AT&T Vs. Xfinity: Which Is Better?
Choosing the right internet and cable service can be a daunting task with numerous options available in the market. Two leading contenders in this domain are AT&T and Xfinity. This article will compare these two providers, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, to help you make an informed decision.
Service Area and Availability
AT&T provides its services primarily in 21 states, with a focus on California, Texas, and Florida. Their coverage includes both urban and rural areas. On the other hand, Xfinity is available in 39 states across the United States, with significant coverage in the Midwest, Northeast, Mountain West, and parts of California.
Winner: Xfinity takes the lead when it comes to service availability.
Internet Speeds
AT&T offers two types of internet service: DSL and Fiber. The DSL service has speeds ranging from 10 to 100 Mbps depending on your location. The Fiber service provides gigabit speeds up to 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps), ideal for households with heavy internet usage.
Xfinity features cable internet services, delivering speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 1 Gbps or more, depending on the plan you choose.
Winner: It’s a tie. AT&T’s fiber service provides high-speed connectivity for areas it covers while Xfinity has consistently fast speeds due to its cable infrastructure.
Pricing
Both providers have competitive pricing structures for their services with introductory prices that may increase after the promotional period ends. AT&T’s lowest-tier package starts at around $35 per month while Xfinity starts at $20 per month for a limited time offer.
Winner: Given that Xfinity has slightly lower entry-level prices, they win this category.
Contract And Bundle Offers
AT&T generally offers one-year contracts on its plans with penalties for early termination. They also provide bundle offers for customers looking to combine internet with TV or phone services.
Xfinity offers month-to-month plans and occasionally requires a 12-month or 24-month contract. They also have bundle options that include cable TV, internet, and home phone services.
Winner: Xfinity’s flexibility with no-contracts make them more appealing in this category.
Customer Service
When choosing an internet provider, customer service is an essential factor. Both AT&T and Xfinity have varying reviews when it comes to customer support. However, the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) for 2020 places AT&T at a score of 68/100 while Xfinity lags behind at 66/100.
Winner: AT&T secures a marginal edge in the customer service department.
Conclusion
AT&T and Xfinity each have their own perks and downfalls. Ultimately, the choice between these two providers depends on your location and specific needs. If you are in AT&T’s fiber service area and value higher speeds with better customer service, AT&T may be suitable for you. On the other hand, if you want wider availability, flexible contracts, and competitive pricing, Xfinity could be your best choice. It is vital to weigh the pros and cons of each provider before deciding which one is better suited for your home or business.