Cable ModemsBest Cable Modems
Welcome to our roundup of the top Cable Modems available in the market today. These innovative devices have revolutionized the way we connect to the internet, offering high speeds, reliability, and flexibility. In this article, we'll introduce you to the best cable modems on the market, helping you make an informed decision and enhancing your online experience.
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Reviews
Fast ARRIS SURFboard DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem for Xfinity, Cox, and Charter (16x4)
The ARRIS Surfboard (16x4) Cable Modem, also known as the SB6183, is a versatile device ideal for internet speeds up to 300 Mbps Download and 131 Mbps Upload based on your cable ISP subscription. This gadget is perfect for streaming HD video and online gaming on multiple devices at the same time, all while ensuring smooth IPv4 and IPv6 connectivity.
Despite having a simple design and a focus on functionality, the SB6183 boasts an impressive performance. Utilizing the power of DOCSIS 3.0, it offers fast transfer rates and seamless connectivity. The 16 channels for downloads and 4 channels for uploads allow for superb channel bonding that results in faster download speeds.
This external cable modem is quite user-friendly. It comes with easy-to-set-up features and minimal configuration. However, some users have reported connection issues in specific circumstances, such as when using it with Xfinity.
The SB6183 is compatible with several major cable internet providers, including Xfinity, Cox, and Charter, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a high-speed and affordable connection. Its gigabit Ethernet port allows you to connect to your computer or router, providing you with a fast and stable connection.
With its sleek design and reliable performance, the ARRIS Surfboard (16x4) Cable Modem is a smart investment for anyone seeking a stable and fast connection at an affordable price. Though its build quality might not meet some expectations, its performance and compatibility with major cable internet providers make up for it.
Nighthawk High-Split DOCSIS 3.1 Fiber Modem
Welcome to the world of Nighthawk high-speed modems! The Nighthawk CM2500, in particular, is a game-changer for your digital home. With its ultra-fast DOCSIS 3.1 technology, enjoy lightning-fast download speeds up to 2 Gbps - that's 10 times faster than regular DOCSIS 3.0. Say goodbye to buffering delays, responsive gaming, and crystal clear video conferencing. This next-gen modem promises smoother streaming and app downloads.
Boasting high-split 32 x 8 channel bonding, the Nighthawk CM2500 delivers on its promise of reliability and speed, making it compatible with most cable providers. Its sleek, compact design fits effortlessly in your space, while its 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports offer unparalleled wired speed of up to 2000 megabits per second.
Yet, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. This modem may require a cable service upgrade, which can add an extra cost to your bill. Additionally, you might need to have a technician install it if your ISP offers a technician-installed option.
Overall, the Nighthawk CM2500 is a powerhouse in the digital world, offering lightning-fast speeds and a robust, reliable connection. Though it does have its quirks, it's a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-speed, top-of-the-line modem for their home.
Surfboard DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Sb6190 - White (1000031)
Power up your home network with the SURFboard GB Cable Modem, a versatile and reliable solution in a sleek white design. This DOCSIS 3.0 modem by ARRIS delivers impressive speeds and a reliable connection to the internet, perfect for heavy internet users like avid gamers and photographers. Gigabit Ethernet technology ensures fast and smooth connections, while easy setup and compatibility with Apple devices make it a breeze to use in your everyday life.
However, some users have mentioned that the modem can run hot, so keep an eye on its temperature for optimal performance.
Netgear CM500 - High-Speed Cable Modem
The sleek, high-speed Netgear CM500 Cable Modem seamlessly connects you to the fastest cable internet speed tiers. With 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, your cable network performance will be efficient and reliable. Save money over time by owning your cable equipment instead of paying monthly rental charges. Experience top-notch streaming capabilities for 4k movies, lightning-fast downloads, and high-speed online gaming with speeds of up to 680 Mbps. This external device, compatible with Xfinity from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, Cablevision, and more, comes with a Gigabit Ethernet and a 1000Base-T RJ-45 interface for optimal connectivity.
SURFboard Dual-Band AC2350 Cable Modem with DOCSIS 3.0 High-Speed Internet
Upgrade your home or business network with the SURFboard Dual-Band AC2350, a feature-packed cable modem and Wi-Fi router designed for high-speed internet services. Featuring dual-band Wi-Fi technology, advanced 802.11ac Wave 2 capabilities, and support for DOCSIS 3.0, this sleek device efficiently serves as the center of your connected home. With simple setup, a wide range of features including parental controls and energy-efficient Ethernet, and a compact, attractive design, the SURFboard Dual-Band AC2350 offers a reliable and robust networking solution.
As someone who's been using the Motorola 16x4 Cable Modem + AC1900 Wi-Fi Gigabit Router with Power Boost, I have to say that it's been a mixed experience. The wireless feature of this router has definitely helped me avoid the hassle of dealing with wires, but I must admit that the 686 Mbps speed has sometimes felt a bit slow for my needs.
