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The internet is no longer a luxury item rather an everyday commodity, owing to its revolutionary impact on communication, information sharing, education, healthcare, industry, entertainment, work, and more. It is at the core of everything that happens anywhere―and without a doubt the one phenomenon that has contributed the most to turning the world into a global village. While developing countries may still be catching up in terms of ready access to high-speed internet, about 5.16 billion or 64.4% of the world’s population is already connected. The U.S. alone has over 307 million users of the internet and ranks among the top three largest markets worldwide.
With that said, whether options at your address are abundant or limited, choosing a service for your home can be a dilemma. The one thing that can however make the process less challenging is proper research on available options in your area, so you can run a comparison and assess the value of each.
Our today’s article walks you through a comparison of services offered by two major U.S. internet providers―Windstream and Xfinity. We hope this guide will help you evaluate the offerings from both providers and choose whatever is a better fit for your home.
Before we get into the nitty and gritty, here is a quick look at the basic things you must consider when looking at Windstream and Xfinity.
| Windstream | Xfinity | |
|---|---|---|
| Service Types | Hybrid DSL & Cable Internet, Fiber, Fixed Wireless | Hybrid Fiber-Coaxial Internet |
| Availability | 18 | 41 |
|
Download Speed Range (wired internet only) |
Kinetic Fiber Internet 300 Mbps―2 Gbps |
150 Mbps―1200 Mbps |
| Kinetic High Speed Internet Up to 100 Mbps |
||
| Price Range (wired internet only) |
Kinetic Fiber Internet $39.99/mo. ― $99.99/mo. |
$19.99/mo. - $85/mo. |
|
Kinetic Internet High Speed Internt 100 $50/mo. For 36 months with AutoPay |
||
|
Data Cap |
None |
1.2 TB―Unlimited |
|
Annual Contracts |
None |
Flexible―Terms vary depending on available offers |
Windstream and Xfinity are both national service providers with network coverage spanning many states. However Xfinity leads in terms of access to services, and its market share. Also it’s worth a mention these providers offer inherently different services as far as the technologies utilized in their network infrastructures―and availability of service type can vary with your geographic location.
Windstream CommunicationsIn recent years, Windstream has invested significantly in upgrading its Copper network by using a smart mix of DSL-based technologies and introducing Fiber to the Loop. Parallel to this, Windstream has also focused on the expansion of the pure Fiber service to more locations. According to the FCC data users in nearly 90% of the Windstream coverage map can readily access 25 Mbps for downloads via its hybrid DSL-based network. And, around 75% now have access to 100 Mbps. As for Windstream’s Kinetic Fiber Internet, the availability is limited, albeit in the process of rapid expansion. FCC statistics show you can enjoy a 100% Fiber connection in about 35% of the Windstream coverage map―speeds up to 1,000 Mbps are available in about 32%―availability of the 2 Gig speed tier is still more limited. In around 2% of locations customers also receive Windstream cable internet that offers download speeds comparable to that of Kinetic Fiber. Fixed Wireless from Windstream is an offering that is more so intended for rural locations where even the traditional DSL internet service is not accessible. |
Xfinity from ComcastXfinity delivers gig-speed internet primarily over a hybrid Fiber-Coaxial network. The advanced Xfinity network utilizes industry-leading tech to ensure customers enjoy higher speeds and more bandwidth. The FCC broadband map shows Xfinity’s cable internet is available in about 96% of its footprint, whereas the 100% Fiber service is accessible for users in about 4%. Xfinity also exhibits more consistency in terms of available speeds―offerings may vary in its 3 geographic service regions, but downloads ranging from 75 to 1000 Mbps are readily accessible in the near entirety of its footprint―which is a big plus. Availability of the 2 Gig download speed tier is however limited in all 3 service regions. And the pure Fiber service that delivers up to 6/6 Gbps internet via a 100% Fiber connection also depicts access only in select locations. Here it is worth mentioning Xfinity is rapidly working to upgrade its network to the 10G platform, which is expected to usher in a new era of connectivity for residential internet users. |
Windstream Internet Availability by StateWindstream delivers its internet services in parts of 18 states: Alabama | Arkansas | Florida | Georgia | Iowa | Kentucky | Minnesota | Mississippi | Check the Windstream availability map or contact Windstream Customer Service to confirm availability at your address |
Xfinity Internet Availability by StateXfinity delivers high-speed internet to customers in parts of 36 states: Alabama | Arkansas | Arizona | California | Colorado | Connecticut | DC | Delaware | Florida | Georgia |Illinois | Indiana | Kansas | Kentucky | Louisiana | Massachusetts | Maryland | Maine | Michigan | Minnesota | Mississippi | Check the Xfinity availability map or contact Xfinity Customer Service to confirm availability at your address |
Windstream Internet plans get you fast speeds at attractive promo prices. There is a price hike once the promo period ends, and it can feel steep, but this practice is not out of line with industry standards. All plans come with unlimited data which perfectly complements fast downloads. And with Windstream Kinetic Fiber Internet plans, the speed-to-cost ratio is also one of the best in the market. The only downside is you’re not likely to find the entire variety of speed tiers at your location―it all depends on what the Windstream network in the vicinity is able to support.
