Among the many options available for live TV streaming, YouTube TV and Xfinity TV stand out as two prominent choices, especially for sporting events.
This article compares both these services, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
Follow along for a detailed channel lineup, understand who has a superior streaming quality, or budget-friendly pricing, and ultimately get the ideal streaming solution.
YouTube TV vs Xfinity: Quick Comparison
A quick glance at the features offered by YouTube TV and Xfinity can help you identify which service best meets your needs.
| Feature | YouTube TV | Xfinity | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan | Baseplan at $64.99 for the first four months | Starts at $20/Month | Xfinity is much more affordable. |
| Channels | Over 100 channels, including major sports and news networks | Ranges from 10+ to 185+ channels, including local and sports channels | Xfinity for Variety |
| DVR | Unlimited DVR storage | Limited DVR storage unless upgraded | YouTube TV for DVR |
| Streaming Quality | Streams at 1080p HD and 60fps, with 4K support for select content | Typically 720p, but it supports 4K and HDR on some content | YouTube TV for quality |
| Compatibility | A wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, and gaming consoles | Requires specific equipment for optimal experience | YouTube TV for flexibility |
Depends on priorities: YouTube TV offers simplicity and flexibility, while Xfinity provides a broader channel selection and options for sports enthusiasts.
YouTube TV vs Xfinity Cost – Pricing Plans
Choosing the right TV streaming service primarily depends on cost and pricing plans.
Both YouTube TV and Xfinity offer distinct pricing structures, each catering to different types of users.
Let’s examine the specifics of their pricing plans to help you determine which service best fits your budget and viewing preferences.
YouTube TV Price
YouTube TV keeps it simple with a single monthly plan priced at $57.99 for the first four months.
This plan includes over 100 channels, unlimited cloud DVR storage, and the ability to stream on up to three devices simultaneously. Here are the key details:-
| Plan | Price | Channels |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $64.99 for the first four months | 100+ |
| Spanish | $34.99/month | 28+ |
| Sports Plus Add-on | $10.99/month | Additional Sports Channels |
| 4K Plus Add-on | $19.99/month | 4K Streaming, Offline Viewing |
Xfinity TV Price
Xfinity TV provides more flexibility with multiple pricing plans, but this comes with the caveat of potential additional fees and long-term contracts. Here’s a breakdown of their main plans:-
| Plan | Price Per Month | Channels |
|---|---|---|
| Choice TV | $20 | 10+ channels |
| Popular TV | $50 | 125+ channels |
| Ultimate TV | $68.5 | 185+ channels |
Additional Fees And Contracts
One critical difference between YouTube TV and Xfinity TV is the additional fees and contractual obligations associated with Xfinity’s plans.
Here are some of the extra costs you might encounter with Xfinity:-
- DVR Fees: Basic DVR service costs around $10 per month. More advanced DVR options with additional storage can increase this cost.
- HD Technology Fee: An additional fee for accessing HD channels, typically around $10 monthly.
- Regional Sports Fee: Depending on your location, this can add up to $14 monthly.
- Equipment Fees: Renting Xfinity’s cable box and modem can add approximately $14 monthly to your bill.
- Contracts: Xfinity often requires a one—or two-year contract. You might incur substantial early termination fees if you cancel before the contract ends.
Verdict: While Xfinity starts at an affordable price, it does have additional costs attached.
YouTube TV vs Xfinity: Channel Lineup
When choosing a TV streaming service, the channel lineup is a critical factor.
Both YouTube TV and Xfinity offer a wide range of channels, but there are significant differences in their offerings.
Here’s an in-depth look at what each service provides.
1. YouTube TV Channel Lineup
YouTube TV boasts a selection of over 100 channels, offering a comprehensive mix of news, entertainment, sports, and more. Here’s a breakdown of its channel offerings:-
| Plan | Channels/Features | Popular Channels |
|---|---|---|
| Base Plan | Over 100 channels | ABC, CBS, CNN, ABC, MTV, HGTV, and BBC America. |
| Sports Plus Add-on | Additional sports channels, including NFL RedZone | NFL RedZone, FOX Soccer Plus, MAVTV Motorsports Network, TVG, Stadium |
| 4K Plus Add-on | 4K streaming, offline downloads, unlimited streams at home | – |
| Spanish Plan | Over 28 Spanish-language channels | Universo, ESPN, Deportes, CNN en Español, Mundo, and Discovery en Español. |
Notable Exclusions: While YouTube TV covers a broad range of channels, it does miss some specialized options like A&E, History Channel, and Lifetime.
