AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Internet service providers: Xfinity X1 vs. Spectrum Internet Gig

Quick Verdict

Xfinity X1 is a strong choice if you prioritize potentially higher download speeds and are comfortable with contracts and data caps. Spectrum Internet Gig is better if you value unlimited data, no contracts, and included equipment, despite the lower upload speed and potential price increase after the first year.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeXfinity X1Spectrum Internet Gig
Download Speed (Maximum)Up to 10 Gbps. Some plans start with 400 Mbps.Up to 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps). Wireless speeds may vary.
Upload Speed (Maximum)150-300Mbps.Up to 35 Mbps.
Data CapsUnlimited data is often included initially, but a 1.2 TB data cap may apply after a promotional period.None. Unlimited data with no overage charges.
Contract LengthContracts may be required for the best pricing.No contracts required.
Price (Monthly)Internet plans start around $30 per month. Bundles can start around $40 per month. Prices vary by region.Starting at $70.00/mo for 12 months. Note that the price can increase after the first 12 months.
Bundling Options (TV, Phone)Bundling options include Xfinity X1 television, Xumo streaming services, Xfinity Voice, and Xfinity Home security. Double-play (TV, Internet), triple-play (TV, Internet, Phone), and quad-play (TV, Internet, Phone, Home Security) bundles are available.Bundling options are available with Spectrum TV and/or Spectrum Mobile. Spectrum Voice can be added for an additional monthly fee.
Equipment Fees (Modem, Router)xFi Gateway (modem/router combo) rental is around $14-$15 per month. You can purchase your own modem and router to avoid rental fees.Free modem is included. A WiFi router is included with the Gig plan. Advanced WiFi can be added for an extra monthly cost.
Installation FeesProfessional installation is typically $100. Self-Install Plus (technician guidance) is around $39.99. Self-installation is often available as a free option.A one-time installation fee may apply. It could be a professional installation fee or a self-installation activation fee.
Customer Service RatingVaries. AT&T generally has higher customer satisfaction ratings.Ratings vary.
Coverage AreaWidespread national availability.Available in 41 states.
Promotional OffersPromotional pricing is common, but watch out for price increases after the promotional period. Xfinity StreamSaver bundle offers access to streaming services like Netflix, Peacock, and Apple TV+ at a discounted price. Discounts may be available for students, military personnel, and veterans.Spectrum may cover early termination fees from your previous provider. Deals may include free subscriptions to streaming services like Disney+. Bundling can provide significant savings.
Xfinity X1 TV Box FeaturesVoice remote. On-demand content and streaming apps (like Netflix). DVR capabilities to pause, rewind, and fast-forward live TV. Cloud DVR storage. The ability to record multiple shows at once (up to 6). Xfinity Stream app to watch live TV and Xfinity On Demand on mobile devices. Some X1 boxes support 4K video (ARRIS XG1v4 and ARRIS Xi6).Voice remote, on-demand content and streaming apps, some models support 4K video, DVR capabilities, Xfinity Stream app to watch on other devices. Requires an Xfinity TV plan.

Overall Comparison

Xfinity X1: Up to 10 Gbps download, $30/month starting price, 1.2 TB data cap may apply. Spectrum Internet Gig: Up to 1 Gbps download, $70/month starting price, unlimited data.

Pros and Cons

Xfinity X1

Pros:
  • Widespread national availability
  • Bundling options available (TV, Internet, Phone, Home Security)
  • Xfinity Stream typically allows streaming on up to 5 devices simultaneously within the home network.
  • Xfinity offers low pricing compared to some other internet providers.
  • xFi Gateway is designed to streamline home internet setup.
  • Xfinity has been doing a decent job of making their equipment easy to manage for most use cases.
Cons:
  • 1.2 TB data cap may apply after a promotional period
  • Potential equipment fees, installation fees, and price increases after promotional periods
  • Early termination fees (ETFs) may apply if you're under a contract.
  • Not all X1 models support 4K video.
  • Requires an Xfinity TV plan.

Spectrum Internet Gig

Pros:
  • No data caps
  • No contracts required
  • Bundling options available for TV and phone
  • Free modem included
  • Router included with Gig plan
  • May cover early termination fees from previous provider
  • Deals may include free streaming subscriptions
  • Supports multiple devices streaming simultaneously
  • Reliable internet, even during peak hours
  • Spectrum's pricing is competitive
  • No early termination fees
  • Offers a self-install kit
Cons:
  • Price can increase after the first 12 months
  • Wireless speeds may vary
  • Customer service experiences vary
  • One-time installation fee may apply
  • Xfinity X1 TV box features require an Xfinity TV plan

User Experiences and Feedback