Comcast Xfinity vs Directv: Features, Fees, and Customer Experience Compared

Comcast Xfinity and Directv are two of the most popular TV service providers in the US, but they have some key differences. Comcast Xfinity offers over 250 channels, including sports and entertainment options, for a starting price of $50 per month.

Comcast Xfinity has a large channel lineup, with over 250 channels available, including sports and entertainment options. Directv, on the other hand, offers over 300 channels, including premium channels like HBO and Showtime, for a starting price of $64.99 per month.

Comcast Xfinity has a more affordable pricing plan compared to Directv, especially for customers who only need basic TV service. Directv's more expensive pricing is due in part to the cost of its satellite technology and the need to purchase a satellite dish.

The average standalone cable TV plan costs around $87 before fees. Both DIRECTV and Xfinity offer a range of plans to fit different budgets and viewing habits.

DIRECTV's cheapest plan, ENTERTAINMENT, costs $84.99 per month for 24 months, plus taxes and fees. This plan includes up to 90+ channels, including popular networks like AMC, ESPN, and TBS.

Xfinity's cheapest plan, Choice TV, costs between $52.45 and $73.25 per month, depending on the location, and includes 10+ channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC.

Here's a comparison of the channel counts for each provider's plans:

As you can see, Xfinity's ULTIMATE plan offers the most channels, but at a higher cost of up to $150.85 per month.

It's worth noting that both providers offer additional features, such as DVR recording and simultaneous recordings, but these costs are not included in the base plan prices.

Fees and Charges can add up quickly when choosing a TV provider. Xfinity has fewer fees overall, but some of them can be quite steep.

Xfinity charges a $15 self-installation fee, while DIRECTV includes the first set-top box installation, but charges $10 for each additional receiver.

Xfinity's broadcast TV fee can cost up to $43.50 per month, while DIRECTV includes it in the package price.

Regional sports fees are also a consideration, with Xfinity charging up to $23.35 per month and DIRECTV charging up to $17.99 per month.

Here's a breakdown of some of the fees you might encounter:

Xfinity's fees can add up quickly, especially if you opt for multiple TVs and DVRs.

Both DIRECTV and Xfinity have most of the popular channels, so you can't go wrong with either service. They offer a wide range of channels, including sports networks like ESPN and FS1, which are available on all DIRECTV packages and on Xfinity's Popular TV and Ultimate TV packages.

You can also stream your TV package, on-demand titles, and DVR recordings on the go with both services. DIRECTV's DIRECTV on the Go app and Xfinity's Xfinity Stream app allow you to watch live channels, on-demand content, and DVR recordings, as well as download programs for offline viewing.

Here's a comparison of the mobile apps for both services:

Directv and Xfinity both charge a regional sports fee, but the amount varies depending on where you live. This fee can range from $10 to $23.35 per month for Xfinity, and up to $15.99 per month for Directv.

You can expect to pay an additional $25ish bucks per month (depending on where you live) for broadcast and regional sports fees with Xfinity. This can add up quickly, especially if you're considering additional TVs and DVRs.

Directv charges a regional sports fee of up to $15.99 per month, which is a bit of a bummer, but it's how local broadcast networks recoup their distribution costs.

Here's a comparison of the broadcast and regional sports fees for both providers:

If you're considering a provider based on these fees, it's worth noting that Directv's regional sports fee is generally lower than Xfinity's.

Streaming options vary between providers. Xfinity doesn't offer a streaming-only option for live TV, but you can purchase a streaming device if you want to watch their content on demand.

Some streaming services offer more flexibility than others. DIRECTV, for instance, isn't mentioned as having a specific streaming-only option in the article.

If you're looking for a streaming device, Xfinity is an option. However, it's worth noting that you'll need to purchase it separately.

Internet bundles can be a great way to save money on your monthly bills. Xfinity offers traditional TV and internet bundles wherever their services are available. If you bundle Xfinity internet and TV on one bill, you can qualify for significant monthly discounts or equipment upgrades.

Xfinity's bundles are available in many areas, but DIRECTV takes a different approach. DIRECTV doesn't offer internet service directly, but rather partners with leading internet providers to bring you TV and internet bundles.

Here's a quick comparison of the two:

It's worth noting that if you're looking for a traditional TV and internet bundle, Xfinity might be the better choice. But if you're already set up with an internet provider, DIRECTV's partnership model could be a good option.

