AT&T vs. Xfinity Internet Providers Compared

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AT&T Vs Xfinity

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Rosslyn Elliott

Written by Rosslyn Elliott - Pub. Jul. 27, 2023 / Updated Oct. 11, 2024

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AT&T Vs Xfinity

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Plans starting at: $55

Popular Package: AT&T FIBER - INTERNET 5000

Download speeds up to: 5 Gbps

Connection Types: Fiber & DSL

Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Plans starting at: $20

Popular Package: GIGABIT X2 2000 Mbps

Download speeds up to: 2 Gbps

Connection Types: Cable

Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190

AT&T Staff rating

4.8

Industry-leading fiber internet speeds and strong reliability from AT&T

AT&T Fiber can support all your data-intensive internet activities, now and in the future. AT&T continues to lead the industry with multi-gigabit (5000 Mbps) internet speeds available in select areas and more speed on the way. When you add no contracts, no equipment fees, no data caps, and a reputation for reliable customer service, AT&T is a superior choice for all-fiber internet. In areas where only AT&T copper service is available, customers should also check other options and compare speeds and pricing.

PROS

Good value on fast fiber speeds No data caps or equipment fees Highly rated customer service

Cons

Fiber not available in all areas Comparatively high prices on DSL/copper Fee charged if you choose pro installation
Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Xfinity Staff rating

3.5

Xfinity has great promotional prices, but higher long-term rates and fees

Xfinity is a giant cable internet service provider that offers coverage to tens of millions of households across the United States. Xfinity’s introductory plan prices are some of the best in the industry at around $20/month for 12-24 months for first-tier plans. After the promotional period, though, customers will need to be aware of significant price hikes, including equipment rental fees. Though Xfinity’s HFC (hybrid fiber-coaxial) technology can’t provide the full symmetrical speed of an all-fiber network, it can offer gigabit download speeds up to 2000 Mbps. That top speed will cost you $120 a month, but it will certainly support any residential internet need. In addition, in limited areas, Xfinity had a Gigabit Pro plan that is 100% fiber and up to 6 Gigs.

PROS

Widespread coverage across the nation Best promotional pricing for 1-2 years Gigabit download speeds

Cons

Pricing varies from region to region Big price hikes after promotional rates Typical cable upload speeds <35 Mbps
Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190

AT&T Pricing

4.5

AT&T Fiber internet is affordably priced given its high quality and dependability

AT&T offers reasonable fiber pricing with first-tier fiber internet plans currently starting around $55/month. AT&T won’t always offer you the lowest price for fiber in your area. But AT&T will offer you the low end of industry standard prices. For those prices, you’ll often get higher internet speeds from AT&T than from the competition. You will get good value for the internet speed you’re buying. AT&T Fiber’s advantage is that their fiber connections give you equal download and upload speeds. So, even if AT&T Fiber and a cable provider offer you the same price for a speed they both call “300 Mbps,” you will not be getting the same speeds from fiber and cable providers. All cable internet may have high download speeds, but has much slower upload speeds (usually around 10-20 Mbps). AT&T Fiber will give you the same upload speed as your download speed for your monthly price. Having upload speed equal to your download speed can make a big difference for real-time activities such as video streaming and gaming. Fiber also offers low latency, which you’ll see in a ping test. So overall, you are getting more for your money with a fiber internet plan, even when fiber and cable plans advertise the same prices and download speeds. There’s one drawback to AT&T’s pricing. AT&T’s copper-wired service (DSL/ IPBB) is priced at around the same as its first-tier fiber plan. This price is higher by Mbps given that copper service is much slower and less reliable than fiber. We hope AT&T will consider lowering the price of its copper service to give better value to DSL/IPBB customers.
Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Xfinity Pricing

3.0

Xfinity stands above the pack for its low initial pricing, but pay attention to the later price hikes and fees