Here is a quick look at Windstream Internet speeds and prices.
|
Windstream Internet Plan |
Max. Download Speed |
Promo Price |
|
Kinetic Internet Basic |
100 Mbps |
$39.99/mo. |
|
Kinetic Fiber Internet |
500/500 Mbps |
$39.99/mo. |
|
Kinetic Fiber Internet |
1/1 Gbps |
$69.99/mo. |
Data effective as of publish date. For the latest plans and prices, please call at 855-349-9312.
Xfinity Internet plans are some of the most value-packed in the national market―plus you’re able to pick from the entire range of speeds up to 1200 Mbps. All internet plans come with a generous data allowance of 1.2 TB―virtually unlimited for standard home usage. Plus access to over 20 million Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots is free―so you can enjoy secure high-speed internet on the go.
The good thing is Xfinity not only gives you the option to choose a no term contract plan, but often puts out no term contract promo offerings―most competitors are unlikely to do that. Moreover when you do have a promo offer with a term contract, there is also a discount associated with that, making it a win-win situation. Like Windstream however there is a price hike following the expiry of the promotional term.
As for pricing, it varies a little from one service region to another―albeit within a similar range. Yet, regardless of where you’re located, Xfinity Internet plans yield a competitive speed to cost ratio―and the cost per Mbps becomes especially attractive with higher speed tiers.
Let’s take a look at popular speed-based plans you can enjoy with Xfinity Internet in different states.
|
Max Xfinity Internet Speed |
Promo Price |
||
|
CT, DC, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, PA, VA, VT, WV |
AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MI, MS, SC, TN |
AZ, CA, CO, KS, MN, MO, NM, OR, TX, UT, WA, WI |
|
|
200/10 Mbps |
$25/mo.* |
$25/mo. * |
$25/mo. * |
|
400/10 Mbps |
$35/mo. * |
$55/mo. * |
$45/mo. * |
|
1000/20 Mbps |
$70/mo. * |
$75/mo. * |
$75/mo. * |
|
1200/35 Mbps |
$80/mo. * |
$80/mo. * |
$80/mo. * |
*Automatic payments & paperless billing are required.
Data are effective as of publish date. For the latest plans and pricing in your area, call at 844-207-8721.
The most important thing when it comes to an internet service plan is the value of the subscription. Price alone cannot tell you the worth of your investment. Instead, you must consider all service aspects to decide which of the available options gets you better value for your money.
Here is an overall comparison of the service features and benefits offered by Windstream and Xfinity―take a look so you’ve a clearer idea of which of the two would fit your unique requirements better.
Kinetic Internet by Windstream
|
Xfinity Internet
|
Installation and equipment costs are usually added onto the price of the plan. Some providers offer the equipment included in the price as an incentive. Others discount or waive the installation fee. It all depends on the offers available at the time of your purchase, and how competitive the local market is. Here is a quick comparison of what you can expect with Windstream and Xfinity when it comes to installation and equipment costs.
WindstreamWith Windstream, you get to choose from two installation options: self and professional. Windstream pro install comes up to $60 as a one-time charge and includes both the installation and service activation costs. If you’re into DIY, you can always save with self-install. It does involve a technician but only for the outside wiring so you can connect the in-home setup to the Windstream Internet network when your kit arrives. The kit includes the equipment and instructions you need, and 24/7 technical support is available should you run into any problems. The Kinetic Gateway from Windstream costs $9.99 per month and sets your home up with wireless connectivity. For larger houses, Windstream offers you to add on Kinetic Mesh WiFi Extenders at a reasonable price―the enhanced setup helps expand coverage, eliminate dead zones, and allow for seamless Wi-Fi around the house. Windstream does not make it mandatory for you to use its equipment―to save the monthly rental fee, you can just BYOD. |
XfinityXfinity too offers a self and pro install option. Self-install is available in two types. With the regular version, which only costs you in shipping and handling, you do everything yourself. And with the Self-install Plus, which costs a one-time $39.99, a technician wires your house on the outside. Both self-install options include a Getting Started Kit that includes all the bits and bobs you need to set things up as well as the instructions. Professional installation can be costly at a one-time $100 charge, but it does take the pressure off you―it is a better choice if you’re not tech savvy. The latest Xfinity xFi Gateway comes with Wi-Fi 6E, supporting faster speeds than before. It’s a tri-band device which means 3 times the bandwidth to connect more devices via a more reliable connection. Plus Advanced Security comes built-in. For $15 per month this is a great deal. And if you’ve a larger residence there is xFi Complete that also includes additional access points for wall-to-wall coverage, and other benefits for $25/mo. Xfinity also lets you use your own equipment―you can save on the lease rental with a compatible device. |
Want more than just the internet? Bundling services is a great option―one that often allows you to save.
