I recently changed my Xfinity Gigabit plan to xFi Complete and after using it for a month, I've shared what it is, how it works, its pros and cons, and my overall experience. I hope this review helps you decide whether it's worth it or not.
What is xFi Complete?
xFi Complete is a bundle of multiple services in a single pack. When you subscribe to it, you get unlimited data, xFi gateway, xFi pods, advanced security, and more for $25/month, which would cost more if subscribed individually.
The bundled service consists of the following benefits:
- Advanced xFi Gateway: Your gateway combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem and a Wi-Fi 6 router. Your location, internet/voice/TV bundle pack and availability determine the device you receive. You'll either get an XB6, XB7, or XB8.
- xFi Pods: If your household has WiFi dead spots and faces signal-related issues, you'll be eligible for the xFi Pods as part of the complete package's wall-to-wall coverage promise.
- Free Gateway Upgrades: If you continue to be a Comcast subscriber for 3 years, you'll be eligible for a free upgrade to the latest xFi gateway device.
- Advanced Security on the Go: Surprisingly, you also get network security. It shall protect your home/office network from different cyber threats.
- Unlimited Data: Stop worrying about exceeding the 1.2 TB data limit and the corresponding overage charges. If your household is heavy on data usage, unlimited data will help you stave off a few dollars off your monthly bill.
Note: This service is currently not available for Northeast regions.
In the following sub-sections, you'll find a detailed view of this service package in varying parameters, including real-time speeds, network performance, security features, cost to value, and more. So, let's get going!
Who is it suitable for?
The xFi gateway, which targets households and home offices with security cameras and smart home appliances, has the advantage of Bluetooth and Zigbee. These modes of communication reduce congestion in WiFi bands.
If you live in a medium-large house with 4K streaming, gaming consoles, and extensive data usage, the xFi Complete fits the requirements. For personnel concerned about the security of the gadgets inside and outside the home network, the advanced security features will help you keep the concerns at bay.
Also, if you are a heavy user who doesn't want the hassle of finding your own modem/router compatible with Xfinity but also wants reliable equipment from the service provider, xFi Complete may be your best bet.
Internet Speeds & Data Caps
I had access to the fastest package that Xfinity offered in my area. The package came with 1.2 Gbps download speeds, and uploads capped at 35 Mbps. With xFi Complete, I didn't have to worry about exceeding the data limit of 1.2 TB per month while binge-watching on 4K TV.
With the shortage of XB8 models, I had to settle for the XB7 gateway, which is a combination of a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router and DOCSIS 3.1 modem that supports up to a 2.5 Gbps internet connection.
The built-in router comes with an aggregated speed of 3.5 Gbps which translates to individual bands, as follows:
| 2.4 GHz: 1148 Mbps | 5 GHz: 2402 Mbps |
I was getting 956 Mbps of download speed on my laptop, a few feet away on the 5 GHz band. On the 2.4 GHz band, downloads on the iPhone were clocking in at 662 Mbps and uploads at 34.5 Mbps.
The signals from the XB7 covered my first floor, where the downloads were registering 77 Mbps and uploads 15 Mbps even at the furthest point of the room.
With my PC wired to the gateway, it was easy to make the most out of the internet, with downloads maxing out at 1201 Mbps and uploads clocking in at 42 Mbps.
WiFi Performance
I was skeptical about the WiFi coverage as most modem/router combos generally can't keep up in this department.
I experienced the same in my 2,500 Sq Ft test lab. Even though the test lab doesn't have any major obstructions (like we have at homes), it could only cover 1,950 Sq Ft at max. It's still a decent WiFi range, thanks to its four internal beamforming antennas.
With a total handling capacity of 75 devices, I could work with 35 devices, including two 4K TVs, an Xbox, a desktop, a laptop, a couple of ring cameras, and many mobile gadgets. Thanks to the robust processing unit, there were no problems with connection drops or consistency.
The device was only pushed to its limit when I was streaming two 4K videos simultaneously, thanks to 4 x 4 MU-MIMO. If you have more than 40 devices in your home, the XB7 is an excellent choice.
