The internet is now an essential tool for communication, and education in America, with 93% of adults using it daily. It contributes significantly to the country’s annual economic progress, generating millions of jobs. Despite the availability of various internet providers that use different technologies, cable internet remains the most prevalent wired service in the country.

Charter Spectrum and Comcast Xfinity are the first two names that spring to mind when selecting a reliable alternative to fiber internet. With a significant market share, these two prominent names offer various plans to suit different needs. But which one is better?

This Spectrum vs Xfinity comparison will explore their differences in pricing, plans, and other services. So, by the end of this piece, you’ll have a better sense of the suitable internet or TV provider for your home.

Spectrum

Charter Communications’ brand, Spectrum, has grown to become the second-largest cable internet provider in the United States. Founded in 1993, Spectrum offers high-speed internet services, with its basic plan starting at $49.99 per month. The company provides a range of internet plans with speeds up to 1000 Mbps, making it an ideal choice for households with different needs. In addition to broadband, Spectrum also offers Spectrum Voice, Mobile, and TV services. You can even bundle these services to get a complete home package.

Spectrum’s wide availability gives it a significant advantage over its competitors, covering 41 states across the country. This wide availability, combined with its high-speed internet, makes Spectrum the preferred choice for many households in the United States.

Pros

  • Unlimited data
  • Wide availability in 41 states
  • Contract-free plans
  • Provides a free internet modem and antivirus software
  • A variety of TV and internet bundles
  • Contract buyout option

Cons

  • Only three internet plans
  • Higher prices than Xfinity

Spectrum Internet Plans Start as low as $49.99/mo.

Call Spectrum at 877-410-3834

Xfinity

Xfinity, owned by the Comcast Corporation, is the largest cable internet provider in the US, serving millions of customers across 39 states. Xfinity Internet offers a variety of plans, starting from as low as $24.99 per month, with download speeds ranging from 75 Mbps to 1,200 Mbps. Xfinity also provides other telecommunications services like Xfinity TV, home phone, and mobile plans, making it a one-stop shop for all your entertainment and communication needs.

Moreover, Xfinity offers fiber internet in select locations, which can provide faster speeds and a more stable connection. Xfinity is widely available in major cities and suburbs, making it a popular choice for internet service. With excellent customer service, great bundle deals, and reliable speeds, Xfinity is a preferred option for many households across the US.

Pros

  • Wider coverage
  • Variety of internet plans with speeds up to 6000 Mbps
  • Above average customer service
  • Excellent bundle options

Cons

  • Some plans have data caps
  • Fiber network is extremely limited
  • Contracts required for price discounts

Spectrum Internet vs Xfinity Internet 

FeaturesSpectrumXfinity
Internet Plans37
Starting Price Range$49.99/mo. for 12 mos* – $89.99/mo. for 12 mos*$24.99/mo. – $299.99/mo.
Speed Range300 Mbps – 1000 Mbps
(wireless speeds may vary)
75 Mbps – 6000 Mbps
Internet TypeCableCable, Fiber
Data CapsNoneSome plans have them
ContractsNoneSome plans have them
Equipment FeeYesYes
Installation FeeYesYes
Contact ProviderCall 877-410-3834 NowCall 877-395-5851 Now
(wireless speeds may vary)

Spectrum and Xfinity are two prominent names that dominate the cable internet industry in the United States, and comparing them is necessary to help you make an informed decision. Both companies offer various plans and pricing options to suit different needs, and they have widespread availability across many states. However, there are differences in their pricing, speed, and additional services. Hence, in this Spectrum vs. Xfinity face-off, we’ll compare various aspects of each provider to help you determine the most suitable option for your home.

Internet Plans & Pricing – Spectrum vs Xfinity

Spectrum and Xfinity are mainly cable internet providers, but they take different strategies to provide internet access. Spectrum has a simple pricing structure with no data caps or hidden fees, making it easy for customers to understand what they’re getting. On the other hand, Xfinity has a more complex pricing structure based on different regions, but it offers faster internet speeds and more bundling options with its other services. Let’s get into the details.

