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As newer systems emerge, it is difficult to say whether traditional cable services will be replaced. What would be the best pick if you have both options, Starlink and Comcast? A detailed comparison should put this matter to rest. This guide will compare all the key features of Starlink and Comcast to decide which internet service is the better fit.
Starlink vs. Comcast – Feature Comparison
Comcast, a cable internet service, uses a hard-wired connection to provide reliable internet. On the other hand, Starlink mainly relies on radio signals. These signals assist communication between ground stations and Starlink satellite constellations. A user, however, is more concerned with the quality of service and internet speed.
The following comparison will help you decide your pick:
Cost
Xfinity and Starlink differ regarding cable and satellite-based internet service. This leads to a difference in setup costs. Comcast is much more affordable as compared to Starlink’s satellite technology.
Xfinity
- With Xfinity, you can pay about $40 for installation or even do it for free by opting for self-installation.
- Xfinity offers different affordable plans depending on your subscription ($40-$80 or more).
Starlink
- With Starlink, you have to pay $599 for equipment and $110 monthly as a subscription fee.
- The same for a Starlink business plan could sum up to about $2500 for equipment and $500 per month for a subscription.
Speeds
Regarding downloading and uploading speeds, both Comcast and Starlink are pretty impressive.
Xfinity
For Comcast (Xfinity), the range starts from 50 Mbps and goes all the way to 1200 Mbps. It is important to note that the speed may vary, given network congestion or other such factors.
Starlink
Starlink’s download speed generally ranges between 50 Mbps – 250 Mbps, with uploads in the range of 10 Mbps – 20 Mbps.
The upload lag is what is getting to the #starlink internet.
— Adventures With Kramer (@AdvtrWithKramer) November 3, 2020
Works great on downloading fast, streaming fast movies where pauses in downloads is ok, but been struggling with live class sessions (I teach) and playing video games online. pic.twitter.com/xYwO8yJjZ8
Data caps
A data cap restricts the amount of data transferred over the network for a specific charge.
Xfinity
Xfinity believes this data cap is of no concern since, on average, customers only use about 346 GB of data per month. But, you can still get an additional 10 GB for $10 or unlimited data for an extra $30.
Starlink
Pick Starlink if you want to enjoy unlimited data without any internet throttling. Comcast, however, imposes a monthly restriction of about 1.2 TB (terabytes).
Gaming
Latency can be the biggest hurdle while playing competitive games online. And whenever latency is a concern, people generally opt for a cable connection.
Xfinity
- With greater bandwidth, Comcast can provide adequate service for gamers.
- Xfinity’s average latency recorded is around -1ms.
- It offers better download and upload speeds, greater bandwidth, and low lag time.
Starlink
- For Starlink, the latency could be anywhere between 40ms to 50 ms.
- Due to satellite transmission and bad weather in specific regions, Starlink tends to have higher latency and ping rates.
Customer service
Customer service defines businesses online, especially for internet users who always need to stay connected.
Xfinity
It is safe to say that most of Comcast’s customers are unsatisfied with the support. Starlink, however, is considered much more reliable regarding customer care. Users are more likely to get timely replies to their queries and resolve their issues.
Starlink
When it comes to customer service, Starlink takes the lead. Xfinity’s customer support is a source of concern as customers are left hanging without much help. This has led Comcast to collect bad reviews over multiple platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Starlink as fast as Comcast?
Compared to Comcast’s 1200 Mbps rate, Starlink supports slower download/upload speeds. Customers also experience higher latency and ping rates.
What are the disadvantages of Starlink?
Due to the satellite-based tech, Starlink is on the pricier end. It also has slower internet speed and download rates, sometimes with a bad ping. Thus it proves to have a slight advantage when online gaming is concerned.
Is Starlink faster than WiFi?
Starlink tends to have higher latency due to satellite communication. The Starlink kit, however, does come with a WiFi router and can be used to access stable internet service. It is pretty reliable for rural areas where cable internet is not available.
How is Starlink different from regular internet?
Starlink relies on the LEO satellite constellation to provide high-speed internet service globally. Low Earth Orbit constellation differs from conventional internet that relies on a cable.
More on Starlink & Comcast (Xfinity)
| Port Forward on Starlink & bypass CGNAT | Best Starlink VPN | |
| Starlink and Gaming | Comcast Port Forwarding | |
| Does Xfinity throttle the internet? | Can Xfinity see your search history? |
Ovais Khan
June 20, 2023
10 months ago