Xfinity is the largest internet service provider in the United States, with 32 million broadband subscribers [1]. Xfinity is a subsidiary of cable giant Comcast. Company size and strength gives Xfinity the ability to offer very low promotional prices to consumers for a year or even two years. Xfinity’s promotional plans begin around $20/month. Here's the kicker: after a year or two, your promotional rate will end. At that point, your rate can go up by anywhere from $25 to $50 per month. And Xfinity pricing varies all over the country and is pretty complex in how it changes from plan to plan. By our evaluation standards, this lack of simplicity in pricing hurts Xfinity’s rating despite its great initial promotional rates. In addition, Xfinity’s lower-tier plans have data caps that apply under certain conditions. The data cap is 1.2 TB (terabytes) per month, which is enough to cover many households’ monthly usage without any trouble. However, the Benton Institute for Broadband and Society analyzed data from OpenVault to show that 14.6% of homes used more than 1 terabyte per month, and 2.4% used over 2 terabytes per month [2]. This data suggests that 1 in every 7 homes would run a risk of exceeding the Xfinity data cap. Comcast/Xfinity claims that it does not throttle internet and slow it down, however, Xfinity will charge you overage fees if you exceed your data cap [3]. Those fees can go up to a maximum of $100/month [4]. Odds are that you won’t exceed your data cap. But if you have lots of real-time gaming or heavy streaming in your household, the extra cost for data overage could really add up. With Xfinity's top tier plans, though, you will get unlimited data.
Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190

AT&T Reliability and Performance

5.0

Decades of growth give AT&T reliable infrastructure and sophisticated operations

As the third-largest ISP in the United States, AT&T has massive corporate size and history on its side. AT&T’s home internet serves over 100 metro areas in 22 states, with over 19 million fiber internet passings [1] [2]. AT&T provides strong infrastructure and tech support. With 99% reliability for your internet connection, AT&T Fiber service is less likely to be disrupted by outages or slowdowns than many other internet providers [3]. AT&T’s reliability rating is higher than some other ISPs because AT&T customers do not have to work with internet data caps. Many internet service providers have soft data caps. When you hit your data allowance for the month, your ISP will throttle your internet. Your internet speed will slow down to the point that only the simplest email tasks will be possible. You won’t be able to do complex web browsing, streaming, or your other usual internet tasks. In other words, your internet will become unreliable when you hit the limits of your data caps. AT&T and other providers with no data caps give you peace of mind because you won’t suddenly lose most of your internet functionality in the third week of the month. Unlimited data is a major bonus for your internet connection’s reliability.
Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Xfinity Reliability and Performance

3.5

Xfinity’s hybrid fiber/coaxial cable supplies gigabit download speeds but slower upload speeds

Though Xfinity has advanced cable technology and good speeds, their network seems to be more prone to outages than users would like [5]. That’s the major reason Xfinity gets a lower rating for performance, in addition to the intrinsic differences between cable speed and all-fiber speed. Xfinity uses technology that is mostly fiber but uses coaxial cable for a short stretch of your internet connection. This type of connection is known as hybrid fiber/coaxial cable, or HFC. An HFC internet connection is better than older cable technologies because it can supply download speeds up to gigabit speeds. HFC will give you faster, more reliable internet service than DSL, satellite internet, or fixed wireless internet. And for streaming in HD, this hybrid fiber- cable internet will certainly be able to support multiple devices. The major difference between HFC and an all-fiber internet connection is upload speeds. Your upload speed will be no faster than 35-50 Mbps. An-all fiber connection, by contrast, will give you the same upload speed as your download speed. Your upload speed will affect activities such as gaming, videoconferencing and large file uploads. The good news is that if you have an upload speed of 35 Mbps, you’re still going to be able to upload pretty quickly. For most average households, 35 Mbps is enough. But if you have four or more people in your household streaming HD, playing games, working from home, and videoconferencing simultaneously, you’re going to want all-fiber internet, or what is often called “fiber to the home” (FTTH). Xfinity does have one all-fiber connectivity option that is full FTTH. If your household’s location is eligible, Xfinity will install an FTTH connection for their Gigabit Pro plan. Gigabit Pro is up there with the fastest fiber plans on the market.
Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190

AT&T Equipment, Installation and Bonus Features

5.0

AT&T offers no equipment fees, optional self-installation, extra cybersecurity features

As long as you have AT&T internet service, you will also get to use an internet gateway at no charge [4]. (This gateway is a modem/router combo known as AT&T Smart Wi-Fi.) Your plan may also include a free Wi-Fi extender depending on your terms. If you order AT&T Fiber, technicians will install an ONT (optical network terminal) and a fiber jack or ethernet jack. Professional installation from AT&T will cost you $99 for either copper internet or fiber installation. If you are planning to order copper-based internet (DSL/IPBB) and there is already a dual-port phone jack in your home, AT&T can mail you a self-installation kit at no charge. You can even self-install fiber internet if you are comfortable with a wall installation and following technical instructions. AT&T customers have access to the AT&T ActiveArmor internet security app. The app will block fraud calls and guard risky Wi-Fi connections. For a small extra monthly charge, ActiveArmor offers advanced functions such as Identity Monitoring and Reverse Number Lookup. AT&T also offers a Smart Home Manager app to manage your Wi-Fi and all smart home devices and check for outages.
Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Xfinity Equipment, Installation and Bonus Features