Spectrum

Spectrum takes a straightforward approach for its internet plans, giving you only three options with high speeds ranging from 300 Mbps to 1000 Mbps. In exchange for a slightly higher cost, Spectrum provides excellent value for your money, offering contract-free plans with unlimited data, a free modem, and security suite software. So, if you’re looking for reliable, no-frills internet plans, Spectrum’s offerings might be just what you need.

Internet Plans
Plan Price Speed Contact Spectrum
Internet $49.99/mo. for 12 mos* 300 Mbps Call 877-410-3834 Now
Internet Ultra $69.99/mo. for 12 mos* 500 Mbps Call 877-410-3834 Now
Internet Gig $89.99/mo. for 12 mos* 1000 Mbps Call 877-410-3834 Now
*wireless speeds may vary. *Spectrum Internet® Gig’s speeds require a capable modem.

Xfinity

In comparison, Xfinity offers a range of internet plans, with the introductory price of its base plan starting as low as $25. However, the speed is also much lower than Spectrum. Furthermore, Xfinity has a complex pricing structure, with the costs of its plans changing with your address. The prices also go steeper as you go down the table.

Xfinity may divide its packages into three regions, but its customers can still get similar speeds regardless of location. The best part? Xfinity no longer has data caps on most of its plans, making it an excellent option for people who require higher internet speeds for their daily online activities.

Central Region
Plans Starting Price Speed Data Caps
Connect $29.99/mo. 75 Mbps 1.2 TB
Connect More $44.99/mo. 200 Mbps 1.2 TB
Fast $54.99/mo. 400 Mbps None
Superfast $69.99/mo. 800 Mbps None
Ultrafast $74.99/mo. 1000 Mbps None
Gigabit Extra $79.99/mo. 1200 Mbps None
Gigabit Pro $299.95/mo. 6000 Mbps None
West Region
Plans Starting Price Speed Data Caps
Connect $24.99/mo. 75 Mbps 1.2 TB
Connect More $39.99/mo. 200 Mbps 1.2 TB
Fast $54.99/mo. 400 Mbps None
Superfast $64.99/mo. 800 Mbps None
Ultrafast $74.99/mo. 1000 Mbps None
Gigabit Extra $79.99/mo. 1200 Mbps None
Gigabit Pro $299.95/mo. 6000 Mbps None
Northeast Region
Plans Starting Price Speed Data Caps
Performance Starter $64.99/mo. 75 Mbps None
Performance $83.99/mo. 200 Mbps None
Performance Pro $29.99/mo. 400 Mbps None
Blast! $59.99/mo. 800 Mbps None
Extreme Pro $69.99/mo. 1000 Mbps None
Gigabit Plus $79.99/mo. 1200 Mbps None
Gigabit Pro $299.95/mo. 6000 Mbps None

Price after Promotional Period

Like most ISPs, Xfinity and Spectrum also raise the prices of their internet service after the end of the promotional period. The price hike may seem frustrating, but your monthly subscription can remain within your budget with the right internet provider.

Both providers have different approaches for their promotional and regular rates. While Spectrum takes a straightforward strategy and raises the prices of all internet plans by $30, Xfinity’s price hikes depend on the plan and region.

Spectrum

Spectrum’s price hikes are consistent across the board. The provider increases the costs of each plan by $30 in all areas after a year of service. This price hike is steeper than Xfinity, but one thing that we like about this provider is that it is very straightforward about its regular rates. 

Spectrum Internet® Prices after 12 Months
Plans Regular Price
Internet $79.99/mo.
Internet Ultra $99.99/mo.
Internet Gig $119.99/mo.
*wireless speeds may vary. *Spectrum Internet® Gig’s speeds require a capable modem.

Xfinity

Since Xfinity’s prices vary across the Northeast, West, and Central regions, it can be challenging for customers to compare and predict price hikes. Hence, we have provided all the essential information to help you choose the most suitable home internet package. However, this information is tentative. So, always make sure to confirm everything with Xfinity before signing up for their service.

