Consolidated Communications vs Xfinity Internet

Are you tired of buffering and slow download speeds? Do you find yourself constantly frustrated with high internet bills? Fast and reliable internet is essential, especially with the increasing number of devices we use on a daily basis. While many options are available in the market, we’ll analyze two of the most popular providers today – Consolidated Communications and Xfinity.

But why compare these two providers, given that they use different technologies to serve their customers? It’s true that Consolidated Communications primarily uses fiber and DSL technologies, while Xfinity relies on cable. However, both providers have a significant presence in the Northeast region, making a comparison between Consolidated Communications vs Xfinity highly relevant for those seeking the best option for their household requirements.

Internet Service Comparison

Consolidated Communications and Xfinity are two of the most popular internet service providers in the US. While both providers primarily use different technologies to offer services, Consolidated Communications provides more variety. Additionally, both providers provide competitive TV, phone, and internet bundles, allowing customers to get more value for their money. Let’s dig deeper into the similarities and differences between Consolidated Communications and Xfinity, so you can choose the best option for your household.

Consolidated Communications

Consolidated Communications is a telecommunications provider headquartered in Illinois that has been active since 1894. It utilizes a mix of fiber, DSL, cable, and fixed wireless networks to deliver high-speed internet to its customers, with its fiber service marketed as Fidium Fiber.

Consolidated Communications prides itself on its commitment to innovation and cites Fidium Fiber as the future of home internet service. In addition to broadband, the company provides a comprehensive variety of data, security, managed services, wholesale carrier, and cloud solutions.

Pros

• Unlimited data
• Free professional installation
• Symmetrical speeds with Fidium Fiber
• Wider fiber availability

Cons

• Smaller coverage area
• Plans prices and speeds depend on your location

Xfinity

Xfinity, a brand of Comcast Cable Communications, is the largest cable internet service provider in the United States. Xfinity primarily uses coaxial cables to deliver high-speed internet to its customers across 40 states. Although Xfinity also has a fiber internet plan, it is only available in limited areas.

In addition to broadband, Xfinity provides other services like Xfinity TV, home phone, security, and mobile plans, making it a one-stop solution for all your entertainment and communication needs. This provider’s wide availability, and excellent customer service, have made it a popular choice among many households.

Pros

• Wider coverage area
• Lower starting prices
• Variety of options with high speed tiers
• Excellent customer service

Cons

• Limited fiber network
• Enforces data caps on some plans
• Contract required for price discounts

Internet Plans & Pricing 

Xfinity and Consolidated Communications offer a range of internet plans with varying speeds and prices. However, Consolidated Communications offers more variety, as it also uses DSL, cable, and fixed wireless technologies to provide broadband access to its customers.

Consolidated Communications

While Consolidated Communications offer an array of plans via different technologies, its fiber internet remains the most popular service.

Fiber Internet (Fidium Fiber)

Consolidated Communications’ Fidium Fiber provides a high-speed, dependable internet connection that can reach up to 2 Gbps speed. With prices starting at just $35, it’s an excellent option for households looking for a speedy internet connection without sacrificing their budget. Moreover, Fidium Fiber’s gigabit plan is also competitively priced, costing only $10 more than the 250 Mbps option, so you can enjoy more bandwidth and engage in data-heavy activities.

What’s more, Fidium Fiber offers contract-free plans with a 2-year price guarantee, a WiFi 6 gateway, and unlimited data, allowing you everything you need to stay connected without any hassle. So, don’t wait any longer! Check your area’s availability and upgrade to Fidium Fiber today for an exceptional internet experience.

Other Plans

In addition to its fiber internet, Consolidated Communications also provides DSL, cable, and fixed wireless internet plans. The provider classifies these plans into three categories – Fast, Faster, and Blazing, with different prices and speeds depending on your location. These internet plans are more suitable for households with moderate internet activities as they offer slower speeds than Fidium Fiber. However, the best part is that they come with unlimited data, so you don’t have to worry about exceeding your monthly data cap.

Xfinity

On the other hand, Xfinity provides a wide range of cable internet plans, starting with an introductory price of $25. However, Xfinity has a complicated pricing structure, with costs varying based on your address and getting steeper as you upgrade to faster speed tiers.

But the good news is that while Xfinity’s prices vary with the regions, customers can expect similar speeds regardless of their location. Moreover, Xfinity no longer imposes data caps on most of its plans, making it an excellent option for those who require higher internet speeds for their daily online activities. The company also offers a fiber internet plan, but its availability is limited to only a few addresses. Therefore, be sure to check the availability of this plan in your area by entering your address on Xfinity’s website.

Speed

Internet speed defines your online experience. Hence, choosing a plan that can accommodate your family’s needs is crucial. Consolidated Communications and Xfinity both offer various speed tiers to choose from. Although Consolidated Communications provides internet services through different technologies, their fiber internet plans are worth considering due to their symmetrical speeds of up to 2000 Mbps. However, it’s important to note that this option is only available in select areas of certain states.

