Verizon Fios vs Xfinity: Side by Side Comparison

Verizon Fios was the first company to invest in last-mile fiber connections – meaning customers get fiber directly to their homes instead of a hybrid fiber/coaxial connection. Xfinity offers one fiber plan with up to 2,000 Mbps for $299.99 per month. However, few can enjoy this grand plan with a $500 install fee and up to a $500 activation fee.

If Verizon Fios isn’t an option, Xfinity does provide reliable service. Xfinity’s cable internet offers various packages where you can choose the speed you need. Their starter plan offers speeds up to 50 Mbps for $29.99 per month.

Other than being available in over 40 states, Xfinity offers Double Play and Triple Play bundles with Wi-Fi hotspots to all customers regardless of the plan. Xfinity customers can also save by signing up for autopay and paperless billing. While it’s a smaller quantity, Verizon Fios also has hotspots in select locations. The most valuable perks Verizon Fios offers include zero data limits, similar download and upload speeds, and contract-free plans.

Verizon Fios doesn’t offer special discounts for military members, students, or teachers, but they do offer discounts for customers that have Verizon Fios and Verizon mobile services. By contrast, Xfinity offers one-time gift cards of up to $150 to the above-mentioned groups. Xfinity’s current promotion also includes gift cards up to $300 when you sign up online.

Verizon Fios and Xfinity Bundles Compared

Xfinity has more variety when it comes to bundles than Verizon Fios. Xfinity gives customers more options when it comes to both channels and speed. Both Xfinity and Verizon Fios have in-house TV services available with their bundles.

If you’re looking for a Double or Triple Play bundle, check out Xfinity first. With multiple internet speeds, three cable options, phone service, and two home security options, you’ll have plenty of choices from $44.99 to $129.99 per month. However, if $135.99 per month is in your price range, you can get gigabit speeds and up to 425-plus channels through Verizon Fios.

Verizon Fios vs. Xfinity Extra Fees and Contracts

Verizon Fios currently switched all of their plans to contract-free, dropping contracts altogether. Xfinity offers a one- or two-year contract and contract-free plans for an additional $10 per month, depending on the package you select.

The plus side of having a contract with Xfinity is that your price is locked in for at least 12 months. Remember to check your rates after your contract ends because it’s likely that your rates will increase with both Xfinity and Verizon Fios. Changes may differ depending on your location, provider, and what features are in your package.

Installations

Verizon Fios and Xfinity provide free installation with promotions. However, install fees can cost up to $99.99, depending on the provider. Xfinity currently provides a self-install kit for free with qualifying plans.

Data Cap

All Verizon Fios plans include unlimited data free of charge. Xfinity’s plans have a 1.2 TB data cap, but for every additional 50 GB of data, it’s an extra $10.

Verizon Fios outperforms Xfinity in Customer Satisfaction

The Verizon Fios speed test was impressive at an average of 527 Mbps. Xfinity speed tests also weren’t bad, with an average of 380 Mbps.

Both companies rank between 3.5-4 stars out of 5 in performance. Verizon Fios is slightly higher in every category: speed, equipment, reliability, etc. Performance can change with either provider depending on:

• Your internet equipment
• Your location
• The number of devices you plan to connect
• Your connection type

Verizon Fios and Xfinity are easy to contact through email, live chat, phone, and social media if you need help troubleshooting your equipment or have questions about your plan.