3.5

Xfinity offers two different gateways and popular Flex 4K streaming TV box

For TV fans, Xfinity internet service brings the added bonus of its free Flex 4K streaming box [6]. This convenient gadget will work much like a Roku box to consolidate your streaming apps, plus give you over 10,000 free movies and shows, free channels, and a voice remote. Xfinity TV customers are not eligible for a free Flex 4K, however. For your modem and router, you will get the xFi Gateway with its multi-gig speed capability, Wi-Fi 6E, parental controls and security protection [7]. Or you can upgrade to the xFi Complete, which includes unlimited data. Both require a rental fee after the promotional period that could be $15-25, which is part of why your price goes up. If you use your own router and modem to avoid the equipment fee, you will have to live with the 1.2 TB data cap. Installation fees will be similar to other providers at around $100 for a technician install and $15  for a self-install ($15).
Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190

AT&T Experience & Support

5.0

AT&T Customer Service provides 24/7 tech support and ranks #1

AT&T has a robust customer support framework, including community forums, live chat, and phone assistance. Tech support is available 24/7, which can be a lifesaver if you work or study from home. Billing and account support are available from 7 AM to 9 PM CT Monday through Friday, and 8 AM to 9 PM Saturday. Those Saturday hours are especially valuable if you work Monday to Friday and can’t squeeze in personal business during the week. In 2023, AT&T ranked#1 for Customer Satisfaction in Residential Internet Service (North Central and West regions) with J.D. Power and Associates [5]. AT&T also ranked #2 in the South region.
Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Xfinity Experience & Support

4.0

Xfinity Customer Service shows improvement

Xfinity has not been known for strong customer service over the years. Online reviews continue to mention some problem areas. But Xfinity has been moving up in official rankings, and for that reason, we give them 4 stars for improving their customer experience. Xfinity has customer support on its website, with 24/7 chat for help and 24/7 tech support. An online status center allows you to check for outages and troubleshoot your service. The Xfinity app will make your online customer experience more streamlined. You can also find Xfinity help communities through Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit. Customer service rankings have been improving for Xfinity in recent years. In 2022, Xfinity ranked third in three of four regions in the J.D. Power Residential Internet Service Provider Customer Satisfaction Study  [8]. This ranking reflects Xfinity’s recent effort to improve their customer support. Though Xfinity’s customer support ratings from other sources are not always as high, overall, signs are getting better that you will be satisfied with your customer experience.
Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190

AT&T FAQ's

To order or learn more, call the number on this page or visit ATT-bundles.com.
Absolutely! AT&T provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process of setting up your own internet connection. By setting up your internet on your own, you can save money by avoiding the cost of professional installation. Additionally, you'll receive your Wi-Fi gateway within three business days, skipping the waiting time for a technician. The self-setup process takes around 30 minutes, allowing you to connect to the internet quickly.
AT&T offers the free AT&T Smart Home Manager app, which allows you to easily manage and personalize your home network information using your own device. With this app, you can control various aspects of your Wi-Fi network, including device management, network security, and parental controls. The app is free to use if you have one of the compatible Wi-Fi gateways listed on the AT&T website.
Yes, AT&T Internet allows you to connect multiple devices to your home network. Whether it's smartphones, tablets, laptops, or smart home devices, you can connect them all to your Wi-Fi network provided by AT&T Internet.
To optimize your Wi-Fi signal, there are a few steps you can take. Start by placing your Wi-Fi gateway in a central location within your home. Ensure that there are no obstructions, such as walls or large objects, blocking the signal. You can also try adjusting the Wi-Fi channel settings on your gateway to reduce interference from neighboring networks. Additionally, consider using Wi-Fi extenders or mesh network systems to expand your coverage area and improve signal strength in hard-to-reach areas of your home.
AT&T Fiber has no data caps. AT&T Internet has a one terabyte (TB) data cap, which is very high and will support most households with average data use.
Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Xfinity FAQ's

