Millions of customers use the USA’s Starlink and Xfinity (Comcast) internet service.
Both are great options for the Internet while serving two complete markets.
When choosing between the Internet from Earth or the Internet from space, learning their benefits and differences will help you make an informed decision.
So, how do they differ? The prime difference between Starlink and Xfinity is their technology type.
Starlink is satellite-based, and Xfinity is cable-based. They also differ in availability, speed, ping and latency, data caps, equipment, and pricing plans due to their method of service.
Relevant: Starlink Internet Review.
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Starlink vs Xfinity: Side-by-side Comparison
| Parameter | Starlink | Xfinity |
| Technology Type | Low Earth orbit satellite | Cable |
| Released Date | 2020 | 1996 |
| Availability | Available in rural areas globally, reaching a larger population. | Primarily available in North America; limited rural coverage. |
| Speed | Residential package speeds range 50-250 Mbps; max 1,200 Mbps. | Offers 50-2000 Mbps; consistent speeds; fastest ISP in USA. |
| Data Caps | No data caps; no throttling; unlimited bandwidth. | 1.2 TB data cap; restrictions apply to non-business plans. |
| Ping & Latency | Low latency & ping | Low latency; minimal disruptions; better for real-time tasks. |
| Gaming | Higher latency range (40-50 ms); not optimal for gaming. | Low latency (-1ms); ideal for uninterrupted gaming. |
| Equipment | Requires Starlink kit ($599) including router, modem, satellite. | Needs router & modem; additional costs for installation. |
| Customer Service | Non-traditional support system; slower response time; prioritizes customer concerns. | Responsive billing support; technical support needs improvement. |
| Pricing | Costlier ($90-$110/month); upfront $599 for equipment. | Affordable ($45-$110/month); additional costs for higher speeds. |
Starlink vs Xfinity: Differences Between Categories
Availability
One of the best selling points of Starlink is its availability in rural area.
This Company has excellent coverage as a satellite-based internet service provider. Rural people worldwide can easily access Starlink’s internet, reaching more people than Xfinity.
Conversely, Xfinity is a North America-based Company that delivers service to millions of people. There are many rural regions in the USA where cable or fiber infrastructure is available.
So, it is clear that Starlink reaches a larger population compared to Xfinity.
Speed
Providing comparable internet speeds is a promise of Starlink and Xfinity.
However, the speed depends on the package you purchased.
Click here to learn about Starlink Internet’s Speed.
Starlink’s residential package internet speed range is 50-250 Mbps, which can vary based on the network congestion, time of day, and area.
This Company delivers a maximum speed of 1,200 Mbps at $110/month.
On the other hand, Xfinity offers 50-2000 Mbps of internet speed in their supported areas at the same price as Starlink. In addition, they are the fastest ISPs in the USA. Meaning that, you will get better value using Xfinity.
Data Caps
Data caps are unavailable with Starlink for most residential areas of the world. You will not even experience a throttle after using a specific bandwidth.
As a result, there is no restriction to download or upload any movies, games, or other files.
While Xfinity has a data cap of 1.2 TB for a month, you will have to subscribe to their business plan. This data may seem like a lot, but it is a manageable number if you plan to play games. 1.2 TB data can blow within 3 hours if you play games with 4K streaming.
I am happy to declare Starlink as the winner of the data caps category.
Ping & Latency
Satellite internet service providers have a bad reputation for providing worse latency and ping. Happily, Starlink gives low latency and ping compared to other ISPs. Nevertheless, it can’t be compared to fiber or cable options like Xfinity.
Based on the Xfinity latency test, the Company has -1ms of latency. Thus, you will barely experience the internet with disruptions. Nonetheless, a few users faced high latency, ping, and packet loss every 4-5 months.
In this case, Xfinity is better for real-time stock trading or gaming than Starlink.
Gaming
Since Xfinity has low latency, it is evident that you will have a better experience while gaming with this Company.
Gamers can enjoy playing games without disruptions for Xfinity’s greater bandwidth. As said, the recorded latency of Xfinity is -1ms. So, low lag time and better download and upload speed are guaranteed.
Then again, Starlink’s latency range is 40-50 ms. Their latency and ping rate increase because of the bad weather and satellite transmission in specific areas.
Equipment
You already know that Starlink is a satellite-based internet Company requiring fewer numbers of equipment. Starlink kit price is $599, including an indoor wifi router, 75 ft. cable, a base unit (generally modem), and a satellite.
Whereas a router and a modem are a must for Xfinity users. If fiber optic lines are not installed in your area but are available, you will require digging the line to your house, which can cost less than $100.
Customer Service
Before deciding on an internet service provider, learning about the Company’s customer service is crucial.
The billing support of Xfinity is incredible, but they need to improve their technical support. They respond quickly in in-person conversations, chats, and phone calls.
On the flip side, Starlink’s support system is non-traditional, relying on support tickets that must be created through their website or Starlink App. Often, they take several days to reply to a complaint. Even so, they consistently prioritize customer concerns and approach solutions accordingly.
Pricing
Starlink is costlier than Xfinity. If you want an affordable ISP, go with the latter one.
Starlink’s residential internet service cost is $90-$110 / month. Yet, the price varies depending on your location. If you live above the service capacity, the price will be higher. Moreover, you will have to pay $599 for a Starlink dish upfront, and mounting accessories are excluded from the cost.
Inversely, the monthly subscription fee of Xfinity ranges between $45 to $110. Their expensive subscription plan is $200/month, offering 2 Mbps speed. You can use a modem or router to use their service according to your preferences or rent a router, which costs $15 a month.
Starlink vs Xfinity (Comcast): Which One to Choose
| I Recommend You Choose Starlink If You | I Recommend You Choose Xfinity (Comcast) If You |
| Are a citizen of rural area | Live in city area |
| Want satellite-based internet | Prioritize cable lines and internet speed |
| Have enough budget | Look for a pocket-friendly ISP |
