It should not come as a surprise that the United States has a robust telecom sector as it is the third-largest country in the world. In fact, America ranks first in terms of the number of internet providers. However, the availability of these providers is not uniform across the entire nation, and certain areas have better options due to higher demand.
This situation is particularly evident in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern parts of the country, where residents typically have a choice between Comcast Xfinity and Verizon Fios. While Xfinity has the upper hand due to wider availability, Verizon Fios often stands out as the best option for home internet. This Verizon Fios vs. Xfinity comparison thoroughly assesses two industry giants to help you select the one that best suits your lifestyle.
Verizon Fios
Verizon, a multinational American conglomerate, delivers its cutting-edge 100% fiber-optic service under the Fios brand. With a rich history in the telecommunications industry, the company was originally founded as Bell Atlantic in 1983 and was later rebranded as Verizon Communications in 2000. Verizon unveiled its revolutionary fiber internet service, Fios, in 2005, which made it one of the pioneering providers to offer fiber internet to the residents.
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Presently, Verizon connects millions of customers with some of the fastest internet speeds. The company’s network has won several awards for its remarkable dependability and high level of performance. Unfortunately, Verizon Fios is currently available only in the Northeast region.
Aside from its impressive internet offering, Verizon Fios also provides TV and home phone services, offering customers a comprehensive and integrated telecommunications experience.
Pros
- Clear and upfront pricing structure
- Symmetrical internet speeds
- 25x times faster upload speeds than cable internet
- Price guarantee
- Unlimited data
- Contract-free plans
- Equipment included
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Only available in the Northeast
Xfinity
Xfinity, a brand of Comcast Cable Communications, is the largest cable internet provider in the nation, with a legacy that dates back to 1981. In addition to solidifying its position in the cable sector over time, it has also entered the fiber market, offering one of the fastest internet speed tiers in select service regions. This move has further established its position as one of the top internet providers in the country.
Although Xfinity offers several noteworthy features, its key strength is its broad availability, making it a go-to option for countless customers across 40 states. Beyond its internet services, Xfinity’s comprehensive offerings include TV packages, home internet solutions, and even mobile plans.
This diversified approach ensures that its customers can fulfill all their telecommunication needs under one provider.
Pros
- Broad coverage area
- Wide variety of plans
- Starting plans are cheaper
Cons
- Prices vary with location
- Most plans have data caps
- Often binds you to a contract
Internet Service Comparison – Verizon Fios vs Xfinity
| Features | Verizon Fios | Xfinity |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $49.99/mo. | $25.00/mo. |
| Speed Range | Up to 2,300 Mbps | Up to 6,000 Mbps |
| Internet Type | Fiber | Cable, Fiber |
| Data Caps | None | Some plans have them |
| Contracts | None | 1 to 2 year |
| Equipment Fee | No | Yes |
| Installation Fee | Yes | Yes |
| Coverage Area | 8 states | 40 states |
Xfinity and Verizon are two well-known telecommunications companies in the US, yet they couldn’t be more different from one another. Where Xfinity has carved its reputation in the cable internet market, Verizon Fios is a 100% fiber-optic network renowned for delivering symmetrical internet speeds. So, why are we comparing these two options? Because their service areas overlap in the Northeast, it is important to acquaint ourselves with the most significant features of each. Let’s delve into the details and explore the key factors that set them apart.
Internet Plans
Xfinity and Verizon Fios both provide competitive internet plans, but the latter is incredibly upfront and transparent about its pricing. On the other hand, Xfinity offers a wider range of options, although its offerings differ across three regions – Northeast, Central, and West.
Verizon Fios
Verizon Fios mainly delivers three internet plans to the majority of its service area, while the 2 Gig option is currently exclusive to the bustling New York City. These plans offer symmetrical uploads and downloads, ranging from a swift 300 Mbps to a staggering 2300 Mbps. And the best part? Prices start at just $49.99!
Verizon Fios internet plans are contract-free and arrive with enticing features such as unlimited data and all the essential equipment at no additional cost, making your online experience more valuable. Not to mention, Verizon offers a price guarantee, guaranteeing a consistent internet bill for the next few years with no hidden charges.