Verdict: Xfinity offers a variety of different channels.
2. Xfinity TV Channel Lineup
Xfinity TV offers a diverse and extensive range of channels, especially in its higher-tier plans. However, the availability of specific channels can vary based on the area you reside in.
It’s important for readers to check the channel availability manually to ensure they have access to their preferred channels. You can check the channel lineup for your specific location here: Xfinity Channel Lineup.
Here’s a detailed look at the channels available with Xfinity across its various packages:
| Plan | Channels/Features | Popular Channels |
|---|---|---|
| Choice TV | 10+ basic channels, primarily local networks | ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX |
| Popular TV | 125+ channels | Major networks, Sports, News, Entertainment, etc. Check out: ABC, CBS, CNN, Fox News, BBC America, Comedy Central, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Food Network, Travel Channel, and Cooking Channel. |
| Ultimate TV | 185+ channels | Includes all channels from Popular TV Plus: HBO, Showtime, Starz, NFL RedZone, NBA League Pass, DIY Network, and Nat Geo Wild. |
Verdict: Xfinity TV offers a more extensive range of channels across its higher-tier plans, including premium networks and additional sports channels.
YouTube TV vs Xfinity: Streaming Quality
When it comes to streaming quality, both YouTube TV and Xfinity offer the highest-quality video experience. Here’s a closer look at the streaming quality you can expect from each service.
1. YouTube TV Streaming Quality
YouTube TV delivers a high-quality streaming experience with:-
- Resolution: Streams at 1080p HD and 60fps.
- Consistency: Provides consistent streaming quality across all devices, ensuring a seamless viewing experience.
2. Xfinity TV Streaming Quality
Xfinity TV’s streaming quality varies more depending on the content and infrastructure:-
- Resolution: Typically, it offers 720p but supports 4K and HDR on some content.
- Infrastructure: Primarily leverages traditional cable infrastructure, which can affect the streaming experience.
Verdict: YouTube TV offers a more consistent and higher-quality streaming experience across various devices.
YouTube TV vs Xfinity: DVR Storage And Supported Devices
When evaluating DVR storage and device compatibility, YouTube TV and Xfinity TV offer features allowing users to enjoy recorded shows across devices.
1. YouTube TV
YouTube TV excels in DVR storage and device compatibility:-
- DVR Storage: Unlimited DVR storage, allowing users to record as many shows as they want and keep them for up to nine months.
- Device Compatibility: Accessible across multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs, providing flexibility and convenience for users who want to record and access content from various devices.
2. Xfinity TV
Xfinity TV has more limitations regarding DVR storage and device compatibility:-
- DVR Storage: Limited DVR storage unless upgraded for additional fees, with the basic DVR service offering less storage compared to YouTube TV.
- Device Compatibility: Issues reported with the Xfinity streaming app on non-Comcast networks impact users’ ability to access their recorded content smoothly on various devices.
Verdict: YouTube TV offers superior DVR storage and broader device compatibility, making it a better choice for users who want flexibility and extensive recording options.
YouTube TV vs Xfinity Reddit Reviews (User Experience)
User experience can be a decisive factor when choosing between streaming services like YouTube TV and Xfinity.
Here’s a summary of what real users are saying on Reddit about these platforms.
1. YouTube TV
YouTube TV is praised for its clean, intuitive, and user-friendly interface. The service offers easy navigation and quick access to live TV, DVR recordings, and on-demand content.
In contrast, some users report occasional video freezes and buffering issues.
However, these instances are relatively rare and often linked to individual internet connection problems rather than the service itself.
- “I just switched from Fios to YouTube, and I don’t miss it at all. I love how you don’t need all the cable boxes, and for 4k, you can just add the months you want to watch something and then cancel it.
It’s not like cable where you need the expensive package that you pay for all year round.”
- If sports is your main priority then YTTV will not have MLB Network or your local RSN so you would miss out on those games.
2. Xfinity
Xfinity’s interface is functional but often criticized for being less intuitive compared to YouTube TV. Some users find it cluttered and harder to navigate, especially when accessing DVR content and streaming apps.
In addition, some users have raised concerns regarding the platform’s hidden fees as well.
- “Xfinity has a ton of hidden fees. It’s brutal. I watch a lot of sports and don’t miss it at all. I saved over $130 a month using YTTV and Tmobile 5g internet over Xfinity.
