Xfinity vs RCN: Side by Side Comparison
Xfinity and RCN are two of the largest internet service providers in the United States. They both offer a wide array of internet speeds and bundling options. While both ISPs have high-speed internet options, they do have differences in data caps, availability, and other factors listed in the fine print. We will cover all the similarities and differences between each provider below.
Xfinity Info
RCN Info
| Xfinity vs. RCN Comparison |
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| Provider | Xfinity | RCN |
| Speed | 50-2,000 Mbps | 100-940 Mbps |
| Pricing | $29.99-299.95/mo. | $29.99-49.99/mo. |
| Service Type | Cable or Fiber | Cable, Copper or Fiber |
| Xfinity vs. RCN FEATURE COMPARISON |
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| Provider | Xfinity | RCN |
| High-Speed Plans | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited Data | Select Plans | Yes |
| Contract-Free Plans | No | Yes |
| TV Service | Yes | Yes |
| Phone Service | Yes | Yes |
Xfinity Internet Deals †
Last updated on 7/20/2021†All plans not available in all areas or to all customers. Verify details with Xfinity.
RCN Internet Deals †
Last updated on 7/21/2021†All plans not available in all areas or to all customers. Verify details with RCN.
Xfinity vs. RCN Performance Overview
Xfinity offers service to approximately 112.1 million people, making them the largest cable internet provider in the nation. Their fiber internet is also one of the most widely available, providing service to 19,000 customers. Xfinity has many bundling options that provide internet download speeds ranging from 15-2,000 Mbps, TV with their 4k streaming device, the Xfinity X1, phone, and home security services—which is not typical of many ISPs.
RCN provides service in 8 states to an estimated 4.2 million people and is the 8th largest cable provider in the United States. Their internet download speeds of 25-940 Mbps along with TV and phone bundling options make them a very competitive option. RCN also has no mandatory contracts, uses TiVo for tv equipment, and features no data caps on their plans.
Xfinity Installation
Xfinity offers an easy to use self-install kit which can be picked up at any Xfinity store for no additional cost or be delivered to your residence for $15-29.95. They also offer professional installation at $90.
RCN Installation
RCN has no self-installation fee and can be installed within 24 hours of ordering a new service. They also offer professional installation, normally priced at $49.99, but there are several plans and coupon codes available that offer discounted or waived fees.
Xfinity Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
Xfinity requires a one-year term agreement if you are a new customer taking advantage of one of their promotions.
These contracts have an early termination fee of $110, which if canceled, is prorated for the length of service at $10 a month. Xfinity also offers no-commitment plans but they do not take advantage of any promotion so your rate for service will be higher per month depending on the plan. Their internet speeds consist of download speeds of 15-2,000 Mbps and upload speeds of 2-2,000 Mbps. To access their service, an xFi gateway (Xfinity’s wireless modem and router) can be rented for $14a month, or Xfinity’s mesh network and unlimited data can be added with Xfinity’s xFi Complete for $25 a month. You may use your own compatible modem and wireless router for no additional fee, though options like tech-support and advanced security will be unavailable to you and unlimited data will cost an additional $30 a month.
RCN Contracts, Equipment Fees & Fine Print
RCN has no mandatory contracts, so service can be canceled at any time without incurring early termination fees that many ISPs have.
Additionally, they also have a 30-day money-back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with your service. RCN’s internet speeds have download speeds of 25-940 Mbps and upload speeds of 4-20 Mbps. Because of their different bundling options, there are many different types of equipment that RCN can provide such as a WiFi modem combo for $10 a month, a WiFi router for $8.95 a month, a modem for $10 a month, or a whole home Wifi for $9.95. You may also opt to use your own modem and router as long as it’s compatible with RCN’s service.
Xfinity Data Caps
A data cap of 1.2 TB is implemented on all of Xfinity’s plans. You can get unlimited data if you have Xfinity’s GigabitPro plan or if you use your own modem then unlimited data can be purchased for an additional $30 a month. You may also add an xFi Complete which uses Xfinity’s xFi Gateway (Xfinity’s wireless modem) to get unlimited data for $25 a month. If you are using an xFi Gateway already, you can upgrade to xFi Complete for $11 a month to get unlimited data. If you do not want unlimited data but you exceed your data cap, you will be charged $10 for each additional 50 GB used, up to a maximum of $100 per month.
RCN Data Caps
RCN has no data caps with any of its plans, so there is no need to worry about overage fees.
Great Service
First time Xfinity subscriber. Exceeded my expectations. I can honestly say I was very impressed with all aspects of Xfinity. I just purchased a home in Delray Beach FL. From the initial appointment call to complete installation, Xfinity exceeded my expectations. Very impressed with the Tech. The tech arrived early. He introduced himself and ask me about my expectations. He explained what he was going to do and would have me watching NFL football today. Walked me through the setup and all options of the remote. I ordered cable and internet. I will say the internet service is faster than others. Very impressed with Xfinity.
Great internet service experience
I had a problem with internet connectivity. The service person from Xfinity who came today (May 25) was outstanding. He was courteous, knowledgeable, and patient -- a real pro. He checked outdoor connections, the indoor cable, the modem, etc., and kept going until the problem was resolved. I hope Xfinity gives him a commendation for his great work.
Phenomenal job
My internet had been down since yesterday morning. We called today and were fortunate to get a technician. He arrived with an unwavering determination to resolve my issue. His manipulation with the tools of the trade gave me assurance that I would have Netflix and be chilling real soon! He moved from one room to next, from the basement to outside, from atop a strong ladder to the back of the reliable van, one step after another until finally done! My family and I thank you, may your jobs never be too many or your reward too few!
Amazing
I am not sure of everyone else's reviews here but RCN is the best by far. I have never had an issue with speed, service, customer service, or price. When my promotional period was over, I called and they extended it without me even asking. An amazing company in my opinion.
Xfinity vs. RCN Coverage Availability
Xfinity Coverage & Availability
RCN Coverage & Availability
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