XFINITY vs. Centurylink

Whether you’re researching XFINITY vs. Centurylink internet service at your current address, comparing internet options for potential locations, or just researching alternatives, this detailed comparison will help you understand which provider best suits you.

XFINITY and Centurylink compete directly in approximately 15.23% of their service areas, with XFINITY covering 126,507,927 people nationwide and Centurylink serving 40,883,758. XFINITY primarily delivers internet through a cable connection; Centurylink specializes in DSL connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of XFINITY and Centurylink's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

Jump to: Availability | Speeds | Plans & Pricing | Customer Reviews | Fees

XFINITY vs. Centurylink | Pros & Cons

XFINITY vs. Centurylink | Availability

XFINITY and Centurylink have distinct coverage footprints across the United States. Our interactive map shows exactly where each provider offers service and where they overlap, helping you understand your options.

Both Providers Available | XFINITY Available | Centurylink Available | No Coverage

XFINITY currently offers internet service in 11,771 cities and 939 counties across 41 states, reaching approximately 126,507,927 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Chicago, IL; Houston, TX; and Philadelphia, PA. By comparison, Centurylink serves 40,883,758 residents in 5,322 cities and 572 counties in 20 states, with a presence in population centers such as Phoenix, AZ; Minneapolis, MN; and Denver, CO.

Internet availability can vary significantly even within specific cities and zip codes. For the most accurate information about XFINITY and Centurylink at your location, use our address search tool:

XFINITY vs. Centurylink | Speeds & Technology

XFINITY and Centurylink utilize different network technologies to deliver internet service, resulting in varying speed capabilities across their service areas.

Across their service areas, XFINITY primarily delivers internet through cable, available to 98.1% of their customers. They also offer fiber to 3.6% of their coverage area. Centurylink relies on DSL technology, which comprises 93.9% of their network, with fiber available in 18.5% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, XFINITY offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 1,724 Mbps compared to Centurylink's average speed of 238 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, XFINITY delivers faster speeds in 99.66% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.08%, and slower speeds in 0.27%.

The availability of each provider's fastest technology varies significantly by location. XFINITY's premium Cable service reaches 98.1% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, Centurylink's top-tier Fiber is available to 18.5% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

XFINITY vs. Centurylink | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for XFINITY and Centurylink, sourced directly from FCC-mandated machine-readable broadband labels to ensure transparency and accuracy. We've included both promotional and standard rates for each provider to give you a complete picture of what you'll pay over time. Plan availability and exact pricing may vary by location.

XFINITY Plans

Centurylink Plans

Most households with 3-5 users need download speeds of at least 100 Mbps for smooth streaming, video conferencing, and everyday internet usage. Larger households or those with heavy users (gamers, 4K streamers, or remote workers) should consider plans with speeds of 300 Mbps or more for optimal performance.

Any prices listed are the base service rates and may not include additional charges such as equipment fees, installation costs, or other service-related expenses. For a comprehensive view of all potential charges, refer to our Fees & Details section below.

XFINITY vs. Centurylink | Customer Ratings & Reviews

Compare how real customers rate XFINITY and Centurylink based on our comprehensive database of verified customer reviews across all service types.

When comparing customer satisfaction, XFINITY earns an overall rating of 3.36 / 5 stars from 2165 customer reviews, while Centurylink maintains a 3.31 / 5 rating from 163 reviews. XFINITY outperforms Centurylink by 0.05 points in overall satisfaction. XFINITY's best-rated service is their offering at 0.00 / 5 stars, compared to Centurylink's highest-rated service, fiber, at 3.84 / 5 stars.

When comparing internet providers, remember that advertised prices rarely tell the complete story. Equipment fees alone can add $10-15 per month to your bill, while installation charges, early termination fees, and data overage penalties can significantly increase your total cost of service. Consider these additional costs alongside monthly rates when determining which provider offers the better value for your specific needs.

XFINITY vs. Centurylink | Top Cities

XFINITY serves 11,771 cities while Centurylink is available in 5,322 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.