Xfinity TV Packages for Seniors, Tested and Reviewed by Tech Experts in 2024

Xfinity TV Packages

Xfinity’s pricing and packages vary based on where you live and what you need (TV, internet, or phone). Additionally, Xfinity’s website has a handy channel lineup comparison tool to help you decide which package to purchase.

All Xfinity Plans Include:

• HD capability
• On-demand access
• Ability to download TV shows and movies with the Xfinity Stream app

Xfinity Plans and Pricing

*Basic package price listed, additional broadcast and sports package fees may vary depending on location.

DIRECTV streaming packages start at higher rates than Xfinity’s. For example, DIRECTV Choice offers access to 125+ channels for $85 a month.

Xfinity DVR and On-Demand Content

If you’re an Xfinity customer already, you may have both DVR and non-DVR cable boxes. DVRs came standard with my parents’ TV package. What the DVR can handle depends on the version. Consider an Xfinity internet plan with the free Xumo Stream Box to stream on-demand programming if you don't watch much live TV.

You can compare DVR differences on Xfinity’s website while you shop, but generally, Xfinity DVRs include:

• Up to 20 total hours of HD or SD recording capacity on the hard drive (box)
• Up to 500 hours of cloud DVR storage for an additional fee
• Pause and rewind up to 60 minutes of live TV
• Can record up to six shows at once with X1 DVR service

I am always impressed by the number of on-demand movies and shows Xfinity offers. Whether we want to rent the latest box office hit or watch an old favorite, there are thousands of options to scroll through. My parents and I often watch one of the countless free movies Xfinity offers – a huge perk!

Browsing Xfinity's On Demand content

Xfinity Cable TV, Internet, and Phone Bundles

While there are no senior-specific discounts, Xfinity offers multiple bundles and promotional offers throughout the year. Bundling (combining more than one service, such as TV, internet, and phone) is one of the best ways to get the most for your money. This list notably includes home security, a feature few other providers have. Xfinity offers several bundle deals just for TV and internet, for the same price as TV-only, in some cases.

Expert Insights

From Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech Expert

I experienced fast, reliable speeds when testing Xfinity’s internet plans. I’m a big fan of the company’s mobile app, and the customer service team was always accommodating. Plus, the setup was easy and only took me about 10 minutes. Check out our Xfinity internet review to learn more.

The company also offers internet and mobile deals for people who want a new phone carrier. You can build your own bundle or select one of Xfinity’s advertised options. These customizable bundles vary by location and the packages available in your area. Like most companies (such as AT&T, CenturyLink, and Cox), Xfinity has no equipment fees. Below are our top picks for older adults.

As with most companies, such as AT&T, CenturyLink, and Cox, Xfinity has no equipment fees. Below are our top picks for older adults.

Xumo from Xfinity

Best overall streaming deal for seniors

If you want to try “cutting the cord,” Xfinity offers the Xumo Stream Box, a voice-controlled 4K streaming box with access to over 10,000 free movies and TV shows, plus popular streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu. (Note: Some streaming channels might require additional subscriptions.) You can also rent and buy your favorite movies and shows.

Xumo Stream Box from Xfinity combines internet and TV through a “streaming dashboard” box with DVR. While it might have more bells and whistles than you need, the Xumo Voice Remote might appeal to customers 65 and older who are experiencing some problems with dexterity. You can control almost anything on your TV with the Voice Remote. I use it to open apps, change the channel, or search for a show. It can be finicky if the room has other loud noises, but otherwise, it works great!

Expert Insights

From Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech Expert

When I signed up for an Xfinity internet plan, it came with a free Xumo Stream Box. My partner and I could stream thousands of on-demand titles without a cable package.

If you’re an Xfinity customer already, you may have both DVR and non-DVR cable boxes. DVRs now come standard with most new TV packages. DIRECTV offers unlimited DVR recording (at a higher cost) for comparison’s sake. What the DVR can handle depends on the version. For basic TV watching, consider choosing an Xfinity internet plan with the free Xumo Stream Box to stream on-demand programming.

Using Xfinity's voice remote

400 Mbps Internet + Popular TV (125+ Channels)

If you want to try “cutting the cord,” Xfinity offers the Xumo Stream Box, a voice-controlled 4K streaming box with access to over 10,000 free movies and TV shows, plus popular streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu. (Note: Some streaming channels might require additional subscriptions.) You can also rent and buy your favorite movies and shows.

