Comcast Xfinity Cable TV for Seniors

Xfinity TV Packages

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

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 depending on your location.

Xfinity DVR and On Demand Content

If you’re already an Xfinity customer, you may have both DVR and non-DVR cable boxes. DVRs now come standard with most new TV packages. What the DVR can handle depends on the version. 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 300 hours of cloud DVR storage for $20 per month
• Pause and rewind up to 60 minutes of live TV
• Can record up to six shows at once with X1 DVR service

Xfinity Flex

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. Xfinity offers several bundle deals just for TV and internet, for the same price as TV-only, in some cases.

The company also offers internet and mobile deals for people who want a new phone carrier. You can choose to build your own bundle or select one of Xfinity’s advertised options. These bundles are customizable and vary greatly by location and the packages available in your area. Below are our top picks for older adults.

Xfinity Flex

Best overall streaming deal for seniors
If you want to try “cutting the cord,” Xfinity offers Flex, a voice-controlled 4K streaming box with access to over 10,000 free movies and TV shows, along with popular streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu. You can also rent and buy your favorite movies and shows.

Xfinity Flex combines internet and TV through a “streaming dashboard” box with DVR. While it may have more perks than you need, the X1’s voice remote and ease of use are especially beneficial for customers over 65. You can control almost anything on your TV with the Voice Remote. All your shows, movies, music, podcasts, and apps are available across all of your screens.

400 Mbps Internet + Over 125 Channels

This bundle offers excellent value at $85 per month with a one-year term contract. It includes 400 Mbps internet speeds, which is more than enough for most older users. You can play games, stream movies, and make video calls all at the same time on different devices. The bundle also comes with the same number of channels as the Popular TV package, which costs $60 per month on its own. That means you’re only paying $25 extra for fast internet speeds.

Keep in mind that prices will increase after the first year. The package may also come with broadcast TV or regional sports fees, and taxes are not included in the price. 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 that set it apart for older adults.

• Three cheers for Voice Remote: Change channels, search for shows, or find out what song is playing. This remote requires an X1 TV box or Flex streaming box. Both include integrated streaming, so you can access outside apps like 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.
• Internet Essentials: If you are on Medicaid, have a VA pension, or have other qualifying circumstances, you can get internet for free per month through the Internet Essentials program.2 The 50 Mbps speeds with this plan 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. Just keep in mind, 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 options3

Xfinity Fine Print

Good news: Xfinity is pretty upfront (and blessedly brief) 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 have to 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 bills also include a broadcast TV fee (up to $24.95 per month), a regional sports fee (up to $26.85 per month), and monthly taxes, depending on your state.

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 if you have emerging or ongoing challenges with your hearing, sight, or dexterity. Features (many of them 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 just $20 per month, Xfinity shines brightest if you need multiple services or live in a multi-generational or larger household. You can also add additional channels to customize your entertainment package.

Conclusion

It may not be the cheapest way to watch TV, but Xfinity is widely available, offers many options, and is backed by reliable customer service. Inclusive, forward-thinking benefits such as Voice Remote, audio guides, large-button controls, and an extensive accessibility resource center make Xfinity a solid choice for older adults who want multiple entertainment choices but need added support. Older adults with disabilities can contact Xfinity’s Accessibility Support Center seven days a week for additional support.