Xfinity X1 is a better choice for users who prioritize availability, diverse bundling options, and a wider range of plans, while Cox Gigablast may be suitable for users in its limited coverage area who prioritize network reliability and high download speeds, provided they are mindful of potential price increases and data caps.
| Attribute | Xfinity X1 | Cox Gigablast |
|---|---|---|
| Download Speed (Maximum) | Up to 2 Gbps (fiber internet up to 10 Gbps, limited availability; some areas with 6,000 Mbps and 10,000 Mbps plans) | Up to 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps), upgradeable to 2 Gbps in certain areas |
| Upload Speed (Maximum) | Varies by location and plan; some plans up to 20 Mbps, upgraded areas up to 100 Mbps, 2 Gig plan up to 250 Mbps (actual speeds may vary) | Typically 35 Mbps, up to 100 Mbps or symmetrical speeds (up to 1000 Mbps) in some locations |
| Data Caps | 1.2 TB data cap for most home internet plans; $10 for each additional 50 GB (up to $100 in overage fees); unlimited data for an extra $30/month or upgrading to a specific plan | 1.25 TB per month, $10 per 50 GB block overage fee (max $100/month) |
| Contract Length | No minimum term contract available; 5-year price guarantees available | No annual contract required, promotional pricing often requires a 1-year contract |
| Equipment Fees | xFi Gateway (modem/router) rentals up to $14/month; TV equipment fees $17.45 monthly, plus optional $10 DVR storage fee; X1 TV boxes $7.50/mo | $10.99 to $15 per month to rent a modem, can be avoided with own compatible modem and router |
| Bundling Options (TV, Phone) | TV, internet, phone, and home security; bundling can result in savings | Available with TV and phone services, providing discounts |
| Price (Monthly) | Internet plans $30/mo to $300/mo; TV packages $25/month to $125/mo; Bundled Double Play and Triple Play options $95/mo to $175/mo | Starting around $99.99, increasing to $119.99 or more after the first year, bundled prices vary (e.g., $218.99/mo with TV and phone) |
| Customer Service Rating | Average customer service score of 3.3 out of 5; CNET gave them a customer care rating of 7/10 | Below average |
| Network Reliability | Hybrid fiber-coaxial network; large public Wi-Fi network | Top-ranked for speed and reliability |
| Availability (Coverage Area) | Available in 40 states and the District of Columbia; broadest statewide coverage in District of Columbia, Maryland, and Massachusetts | Limited areas within Cox's 19-state service footprint |
| Installation Fees | Professional installation typically $100; self-installation kits around $15 | May apply |
| Promotional Offers | Limited-time promotional pricing; student exclusive offers; discounts for bundling services; 5-year price guarantees | Available for new customers, bundling services, discounted rates, or unlimited data |