Comcast Xfinity Internet Review 2021
Pricing & Packages | Modem & Router | Features | Customer Service | Final Recommendation
If you live within Comcast’s service area (and you likely do), this cable internet provider is a pretty good value. Although customer service leaves something to be desired, there are plenty of no-contract plans available with fast speeds and reasonable price tags. The Gateway modem/router with the xFi interface has a lot of cool features, especially for parents. Overall, Xfinity deserves a closer look from everyone from single apartment dwellers to big families.
- Industry leading download speeds
- Flexible installation process
- Good bundle pricing
- Poor customer service
- Constantly trying to up-sell you
Packages and Pricing
Packages | Download Speeds | Capability | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Performance Starter | Up to 10 Mbps | 1 Device | $49.99/mo no contract |
Performance Internet | Up to 25 Mbps | 2-5 Devices | $29.99/mo for 12 months, 74.95 after, no contract |
Blast! | Up to 50 Mbps | 8+ Devices | $87.95/mo, no contract |
Performance Pro Internet | Up to 100 Mbps | 6-8 Devices | $84.95/mo, no contract |
Extreme Pro | Up to 400 Mbps | 12+ Devices | $69.99/ mo for 12 months, 99.95 after, no contract |
Gigabit | Up to 1000 Mbps | Unlimited Devices | $79.99/mo for 12, 104.95 after, no contract |
Gigabit Pro | Up to 2000 Mbps | Unlimited Devices | $225/mo with 2 year agreement |
Prices based on 19 Brimbal Ave, 01915 (packages, prices vary based on location)
Comcast Xfinity offers lots of different internet packages, but the selection of plans and pricing depends on where you live. The majority of Xfinity’s internet plans are cable, which is widely available throughout the US (Xfinity serves over 25 million internet customers, making it the largest provider in the US1). There is also a fiber plan, Gigabit Pro, which delivers download speeds up to 2,000 Mbps. However, “Gigabit Pro service is only available within one third of a mile of Comcast’s fiber network and requires custom installation. Installation may require 6 to 8 weeks or more to complete.”2 It’s also going to cost you $225 a month and require a 2 year contract.
For most internet users, the cable options Xfinity provides are more than enough. For light internet users who don’t stream a lot of HD video, game online, or share service with family members or roommates, Performance Starter (download speeds up to 10 Mbps) will work.
Bigger households that want to use more devices at once should look at upgrading to a Blast! or Performance Pro plan. There are even faster packages; for most families there’s no need for more than 100 Mbps speeds. Because of Xfinity’s varied pricing structure, contract options and new customer deals, it may be less expensive to go with a faster plan.
In the pricing chart above, you’ll see that it’s actually a better option to choose the 100 Mbps plan over the 50 Mbps package by a few dollars. Cheaper than both those plans is the 400 Mbps Extreme Pro, thanks to a 12 month new customer deal. Always check every plan’s fine print and price guarantees to determine which plan delivers the best value for your needs.
For packages with a price lock, it’s worth calling Xfinity near the end of your first 12 months to request that your bill not increase. Be prepared to quote the competition’s current offer and be put on hold a few times. It’s worth it though, so be patient!
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xfinity#Comcast_Internet_availability_by_state
- https://www.xfinity.com/learn/offers
Xfinity’s Data Limits
All of Xfinity’s cable plans, except in the state of Maine, have a data limit of 1 Terabyte (1024 GB) per month. This is a huge data limit that you likely won’t reach in a month; it is a data limit nonetheless. If, somehow, you do reach the 1 TB data limit in any given month, you’ll be charged $10 for each additional 50 GB of data. These extra charges will never be more than $200, but that’s a pretty hefty addition on to any monthly bill. If you’re regularly exceeding the data limit by more than 250 GB ($50), consider going with the Unlimited Data Option, which costs $50 extra per month.
Your Modem and Router
When you subscribe to an Xfinity internet plan you’ll be asked if you’d like to add on their modem/router combo for an extra $10 per month. This is common; most internet providers would rather you go with their modem and/or router than use your own. Should you go with Xfinity’s option or buy your own?
Xfinity xFi Gateway
The xFi Gateway is Xfinity’s modem/router combination. What this means is that it provides a connection point for your Xfinity internet service inside your home, as well as turns that wired internet connection into WiFi for wireless use throughout your house.
With the Gateway, you can manage your WiFi via the xFi app or website. If you have Comcast’s TV service with the X1 DVR, you can control your modem/router from the DVR as well. Using the xFi interface you can see what devices are using your WiFi and how long they’ve been on the network.
The Gateway and xFi interface seem to be designed with parents in mind. After you set up device profiles, you can pause WiFi to individual devices and set time limits on them. There are also built-in internet parental controls for safer browsing.