Both Windstream and Xfinity let you bundle the internet with other services. But due to their distinctly unique service portfolios, they’re likely to fit a different set of preferences:
Windstream Internet plans deliver fast speeds and unlimited data at a great price, which is especially attractive to those who’ve grown out of Cable and enjoy streaming live and on demand TV. Conversely, Xfinity bundles are ideal for homes where the centerpiece of entertainment is still cable TV, and smart security may also be needed―Xfinity bundles are popular for the multi-product discount that saves you a good amount for 12 or 24 months.
WindstreamWindstream in addition to its internet, offers home phone service that you can bundle with, and enjoy both utilities on one bill. As for TV, the provider does not offer a namesake service rather collaborates with quite a few popular streaming platforms. For instance, Windstream partners with DIRECTV as well as YouTube TV―this gives you a perfect combo option to stream your preferred TV content over fast Windstream Internet speeds. Watch DIRECTV via Satellite if you want a lot of channels and the absolute best in sports. Or cut the cord with DIRECTV via Internet and enjoy an innovative experience with the Gemini device. Alternatively, there is YouTube TV―another cord-cutters’ favorite. Windstream landline phone bundles with Internet at a discounted rate―for a low flat fee of $20/mo. you get unlimited nationwide calling along with all the essential digital calling features. |
XfinityXfinity on the other hand has an extensive service portfolio that includes cable TV, home phone and smart home security as well―plus you enjoy the freedom to build your own bundle. Take your pick from the variety of Xfinity Internet plans and bundle with other services to create your unique package. Xfinity is one of the few providers that still offer multi-product discounts. Get Xfinity X1 TV and enjoy an intuitive viewing experience, with integrated access to live TV, On Demand, DVR and streaming apps―complete with an on-screen guide and voice remote. Add on the Xfinity home phone for just $20 per month, and take advantage of unlimited nationwide calling. Xfinity Home is a perfect choice that secures your house and family the smart way―choose the self or pro monitored option, and build your setup just as you need it. |
Both Windstream and Xfinity offer high-speed internet at a great price, but each has a unique service portfolio―from the key services they offer to service features and benefits.
Xfinity is a household name, and enjoys good fame among customers―from industry-leading innovative equipment and the largest gig speed network that’s now advancing to the 10G platform, to X1 TV that introduces you to a better way of watching cable entertainment, Xfinity has every service that American homes look for. Conversely, Windstream is a great choice too, especially if you want to keep things simpler by cutting the cord.
While it’s not very likely that you’d have to pick one of these two service providers, if it does come to that, remember to survey your own needs first. Figure out what makes your family tick, and what do you really want to invest in. Once you have a template of your requirements before you, the rest becomes easier. And, if you still find yourself looking for professional advice on the best options in your area, call at 855-349-9328.
For more information, call Xfinity customer service at 844-207-8721
What is Windstream Kinetic Internet?
Kinetic by Windstream is a service that delivers high-speed internet and a phone service. Depending on your location, you can get a hybrid internet connection with speeds up to 100 Mbps or up to 1 Gbps if its via a 100% Fiber connection. Speak to Windstream Customer Service representatives at 855-349-9312 for more information.
What do you get with Xfinity Internet?
Xfinity Internet service offers high-speed internet up to 1200 Mbps for downloads via an advanced Fiber-powered network. All plans include 1.2 TB data, and free access to over 20 million Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide. For the latest specials and offers speak to Xfinity Customer Service at 844-207-8721.
Should I switch from Windstream Internet to Xfinity Internet?
Whether or not you switch from Windstream to Xfinity, the decision should be solely based on your preferences, needs, and budget. There is a difference in the internet service types as well as service features and benefits. Check out our comparison guide, so you are able to make an informed decision. For pro advice call at 855-349-9328.