, that may sway you one way or the other. Keep reading to figure out which provider is right for you.
Internet Plans
Our Picks |  |  |
|---|---|---|
Price Range | $30/mo. – $70/mo. | $19.99/mo. – $299.95/mo. |
Speed Range | 20 Mbps – 940 Mbps | 50 Mbps – 3000 Mbps |
Data Caps | No | Yes |
Equipment Lease Fee | $0 – $15 | $14/mo. – $25/mo. |
| Check Availability | Check Availability |
Pricing, speeds, offers, and availability vary by service address and are subject to change at any time. Additional fees, taxes, and terms may apply. As of 11/08/22. Paperless billing is required for CenturyLink. CenturyLink offer details.
CenturyLink Internet Plans
CenturyLink internet plans have straightforward pricing and bonus perks like unlimited data and no annual contracts. While most service areas have DSL internet access, CenturyLink is growing its fiber network to include speeds up to 940 Mbps to more homes.
Xfinity Internet Plans
Xfinity is the biggest cable provider in the United States, serving customers across 40 states. It offers a variety of plans and services, including internet, cable TV, phone, and home security. Xfinity’s packages are customizable and come with added perks like state-of-the-art equipment and built-in internet security. Customers even get access to more than 8 million free Xfinity WiFi hotspots.
Internet Features
Both providers have a lot to offer customers. From generous data allowances to customizable packages, we think you’ll find something that suits your digital needs. Check out the main features of each to see which one fits your needs.
Data Allowance
CenturyLink has no data caps on any of its internet plans and touts 99.9% network reliability (based on network uptime or availability). Browse the internet, stream media, and game online without any overage fees hanging over your head.
Data Allowance
With the exception of its Gigabit plan, all Xfinity plans have a 1.25 TB data cap. However, Xfinity does offer unlimited data for an additional monthly charge.
Optional Contracts
You won’t have to worry about contracts for the majority of CenturyLink’s internet plans. Have peace of mind knowing your monthly bill is not a promotional rate.
Optional Contracts
Xfinity does require contracts, but it also offers contract-free options at a slightly increased cost per month.
Internet Security
CenturyLink offers Secure WiFi on leased modems and McAfee products for all of its internet plans. These services are included in your monthly bill.
Internet Security
All Xfinity internet plans include advanced security that protects against cyber threats, allows for user profiles, and parental control management and monitoring.
Free WiFi Hotspots
CenturyLink does not offer free WiFi hotspots at this time.
Free WiFi Hotspots
Xfinity has over 8 million free hotspots nationwide. You will have no problem staying connected just about anywhere.
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Data Allowance
CenturyLink has no data caps on any of its internet plans and touts 99.9% network reliability (based on network uptime or availability). Browse the internet, stream media, and game online without any overage fees hanging over your head.
Optional Contracts
You won’t have to worry about contracts for the majority of CenturyLink’s internet plans. Have peace of mind knowing your monthly bill is not a promotional rate.
Internet Security
CenturyLink offers Secure WiFi on leased modems and McAfee products for all of its internet plans. These services are included in your monthly bill.
Free WiFi Hotspots
CenturyLink does not offer free WiFi hotspots at this time.
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Data Allowance
With the exception of its Gigabit plan, all Xfinity plans have a 1.25 TB data cap. However, Xfinity does offer unlimited data for an additional monthly charge.
Optional Contracts
Xfinity does require contracts, but it also offers contract-free options at a slightly increased cost per month.
Internet Security
All Xfinity internet plans include advanced security that protects against cyber threats, allows for user profiles, and parental control management and monitoring.
Free WiFi Hotspots
Xfinity has over 8 million free hotspots nationwide. You will have no problem staying connected just about anywhere.
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Internet Fees
CenturyLink and Xfinity are neck-and-neck in most categories, but their internet fees do vary. It’s important to know what these include so you’re not caught by surprise when your bill rolls around each month. We break down the most common charges to expect with each provider to help put your mind at ease.
Unlimited Data Upgrade
There is no need to upgrade to unlimited data with CenturyLink because it’s already included in your monthly bill. Most of CenturyLink’s internet plans have unlimited data.
Unlimited Data Upgrade
If you need more than 1.2 TB of data, you can upgrade your plan to include unlimited data for an extra $30 per month, or purchase xFi complete for $25 per month, which includes unlimited data and xFi gateway.
Installations
Some CenturyLink plans include professional installation while other plans have a one-time installation fee up to $149.
Installations
Xfinity customers can pay a one-time fee of $89.99 for a professional installation or install service themselves for free with the Xfinity app, no activation fee required.
Equipment Rental
Some plans include equipment, and others have a $15/mo equipment rental charge. Customers may also use their own equipment.
Equipment Rental
Xfinity customers can use any of these third-party approved routers or pay between $14 – $25 per month to rent a router.
Early Termination
CenturyLink does not have early termination fees. The majority of its internet plans do not have annual contracts for easy cancellation when needed.
Early Termination
If you wish to cancel your Xfinity service before your contract is up, you may be charged an early termination fee of up to $230 (prorated monthly).
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Unlimited Data Upgrade
There is no need to upgrade to unlimited data with CenturyLink because it’s already included in your monthly bill. Most of CenturyLink’s internet plans have unlimited data.
Installations
Some CenturyLink plans include professional installation while other plans have a one-time installation fee up to $149.
Equipment Rental
Some plans include equipment, and others have a $15/mo equipment rental charge. Customers may also use their own equipment.
Early Termination
CenturyLink does not have early termination fees. The majority of its internet plans do not have annual contracts for easy cancellation when needed.
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Unlimited Data Upgrade
If you need more than 1.2 TB of data, you can upgrade your plan to include unlimited data for an extra $30 per month, or purchase xFi complete for $25 per month, which includes unlimited data and xFi gateway.
Installations
Xfinity customers can pay a one-time fee of $89.99 for a professional installation or install service themselves for free with the Xfinity app, no activation fee required.
Equipment Rental
Xfinity customers can use any of these third-party approved routers or pay between $14 – $25 per month to rent a router.
Early Termination
If you wish to cancel your Xfinity service before your contract is up, you may be charged an early termination fee of up to $230 (prorated monthly).
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Deals & Promotions
Picking a Provider
Xfinity offers fantastic speeds and availability. However, CenturyLink offers slightly better options related to straightforward pricing and rural internet. Check out which user each provider is best suited for based on their offerings.
CenturyLink: Great for Flexibility
Although both providers offer a variety of internet plans and bundle options, CenturyLink does not require annual contracts. Not only will you not run into early termination fees if something comes up, but your monthly fees won’t increase over time. In addition, CenturyLink internet has more availability in rural areas than Xfinity.
Xfinity: Great for Availability & Top Speeds
While both Xfinity and CenturyLink offer blazing-fast speeds, Xfinity internet has superior bandwidth and symmetrical speeds up to 3,000 Mbps. The Gigabit internet plan, although steep at $299.95/month, will give you all the speed you need and then some. If you frequently stream shows, work from home, or game a lot at home, Xfinity is the way to go.
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