Xfinity Review: Channels, Pricing, Packages Guide (2024)
Looking for a detailed Xfinity review? Check out the channels, pricing, and package details to see if it’s right for you.
Are you considering signing up for Xfinity cable TV but want to know what it’s like before committing? Or are you already a subscriber experiencing issues and wondering if others are facing similar problems?
As someone who has personally used Xfinity cable TV for over two years, I’m here to give you an honest, in-depth review of the service.
This personal guide will cover everything a potential new subscriber needs to know, from available packages and pricing to channel lineups and equipment.
We’ll also get into the actual user experience, including common complaints and issues current customers face. By the end, you’ll see whether Xfinity cable TV is the right choice for your household.
Xfinity Review At A Glance
To capture the gist of this whole review, I’ve compiled my whole Xfinity experience in the table below and shared a rating out of 5 against different parameters.
| Factor | Notes | My Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Channel Selection | Good variety, but some key channels are missing in the lower tiers | 4/5 |
| Picture Quality | Generally crisp HD, occasional pixelation | 4/5 |
| DVR Functionality | Decent storage but a clunky interface | 3.5/5 |
| Equipment | X1 box is powerful but buggy; the remote is great though | 3/5 |
| Price | Expensive compared to streaming alternatives | 2.5/5 |
| Customer Service | Long wait times, inconsistent support quality | 2/5 |
| Contract Terms | No-contract options are available but at higher rates | 3/5 |
| Overall Value | Decent cable service, but pricey with hidden fees | 3/5 |
While the ratings I shared above mirror my experience with the service, it does not mean that these are universal. However, they still give a fair idea of the quality of services.
Our Methodology To Review
To provide a comprehensive and unbiased review of Xfinity cable TV, I relied on several key sources:
- Personal experience as a subscriber for over 2 years of on-and-off subscription
- Extensive research on Xfinity’s official website and documentation
- Analysis of user reviews across multiple platforms (Trustpilot, Consumer Affairs, Reddit)
- Comparison with other major cable and streaming TV providers
- Consultation with industry experts and tech journalists
By combining first-hand experience with broader market research, I aimed to give a well-rounded view of the service that accounts for individual experiences and larger trends.
Who Should Go For Xfinity?
Kicking off the review, let’s have a look at the suitability of Xfinity cable TV. This service is best suited for households that:
- Prefer a traditional cable TV experience over streaming.
- Want to bundle TV with high-speed internet and/or home phone service.
- Live in areas with limited TV provider options.
- Enjoy watching live sports and news regularly.
- Have multiple TVs in the home and want whole-house DVR functionality.
If you fall into one or more of these categories, Xfinity could be a solid choice for your TV needs. However, cord-cutters and those looking for maximum value may want to explore cable TV alternatives.
Xfinity Availability
One of Xfinity’s biggest strengths is its wide availability across the United States. The service is offered in 39 states, covering major metropolitan areas and many suburban and rural regions.
However, specific channel lineups and package offerings can vary significantly by location.
To check if Xfinity is available in your area, visit their website and enter your address, including the street code, unit number, and zip code.
Note: This one is a bummer, but even if Xfinity serves your general area, service may not be available at your address due to infrastructure limitations.
Xfinity Pros And Cons
This next section is meant to give you a clear picture of Xfinity’s good and bad aspects and help you form your own verdict based on the pointers that match your requirements.
Xfinity Pros
- Wide availability across the US
- Extensive channel lineup, especially in higher-tier packages
- Powerful X1 platform with voice remote and integrated apps
- Bundle discounts are available with internet and phone service
- No-contract options in some areas
Xfinity Cons
- Higher prices compared to many streaming alternatives
- Numerous hidden fees and charges
- Inconsistent customer service quality
- Equipment can be buggy and prone to issues
- Channel lineups vary significantly by region
Overall, Xfinity has more cons than pros, especially compared to modern streaming alternatives. However, it can still be a viable choice for those who prefer a traditional cable experience and have limited options in their area.
Xfinity Cable TV Features
Coming to the actual features on paper, I’ll review what they mean and how they help regular users like you and me.
1. Device Compatibility
Xfinity’s X1 platform is compatible with a variety of devices:
- X1 TV Box (required for main cable TV)
- Xfinity Stream app (iOS, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung Smart TVs)
- Web browsers (for streaming on computers)
While the X1 box is necessary for the full cable experience, the Xfinity Stream app allows for flexible viewing on other devices.
Alternatively, the Xumo stream box from Xfinity gets all the available streaming apps in one place.
2. Streaming Quality
Xfinity generally offers good streaming quality, with most channels available in HD. During my experience, the picture quality was usually crisp and clear.
However, occasional pixelation and buffering can occur, especially during peak usage hours or in areas with weaker signal strength.