Xfinity is a huge rip-off.”
- “I got rid of Xfinity all together and now have YouTubeTV and Verizon home internet. I’m saving about 80-90 bucks for internet and tv.
I like YouTubeTV’s DVR service, their channel line up is pretty solid, I get local channels. If I need something like A&E, I just sign up for Frndly for $6 a month.”
Verdict: YouTube TV provides an overall greater experience, as per the Reddit reviews.
YouTube TV vs. Xfinity Comparison With Different Streaming Services
When comparing YouTube TV and Xfinity with other popular streaming services, it’s essential to consider various features such as pricing, channel offerings, DVR capabilities, and more.
Here’s how YouTube TV and Xfinity stack up against Hulu Live TV and Comcast:-
| Feature | YouTube TV | Xfinity TV | Hulu Live TV | Sling TV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per Month | $72.99 | $20 – $68.5 | $75.99 | $40 – $55 | Xfinity |
| Overall Channels | 100+ | 10+ to 185+ | 75+ | 46 | Xfinity |
| DVR | Unlimited (9 months) | Limited (upgradeable) | 50 hours (upgradeable) | 50 hours (upgradeable) | YouTube TV |
| Simultaneous Streams | 3 | 1-5 | 2 | 1-4 | YouTube TV |
| Streaming Quality | Up to 1080p HD, 4K add-on | Up to 720p, 4K HDR on some content | Up to 1080p HD | Up to 1080p HD | YouTube TV |
| Contract Required | No | Yes | No | No | YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV |
| User Interface | Intuitive and clean | Functional but cluttered | User-friendly | Functional but less intuitive | YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV |
Verdict: Overall, YouTube TV stands out for its excellent DVR capabilities, streaming quality, and user-friendly interface.
Xfinity and Hulu Live TV are a close second, offering competitive pricing and a good user experience.
Downsides Of YouTube TV
While YouTube TV offers many advantages, there are also some notable downsides that potential users should be aware of. Here are some of the most complained about downsides of YouTube TV:-
1. Commercials
Despite its detailed channel lineup and on-demand content, YouTube TV includes commercials on many of its live TV channels and some on-demand content.
These commercials can be unskippable, which might frustrate viewers who prefer an uninterrupted viewing experience.
2. RSN Coverage
YouTube TV offers an array of sports channels, but its coverage of regional sports networks (RSNs) is limited. This can be a significant drawback for sports enthusiasts who want to follow local teams and regional sports events.
3. Exclusions
Subscribing to YouTube TV does not include access to YouTube Premium or YouTube Music.
These services, which offer ad-free viewing on YouTube and access to a music streaming service, require separate subscriptions, which can add to the overall cost for users looking for a more integrated experience.
Downsides Of Xfinity
While Xfinity TV offers a wide range of channels and services, there are several downsides that potential users should be aware of.
1. Hidden Fees
Xfinity TV’s base prices might seem attractive initially, but the numerous additional fees can quickly add up. These fees include charges for DVR service, HD technology, regional sports, and equipment rental.
Such hidden costs can significantly increase your monthly bill, making it less budget-friendly than it appears.
2. Limited Streaming App
The Xfinity streaming app, while convenient for accessing content on the go, has reported issues when used on non-Comcast networks.
Users have experienced streaming difficulties, such as buffering and connectivity problems, reducing the app’s reliability outside of the Comcast ecosystem.
3. Equipment Requirements
Xfinity TV often requires specific equipment, such as their proprietary cable boxes and modems, for optimal performance.
Renting this equipment adds to the monthly cost, and users must return it upon canceling the service. Additionally, using third-party equipment can lead to compatibility issues and suboptimal performance.
4. Contractual Obligations
Many Xfinity TV plans require long-term contracts, typically ranging from one to two years.
Canceling the service before the contract ends can result in early termination fees, which can be quite costly.
This contractual obligation can be a significant drawback for users seeking flexibility and the ability to switch providers without penalties.
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Conclusion: YouTube TV Is The Best Streaming Choice!
YouTube TV and Xfinity TV both offer unique advantages and high-quality TV experience. Yet, YouTube TV excels in providing a user-friendly interface, unlimited DVR storage, and consistent, high-quality streaming, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize simplicity and flexibility.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. So, go ahead and visit their websites to start your free trial today and experience the future of live TV streaming.
Consider the features most important to you and evaluate which service aligns best with your viewing habits and budget.