Yes, you can get a self-install kit that includes a set-up guide, an xFi Wireless Gateway (leased), a coax cable, and a power cord.
Yes, you can use your own modem/router to access your Xfinity connection. Just be sure to check with Xfinity in advance to be sure your equipment is compatible.
Yes, if you have a qualifying-tier home internet plan, you will have access to millions of Wi-Fi hotspots across Xfinity’s service area.
Xfinity home internet plan pricing can vary according to your location. To see if Xfinity serves your area and get all the plan details, enter your zip code here at CompareInternet.com.
Yes, you can save money on your internet, phone and TV by bundling several services with Xfinity.
Xfinity offers internet plans with download speeds over 1000 Mbps, also known as 1 Gigabit (GB). Gigabit download speeds will handle all your 4K HD streaming needs.
Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190

AT&T Internet Plans

PlanService TypeDownload SpeedMonthly Price
AT&T FIBER - INTERNET 5000Fiber InternetUp to 5,000 Mbps †† Only $245*/mo. w/ No Annual Contract
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read more
AT&T FIBER - INTERNET 2000Fiber InternetUp to 2,000 Mbps Only $145*/mo. w/ No Annual Contract
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read more
AT&T FIBER - INTERNET 1000Fiber InternetUp to 1,000 Mbps Only $80*/mo. w/ No Annual Contract
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read more
AT&T FIBER - INTERNET 500Fiber InternetUp to 500 Mbps Only $65*/mo. w/ No Annual Contract
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read more
AT&T FIBER - INTERNET 300Fiber InternetUp to 300 Mbps Only $55*/mo. w/ No Annual Contract
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read more
Internet 100DSL InternetUp to 100 Mbps Only $60
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read more
Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Xfinity Internet Plans

PlanService TypeDownload SpeedMonthly Price
GIGABIT X2 2000 MbpsCable InternetUp to 2,000 Mbps Only $120
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
GIGABIT 1200 MbpsCable InternetUp to 1,200 Mbps Only $80
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
GIGABIT 1000 MbpsCable InternetUp to 1,000 Mbps Only $70
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
SUPERFAST 800 MbpsCable InternetUp to 800 Mbps Only $60
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
FAST 400 MbpsCable InternetUp to 400 Mbps Only $35
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
CONNECT MORECable InternetUp to 200 Mbps Only $25
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
CONNECTCable InternetUp to 75 Mbps Only $20
*Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190

AT&T Customers Review

4.5
Pricing
4.5
5.0
Reliability & Performance
5.0
5.0
Equipment, Installation & Features
5.0
5.0
Customer Experience & Support
5.0
4.8
Overall Rating
4.8
Angela Parsons
1.0
from Lawrenceville, GA on April 2025
They suck
michael haynes
1.0
from Taylorsville, KY on April 2025
download is only 3.21 & upload is 0,43 its a wonder that anything works in my house
DaN U
2.3
from Whiting, IN on April 2025
If more providers where in the area I would drop them in a heart beat. Over priced.
Vanessa Avila
1.8
from Magnolia Springs, AL on April 2025
El equipo es un practico, al igual que la instalación pero aun así no vale la pena, realmente es super lento de muy mala señal. Lo contrate para hacer mis tareas pero no es de ayuda pues se demasiado lento, estoy muy arrepentida de haber contratado este servicio, es realmente pésimo, si quieren contratar este servicio mejor analicen otras opciones.
James Peralta
3.3
from San Diego, CA on April 2025
Internet cutoff a lot lately I'm watching my TV and cutoff
Call today & find the best AT&T internet deals
1-844-637-5162

Xfinity Customers Review

3.0
Pricing
3.0
3.5
Reliability & Performance
3.5
3.5
Equipment, Installation & Features
3.5
4.0
Customer Experience & Support
4.0
3.5
Overall Rating
3.5
Jack S
1.8
from Key West, FL on April 2025
Xfinity is totally unreliable
Mike G
4.3
from Lowell, MA on April 2025
Overall very good
Toni
2.3
from Petaluma, CA on April 2025
Service is way too expensive.
Myrtle Williams
2.0
from Chicago, IL on April 2025
Xfinity is horrible every month they go up
Edward H
2.8
from Okeechobee, FL on April 2025
Prices keep going up. Hard to get good Internet on a fixed income
Call today & find the best Xfinity internet deals
1-833-440-3190