For sports fans, Xfinity offers live coverage of significant events like the Olympic Games in 4K UHD. This includes a dedicated 24/7 4K channel during the event period.
I streamed the 2024 Olympic games on the highest quality with the 4K Ultra HD (UHD) content made available on select channels and on-demand titles, significantly improving picture quality.
On-demand content in 4K UHD/HDR is available through Xfinity’s service and via integrated streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and others. I used the Xfinity Voice Remote a lot as it makes it easy to find 4K content by simply saying “4K” or searching for it.
However, to access 4K content, you’ll need:
- A compatible Xfinity TV Box (XG1v4, Xi6, or XiOne for Xfinity Flex)
- An HDCP 2.2 compatible 4K TV
- A 4K-capable HDCP 2.2 compliant HDMI cord
Xfinity also supports High Dynamic Range (HDR) on compatible devices. While 4K content availability is growing, it’s worth noting that the selection is still limited compared to some dedicated streaming platforms. Additionally, live events in 4K cannot be recorded, though you can record the HD version.
Overall, while Xfinity’s streaming quality is generally good, the best experience – particularly for 4K and HDR content – requires specific equipment and may not be available for all programming.
3. DVR Capabilities
Another key feature that makes this service stand out is the DVR service. Xfinity’s X1 DVR system offers:
- Up to 20 hours of HD storage
- Ability to record up to 6 shows simultaneously
- Cloud DVR functionality for accessing recordings on multiple devices
- Voice control for easily setting and managing recordings
While the base storage capacity is decent, you can increase the storage to up to 300 hours.
| DVR Storage | Price |
|---|---|
| 20 hours | Free |
| 150 hours | $10/mo |
| 300 hours | $20/mo |
Price To Pay For Xfinity Cable TV
Coming to the price of using the Cable TV service, here are the charges of the available plans for my address at Sacramento 95833.
| Package | Channels | Price (per month) | Contract Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choice TV | 10+ | $50.50/mo | No |
| Popular TV | 125+ | $93.95/mo | No |
| Ultimate TV | 185+ | $112.45/mo | No |
*Note: These are just the package prices, and equipment and taxes can add up to a different final amount. Also, prices for the Xfinity packages vary by region
Xfinity runs a promotion allowing new customers to try the service for 30 days with the option to cancel without penalty.
- Choice TV: Best for budget-conscious viewers who mainly watch local channels and don’t need many options.
- Popular TV: Ideal for average households looking for a good mix of entertainment, news, and sports channels.
- Ultimate TV: Best suited for large families or avid TV watchers who want access to niche channels and premium content.
Does Xfinity Offer Any Discounts?
Xfinity does offer several discounts and promotions, though availability may vary:
- Bundle discounts when combining TV with internet and phone service
- Autopay and paperless billing discount (typically $10/month)
- Military discount program for active duty, retired, and veteran members
- Limited-time promotional rates for new customers (usually for the first 12-24 months)
Additionally, Xfinity is currently offering these deals:
1. StreamSaver
Adding StreamSaver to Xfinity Internet allows you to get Netflix, Peacock, and Apple TV+ for $15/month. This bundle offers a 30% savings compared to subscribing to these services separately.
2. NOW StreamSaver
You can get NOW TV (40+ live channels and On Demand), Netflix, Peacock, and Apple TV+ for $30/month when you shop for the internet. This comprehensive streaming package provides multiple entertainment options in one bundle.
3. New Customer Internet Offer
Get 150 Mbps internet for $19.99/month for the first year. This promotional rate provides high-speed internet at a significantly discounted price for new subscribers.
It’s worth noting that while these discounts can provide initial savings, rates often increase significantly after promotional periods end. Here are some more ways to save up on Xfinity next.
Xfinity Internet Bundle Packages
Xfinity offers various internet bundle packages that combine high-speed internet with TV, home phone, and mobile services. The pricing for these plans is very complex and varies depending on the TV plan that you choose.
I spent hours reviving the bundle deal that I subscribed to by mistake, and don’t want you to do the same. Here’s the breakdown of the Xfinity cable TV and internet bundle packages:
1. Internet Package Prices With Choice TV
| Internet Package | Price Without Choice TV | Price With Choice TV |
|---|---|---|
| 150 mbps | $57/mo | $47/mo |
| 300 mbps | $35/mo | $25/mo |
| 500 mbps | $55/mo | $45/mo |
| 1000 mbps | $65/mo | $55/mo |
| 2000 mbps | $80/mo | $70/mo |
2. Internet Package With Popular TV
| Internet Package | Price Without Popular TV | Price With Popular TV |
|---|---|---|
| 150 mbps | $57/mo | $47/mo |
| 300 mbps | $35/mo | $25/mo |
| 500 mbps | $55/mo | $35/mo |
| 1000 mbps | $65/mo | $40/mo |
| 2000 mbps | $80/mo | $55/mo |
3. Internet Package With Ultimate TV
| Internet Package | Price without Ultimate TV | Price With Ultimate TV |
|---|---|---|
| 150 mbps | $57/mo | $47/mo |
| 300 mbps | $35/mo | $25/mo |
| 500 mbps | $55/mo | $21.50/mo |
| 1000 mbps | $65/mo | $31.50/mo |
| 2000 mbps | $80/mo | $46.50/mo |
*Some plans are for the first 24-month no term contract. Taxes and equipment not included. Includes $10/mo discount for automatic payments and paperless billing.