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The DIRECTV on the Go app is included with your service, so you don't have to pay extra to use it.

One of the key features of the DIRECTV on the Go app is that it allows you to watch live channels, on-demand content, and DVR recordings. You can even download programs for offline viewing, so you can watch your favorite shows on the go.

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Both the DIRECTV on the Go app and the Xfinity Stream app let you watch pay-per-view, rental, and purchased content, as well as set and manage DVR recordings and timers. They also let you set and manage parental controls.

The DIRECTV on the Go app lets you use your phone as a remote, so you can control your TV from anywhere. However, it only allows for 3 in-home streams and 3 on-the-go streams, whereas the Xfinity Stream app allows for 5 in-home streams and 3 on-the-go streams.

Here's a comparison of the two apps:

Both DIRECTV and Xfinity offer a range of TV channels, but the number of channels varies greatly between the two services. DIRECTV offers a massive 165-340 channels, while Xfinity tops out at 185 channels.

Both services have the top 35 popular channels in most of their packages, making channel selection a bit easier. However, if you're looking for specialty channels, DIRECTV carries more regional sports networks.

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Xfinity's Ultimate TV package offers the most channels, but it's also the most expensive option. DIRECTV's CHOICE and above packages also offer a wide range of channels.

Here are some of the channels you can expect to find on both services:

Ultimately, the choice between DIRECTV and Xfinity comes down to your individual needs and preferences.

Xfinity offers a range of TV packages, including Choice TV and Ultimate TV, with varying channel lineups. Xfinity's Ultimate TV package includes channels like the Big 10 Network, but not the Big 10 Network is not available on Xfinity, it's actually available on Ultimate TV.

You can expect to pay extra fees with Xfinity, including a $15 self-installation fee, $5/month for a TV box, and up to $27.25/month for a broadcast TV fee. Xfinity also charges a regional sports fee of around $10, depending on where you live.

Xfinity's installation fee is a one-time fee of $100, but you can opt-out with a $15 self-install kit to save some money. You can also get an antenna to make sure you're covered on locals for life.

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Xfinity's broadcast and regional sports fees can add up, with a total of around $40 extra per month for a single TV with DVR. DIRECTV, on the other hand, charges a regional sports fee of up to $15.99 per month.

Xfinity's mobile app, Xfinity Stream, is included with your subscription and allows you to stream live channels, on-demand content, and DVR recordings on the go. You can also download programs for offline viewing and set and manage parental controls.

Here's a comparison of Xfinity Stream and DIRECTV on the Go:

DIRECTV and Xfinity are neck and neck when it comes to customer satisfaction. According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), both providers scored 68 out of 100 in 2025, and 68 and 69 out of 100 in 2024 respectively.

Their customer service ratings are also surprisingly similar, with both DIRECTV and Xfinity scoring 67 out of 100. This suggests that both providers have room for improvement in this area.

Here's a comparison of their scores over the past two years:

If you want to bundle TV and internet, Xfinity is a good choice. It offers super-fast internet connections and no contract required for the cheapest plan.

DIRECTV, on the other hand, is best for sports fans, with an abundance of sports channels and add-on packages. But be prepared for high plan prices and hidden fees.

The availability of these providers is also worth considering. DIRECTV is available in all 50 states, while Xfinity is available in 40 states.

Here's a quick comparison of the two:

Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and may not include additional fees.

In the end, it's essential to weigh your priorities: if you want premium channels and a high channel count, go with DIRECTV. But if you're looking for a more affordable option with no contract required, Xfinity might be the way to go.

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If you're looking for deals and promotions, DIRECTV and Xfinity both have something to offer. DIRECTV is currently running a promotion where new customers can get three free months of HBO Max, Paramount+, STARZ, Cinemax, and MGM+ when they order the ENTERTAINMENT All Included, CHOICE All Included, or ULTIMATE All Included packages.

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Xfinity's Ultimate TV plan is a great deal, offering up to 185 channels for $90.00 a month for the first 12 months. This is a cheaper option than Spectrum and Cox's similar plans for more channels.

DIRECTV offers three free months of HBO Max, Paramount+, STARZ, Cinemax, and MGM+ with the ENTERTAINMENT, ULTIMATE, or CHOICE plans.

Here's a comparison of the two providers' deals:

If you're looking for more money-saving offers, you can check out DIRECTV's deals page.