What stood out to me the most was the router's design. The built-in parental control feature was a nice touch, allowing me to provide restricted access when necessary. However, I did find the web-based utility to be a bit complicated and confusing at first.
Overall, I think this modem and router combo is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable connection with some added features. Just be prepared for the potential frustration with the web-based utility and the occasional slow speed.
Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200: High-Speed, Multi-Gig Ethernet for Cox & Spectrum
I recently started using the Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 and my internet experience has been greatly improved. It's perfect for my gaming and streaming needs and it's compatible with various services like Xfinity from Comcast and spectrum. I appreciate how it supports up to four public IP addresses and allows for multiple servers to run simultaneously.
One of the best features I found is the multi-gig Ethernet, which links two 1G ports into one 2G port for faster wired Ethernet speed. It's great to have a cable modem that's built for speed. The device is also backwards compatible with previous Docsis standards for those who need it.
On the downside, I did experience some trouble with the initial setup as the modem had to be updated to work with my internet provider. However, I was able to resolve the issue with some help from the company's tech support.
Overall, the Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 performs well and is easy to use. Its build quality is solid and the long range is helpful for people who live in areas with weaker signal strength. The temperature control feature is a nice touch to ensure it stays in optimal working conditions. With a speed of up to 2 Gbps, you can be confident in its ability to handle your home's needs with ease.
Motorola MB7621 1000 Mbps 24x8 Cable Modem
In my daily life, I've been using the Motorola MB7621 24x8 cable modem to enjoy smooth and fast internet connections for my computer, router, HDTV, game station, and streaming media devices. One of the first things I noticed was the LED indicators on the front panel, which helped keep me updated on the network strength and connection status. The presence of eight upstream channels contributed to enhanced data speed for all my devices, making web browsing, video streaming, and gaming a delightful experience.
However, there were a couple of aspects I didn't quite enjoy. The modem, being a DOCSIS 3.0 model, isn't compatible with certain newer technologies available with other service providers. I had to upgrade my router separately, as the modem does not include routing or Wi-Fi functions. Additionally, the default user name and password for the modem were quite easy to guess, so I had to change it as soon as I set it up to ensure better security.
Overall, my experience with the Motorola MB7621 24x8 cable modem has been positive. It's easy to set up, provides fast and reliable connections, and offers front-panel indicator lights to keep track of network strength. With proper maintenance and security measures, this modem can serve as a dependable and high-performance option for users seeking excellent internet connectivity in their daily lives.
ARRIS Surfboard S33 Multi-Gigabit DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem for Comcast, Xfinity, Spectrum & More
The SURFboard S33 offers a lightning-fast 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port for lightning-fast internet speed, approved for cable internet providers like Cox, Xfinity, and Spectrum. Perfect for use with routers and personal computers, this multi-gigabit cable modem delivers impeccable performance for those seeking the ultimate internet experience. Coming in a sleek, modern design, it's a great fit for any home or office setting.
Motorola Dual-Band AC1900 Wifi Modem Router Combo with Cable Modem
The MT7711 is a convenient and efficient Three-in-One modem, router, and cable voice device. With its built-in 24x8 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem and 3x3 wireless gigabit router, this product offers excellent Wi-Fi connections over an extended range. Power Boost technology amplifies the wireless signal to the legal limit in the U. S. , while AnyBeam implicit beamforming at 2.4GHz and 5GHz focuses the wireless signal toward the wireless clients.
This device comes with four LAN ports that allow you to set up wired connections for your desktop and other devices, providing a stable and reliable internet connection. Additionally, the router includes two Comcast Xfinity Voice compatible phone ports, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a combined phone and internet solution.
The MT7711 features a user-friendly design and is easy to set up, making it an excellent choice for both advanced and casual users. Its compact size and sleek black enclosure ensure that it will complement any home or office setting. Furthermore, the product is approved by Comcast for Xfinity Internet and Voice, with recommended compatibility for XFINITY internet service speeds up to 650 Mbps.
While the MT7711 offers many benefits, it may not be the most ideal solution for advanced users. Some users have reported difficulties with the device's compatibility with certain cable modems and real routers, leading to slower DHCP server performance and other issues. Additionally, dealing with Comcast customer support has been a challenge for some users, requiring multiple hours of troubleshooting to complete simple upgrades and changes.
In summary, the MT7711 is a versatile and reliable Three-in-One device that offers excellent connectivity options for users seeking to combine internet, phone, and voice services. However, its compatibility issues and inconveniences with Comcast customer support may not make it the perfect choice for advanced users or those seeking a more straightforward solution.
