Xfinity and TDS are both internet service providers in the US, with large coverages and thousands of people who benefit from their service. Xfinity by Comcast is available in 35 states, available to over 111 million people across the US. It offers great cable services and fiber in selected regions too, for residential customers. There is a data cap but it is very high so it is essentially unlimited. Xfinity also offers plenty of phone and TV services which you can bundle with your internet to save a few bucks at the end of the day.
Conversely, TDS is a little more modest. It has coverage in 30 states and is available to approximately 2 million people across the US. However, TDS does take the cake for its DSL services being amongst the top players in the game. It also offers cable internet, fiber internet so is able to reach really high speeds. TDS is a force to be reckoned with its expansive network especially in the Midwest, high internet speeds, and competitive bundles.
Which among Xfinity or TDS is the best choice for residential customers? In this article, we discuss just that and which features of each make them stand out. So let’s get into it!
Xfinity Vs TDS: Installation
When we talk about installation, both Xfinity and TDS come with professional installation options. Xfinity has greater installation costs, at a whopping $89.99. Although it is a one-time fee, this professional installation can sometimes feel a bit too much. Luckily, if you live in an area of Xfinity availability, you can opt for self-installation that will save you a few bucks. Self-installation comes with a manual and guide that helps you through the process.
TDS on the other hand has lower professional installation costs. At only $49.95, you get your house completely wired and set up for TDS internet service. TDS is also quite convenient because with certain internet plans and deals they also offer free installation so you get your house set up at no additional charges.
Xfinity Vs TDS: Equipment fee
With Xfinity internet plans you get an Xfinity modem-cum-router device, that is available on rental. The Xfinity xFi Gateway is a state-of-the-art router with a sleek trendy design, best of features, online security suite and so much more. Xfinity users can get this device for a mere rental cost of $14 per month, which really is not a lot for all that it has to offer.
TDS internet deals do come with a modem and router device that can be rented at a small monthly cost. The device and rent for your TDS modem/router device varies depending upon your internet plan type and can range between $6.95 to $12.95.
Xfinity Vs TDS: Contracts and the fine print
Most of Xfinity’s plans come with yearlong contracts that do end up being more cost-effective in the longer run. It keeps your price steady for one or two years and that is quite good if you are planning to stick with Xfinity because it helps you avoid market price hikes on your internet plans. However, when something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Xfinity contracts are effective but come with an early termination fee if you violate and end the contract time. The early termination fee (ETF) for Xfinity typically ranges between $110 to $230. The easiest way to estimate your ETF is to multiple the number of months left in your contract to 10. If you want to go contract-free instead of paying an ETF, you can add $10 to your monthly bill, and cancel any time without repercussions.
TDS internet deals usually come with a two-year contract too but the best part with TDS is that their plans all have a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the TDS internet service, you can cancel their subscription before your trial period ends. This gives you enough time to gauge the service and if you are happy with it. However, if you cancel after your trial period ends, you will be subject to cancellation fees. You will have to pay 50% of the amount you would have to pay for all the remainder of your contract term.
Xfinity Vs TDS: Data caps and usage allowance
Xfinity has most plans that come with unlimited internet allowance and hence zero data caps. However, some plans in select areas may come with a data cap of 1.2 TB which is very high and difficult to exceed. Even so, if you are a hardcore gamer or streamer and run out before the month ends, Xfinity allows you to add more data allowance of 50 GB for as little as $10.
TDS telecom internet plans too are unlimited for the most part. However, in some areas where unlimited internet is not available, you get a data cap of 250 GB or 500 GB. For average internet users, this data allowance is more than enough.
Xfinity Vs TDS: Internet speeds
Xfinity internet speeds starting at 15 Mbps and spread out over a large range so you get multiple speed tiers and pricing options. These internet deals with Xfinity also vary from region to region so a deal in the Northeast may not be valid for the Western division. Speeds with Xfinity can reach up to 2000 Mbps quite effective for gamers and streaming apps.
TDS internet deals have speeds that also begin at 15 Mbps. However, TDS does not begin to compare to Xfinity in terms of maximum speeds. TDS maximum speeds come up to a mere 1000 Mbps. Although these speeds are fast, they are no match for Xfinity internet galloping away at 2000 Mbps.
Xfinity Vs TDS: Internet Pricing Plans
Xfinity internet pricing options although, much more variable, are typically more expensive. Their pricing starts at $20 per month and the most expensive plan is $299.95 per month for the best fiber plan.
TDS internet deals are priced at a much lower cost. TDS offers its highest tier plans for $109.25 per month which is in sharp contrast to the Xfinity highest tier plans.
Conclusion
Xfinity and TDS are both internet providers in the US that have great things to offer their users. Xfinity is much of a crowd favorite due to the fact that it offers multiple speed tiers with varying pricing options and is widely available everywhere. With Xfinity, you also get good high-speed internet and a free subscription to Peacock Premium plus an Xfinity FlexBox for all your favorite shows. Xfinity certainly is a dream come true.
TDS on the other hand is much more diffident but less efficient by any means. TDS internet is much more widely available in far-flung regions, the suburbs, and rural areas. In some places, it is the only service available which it is able to provide due to its compliment-worthy DSL service. TDS also has some bundling plans on the menu through which you can bundle your phone and TV services together for maximum savings. It has better pricing options too when compared to Xfinity internet plans.
Whichever service you choose to opt for, they are both one of a kind with unique things to offer. Go for whatever is comfortable for you and agrees with your family too.
Remember, you do you!