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But hold on—the benefits don’t end there! Verizon Fios goes beyond the norm by including exclusive perks with each plan, enhancing your home internet connection. But the real show-stopper is the chance to get these fantastic plans at significantly lower monthly prices by combining them with qualified Verizon 5G Mobile plans.
| Plans | Price | Internet Speed | Contact Verizon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fios 300 | $49.99/mo. | 300 Mbps | View Plans |
| Fios 500 | $69.99/mo. | 500 Mbps | View Plans |
| Fios 1 Gig | $89.99/mo. | 940 Mbps | View Plans |
| Fios 2 Gis | $119.99/mo. | 2300 Mbps | View Plans |
Xfinity
In comparison, Xfinity’s plan structure is quite different. The provider offers a more extensive range of internet plans, boasting a lower starting price, but here’s the catch – its rates slightly fluctuate across the three regions: West, Central, and Northeast. While the higher-tier plans show little variation in cost, the lower-tier speeds present a significant difference.
Xfinity’s entry-level plan of 75 Mbps has the most reasonable starting price of $20 in the West region, whereas the exact option costs $30 in the Central area. However, Xfinity completely forgoes this plan in the Northeast. In fact, Xfinity’s internet plans in the Northeast differ significantly from the other two regions based on pricing, speed, and other policies like contracts, data caps, and extras like price guarantees. Xfinity justifies this approach by placing itself as a regional provider that tailors its product pricing according to the specific dynamics of the local market.
The varying prices and policies make Xfinity a confusing option for potential customers. While this might not seem like a major concern for an average user, it can be quite troublesome for individuals who plan to move from one region to another.
It is also worth mentioning that Xfinity has a small fiber footprint and offers one of the fastest fiber internet plans in the market, but this premium offering comes with a hefty price tag of $300 and is only available at certain addresses.
| Northeast Region | |||
| Plans | Price | Speed | Data Caps |
| Connect More | $25.00/mo. | 200 Mbps | None |
| Fast | $35.00/mo. | 400 Mbps | None |
| Superfast | $60.00/mo. | 800 Mbps | None |
| Gigabit | $70.00/mo. | 1000 Mbps | None |
| Gigabit Extra | $80.00/mo. | 1200 Mbps | None |
| Gigabit Pro | $300.00/mo. | 6000 Mbps | None |
| West Region | |||
| Plans | Price | Speed | Data Caps |
| Connect | $19.99/mo. | 75 Mbps | 1.2 TB |
| Connect More | $35.00/mo. | 200 Mbps | 1.2 TB |
| Fast | $50.00/mo. | 400 Mbps | None (if using Xfinity’s equipment) |
| Superfast | $60.00/mo. | 800 Mbps | None (if using Xfinity’s equipment) |
| Ultrafast | $60.00/mo. | 1000 Mbps | None (if using Xfinity’s equipment) |
| Gigabit Extra | $70.00/mo. | 1200 Mbps | None (if using Xfinity’s equipment) |
| Gigabit X2 | $120.00/mo. | 2000 Mbps | None (if using Xfinity’s equipment) |
| Gigabit Pro | $300.00/mo. | 6000 Mbps | None |
| Central Region | |||
| Plans | Price | Speed | Data Caps |
| Connect | $30.00/mo. | 75 Mbps | 1.2 TB |
| Connect More | $35.00/mo. | 200 Mbps | 1.2 TB |
| Fast | $55.00/mo. | 400 Mbps | 1.2 TB |
| Superfast | $60.00/mo. | 800 Mbps | 1.2 TB |
| Ultrafast | $75.00/mo. | 1000 Mbps | 1.2 TB |
| Gigabit Extra | $80.00/mo. | 1200 Mbps | None |
| Gigabit Pro | $300.00/mo. | 6000 Mbps | None |
Internet Speed
This round goes to Verizon Fios since all of its plans offer symmetrical upload and download speeds. Although it generally provides a maximum speed of up to 940 Mbps in most places, it has recently rolled out an impressive 2 Gigabit plan exclusively available in NYC, setting new standards for lightning-fast connectivity.
On the other hand, Xfinity plays a dual role, offering both cable and fiber options. However, only cable internet options are available to most of its customers. And while these plans are impressive, reaching a maximum of 2000 Mbps in some locations, they come with asymmetrical speeds. These upload speeds are 25 times slower than fiber internet.
Nevertheless, Xfinity does have a unique advantage – it offers fiber internet to a small number of fortunate customers, providing amazing speeds of up to a mind-boggling 6000 Mbps.
| Providers | Verizon Fios | Xfinity |
|---|---|---|
| Download Speeds | Up to 2300 Mbps | Up to 6000 Mbps |
| Upload Speeds | Up to 2300 Mbps | Up to 6000 Mbps |
Data Caps
Xfinity’s policies are also a little unclear about data restrictions. Customers may find it confusing because certain plans in the West and Central areas have 1.2 TB data limitations while others do not. Even the unlimited plans in these regions may have certain conditions attached. However, 1.2 TB is still a generous amount of data, exceeding the 533 GB average monthly consumption estimate reported by OpenVault.