Security Features
The XB7 supports up to WPA2 encryptions. All devices linked to your home network are protected by xFi Complete's cutting-edge security features, which manage the security risk.
With both app and web options available, you can choose your tool. I hardly took 15 minutes with the Xfinity App to complete the setup and get the internet running.
Most inexperienced users will not find it necessary to log in to the portal, play around, and adjust the settings. While you don't have remote management facilities in the smartphone app, you can log in to the portal, activate remote management, access reports, and keep control of internet consumption.
The Cost
The xFi complete package will cost you $25 per month, including the rental of your gateway and your internet or bundle fees.
It also includes an unlimited data pack, which will cost you $30 a month if taken separately once you exceed the 1.2TB quota. If you are a household with heavy data usage, having xFi Complete saves you $5 instantly.
A free hardware update after three years is also part of the xFi Complete package. While the equipment rentals from the other internet service providers cost between $5 and $15, they do not come with the extra security features, and there is no assurance that the router you are given will function at the highest level.
You won't have to pay additional installation expenses unless you choose a professional installation. You have the option to self-install the internet and save the cost.
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xFi Complete Benefits & Drawbacks
xFi Complete vs xFi Gateway
XFi Complete, which costs an extra $25, is an all-in-one package from Xfinity and includes other handy offerings alongside an xFi gateway device.
To start with, you’ve got unlimited data, a strong relief for heavy data users. xFi gateway with normal internet packages requires paying $30 extra every month.
Xfi Complete comes with the “security on the go feature” which is the most exciting one, as you can keep your mobile devices safe even if you’re outside the network.
With the complete package, Xfinity might also offer an xFi pod without charging anything whose primary feature is wall-to-wall coverage. It means WiFi signals are available throughout the house and get people with large houses some relief from bad signals or weak zones.
Lastly, Xfinity complete users might also be offered a new gateway upgrade every 3 years.
Here's a summary of the differences between xFi complete and xFi gateway:
| Aspects | xFi Gateway | xFi Complete |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15 | $25 |
| Unlimited Data | No, costs $30/month extra | Included |
| Advanced security | Yes | Yes |
| Security on the go | No | Yes |
| Upgraded gateway after three years | No | Yes (Free) |
| xFi Pod | No | Yes (If recommended after coverage assessment) |
Customer Service & User Reviews
Xfinity tops the list among cable-based internet service providers by avoiding major outages or downtime. And while the Xfinity customer satisfaction index is well above the industry average, it stands below Verizon FiOS and AT&T Internet, both being fiber-based internet providers.
While Xfinity has been called expensive, there is a lot of positive feedback to focus on. Let's see what some of their customers have to say:
Frequently Asked Questions
It is contingent on your data, advanced security, and coverage requirements. If you are in a medium-large smart home with heavy data usage, you will benefit from unlimited data usage, advanced security, and an additional xFi pod.
The xFi complete will cost you $25/month, over and above the cost of your internet plan and other voice services you subscribe to. The xFi complete includes the xFi gateway will cost you $15/mo, and the unlimited data plan, $30/mo if availed separately. The advanced security on the go comes only as a part of xFi Complete.
When you upgrade to xFi Complete, your home will be subject to a Wi-Fi coverage assessment. If you have spots with weak internet signals, you will receive an xFi pod with your gateway to help cover your entire home.
Yes, xFi Complete offers unlimited data. With xFi complete, you can use your internet without worrying about data overage charges.
If you are using an eligible Comcast internet plan, you could add xFi Complete to your package. If your package isn’t eligible, you may have to upgrade to a plan that allows you to upgrade to Comcast Complete.
Yes, you can opt out of xFi Complete. You’ll have two options. You can either downgrade to a different plan that does not include the advanced features provided by xFi, or you can keep the same plan but request that the Xfinity customer deactivate the xFi complete features.
Conclusion
While xFi Complete from Xfinity is flush with benefits, it is not available at every location or for every internet package. It is contingent on your location and availability.
If you live in a medium-large house with a basement that causes signal issues, the xFi pods can offer you a solution at no additional cost. It's good for heavy internet users with over 40 devices in the smart home. It is overkill if you are a small household with less than 15 devices.
