Xfinity vs. AT&T Internet: Comparing Speeds, Pricing, Deals, And More

On most fronts, Xfinity internet and AT&T internet aren’t drastically different. Xfinity’s slower internet speeds are cheaper than AT&T’s slow fiber plans. But AT&T’s high-speed fiber plans are cheaper than Xfinity’s, so you’ll get a lot of bang for your buck with AT&T.

And while both providers have a reasonably sized data cap on some plans, most of AT&T’s plans come with unlimited data. In comparison, Xfinity’s only plan with unlimited data is the superfast, uber-expensive Gigabit Pro.

And when looking at the prices, remember that AT&T includes the price of its Wi-Fi gateway, which most providers charge around $10 a month for. Renting Xfinity’s xFi Gateway will cost you $14 a month, but you can bring your own compatible modem and router instead to avoid ongoing charges.

While our survey of internet customers like you put Xfinity above AT&T in overall satisfaction, both providers offer different plans based on where you live, which makes it hard to pick a clear winner.

Go for AT&T Fiber if you want speed, but consider Xfinity if you’re looking for affordable internet (and you’re willing to buy your own modem and router). Keep on reading to find out more about our takes on each provider. 

Xfinity vs. AT&T: internet plans and prices

If you’re the only person using your internet and you have modest internet needs, you’ll find a lot to like with Xfinity or AT&T. But things can get complicated if you’re getting internet for more than a few people—let’s break down the biggest internet plans for AT&T and Xfinity.

Xfinity internet plans

Data effective as of post date. Not all offers available in all areas. See full disclaimer regarding pricing and features for more information.

Most of Xfinity’s plans are cable internet, ranging from the basic Connect (150 Mbps) to the impressive-for-cable Gigabit Extra (1,300 Mbps). Connect is the plan to bank on if you want cheap internet—it has enough get-up-and-go to support one or two people using the internet at once, although we don’t recommend it for families who stream multiple shows at once.

We like middle plans Connect More (400 Mbps) and Fast (600 Mbps) for the average user, both of which offer plenty of speed at a more manageable price than AT&T’s starting plans.

If you’re running a home business where speed counts, Gigabit might be a wiser option. Remember that cable (and DSL) internet download speeds don’t mean equal upload speeds: for example, 200 Mbps download will get you only about 10 Mbps upload.

AT&T’s fiber plans are a much better deal than Xfinity’s high-speed plans, though, so if you have the option, we’d say save yourself a buck and go with AT&T.

AT&T internet plans

Data effective as of post date. Not all offers available in all areas. See full disclaimer regarding pricing and features for more information.

Now that AT&T has discontinued their DSL internet plans, we’d recommend Xfinity for plans up to 100 Mbps. An alternative is AT&T Internet Air, which uses AT&T’s 5G cellular data network to deliver its internet service. At $60.00 per month with speeds of up-to 225Mbps it’s a solid option, but we still would say to stick with Xfinity for those lower-speed plans.

Fiber offers a more consistent internet experience than cable and DSL, in more ways than one. Fiber internet’s upload speeds mirror its download speeds—which means no more waiting for an hour for the latest episode of your Typography Talk podcast to upload.

Plus, AT&T Fiber comes with no data caps, so you don’t have to worry about going over your monthly data allowance and being slapped with a fine like you would with an Xfinity plan.

Compared to what you get with Xfinity, any of AT&T’s fiber plans offer an excellent deal price-to-speed-wise. If fiber is available in your neighborhood, we say jump on it.

Is Xfinity or AT&T internet available in your neighborhood?

Xfinity internet is available across 35 states nationwide, so you’ll likely be in an Xfinity area if you’re near a major city. AT&T technically has a nationwide internet footprint, but as with other fiber/DSL internet providers, it has some gaps. AT&T’s fiber internet network has been rolled out on a city-by-city basis, so you may not have fiber coverage even if AT&T’s in your town.

Xfinity vs. AT&T: specs and features

Xfinity and AT&T offer vastly different services, and this extends to their internet plans. Let’s break down everything else you’ll need to factor into your decision between AT&T and Xfinity internet.

AT&T offers straightforward installation

Does Xfinity or AT&T have good internet deals?

Xfinity and AT&T have a mix of annoying fees

But AT&T offers an important equipment freebie

Xfinity’s bundle options offer slightly more value

Xfinity vs. AT&T FAQ

Why you should trust us

Our experts compared Xfinity and AT&T’s bang for your buck, reliability, features, and customer satisfaction. We compared plans and prices side by side, along with hidden fees and extra perks, to best picture how the two providers stack up. For more information on our methodology, check out our How We Rank page.

Disclaimers:

AT&T Fiber Internet: Above pricing is after $10/mo Autopay & Paperless bill discount with a debit card or bank account; if using a credit card, then price is $5/mo more. Pricing includes Equipment Fee. Up to $99 install fee may apply, plus tax where applicable.
Xfinity internet: For 12 months, no term contract. Taxes not included. Incl. up to $10/mo. auto-pay & paperless bill discount.