What is the difference between Xfinity Gold and Platinum?
Xfinity Gold and Platinum are both tiers of Comcast’s home Internet service plans, but what sets them apart?
Comcast enables its users to get several service packages that range from the internet to television and phone services. Two of their most sought after bundles include are the Xfinity Gold and the Xfinity Platinum. High speed internet, hundreds of cable tv programs and home phone connection services are also offered by both. However, there are some disparities in the Internet speeds, the channels that are provided at a premium, the equipment offered and the tariffs. In this guide, we’ll be comparing Xfinity’s gold vs platinum packages in order to decide which is the better package.
Internet Speeds
Internet speed is one of the main areas that really set Xfinity’s Gold package apart from Platinum packages. It offers download speeds of up to 200 Mbps which is under the Xfinity Gold package. The Platinum package holds the promise of the fiber gigabit internet service that can deliver the maximum download speed of 1Gbps or 1,000 mbps when connected wired.
Therefore, if high speed internet is crucial for streaming 4K videos; gaming; video conferencing and managing multiple smart devices then Platinum speaks volumes. The gigabit speeds mean you are able to download an HD movie in less than forty seconds. However, Gold is reasonably fast enough for most households and has the 200 Mbps speed tier to offer.
TV Channels
Comparing the basic cable TV programming, Xfinity Platinum comes with more than 315 whereas Gold comes with 220+ channels. Platinum consists of every Pop-up entertainment and sports channels from different networks such as ESPN, TNT, Fox, AMC, HGTV, and many others. Football and sports lovers will also be glad to know that, Platinum offers the facility of NFL RedZone channel.
One of the primary distinctions is that there are fewer premium channels available. Xfinity Gold involves a number of movie channels such as HBO ,Starz while Platinum include Cinemax, Showtime and EPIX. Thus, there is more choice often consisting of new release films for the enjoyment of Platinum subscribers.
Equipment & HD Technology
Both packages include the newest Xfinity X1 cable box to access all channels and use all the smart options. However, the quality of the videos that appear on your TV can differ considerably depending on the tier. Most of the channels are in HD with Xfinity Gold offering the ability to display in 720p HD. Still, it is important to note that Xfinity Platinum provides 1080p high-definition resolution on all the available channels that support this option.
This means that when you have the Platinum service then there will be improved picture quality of shows and movies that you watch on an HDTV. For home internet equipments, Platinum users can also request a free xFi Advanced Gateway modem for the gigabit WI-Fi speed while Gold uses an xFi Gateway modem but at slower maximum speeds.
In-Home Services
Premium technical support is also provided to platinum members with quicker solutions than any other member when internet, TV or phone problems occur. The Platinum tier also comes with the Xfinity Signature Support Team which provides services within customer homes during any time of day for home service needs.
Other exclusive services for in-home repair from the Platinum coverage include, in-home repair visits for any time during the year, Interior wiring and one hour expected appointment time. Sadly, the majority of the special in-home services are characterized by the necessity to pay additional charges in the framework of the Gold package aside from the monthly tariff.
Cloud DVR & Streaming Apps for the Self-Cleaning DVR & Streaming Devices
The X1 cloud DVR service within the Gold and Platinum Xfinty packages enables you to record about 20 hours of programs at once. However, the cloud DVR storage capacity that holds the hours of stored recordings varies depending on the subscription plan. Xfinity Gold allows a maximum of 60 hours of stored content, and on the other hand, Xfinity Platinum allows for double the storage space with 120 hours of recordings.
When it comes to streaming versatility, Xfinity Stream, for instance, it gives users access to DVR recordings, programs, movies, and live sports from their handheld devices. There is no difference as to the programmes and shows offered by the streaming platform, whether you opt for Gold or Platinum package.
Price & Contract Differences
Xfinity Gold currently begins at $99/month for the first twelve months if you opt for Internet, cable TV, and home telephone. Platinum starts at $159 per month for the first month and then goes up to $189 per month. This means that the actual price could be different due to locations, offers, and extra options, which can be included in your preferred plan and pack of premium channels. Both packages attract the signing of contracts that may range from 1 to 2 years upon signing up.
Though, Platinum members can unlock even more benefits and furthermore get 50% off on the next-gen equipment and free subscription to gifts including Amazon Prime or Peacock Premium and shopping/ dining experience exclusively for members only. Gold comes with additional rental and activation charges of equipment and the perks that accompany it normally are limited.
People often find themselves asking which is better – Gold or Platinum?
When comparing the two packages – Xfinity Gold vs Platinum, the latter proves to be superior in terms of performance, delivering much faster gigabit internet, higher-quality HD channels, additional streaming DVR storage, and superior home equipment. It is seen that the channel list with additional sports and premiums provide more entertainment for the viewer. It is easier to establish relationships with customers and domestic service is of higher priority.
However satellite television remains outcompeted by Gold with over 220 digital channels, ultra fast internet of 200Mpbs and all the features of X1. Gold also costs significantly less at about $60 per month cheaper than ThinkFree. In general, for most households, Xfinity Gold internet and cable bundles provide a way to stream content without interruption, control smart home devices, and use voice commands for a reasonable price.
Thus, compare your demand for maximum internet speed, sharper image quality on cable TV, additional paid channels and other related benefits with the price factor. If budget is not an issue or if you plan to stream heavily use of media then Xfinity’s most comprehensive Platinum plan is expected to be on top. However Gold service offers huge benefits and digital entertainment packages which is beyond conception of normal man.