Xfinity includes the option to receive alerts when new devices join the Gateway’s network. For guests, set up a home hotspot called “xfinitywifi” so you don’t have to share your WiFi password. It’s possible to disable this feature, which is good, because the way Xfinity describes it, it sounds like any Xfinity subscriber can join the “xfinitywifi” network broadcast by your Gateway.
Buy Your Own Modem and Router
It’s also an option to provide your own modem and router. Xfinity has a website that lets you plug in your zip code and the speed of your internet plan to get recommendations on compatible devices.
Plenty of modems and modem/router combinations were presented when we inputted our zip code and the advertised speed of our package. Suggested brands included Arris, Motorola and Netgear, which are widely available in stores and online.
Features and Benefits
Constant Guard
Xfinity’s internet plans offer Constant Guard, a comprehensive security plan that includes a subscription to Norton Security Suite. This lets you keep your computer safe from viruses and spam at no extra cost, which is a good deal.
Parental Controls
As mentioned above, the parental controls included in the Gateway’s xFi interface are fairly all-inclusive. You can limit WiFi availability immediately through the app, or during preset times throughout the day, like homework time and bedtime. It’s also easy to see who’s home based on which devices are connected to your WiFi. This is all on top of the ability to restrict certain websites and other basic parental controls.
Free WiFi Hotspots
If you have an Xfinity internet plan 25 Mbps and above, you also have access to over 18 million free WiFi hotspots nationwide. Just select “xfinitywifi” from the list of available networks and use the Xfinity WiFi app to keep your personal information safe while using the public network.
Email Accounts
Any Xfinity internet plan includes up to 7 email accounts with 10 GB of data storage. If for some reason you’d rather not use Gmail or Yahoo!, this is a nice perk.
Add Xfinity Mobile
Your internet plan includes 5 lines of unlimited talk and text for free. You just pay for your data – either $12 per GB or $45 per line for unlimited data (after 20 GB, your speeds will likely be reduced). With access to so many free WiFi hotspots, you may be able to get away with just a few GB of data every month. This is a deal where you want to read all the fine print and ask a lot of questions so you don’t end up paying more for your mobile phone than you would getting a plan from another provider!
Low Income Internet Plans
Comcast offers an Internet Essentials plan for families “with at least one child eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program.”1 Internet Essentials includes 15 Mbps download speeds with 2 Mbps upload speeds for $9.95 a month (plus taxes). There are no activation fees and the Gateway modem/router is included at no extra charge.
Customer Service
Xfinity customer service is not known for being especially knowledgeable or willing to help existing customers. If you’re signing up for a new internet plan, it’s likely the best customer service you’ll receive throughout your time with Xfinity.
Two hour installation and appointment windows are offered, with a $20 credit if Xfinity’s installers are late. While $20 isn’t going to make up for the missed time at work and inconvenience, it will pay a decent part of your monthly internet bill.
You can contact Xfinity 24/7 for customer support, which is nice for late night or early morning internet problems. There’s a phone number, online chat and their @ComcastCares Twitter account. The customer service website also lets subscribers know they can write a letter under “Other ways to get in touch.” I doubt this is particularly effective, but it is apparently an option.
Ways to Save on Xfinity
Buy Your Own Modem
Bypassing the Gateway modem/router combination will save you $10 per month. If you already have a compatible router or plan on purchasing one for less than $120 (which is completely reasonable), you’ll save money within a year.
Keep in mind that while choosing your own router and buying it outright will save you money over the coming months and years, you’ll lose support from Comcast. They’re not going to guarantee performance of a third party modem. Xfinity will try to sell you on the Gateway with 24/7 customer support and the customization abilities of xFi.
Bundle TV and Internet
Like most providers, Xfinity offers TV and internet bundles, as well as the option to add home phone and security. These bundles will save you money over the life of the promotional deal, often adding in TV for almost nothing once you’ve purchased internet. You can also add a mobile phone plan for little-to-nothing!
Install your own Internet
Depending on where you live and what plan you choose, professional installation will run you around $60. Installing your service yourself is free and isn’t very complicated.
Flexible Data Option
If you’re considering a lower-tier plan (Economy Plus or Performance Starter) and use less than 5 GB of data every month, you’ll get a $5 credit on your account every month. However, if you use over 5 GB of data, you’ll pay an extra $1 for each additional GB.
Our Recommendation
For families that want cable internet, Xfinity is a good choice. There are plenty of plans to choose from, with download speeds ranging from 10 to 400+ Mbps. The affordability of these plans depends on your location. For some communities, choosing a faster speed may in fact save you money over the next few years.
If you plan on bundling TV and internet (and possibly other services), Xfinity is a great deal and does a good job of integrating equipment, including the xFi Gateway, X1 DVR and security systems. Going with a single provider for all your communication needs will also likely get you a good deal.
Overall, Xfinity delivers value and reliable speeds, which is exactly what you need from your internet provider!
