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You can’t go wrong with either Xfinity internet or Spectrum internet. Both offer extensive nationwide coverage and a variety of internet plans for any lifestyle. However, there are a few key differences between them, like internet speeds and data caps, that may sway your decision towards one or the other. Follow along to see what each provider has to offer.
- Same-day installations
- 8+ million free WiFi hotspots
- Unlimited data available
- Contract buyouts up to $500
- Free access to WiFi hotspots
- Nationwide availability
Internet Plans
Our Picks | | |
|---|---|---|
Staring Price | $19.99/mo. – $299.95/mo. | $49.99/mo. – $89.99/mo. |
Max Download | 50 Mbps – 3000 Mbps | 300 Mbps – 1000 Mbps |
Data Caps | Yes | No |
Equipment Fee | $14/mo. – $25/mo. | $5/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 6/14/22.
Xfinity Internet Plans
Xfinity is the largest cable internet provider in the US, with coverage in 40 states. Along with a strong variety of cable plans, Xfinity offers attractive TV, phone, and home security services. Customers will find add-ons and features like advanced internet security, cutting-edge equipment, and over 8 million free WiFi hotspots.
Spectrum Internet Plans
Spectrum also provides cable internet for a large portion of the US, covering 44 states. Customers will find plans configured for diverse lifestyles, all with unlimited data and low setup & installation fees. Like Xfinity, Spectrum provides free WiFi hotspots all over the US for its customers.
Internet Features
While Xfinity and Spectrum share many features across their plans, there are some important differences that may make or break your choice. Look through a comparison of each provider’s internet features below.
Data Caps
Xfinity has data limits on some internet plans. Customers get a 1.2 TB data allowance per month. Once passed, blocks of 50 GB will be added to your bill for $10 each plus tax.
Data Caps
With Spectrum, customers don’t need to worry about overage charges. All Spectrum plans have unlimited data.
Contract Length
Xfinity offers month-to-month, 12-month, and 24-month plans. Plan length varies by type of plan.
Contract Length
Spectrum does not require contracts, so customers don’t need to commit to any plan length.
Internet Security
Xfinity xFi Advanced Security Suite is an adaptive system that helps prevent phishing & malware attacks, monitoring devices and alerting users of threats.
Internet Security
The Spectrum Security Suite is a cloud-based system that protects against malicious attackers, helping users avoid a variety of phishing and malware threats.
WiFi Hotspots
Xfinity touts extensive coverage across the US, with more than 8 million free WiFi hotspots available to customers.
WiFi Hotspots
Although not quite as extensive as Xfinity, Spectrum offers customers more than 500,000 free WiFi hotspots across the US.
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Data Caps
Xfinity has data limits on some internet plans. Customers get a 1.2 TB data allowance per month. Once passed, blocks of 50 GB will be added to your bill for $10 each plus tax.
Contract Length
Xfinity offers month-to-month, 12-month, and 24-month plans. Plan length varies by type of plan.
Internet Security
Xfinity xFi Advanced Security Suite is an adaptive system that helps prevent phishing & malware attacks, monitoring devices and alerting users of threats.
WiFi Hotspots
Xfinity touts extensive coverage across the US, with more than 8 million free WiFi hotspots available to customers.
SHOW MORE
Data Caps
With Spectrum, customers don’t need to worry about overage charges. All Spectrum plans have unlimited data.
Contract Length
Spectrum does not require contracts, so customers don’t need to commit to any plan length.
Internet Security
The Spectrum Security Suite is a cloud-based system that protects against malicious attackers, helping users avoid a variety of phishing and malware threats.
WiFi Hotspots
Although not quite as extensive as Xfinity, Spectrum offers customers more than 500,000 free WiFi hotspots across the US.
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Internet Fees
When it comes to internet fees and features, Xfinity and Spectrum vary quite a bit. Check out the top internet features of each ISP below.
Price Increases
Xfinity guarantees fixed plan pricing for at least 12 months. After that, the original plan pricing will likely increase.
Price Increases
Like Xfinity, Spectrum offers at least 12 months of fixed plan pricing – but once the promotional period ends, the monthly price will increase.
Installations
Xfinity offers free self-installation and a one-time fee of $89.99 for a professional installation.
Installations
Spectrum may charge a small activation fee of $10 for a self-install and a $49.99 fee for professional installation.
Contracts & Termination Fees
Xfinity offers contract plans. If you decide you need to end your contract before your agreement expires, you may be charged an early termination fee of up to $120 (or $10 for every month left on your contract).
Contracts & Termination Fees
Customers need not worry about hidden termination fees. Spectrum does not require an annual contract or charge an ETF at all.
Equipment Rental
Xfinity charges a flat fee of $14 per month for its router. If you prefer to save money by using your own equipment, both Spectrum and Xfinity have no problem with it. Except with Xfinity, your router must be on its third-party list of approved equipment.
Equipment Rental
When it comes to renting your internet modem and/or router, Spectrum offers the best options. New Spectrum customers receive a free modem at sign-up, with the option to rent a modem/router combo for $5 per month.
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Price Increases
Xfinity guarantees fixed plan pricing for at least 12 months. After that, the original plan pricing will likely increase.
Installations
Xfinity offers free self-installation and a one-time fee of $89.99 for a professional installation.
Contracts & Termination Fees
Xfinity offers contract plans. If you decide you need to end your contract before your agreement expires, you may be charged an early termination fee of up to $120 (or $10 for every month left on your contract).
Equipment Rental
Xfinity charges a flat fee of $14 per month for its router. If you prefer to save money by using your own equipment, both Spectrum and Xfinity have no problem with it. Except with Xfinity, your router must be on its third-party list of approved equipment.
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Price Increases
Like Xfinity, Spectrum offers at least 12 months of fixed plan pricing – but once the promotional period ends, the monthly price will increase.
Installations
Spectrum may charge a small activation fee of $10 for a self-install and a $49.99 fee for professional installation.
Contracts & Termination Fees
Customers need not worry about hidden termination fees. Spectrum does not require an annual contract or charge an ETF at all.
Equipment Rental
When it comes to renting your internet modem and/or router, Spectrum offers the best options. New Spectrum customers receive a free modem at sign-up, with the option to rent a modem/router combo for $5 per month.
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Deals & Promotions
Your monthly bill just got better!
Save $10/mo. on your bill when you select paperless billing and sign up for auto payments! Xfinity Offer Details.
Picking a Provider
Xfinity offers great affordable internet plans. However, Spectrum offers slightly better options related to internet fees. Based on their offerings, check out which provider pairs best with your needs and lifestyle.
Xfinity: High-Speed User
Both internet service providers offer similar speed options – for both download and upload speeds. Yet, Xfinity offers more choices and a maximum speed of 1200 Mbps in select areas. High-speed internet like this is best for heavy users who stream videos, game online, work from home, or have multiple devices connected at once.
Spectrum: Budget Shopper
If you’re shopping on a budget, Spectrum internet plans may be for you. While its data rates are slightly higher than Xfinity, the equipment rental and installation fees are less. Depending on your plan, you’ll be able to save money through monthly fee and installation savings.
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