It is also worth noting that while some plans start with regular prices since the beginning, most Xfinity internet plans have a promotional period. This duration also varies with your address, as customers in the Northeast and West regions can enjoy discounted rates for 2 years. Meanwhile, Xfinity only offers 12 months of introductory prices to the Central area. Nevertheless, Xfinity’s regular prices are cheaper than Spectrum’s.

Central Region
Plans Regular Price
Connect $48.99/mo.
Connect More $68.99/mo.
Fast $78.99/mo.
Superfast $88.99/mo.
Ultrafast $98.99/mo.
Gigabit Extra $108.99/mo. (after 24 months)
Gigabit Pro $299.95/mo.
West Region
Plans Regular Price
Connect $49.99/mo.
Connect More $59.99/mo.
Fast $69.99/mo.
Superfast $79.99/mo.
Ultrafast $89.99/mo.
Gigabit Extra $99.99/mo.
Gigabit Pro $299.95/mo.
Northeast Region
Plans Regular Price
Performance Starter $64.99/mo.
Performance $83.99/mo.
Performance Pro $91.99/mo.
Blast! $96.99/mo.
Extreme Pro $101.99/mo.
Gigabit Plus $106.99/mo.
Gigabit Pro $299.95/mo.

Additional Charges

Are you tired of being hit with unexpected charges on your monthly internet bill? Almost all providers include extra costs with your monthly internet subscription. These charges can quickly add up and leave customers feeling frustrated.

Spectrum and Xfinity are two big players in the telecommunications industry, but how do their extra costs compare? Let’s explore the additional charges you can expect with each provider. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of internet bills.

Installation Charges

One of the biggest questions when setting up your cable or internet is whether to opt for professional installation or tackle it yourself. Luckily, both Spectrum and Xfinity offer both options. But what’s the price difference? Spectrum comes out on top with a fee of $65.00 for professional installation, while Xfinity charges a hefty $100.

Meanwhile, both companies offer free self-install kits. But before you get too excited, it’s important to note that both providers charge a service activation fee. However, Xfinity only charges this fee in particular locations, while Spectrum charges it across its entire footprint.

So, whether you want to DIY or leave it to the pros, make sure you’re familiar with these extra charges before deciding between Spectrum and Xfinity.

Provider Installation Fee
Spectrum Pro-installation: $65.00
Self-installation: $30.00
Xfinity Pro-installation: $100.00
Self-installation: Free ($15 in some areas)

Equipment Charges

Spectrum and Xfinity offer equipment with their services, but they share some key differences. While both providers charge a monthly fee for their equipment, Spectrum is more budget-friendly. It offers a free modem with all internet plans and charges only $5 for its WiFi service.

Meanwhile, Xfinity’s equipment fee is higher than Spectrum’s, charging $15 for its xFi Gateway and $25 for xFi Complete, which includes unlimited data and a gateway upgrade after three years. That being said, Xfinity is currently offering a deal on both options, offering xFi Gateway free for 24 months with some plans and xFi Complete at a discounted rate of $15.

In short, Xfinity may have some enticing deals to make their equipment charges affordable for a certain time, but Spectrum is more reasonable in the long run.

Provider Equipment Fee
Spectrum Modem – Free
WiFi router – $5.00/mo.
WiFi Pod – $3.00/unit per month
Xfinity xFi Gateway – $15.00/mo. ($0 with some plans)
xFi Complete – $25.00/mo. ($10 with some plans)
xFi Pod – $119.00

Early Termination Fee

Early termination fees can be rather annoying. Thankfully, Spectrum provides contract-free plans, so if you switch to a different provider, you won’t have to pay an ETF. However, things are a bit different when it comes to Xfinity.

Xfinity enforces contracts with some plans to give you the lowest possible rate. Unfortunately, the company does not specify the amount of its early termination fee on its website. So it’s challenging to know the exact penalty amount if you decide to breach their contract. Thus, Spectrum is a superior choice for those who appreciate freedom and flexibility. Otherwise, Xfinity can be a good option if you are willing to sign a contract for a lesser internet fee.