But here’s the twist – Xfinity doesn’t enforce any data limits in the Northeast. So, if you reside in that region, you get the benefit of unlimited data without any worries about throttling or penalties.
On the other hand, Verizon Fios adopts a refreshingly simple strategy of providing unlimited data with every plan without any conditions or limitations. As a result, you may use your internet connection as much as you like without worrying about data limits, sluggish connections, or extra fees.
Contract
Just like data caps, Xfinity’s contract policy can be a bit confusing. In all three regions, Xfinity offers both contract and contract-free options, but there is no familiar pattern or consistency. However, one thing is for sure – some Xfinity plans come with a one or two-year commitment to provide the best price during the promotional period, enabling you to seize enticing deals and discounts.
On the other hand, Verizon Fios is a contract-free provider, freeing you from any long-term agreements while still delivering the best price and additional perks. It means you can enjoy the benefits of Verizon Fios plans without being tied down, granting you the flexibility to adapt your internet service to your changing needs without any binding commitments.
Bundle Deals
Bundling is often associated with discounted offers, but discounts are not the only thing you get when you get multiple services from the same provider. You also gain access to unique extras and benefits, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Both Verizon Fios and Xfinity offer a comprehensive range of bundles, promising plenty of perks. Let’s explore and discover which one provides the ultimate value and fits your needs like a perfect puzzle piece.
Verizon Fios
Although Verizon Fios might not provide the multi-product discounts as Xfinity, its bundles offer an enticing one-stop shop for all your telecommunications requirements. The provider offers a wide range of plans that you may mix and match to meet your specific household needs. Verizon Fios’ bundles are the ideal way to enjoy high-speed internet, a TV package with hundreds of your favorite networks, and a dependable home phone service with numerous features, no hidden charges, and a set monthly cost.
Verizon Fios also offers an impressive array of additional benefits to spice up the deal. These benefits include free set-top boxes, attractive gift cards, and free access to the Disney Bundle for 6 to 12 months, among other things. Therefore, Verizon Fios bundles are designed to meet your every whim and provide an all-in-one solution, turning your home into an entertainment and communication haven.
| Bundle | Starting Price | Speed | Channel Count | Home Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 Mbps Internet + Your Fios TV | $124.99/mo. | 300 Mbps | 125+ | – |
| 500 Mbps Internet + Your Fios TV | $144.99/mo. | 500 Mbps | 125+ | – |
| 1 Gig + The Most Fios TV | $208.99/mo. | 940 Mbps | 425+ | – |
| 500 Mbps Internet + More Fios TV + Home Phone | $193.99/mo. | 500 Mbps | 225+ | Nationwide calling |
Xfinity
In comparison, Xfinity takes a strategic approach by offering multi-product discounts that vary based on the number of services combined, presenting an appealing range of savings from $20 to $60. With a diverse selection of internet, TV, and home phone plans at your fingertips, Xfinity lets you tailor your bundle to suit your specific needs perfectly.
Along with the tempting savings, Xfinity’s bundles also provide their own unique set of benefits, such as a free Peacock Premium subscription, which increases the entertainment value of your package. However, it lacks an impressive lineup of remarkable perks like Verizon Fios. Here are some of its popular bundles in the Central region.
| Plan | Starting Price | Internet Speed | Channel Count | Home Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connect More + Popular TV | $114.20/mo. | 200 Mbps | 125+ | – |
| Superfast Internet + Ultimate TV | $164.20/mo. | 800 Mbps | 185+ | – |
| Fast Internet + Ultimate TV + Xfinity Voice | $164.20/mo. | 400 Mbps | 185+ | Unlimited nationwide calling |
Additional Costs
Verizon Fios promises simplicity by including very few additional charges in its service. As one of the rare home internet providers that live up to its commitment to providing straightforward plans, Verizon Fios includes all taxes and extra costs in the monthly internet subscription. On the other hand, Xfinity has quite a few additional fees.
Equipment Fees
Verizon Fios gives a delightful surprise by including all the essential equipment in its plans at no extra cost. With no hidden fees or surprises, its offerings are as straightforward as it advertises them.