The Popular TV with fast internet bundle offers a good balance of speed and channels for most households. For larger families or heavy internet users, the Ultimate TV bundles provide faster speeds and more channels.
Checking Xfinity Internet compatibility requirements:
Many Xfinity users online have complained about Xfinity salespeople misleading them to an unsupported plan for their devices.
However, using this official link, you can quickly enter your address and internet speed requirements to find compatible Xfinity devices for that particular plan.
Xfinity Mobile Bundle Discounts And Savings
By further bundling services with other Xfinity services, you can get significant savings:
- Save $10-$20 per month on your internet bill for two years when bundling with a qualifying Xfinity Mobile plan
- Additional bundle discounts of $10 or more per month off your regular bill
- Access to nearly 10 types of bundles, from Double Play (internet plus one other service) to premium packages, including internet, TV, streaming, phone, and home security
Considerations When Bundling Xfinity Packages
While bundles can offer savings, keep in mind:
- Promotional rates typically last 12-24 months before increasing
- Some bundles may require 1-2 year contracts
- Equipment fees and taxes are often not included in advertised prices
- Channel lineups and internet speeds can vary by region
Overall, Xfinity’s internet bundle packages allow customers to save money by combining multiple services.
However, it’s essential to carefully review the details of each bundle offer, compatibility, post-promotional pricing, and any required contracts to ensure it meets your needs and budget long-term.
Additional Charges That Xfinity Charges
Xfinity is notorious for tacking additional fees that can significantly increase your monthly bill.
Some additional charges I had to pay were:
- Broadcast TV Fee: $30.50/month
- Regional Sports Fee: Up to $13.45/month
Other additional charges may include:
- HD Technology Fee
- DVR Service Fee
- Additional TV Box Rental
- Installation Fee
These fees can add up quickly, potentially increasing your bill by $50 or more per month beyond the advertised package price.
How Does The Refunds Of Xfinity Work?
Xfinity offers a customer guarantee policy under their Xfinity Customer Commitment. Here are the key points from the feature:
- Xfinity provides a 30-day money-back guarantee for TV, Internet, Pro Protection, and Voice services.
- For Xfinity Mobile services and devices, there’s a 14-day money-back guarantee.
- The 30-day guarantee only covers charges for recently changed services. If previous promotions or packages are no longer available, Xfinity will help find comparable options.
- For Xfinity Mobile, customers have 14 days from the shipping or retail purchase date to cancel service, return devices, and receive a refund.
- Mobile customers also have 14 days to exchange devices for a different model or entirely different device.
Important considerations for the refund process:
- Equipment must be returned within the specified guarantee period to avoid additional charges.
- For service changes, only the modified services are eligible for refunds under the guarantee.
- Xfinity aims to deliver service on customers’ terms, including 24/7 support and two-hour appointment windows.
- If you’re unhappy with the service outside of these guarantee periods, Xfinity may not offer full refunds or satisfaction guarantees.
This policy demonstrates Xfinity’s commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility, allowing customers to try services with reduced risk. However, it’s important to act within the specified timeframes to take advantage of these guarantees.
Xfinity Channel List
As stated earlier, the channel lineups vary by region and package, but here’s a general overview to help you understand the types of channels that Xfinity offers based on the offerings in my area.
Use this tool to find and filter the Xfinity channel lineup based on language, streaming quality, category, and package. Check out the summary of channels available in the cable TV packages below.
Choice TV (10+ channels):
- Local broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS)
- Limited selection of public access and government channels
Popular TV (125+ channels):
- All Choice TV channels
- Major cable networks (ESPN, CNN, HGTV, USA, TNT, TBS, etc.)
- Popular entertainment channels (AMC, FX, Comedy Central, etc.)
- Basic sports networks (ESPN2, FS1)
Ultimate TV (185+ channels):
- All Popular TV channels
- Additional sports networks (NFL Network, MLB Network, NBA TV)
- More niche entertainment channels (IFC, Sundance, FXM)
- Some premium movie channels (may vary by region)
Xfinity Channel Add-ons
You can add additional channels for an additional price to your Xfinity channel lineup. Xfinity offers various add-on packages to customize your channel lineup and streaming options.