So, if you don’t have access to Consolidated Communications’ fiber internet plans, Xfinity is a much better option, with speeds ranging from 75 Mbps to 1200 Mbps. In addition, Xfinity also has a fiber internet plan with a blazing speed of 6000 Mbps, making it an amazing option for those who require lightning-fast speeds.

Data Caps

Consolidated Communications might be the better option if you are looking for an internet service provider with unlimited data plans. It is an ideal choice for households with heavy internet usage. On the other hand, Xfinity enforces data caps on some of its internet plans, particularly the first two options in the Central and West regions. Although the data cap of 1.2 TB is enough to support most activities, it’s still worth checking with the provider before signing up for their service.

Contracts

Consolidated Communications and Xfinity both provide options for contract and no-contract internet plans. While Consolidated Communications offers contract-free options for its Fidium Fiber plans, its DSL internet plans require a 1-year service agreement. However, the contract duration can vary in some areas. If you terminate the service before completing the agreed term, you will be charged an early termination fee of $99, as per the Internet Terms & Policies on their website.

On the other hand, Xfinity’s contract term varies based on your location. While you can choose its contract-free options, its plans are more affordable if you sign an agreement. The company also charges an ETF if you breach the contract, although the amount is not specified on their website.

Equipment Charges

Consolidated Communications and Xfinity both charge equipment fees, but the amount varies based on the internet type for the former. While Consolidated Communications’ Fidium Fiber comes with a free WiFi 6 gateway, its DSL internet customers must pay either $11.95 or $6.95 per month, depending on the equipment program. Each program includes various benefits, so read all the specs before signing up for either option.

On the other hand, Xfinity charges a higher monthly equipment fee, $15 for its xFi Gateway, and $25 for xFi Complete, which includes unlimited data and a gateway upgrade after three years. However, you can get them at a discount since Xfinity is currently offering a deal on both options.

Provider	Equipment Fee
	DSL Plans: Network Care Plus Wired Plan: $6.95/mo. or Wireless Network Care Plan: $11.95/mo.
	Fidium Fiber: None
	xFi Gateway – $15.00/mo. ($0 with some plans for 24 months)
	xFi Complete – $25.00/mo. ($10 with some plans for 24 months)
	xFi Pod – $119.00

Installation Charges

Consolidated Communications offers free installation with every internet service, including its Fidium Fiber internet. On the other hand, Xfinity charges a fee of $100 for professional installation. However, you can avoid this extra charge if you choose the self-installation option. But you might have to pay $15, even for this option in some areas.

Provider	Installation Fee
	Fidium Fiber: Free
	Other Services: Free if you sign up for Network Care Wireless
	Pro-installation: $100.00
	Self-installation: Free ($15 in some areas)

Perks – Xfinity vs Consolidated Communications

Consolidated Communications and Xfinity both offer perks to their customers. Here’s a quick rundown:

Consolidated Communications

• 24/7 tech support
• Price lock guarantee with Fidium Fiber
• Free installation
• 30-day satisfaction guarantee

Xfinity

• Fast internet speeds
• 99.9% network reliability
• Wider availability

Coverage Area – Xfinity vs Consolidated Communications

When it comes to coverage area, Xfinity outshines Consolidated Communications with its internet service being available in 40 states. Xfinity delivers high-speed internet to millions of customers, making it one of the most widely available internet providers in the United States. On the other hand, Consolidated Communications is only available in 20 states. However, its fiber internet service, Fidium Fiber, has a much larger footprint than Xfinity’s fiber service. The company further aims to expand its fiber service to more areas, providing more customers with fast and reliable internet service.

Customer Service – Xfinity vs Consolidated Communications

Consolidated Communications and Xfinity have different levels of customer satisfaction. While it can be challenging to evaluate customer satisfaction for Consolidated Communications since major reviewers do not cover them, the provider’s dedication to its customers is apparent in the consistently favorable feedback. Customers appreciate the provider’s quick response times, knowledgeable representatives, and overall positive experience.

In contrast, Xfinity’s customer service scores higher than the industry average in both ACSI and J.D. Power’s reports, highlighting its commitment to serving its customers. Xfinity also offers various customer service options, including live chat, phone support, and social media, making it easier for customers to get assistance.

Final Verdict – Consolidated Communications or Xfinity?

This Consolidated Communications vs Xfinity comparison reveals that both internet service providers have their own advantages and disadvantages. While Consolidated Communications offers benefits, such as unlimited data, free installation, 24/7 tech support, and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, Xfinity has faster internet speeds, a wider coverage area, and higher customer service scores. 

Nevertheless, Fidium Fiber by Consolidated Communications stands out as a better option with its contract-free plans, price lock guarantee, and no equipment charges. The final choice may depend on your personal preferences and budget, but if you’re in an area where both providers are available, Consolidated Communications’ Fidium Fiber should be your go-to choice.