In contrast, Xfinity takes a different route. While its plans offer flexibility in equipment choices, it charges a monthly equipment rental fee. The good news is that you may adjust your preferences with your requirements. You may choose the stylish xFi Gateway for $15 per month and get a great package with free security features, parental controls over your home’s Wi-Fi, and complete tech support.
xFi Complete is another option for those craving even more perks. At $25 a month, this equipment plan presents unlimited data and a complimentary gateway upgrade after three years. Ultimately, the final choice depends on what you need and your budget.
| Provider | Equipment Fee |
|---|---|
| Verizon Fios | None |
| Xfinity | 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 Fees
Both providers offer professional and self-installation, with almost the same fee for the former option. However, it’s the self-installation where they differ. Verizon Fios stands out by offering a completely free DIY process, empowering you to set up your services without any charges. On the other hand, Xfinity charges $15 for self-installation in some areas. In short, Verizon Fios gives a practical and free self-installation option for budget-conscious people.
| Provider | Installation Fee |
|---|---|
| Verizon Fios | Self-installation: None |
| Pro-installation: $99.00 | |
| Xfinity | Self-installation: Free ($15 in some areas) |
| Pro-installation: $100.00 |
Early Termination Fees
Since Verizon Fios is a contract-free option, you don’t have to worry about a termination fee when canceling your subscription. On the other hand, some of Xfinity’s plans bind you in a 1 or 2-year contract, and switching your service during that term can result in an early termination fee of either $110 or $230, depending on the length of your agreement.
| Provider | ETF |
|---|---|
| Verizon Fios | None |
| Xfinity | 1-year contract: Start at $110 (decrease by $10 each month) |
| 2-year contract: Start at $230 (decrease by $10 each month) |
Customer Service – Verizon Fios vs Xfinity Internet
Evaluating existing customer reviews and satisfaction can help you identify the best option for your home. Fortunately, both Verizon Fios and Xfinity shine in this aspect. In fact, customer service is the primary strength of Verizon Fios, consistently earning praise from its users. This fact is further backed by Verizon’s impressive ranking in the yearly reports by the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). This year, ACSI has segregated the fiber and non-fiber ISPs, and Verizon Fios ranks fourth in the fiber internet providers with an impressive score of 75, which matches the industry average.
Meanwhile, Xfinity also boasts above-average customer service, securing the fifth position in the non-fiber internet category, scoring 2 points higher than the industry average with a score of 68.
In short, both providers understand the significance of customer satisfaction and are committed to delivering exceptional service to their users. While Verizon Fios earns praise for its top-notch customer service, Xfinity strives to meet and exceed customer expectations, consistently achieving commendable rankings in customer satisfaction reports.
Coverage Area – Verizon Fios vs Xfinity Internet
Xfinity outweighs Verizon Fios with its extensive reach. Utilizing a well-established cable network, Xfinity delivers its internet plans across 40 states, offering connectivity to millions of users nationwide.
In contrast, Verizon Fios, while highly regarded for its exceptional services, is currently limited to major metro areas in only eight states: Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Virginia, along with the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.
While Verizon Fios might be more focused in specific regions due to infrastructure limitations, Xfinity’s widespread coverage serves a larger portion of the country, making it a preferred option for users seeking connectivity in various locations.
Best Internet for Gaming – Verizon Fios or Xfinity?
While high internet speed is undoubtedly a plus point for gaming, only avid gamers understand how important a low latency rate is for smooth gameplay. Low latency ensures a smooth and responsive gaming experience, allowing you to react swiftly to in-game events without any noticeable delays.
While both Verizon Fios and Xfinity offer fast internet plans, Verizon Fios is the better choice for gaming as it boasts an impressively low latency rate of 6.95 ms. On the other hand, Xfinity’s latency rate ranges between 15 to 20 ms.
Moreover, Verizon Fios provides the perfect gaming environment by offering unlimited data with every plan, a significant advantage for gamers who often need to download large gaming updates or run multiple applications.
Additionally, Verizon Fios guarantees a stable and dependable gaming experience even during busy hours. Unlike Xfinity, you don’t have to share your bandwidth with your neighbors with Verizon Fios since it runs on a dedicated fiber-optic network. This reliable connection translates into a steady and uninterrupted gaming performance, regardless of the time of day.
Is Verizon Fios Better than Xfinity?
In conclusion, when comparing Verizon Fios vs Xfinity, it is clear that Verizon Fios holds the advantage in several key areas. Both providers offer fast internet plans, but Verizon Fios takes the lead with its contract-free plans that arrive with symmetrical speeds, unlimited data, a price guarantee, no additional charges, and a low latency rate of 6.95 ms. Furthermore, Verizon Fios’ transparent price structure makes it a hassle-free choice. So, if you are moving to the Northeast and you get a choice between Verizon and Xfinity, it is better to choose Verizon Fios for an enhanced online experience.