Paul Bartley - August 27, 2019 @ 00:48
I have been using Blast! With my Xfinity triple play package for more than a year now and there are 7 different devices connected to the internet in my home and we have never crossed my data limit. It is pocket-friendly too. If you are looking for an internet connection I would totally suggest you Xfinity internet bundle.
I have been using Blast! With my Xfinity triple play package for more than a year now and there are 7 different devices connected to the internet in my home and we have never crossed my data limit. It is pocket-friendly too. If you are looking for an
Sheila Burton - December 27, 2019 @ 19:04
I had internet essential for 3years now and Comcast charged me there with what they added on and now I have no internet either bill is $179.70 and raising
Mark C - January 26, 2020 @ 05:33
I’ve had Xfinity for 4 years. It started as an all exclusive package for $99 a year, they assured me that is all I would pay. It was loaded with every channel and movie upgrade. Each hear I have to try to get a new promos and end up paying more. There is no loyalty with xfinity. Rather than give customers who stick it out discounts, they constantly up sell and are not super helpful when needing to change plans. Recently my plan was going from $126 to $175. They kept trying to tie voip phone into my plan which I can’t use and I don’t want to use their Xfi modems with voip. The best they could do was $145 month for standard cable and 300mbs Internet. The next day I went online and found a plan with 600mbs service internet and full cable, with showtime and premier plus for $135. It’s kind of a joke really. They just want everyone using their tech so they can broadcast their xfinty everywhere. I use their cell service and will say we do save allot at $12 per gig a month per line. That’s about all they have good going for them.
I’ve had Xfinity for 4 years. It started as an all exclusive package for $99 a year, they assured me that is all I would pay. It was loaded with every channel and movie upgrade. Each hear I have to try to get a new promos and end up paying more. Th
Steve cooper - June 16, 2020 @ 21:03
Xfinity – YOU SUCK ! I have 2 neighbors on Xfinity , your main cable ended only 400′ from my house , & for me to get internet only , you are wanting to screw me over out of $1200 for installation , $200 for the cable modem / router & the $63 / month besides ! How do you expect to get new customers when you treat people like that ? AND that has been the situation for over 25 YEARS already of lost revenue from me and an entire street over from me ! How much more short sighted can you possibly be ! This $20 or $40 deals for internet , etc , is nothing but false advertising , a “come-on” scam !
Xfinity – YOU SUCK ! I have 2 neighbors on Xfinity , your main cable ended only 400′ from my house , & for me to get internet only , you are wanting to screw me over out of $1200 for installation , $200 for the cable modem / router
Cesar Gonzalez - July 7, 2020 @ 23:05
Since changing my internet to 600 mbps in xfinity has been the worst thing that has happened to me since the service provided by this company is the worst, I am connected for a while and after a few minutes the connection drops and I am left without I do not know what to do and I have called a lot of times and it is the most difficult thing to communicate with this company, when I finally logo communicate with someone from technical support and the fault has been resolved, I have more than 6 months with this problem and these inept xfinity internet are unable to solve this problem because for them nothing is happening
desde que cambie mi internet a 600 mbps en xfinity a sido lo peor que me a pasado ya que el servicio que presta enta compania es de lo peor, estoy conectado por un tiempo y al cabo de unos minutos se cae la conexion y me quedo sin servico de dorma intinerante ya no se que hacer e llamado un monton de veces y es la cosa mas difil de comunicar con esta compania, cuando por fin logo comunicarme con alguien de soportetecnico ya la falla se a resuelto, ya tengo mas de 6 meses con este problema y estos ineptos de xfinity internet son incapaces de resolver este problema porque para ellos no esta pasando nada
Since changing my internet to 600 mbps in xfinity has been the worst thing that has happened to me since the service provided by this company is the worst, I am connected for a while and after a few minutes the connection drops and I am left without
Comcast User - November 6, 2020 @ 19:09
They are very much a monopoly around my area. Closest competitor is AT&T and they only offer 25Mbps. Prices are outrageous for having data caps. I’ve been begging a company that services fiber to businesses to come in and service residential areas. My addition actually bumps up against a couple of places that have fiber internet.
They are very much a monopoly around my area. Closest competitor is AT&T and they only offer 25Mbps. Prices are outrageous for having data caps. I’ve been begging a company that services fiber to businesses to come in and service residen
Ima Kidder - December 8, 2020 @ 18:49
Our data usage surged from an average 450 GB to over 900 GB and warning of added $10/50 GB charges whether over by 1 or 49 GB. We’re Essential income qualified meaning we’re already at a difficult economic disadvantage. Essential is bottom-rung as far as speed, with frequent throttling/disconnect issues. This added cap in an increasingly internet reliant, stay-at-home pandemic is insidious and here, defeats the intended benefit of Essential’s funded low-income Internet access program.
Our data usage surged from an average 450 GB to over 900 GB and warning of added $10/50 GB charges whether over by 1 or 49 GB. We’re Essential income qualified meaning we’re already at a difficult economic disadvantage. Essential is bottom-rung a