Here are some notable add-ons:
- Xfinity StreamSaver™: $15.00/month Includes Netflix Standard with ads, Apple TV+, and Peacock Premium with ads at over 30% savings.
- Premium Channels:
- Max: $16.99/month
- Paramount+ with SHOWTIME: $12.00/month
- Starz: $10.99/month
- Cinemax: $12.00/month
- Sports Packages:
- NHL Center Ice: $17.50/month for 4 months or $69.99 for a full season
- NBA League Pass: $27.50/month for 4 months or $109.99 for a full season
- MLS Season Pass: $14.99/month or $9.99 (pricing varies)
- More Sports & Entertainment: $9.99/month
- Specialty Packages:
- Kids & Family: Included in some plans
- Sports & News: Included in some plans
- Entertainment: Included in some plans
- Latino: $5.00/month for 12 months
- Niche Content:
- AMC+: $8.99/month
- Acorn TV: $7.99/month
- CuriosityStream: $4.99/month
- DOGTV: $4.99/month
- Various fitness channels: $6.99-$7.99/month
- International Packages:
- Brazilian Packs: $24.99-$29.99/month
- Mandarin Packs: $6.99-$19.99/month
- Filipino Packs: $14.99-$22.99/month
- Various other language packs (Hindi, Italian, Greek, etc.) for which prices may vary.
- Adult Content:
- Playboy: $19.99/month
Xfinity also offers individual channel add-ons and genre-specific packs to customize your viewing experience further. The availability and pricing of these add-ons may vary by region and current promotions.
For the most up-to-date offerings in your area, it’s best to check with Xfinity directly or through their website.
Additionally, Xfinity offers “Flex Packs” in some regions, allowing you to add small groups of themed channels to your base package.
Xfinity Support
The bitter part of my Xfinity experience is the customer service or support that Xfinity offers. Although you get several support options, the quality of these can be inconsistent.
Xfinity offers support via:
- 24/7 phone support at 1-800-Xfinity (800-934-6489)
- Online chat
- X (Twitter) support (@XfinitySupport)
- In-store support at Xfinity retail locations
- Self-help resources and community forums on the Xfinity website
In my experience, wait times for phone and chat support can be lengthy, and the quality of assistance varies greatly depending on the representative you get.
For instance, three representatives asked me to repeat the same process thrice regarding my bundle fiasco, leading to delay and unnecessary stress.
Xfinity User Reviews
User reviews of Xfinity cable TV are mixed, with a trend towards negative experiences, particularly regarding customer service.
Common complaints of Xfinity include:
- Unexpected price increases and hidden fees
- Misleading offers and deals
- Long wait times and unhelpful customer service representatives
- Equipment issues and service outages
- Difficulty canceling service or returning equipment
- Aggressive sales tactics when trying to downgrade or cancel
On the positive side, many users appreciate the X1 platform’s features and the wide channel selection. However, the negatives often outweigh the positives in user reviews.
Read this customer experience, for instance. Instead of being proactive, customer support can follow processes that may be annoying to the user.
Alternatives To Xfinity To Consider
In my opinion, unless you are hellbent on using Xfinity, you can consider popular alternatives to the service, which are much cheaper and offer better service.
| Provider | Starting Price | Channels | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | $72.99/mo | 100+ | Unlimited DVR, no contracts |
| DIRECTV STREAM | $74.99/mo | 90+ | No annual contract, robust sports offerings |
| Hulu + Live TV | $82.99/mo | 75+ | Includes Hulu streaming library, Disney+, and ESPN+ |
Of the above, YouTube TV is the best alternative for most users to Xfinity. Here’s why:
- More affordable pricing with fewer hidden fees
- No long-term contracts required
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage
- Excellent app compatibility across devices
- Consistent picture quality and reliable service
- Regular feature updates and improvements
While it doesn’t offer quite as many channels as Xfinity’s top-tier packages, YouTube TV provides a strong lineup of popular networks at a more competitive price point.
Read this YouTube TV vs Xfinity comparison to understand the main differences between the two further.
Recap: “Xfinity Cable TV: Familiar But Flawed”
After thoroughly reviewing Xfinity cable TV, it’s X1 platform and wide channel selection are definite strengths, and bundling options can provide good value for those needing internet and phone service.
However, the high costs, abundance of hidden fees, and inconsistent customer service make it hard to recommend Xfinity over streaming alternatives wholeheartedly.
For many households, especially those looking to cut costs or simplify their TV experience, options like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV look more lucrative and cable-free.
Ultimately, if you’re committed to a traditional cable setup and Xfinity is one of the few options in your area, it can be a serviceable choice. However, for most consumers, the trend is cord-cutting in 2024, and the future of television lies in streaming. Xfinity’s cable offerings feel increasingly outdated in comparison.