This bundle is cheaper than a TV and internet package from DIRECTV, which starts at an introductory rate of $125 a month. Frontier, Cox Cable, and Verizon Fios also offer TV and internet bundles, starting at over $100 a month. For a more specific example, one of our tech experts in Florida bundles Spectrum high-speed (500 Mbps) internet with a TV package of 155+ channels and pays $179 per month. The list price for Spectrum’s TV Select service is $90, and internet service costs $88. (The $179 monthly cost includes discounts for bundling services and equipment fees.)

Testing out Xfinity Internet

Keep in mind that Xfinity’s prices will increase after the first year. The package may also include broadcast TV or regional sports fees. However, there are no included taxes. Prices may also vary by location.

Top Xfinity Perks

Xfinity does not offer senior discounts. But it does offer bundle deals and some handy features for older adults that set it apart.

• Voice Remote: Change channels, search for shows, or find out what song is playing. This remote requires an X1 TV box or Xumo Stream Box. Both include integrated streaming, so you can access apps such as Prime Video or Netflix in the same place.
• Download Xfinity Stream: You can stream your favorite on-demand shows and movies by downloading the Xfinity Stream app on your mobile devices. I often use this app to watch my favorite shows on vacation.
• Reliability: Xfinity is consistently ranked among the most reliable cable providers, with few outages. J.D. Power ranked the company third in the north-central region and the west in terms of customer satisfaction with wireless internet in 2023. It's good to know if you’re bundling services!
• Internet Essentials: If you are on Medicaid, have a VA pension, or have other qualifying circumstances, you can get free internet through Xfinity’s Internet Essentials program. The 50 Mbps speeds with this plan, which currently costs $10 a month, are fast enough for email, social media, and streaming the occasional show or movie.
• No-penalty agreements: While some of Xfinity’s plans require contracts, there are no extra charges to get out of them early. Remember that monthly rates go up after the typical 12-month contract period.
• Initial trial period: Xfinity offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, making their plans relatively low-risk as long as you decide (and cancel) within that time.
• Additional senior-friendly accessibility options: Customers with visual impairments can request to receive a free, large-button remote at no additional charge.3

Xfinity Fine Print

Good news: Xfinity is (mostly) up-front about its fine print. Tap the “Pricing & other info” button on their website to quickly see what lurks in the wee font. Bad news: You may have to read it three times to understand it fully. Here’s what stands out:

• Monthly service rates go up after the 12-month contract period. Even if other discounts apply for 24 months or more, they’ll apply to the higher “regular” rate that kicks in after a year.
• Enroll in autopay and paperless billing within 30 days. This one’s easy to forget, so mark your calendar and set an alarm. To get the $10 monthly discount, you must enroll (it’s not automatic when you join) in both autopay and paperless “ecobilling.” If you don’t do it within 30 days, you lose the discount.
• Budget for extra fees. TV-only customers may have to pay for installation. Most cable packages include a broadcast TV fee (up to $32.20 per month), a variable regional sports fee (ranging from less than $2 a month or up to $26.85 per month), and monthly taxes, depending on your state.
• Speeds may vary. Remember that internet speeds may vary depending on your location. Xfinity recommends visiting their network management guide to check factors that may affect your internet speed.

Who is Xfinity Cable Best For?

Xfinity is best for entertainment-loving seniors who want multiple channels and services and an easy, all-in-one solution. It’s especially great for those with emerging or ongoing hearing, sight, or dexterity challenges. Features (many free) such as voice-led search, large-button remote controls, and extensive closed captioning and braille services can go a long way in making everyday viewing easier.

While cable TV plans start at $20 per month, Xfinity stands out if you need multiple services or live in a multigenerational or larger household. Our tech experts appreciate Xfinity’s broad availability, service in 41 states, and reliable high-speed internet service. You can also add additional channels to customize your entertainment package. If customization is crucial, our experts have found that Cox Cable has many TV-streaming and internet bundle plans starting at $55 per month.

Final Thoughts

While not the cheapest way to watch TV, Xfinity is widely available, offers many packages, and has reliable customer service. In terms of cost, Xfinity is more affordable than some of the largest internet and cable providers, such as Spectrum and AT&T. I appreciate Xfinity’s inclusive, forward-thinking benefits, such as Voice Remote, audio guides, and large-button controls. This company’s extensive accessibility resource center makes Xfinity a solid choice for older adults who want multiple entertainment choices but need extra support. Older adults with disabilities can contact Xfinity’s Accessibility Support Center 24/7 with questions or concerns.