AT&T vs. Xfinity Internet Plans & Fees 2022

If you live in an area that both AT&T and Xfinity internet is available, you’re probably torn between the two. Both offer a variety of internet plans and features to suit most lifestyles. However, there are a few key differences between them, like internet speeds and data caps, that can make or break your decision. Follow along to see what each provider has to offer.

Overview

AT&T Internet Plans

AT&T internet plans offer a variety of DSL and fiber internet in select areas. Below, you’ll find options with a minimum broadband speed of 25 Mbps or higher. Note that speeds, pricing, and availability all depend on your physical location.

Xfinity Internet Plans

Xfinity internet plans offer a similar spread as AT&T, but they come in a bit cheaper at the lower end. Keep in mind that speeds, pricing, and availability all depend on your physical location.

Internet Fees

When it comes to internet fees and features, AT&T and Xfinity vary quite a bit. Check out the internet fees each ISP imposes to get an idea of what your monthly bill will come out to.

Data Limits

Both providers impose a data limit on select plans, however, you do have the option to upgrade to unlimited data depending on what’s available near you. AT&T offers a data allowance of 1 TB per month on its DSL plans, and Xfinity offers 1.2 TB of data per month on its lowest cable plans. For most users, this is plenty of data to get through.

If you exceed this limit, blocks of 50 GB will automatically be added to your bill for an extra fee of $10 each plus tax (up to $100 total). Xfinity is a little better in that they give customers a pass their first time going over their data cap whereas AT&T does not.

Installation Fees

You can get internet set up through either a self-installation or a professional technician. If you order internet online and choose to install service yourself, it’s free for both providers. If you prefer to have a professional take care of it, Xfinity charges a one-time fee of $89.99 while AT&T charges a one-time fee of $99.99. AT&T is a little more expensive, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s not a deal-breaker between the two.

Equipment Rentals

When it comes to renting your internet modem and/or router, Xfinity is a little pricier. AT&T charges a monthly equipment fee of $10, and Xfinity charges $14. If you prefer to save money by using your own equipment, neither AT&T nor Xfinity have a problem with it.

Contracts & Termination Fees

While neither provider requires contracts to get internet service, you can significantly save if you opt for one.

Xfinity’s plans vary. They offer month-to-month, 1-year, and 2-year plans. If you opt for a contract and then cancel your service before your agreement expires, you may be charged an early termination fee of up to $120 (or $10 for every month left on your contract).

AT&T does not require annual contracts, but it does give customers the option to lock in pricing for 1 or 2 years. If you end your service before your agreement expires, you may have to pay an ETF of up to $180 for a 1-year contract or $360 for a 2-year contract ($15 for every month left on your contract).

Customer Satisfaction

The American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACIS) is an industry-leading measurement of customer satisfaction that gives annual ratings for internet providers nationwide.

Both providers have improved their scores over the years. However, customers have rated AT&T higher than Xfinity three years in a row. Things like its fiber availability and cheaper starting prices are a few things that make AT&T stand out.

Availability

Your choice as a customer really comes down to where you live. Internet service providers have networks spread across the US, and no two ISPs offer the same coverage. We recommend entering your zip code below to know for sure what’s available near you.

AT&T

Currently, AT&T offers service in over 20 states, making it one of the largest providers in the United States. If you live in Indiana or New Jersey where their coverage is greatest, you’re likely to find and enjoy the most options. In addition, customers also get access to more than 30,000 free WiFi hotspots.

Xfinity

Xfinity offers service in 40 states and serves over 115 million customers. It’s one of the largest cable providers in the US. Its best coverage and speeds can be found in suburban and urban areas, and customers get access to more than 18 million free Xfinity WiFi hotspots.

Recap

AT&T offers great symmetrical speeds and low internet fees. Whereas, Xfinity offers slightly better pricing on introductory plans and wider availability. Based on all of their offerings, check out which lifestyle each provider pairs best with.

Budget Shopper

If you’re shopping on a budget, Xfinity internet plans may be for you. While its equipment rental fee costs slightly more than AT&T, it charges less for a 50 Mbps plan. You’ll be able to get fast download speeds for as much as $20 cheaper if you can get Xfinity in your area.

Heavy User

Xfinity offers fast download speeds, however, AT&T comes with fast symmetrical speeds. This means that you get the same upload and download speeds, which is ideal for anyone who streams video a lot, games online, works from home, or has multiple devices connected at once.

Convenience

You’re likely to find at least one of these providers in your area. However, Xfinity offers more in the way of WiFi hotspots. AT&T includes about 30,000 free WiFi hotspots to active customers, whereas Xfinity serves over 18 million. This makes traveling and commuting more convenient within the United States.

To shop for current internet providers near you, enter your zip code below.