Airtel XStream AirFiber vs. Jio AirFiber: All You Need to Know
In the fiercely competitive world of Indian telecommunications, two giants Jio and Airtel, have expanded their rivalry into the realm of broadband services. Both telecom titans recently introduced fixed wireless access (FWA) services powered by 5G networks, namely Airtel Xstream AirFiber and Jio AirFiber.
These services herald a shift from the conventional broadband setup, where the router is tethered to a fixed location via a LAN cable, to a more versatile and portable solution that can be placed anywhere within your home, as long as there’s good network reception. However, there are some key differences between these offerings.
Airtel XStream AirFiber vs. Jio AirFiber – What You Need to Know in 2024
| Feature | Airtel Xstream AirFiber | Jio AirFiber |
| Availability | Currently available in Delhi and Mumbai | Available in multiple cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Pune |
| Plans | Single plan with 100 Mbps speed | Multiple plans with speeds ranging from 30 Mbps to 1 Gbps |
| Pricing | Rs. 799/month | Starting from Rs. 599/month |
| Installation | Self-installation | Requires professional installation |
| Data Limit | 300 GB with rollover | Varies based on plan |
| Additional Benefits | Airtel Xstream app access | Access to Jio apps and services |
Airtel Xstream AirFiber
The Xstream AirFiber is capable of connecting up to 64 devices at the same time, which makes it ideal for homes with numerous connected devices. Its setup process is effortless and can be completed through the dedicated Xstream AirFiber application. Users can also manage their connections conveniently using the same application. Here are the plan details:
Price: The Airtel Xstream AirFiber service is priced at ₹799 per month (with an additional 18% GST charge).
Speed: Subscribers can enjoy speeds of up to 100Mbps with unlimited internet usage.
Duration: Customers have the option to select a six-month plan with a one-time refundable security deposit of ₹2,500.
Availability: Currently, Airtel Xstream AirFiber is available in select locations, such as Delhi and Mumbai, with plans to expand its coverage to more cities in the near future.
Jio AirFiber
Jio AirFiber outperforms Airtel by offering not just internet connectivity, but also a range of additional features. These include a 4K set-top box that grants access to over 550 digital TV channels, as well as more than 16 OTT apps like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. Moreover, Jio AirFiber caters to smart home solutions. Here are the various plans available for Jio AirFiber:
Jio AirFiber ₹599: This plan offers 30 Mbps speed, unlimited data, 30 days of validity, access to 550+ digital channels, and includes OTT apps like Disney+Hotstar, SonyLIV, Zee5, and 11 more.
Jio AirFiber ₹899: For subscribers seeking faster speeds, this plan delivers unlimited data at 100 Mbps, 550+ digital channels, 30 days of validity, and access to the same OTT apps as the Rs 599 plan.
Jio AirFiber ₹1,199: This plan offers 100 Mbps speed, 550+ digital channels, and 30 days of validity. It also includes access to popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+Hotstar, and 13 more.
Jio AirFiber Max ₹1,499: With this plan, users can enjoy 300 Mbps of unlimited data, 30 days of validity, 550+ digital channels, and access to the same OTT apps as the previous plans.
Jio AirFiber Max ₹2,499: Stepping up the speed, this plan provides 500 Mbps, unlimited data, 550+ digital channels, 30 days of validity, and access to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+Hotstar, and 13 more apps.
Jio AirFiber Max ₹3,999: The premium offering boasts 1 Gbps speed, unlimited data, 550+ digital channels, 30 days of validity, and access to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+Hotstar, and 13 more apps.
Availability
Both Airtel Xstream AirFiber and Jio AirFiber have expanded their services to various Indian cities. As of now, Reliance Jio AirFiber is available in cities like Ahmedabad, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad.
FAQs
What is the difference between Airtel Xstream AirFiber and Jio AirFiber?
Both services use technology to deliver internet access wirelessly but with some key differences:
Technology: Airtel Xstream AirFiber utilizes traditional radio waves, while Jio AirFiber leverages the 5G network (where available).
Availability: Airtel Xstream AirFiber has a limited presence, currently offered mainly in Delhi and Mumbai. Jio AirFiber is expanding its reach to more Indian cities.
Speeds: Airtel Xstream AirFiber offers plans with speeds up to 100 Mbps. Jio AirFiber boasts plans with speeds ranging from 30 Mbps to 1 Gbps (depending on the plan and location).
Which service is faster?
Jio AirFiber has the potential for significantly faster speeds, especially in areas with strong 5G coverage. However, real-world speeds can be influenced by various factors like network congestion and distance from the base station.
