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Xfinity and Optimum each offer an assortment of internet plans and other services that most US households would find beneficial. They both offer high-speed broadband internet, TV, and home phone services. But there are a few differences, such as connection types and free perks, that help inform your decision process.
Have a look at each provider’s capabilities and benefits below to help you make the right decision between Xfinity internet and Optimum internet.
- Same-day installations
- 8+ million free WiFi hotspots
- Unlimited data available
- Reliable internet connection
- Cable & fiber options
- Fixed pricing available
Suddenlink is now Optimum. As of 8/1/22, all Suddenlink plans and services will be sold under the Optimum brand.
Internet Plans
Our Picks | | |
|---|---|---|
Starting Price | $19.99/mo. – $299.95/mo. | $29.99/mo. |
Max Download | 50 Mbps – 3000 Mbps | 100 Mbps – 1000 Mbps |
Data Caps | Yes | No |
Equipment Fee | $14/mo. – $25/mo. | $10/mo. |
| Check Availability | Check Availability |
Pricing, speeds, offers, and availability vary by service address and are subject to change at any time. Additional fees, taxes, and terms may apply. As of 8/19/22.
Xfinity Internet Plans
Xfinity internet plans offer some of the fastest cable internet speeds. With speeds up to 3 Gbps in many areas, Xfinity’s network is well-suited for streaming movies, online gaming, and working from home. You also have access to built-in features, like online security and parental controls.
Optimum Internet Plans
Optimum is a fiber internet provider that also offers cable TV and home phone packages. With speeds up to 5 Gbps, Optimum can support connected households with many users and devices. Boost your internet service with a WiFi mesh gateway and a convenient streaming device with all your favorite apps.
Internet Features
Xfinity and Optimum each offer robust services and options with competitive internet speeds and benefits. Here’s a closer look at each provider and what sets them apart.
Data Caps
Except for its Gigabit plan, all Xfinity plans have a generous 1.25 TB data cap. Xfinity also offers unlimited data to any plan without it for an additional monthly fee.
Data Caps
Optimum offers unlimited data in all of its plans but may restrict data in cases of excessive use.
High Speeds
With a 1 Gbps plan in many markets, and a 3 Gbps plan available in select areas, Xfinity provides some of the fastest internet speeds over cable internet.
High Speeds
The highest speed Optimum offers is a massive 5 Gbps; however, this speed is available in very limited areas.
Contracts
Xfinity requires contracts but does have contract-free options available at a slightly increased monthly rate.
Contracts
Optimum does not require contracts and offers a contract buy-out to help you switch providers.
Internet Security
All Xfinity plans include advanced security that protects against cyber threats, allows for user profiles, and parental control.
Internet Security
Online security is built into Optimum’s network and comes with each of the provider’s plans.
Bundles
Xfinity offers cable and internet bundles, along with home phone and home security services, to help you save and streamline your monthly bill.
Bundles
Optimum doesn’t specifically offer bundles, but TV and home phone services can be added to the internet plan you choose.
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Data Caps
Except for its Gigabit plan, all Xfinity plans have a generous 1.25 TB data cap. Xfinity also offers unlimited data to any plan without it for an additional monthly fee.
High Speeds
With a 1 Gbps plan in many markets, and a 3 Gbps plan available in select areas, Xfinity provides some of the fastest internet speeds over cable internet.
Contracts
Xfinity requires contracts but does have contract-free options available at a slightly increased monthly rate.
Internet Security
All Xfinity plans include advanced security that protects against cyber threats, allows for user profiles, and parental control.
Bundles
Xfinity offers cable and internet bundles, along with home phone and home security services, to help you save and streamline your monthly bill.
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Data Caps
Optimum offers unlimited data in all of its plans but may restrict data in cases of excessive use.
High Speeds
The highest speed Optimum offers is a massive 5 Gbps; however, this speed is available in very limited areas.
Contracts
Optimum does not require contracts and offers a contract buy-out to help you switch providers.
Internet Security
Online security is built into Optimum’s network and comes with each of the provider’s plans.
Bundles
Optimum doesn’t specifically offer bundles, but TV and home phone services can be added to the internet plan you choose.
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Internet Fees
The price you see on a provider’s plans is just the price of the service. Oftentimes, there are other fees on top that can add up quickly. Here is a breakdown of common fees Xfinity and Optimum might charge.
Installation
Xfinity offers free self-installation, and charges about $90 for professional installation if needed or requested.
Installation
Optimum charges $70 for installation and has a free self-installation kit.
Data Overages
When applicable, Xfinity charges $10 for each 50 GB block over the generous 1.2 TB monthly data cap. Upgrade to xFi Complete for unlimited data for $25/mo.
Data Overages
Since Optimum includes unlimited data with each plan, there aren’t any data overage fees.
Equipment
Xfinity charges $14/mo. for its WiFi router. You may also use your own equipment as long as it meets Xfinity’s device specifications.
Equipment
Optimum standard equipment fees start at $10/mo. depending on the device you lease and any additional equipment.
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Installation
Xfinity offers free self-installation, and charges about $90 for professional installation if needed or requested.
Data Overages
When applicable, Xfinity charges $10 for each 50 GB block over the generous 1.2 TB monthly data cap. Upgrade to xFi Complete for unlimited data for $25/mo.
Equipment
Xfinity charges $14/mo. for its WiFi router. You may also use your own equipment as long as it meets Xfinity’s device specifications.
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Installation
Optimum charges $70 for installation and has a free self-installation kit.
Data Overages
Since Optimum includes unlimited data with each plan, there aren’t any data overage fees.
Equipment
Optimum standard equipment fees start at $10/mo. depending on the device you lease and any additional equipment.
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Picking a Provider
If Xfinity or Optimum are two providers worth considering for your internet service. They each offer services beyond their internet plans, and access to multi-gig internet speeds. However, Xfinity has an advantage with greater availability and included perks.
Xfinity: Best for Availability and Heavy Use
Xfinity internet service is widely available in over 40 states and includes over 8 million hotspots nationwide. And with faster available speeds, Xfinity is ideal for heavy use activities such as gaming online and working from home.
Optimum: Best for Top Speeds
Although it has very limited access, Optimum internet service offers a top speed of 5 Gbps is one of the fastest speeds available to residential customers. If you are in a service area, this high-speed service will support heavy use, multiple users, 4K streaming video, and the ultimate connected home.
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