Data Caps

Data caps are an annoying reality for many internet users. But with the right internet service provider, you don’t have to worry about your data usage. The Best feature of Spectrum is that it offers unlimited data with all its internet plans. It means you won’t have to worry about hitting a data cap or being charged extra fees for exceeding your limit.

Xfinity also now offers unlimited data on most plans, but the company enforces a 1.2 TB data cap on the first two plans in the Central and West regions. However, it’s worth noting that this amount of data is more than enough to support even large families with multiple devices.

At the end of the day, Spectrum is the ultimate winner if you want the assurance of unlimited data. But Xfinity might be worth your consideration if you don’t mind a reasonable cap and are looking for affordable internet service.

ProviderData Caps
SpectrumNone
Xfinity1.2 TB on some plans

Contract

While Spectrum is one of the few no-contract providers, Xfinity usually traps you into one or two-year contracts depending on your location. It does not mean that the provider does not have contract-free options, but its plans are more affordable with term agreements.

Special Features – Xfinity vs Spectrum

Providers often include special features with their service to attract more customers. Spectrum and Xfinity also provide incredible perks.

Xfinity

Xfinity offers the following unique features.

  • Monthly internet discounts to new customers with qualifying Xfinity Mobile line.
  • Cost-effective and discounted bundles.
  • Free access to nationwide WiFi hotspots

Spectrum

Spectrum is also not behind in terms of special deals. The provider knows how to retain its customers, offering a range of perks to ensure customer satisfaction.

  • Monthly savings with Spectrum One bundle
  • Contract buyout offer to help you switch to their service
  • Extra security with Spectrum Advanced WiFi
  • Free Peacock Premium with eligible packages

TV Service Comparison – Spectrum vs Xfinity

FeaturesSpectrum TV®Xfinity TV
Type of ServiceCable TVCable TV
Number of Plans23
Price Range$39.99/mo. for 12 mos* – $59.99/mo. for 12 mos*$20.00/mo. – $80.00/mo.
TV Channels Range125 – 145+10 – 185+
Streaming ServicesYesYes
Bundle DealsYesYes
ContractsNoneNone
EquipmentHD set-top box and Cloud DVRX1 TV box and DVR
Contact ProvidersCall NowCall Now

If you still prefer traditional TV services, then the good news is that both Spectrum and Xfinity offer TV services with a wide range of channels and on-demand content. Spectrum TV® is known for its reasonable pricing and straightforward plans, while Xfinity TV stands out for its advanced features and vast channel selection. When comparing Spectrum vs Xfinity TV service, it’s crucial to consider factors such as pricing, channel lineup, on-demand options, and additional features such as DVR capabilities and streaming options.

TV Plans

Spectrum and Xfinity are also well-known TV providers, offering TV plans with a wide channel lineup to keep up with the entertainment demands of their customers.

Spectrum

Spectrum likes to keep things simple. As the leading cable TV provider, Spectrum maintains its reputation by only offering a single TV plan, Spectrum TV®Select. This plan gives you more than 125 HD channels, thousands of On-Demand titles, and hours of Cloud DVR storage.

Spectrum also caters to its Spanish audience through its Mi Plan Latino, which includes 80 Spanish channels. The provider does not offer premium networks in its plans, but it allows you to customize your package with add-ons, bringing sports, music, and live TV to your home.

Spectrum TV may not be the most affordable entertainment choice, but its straightforward pricing structure and policies make it an attractive option for numerous Americans.

Spectrum TV® Plans
Plan Price TV Channels Contact Spectrum
Spectrum TV® Select $59.99/mo. for 12 mos* 125+ Call 877-410-3834 Now
Mi Plan Latino $39.99/mo. for 12 mos* 145+ Call 877-410-3834 Now

Xfinity

In comparison, Xfinity offers three TV plans with an impressive channel lineup. Like its internet service, Xfinity’s TV plans’ prices and networks depend on your address. However, its introductory prices are significantly cheaper than Spectrum TV®. The provider lets you handle your entertainment requirements with customizable features, numerous add-ons, 500 GB of DVR storage, and a vast On-Demand library.

