CenturyLink vs Xfinity: Extra Fees and Contracts
Installation
CenturyLink offers customers standard installation for $15 where a technician performs work outside of your location and you just have to install the modem inside your home, or professional installation for up to $149. For homes that have not been wired with fiber, a skilled technician from CenturyLink will install the necessary wires that will run from the outside in.
Xfinity’s professional installation typically costs $89.99, but it varies by location; it’s a must for homes that have never been wired for Xfinity services. Returning Xfinity customers have the convenient option of self-installing the internet on their own terms.
Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
CenturyLink provides customers with contract-free plans, which means there are no early termination fees. If customers decide to end services, they will be responsible for returning their equipment (if rented) and any amount that is due on their account. CenturyLink customers have the option to either rent a modem and router for $15 per month or purchase the equipment for $200 plus tax. CenturyLink may waive installation or equipment fees when customers sign up for a contract during select promotional periods.
Most Xfinity plans require contracts ranging from 12-24 months. For an extra fee of $10 per month, Xfinity customers can opt for a contract-free plan, which allows you to cancel at anytime without facing penalty fees. There is no standard early termination fee, but customers who end their contract early will need to pay a monthly penalty fee for each remaining month of their contract. Xfinity’s early termination fee can range anywhere between $5-$10 per month. Equipment rental fees start at $14 per month for basic equipment that include a modem and router.
Data Caps
Unlike Xfinity, CenturyLink doesn’t have data caps on most of their plans.
There is a 1.2 TB data cap on all Xfinity cable internet plans. Customers are able to purchase an additional 50 GB of data for $10 in select areas. Xfinity also provides the option to pay a flat fee of $30 per month for unlimited data with any plan.