Xfinity TV Plans
Plan Starting Price TV Channels
Choice TV $20.00/mo. 10+
Popular TV $60.00/mo. 125+
Ultimate TV $80.00/mo. 185+

Bundle Deals – Spectrum vs Xfinity

You can also combine these providers’ services under one consolidated bill, but how do their bundles compare? Let’s find out.

Spectrum

Spectrum’s bundles are a complete entertainment package, combining all the services you need with special perks under one monthly bill. These bundles provide a gateway to endless content, high-speed internet, and crystal-clear communication, allowing you to maintain your fast-paced lifestyle while keeping up with the world. Let’s examine what Spectrum has to offer. 

Do you want the best and most secure online experience while staying within your budget? Well, look no further! Spectrum One minimizes your monthly expenses while giving you all the benefits of a Spectrum Mobile line and Advanced WiFi at one incredible price for the first 12 months. It means that for the cost of your Spectrum Internet® subscription, you receive additional protection for all of your connected devices and a secure connection while you’re on the road.

Spectrum One Promotion
Features Spectrum One Bundle
Spectrum Internet® Any plan of your choice
Starting Price Range $49.99 – $89.99/mo. for 12 mos*
Advanced WiFi Free for 1-year
Unlimited Mobile Line Free for 1-year

TV and Internet bundles are the most popular among Spectrum customers. These bundles allow you to experience high-quality internet service and endless entertainment content under one bill.

Spectrum TV® & Internet Bundle
Bundles Starting Price Internet Speed TV Channels Contact Spectrum
Internet + TV Select $109.98/mo. for 12 mos* 300 Mbps 125+ Call Now
Internet + Spectrum Mi Plan $89.98/mo. for 12 mos* 300 Mbps 145+ Call Now
*wireless speeds may vary.

Xfinity

In contrast, Xfinity gives you a range of bundling options, allowing you to choose and customize packages according to your channel requirements. The company also offers tempting discounts if you sign their service agreement. Here are some standard Xfinity bundle deals in the Central region.

PlanStarting PriceInternet SpeedChannel Count
Connect More + Popular TV$121.10/mo.200 Mbps125+
Superfast Internet + Ultimate TV$171.10/mo.400 Mbps185+
Fast Internet + Ultimate TV + Xfinity Voice$166.10/mo.400 Mbps185+

*The price listed in the above table is subject to change. Check the details by entering your address on Xfinity’s website.

Availability – Xfinity vs Spectrum

As the top two largest cable internet providers, Xfinity and Spectrum cover millions of households. These providers overlap in many regions, but Xfinity has a larger market and a wider presence. Meanwhile, Spectrum is available in more states (41), but its coverage is scattered, including parts of New York, Texas, Florida, and others.

Customer Service – Xfinity vs Spectrum

Internet service providers are not usually known for satisfying their customers, often ranking last in various reports. However, Spectrum and Xfinity have decent customer service, receiving somewhat similar mixed reviews. The result also reflects on multiple reports, as ACSI placed Spectrum fifth and Xfinity fourth in customer satisfaction.

The providers also showed promising results in J.D. Power’s Study of 2022, with Xfinity ranking third and Spectrum remaining stable in the South area, ranking directly behind Xfinity.

ACSI RankingsSpectrumXfinityIndustry Average
2022636664
2021636765

Final Verdict – Spectrum or Xfinity?

Spectrum vs Xfinity’s comparison eventually comes down to what you want from an internet or cable TV service. While both providers share many similarities, the key distinction is that while Xfinity has cheaper internet plans and better customer satisfaction, Spectrum is more dependable and offers a more outstanding long-term value. Moreover, its no-nonsense approach is a welcome change from the uncertainty that usually permeates the telecom business. So, if you are a heavy internet user, Spectrum is the best choice for your home.

FAQs