Motorola MG8702: Xfinity Certified DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem with AC3200 Wi-Fi Router
I recently had the chance to try out the Motorola MG8702 Docsis 3.1 Cable Modem + AC3200 Wi-Fi Router, and I must say, it's been a game-changer for my internet browsing experience. The extended range AC3200 Wi-Fi 5 GigE router ensured that I could enjoy a strong, consistent signal throughout my home without any dead zones.
One of my favorite features was the flexible solution it provided. As someone who works from home, I needed a reliable and efficient way to connect my devices to the internet. The Motorola MG8702 allowed me to do just that, with its 32x8 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem that supported gigabit internet speeds, and its integrated router with four Gigabit Ethernet ports.
However, there were a few hiccups along the way. Setting up the device was initially a bit tricky, but with the help of some instructional reviews, I eventually got everything up and running. Another downside was the need to frequently reset the modem, which became quite frustrating.
Aside from those small inconveniences, this Motorola MG8702 cable modem router combo was a solid product. It provided a clean and easy-to-use interface, and I genuinely appreciated the savings I made by owning my own equipment rather than renting it from my ISP. But, there's still room for improvement in terms of reliability and user-friendliness.
All in all, I'd recommend the Motorola MG8702 to anyone in the market for a reliable and cost-effective cable modem and Wi-Fi router combo. Just make sure to keep the reset button in mind and be patient during the setup process.
Hitron CODA56 10x Faster Docsis 3.1 Modem for Xfinity and Charter Spectrum
I recently tried the Hitron CODA56 Multi-Gigabit Docsis 3.1 Modem, and let me tell you, this little device packs a punch. I was pleasantly surprised by its speed and reliability.
One of the first things that caught my attention was the lightning-fast speed of up to 2.5 Gbps. That's ten times faster than DOCSIS 3.0, and it most certainly shows. Pairing it with my WiFi mesh system or any router was a breeze, and it took no time before I had all my devices connected.
The CODA56 also came in handy when I switched from a leased modem. Not only did it save me a good chunk of change, but it also felt good to own a device that could perform at top speeds and not have to rely on my ISP.
On the downside, setting it up wasn't as easy as I would've hoped. I had to go through some Xfinity reps to get everything connected. But once it was all set up, it was smooth sailing from there.
One of the key benefits of this modem is its compatibility with several major providers. It works with the likes of Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, and Cox, so chances are, if you're with one of these providers, you can make the switch to the Hitron CODA56 without much hassle.
However, it's important to note that this modem isn't compatible with all providers, especially some of the big players like Verizon and AT&T. Make sure to double-check before making the switch.
Despite the minor hiccups while setting it up, the Hitron CODA56 Multi-Gigabit Docsis 3.1 Modem has been a game-changer for me. It's delivered on its promise of high-speed internet and has made a significant impact on my daily life.
Buyer's Guide
Welcome to our buyer's guide for cable modems. In this section, we'll cover important features, considerations, and general advice to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a cable modem. Remember, we only provide general information here; specific product picks or external resources won't be mentioned.
Important Features
When shopping for a cable modem, consider the following features:
- Compatibility with your ISP (Internet Service Provider), 2. DOCSIS version and speed, 3. Number of ethernet ports, 4. Supported frequencies (for dual-band models), 5. Security features (e. g. , firewall, parental controls), and 6. Built-in Wi-Fi support.
Considerations
Before buying a cable modem, take the following factors into account:
- The number of devices in your home that require internet access, 2. The type of router you may already have, 3. The cost of renting a modem from your ISP versus purchasing your own, and 4. The need for advanced features such as parental controls or built-in Wi-Fi support.
General Advice
To get the most out of your cable modem, follow these general tips:
- Make sure your modem is compatible with your ISP, as some providers may have specific requirements, 2. Monitor your modem's performance and replace it when necessary to ensure optimal internet speed, 3. Check for software updates and install them regularly for improved security and functionality, and 4. If possible, use a wired connection for better stability and lower latency than wireless connections.
Wireless Standards
If you're considering a cable modem with built-in Wi-Fi support, familiarize yourself with the latest wireless standards:
- 802.11n is the most common and provides speeds up to 300 Mbps, 2. 802.11ac is faster, with speeds up to 1300 Mbps, and 3. 802.11ax (or Wi-Fi 6) is the latest standard, offering even higher speeds and better performance with multiple connected devices.
FAQ
What is a Cable Modem?
A Cable Modem is a device that enables users to connect to the internet using the existing cable TV network. It is used to receive and transmit data packets via the cable infrastructure, allowing for high-speed internet access to households and businesses. Cable Modems often come with built-in Wi-Fi routers, allowing users to create wireless networks for multiple devices.
By using a Cable Modem, users can experience faster internet speeds compared to traditional DSL connections, making it an attractive choice for those who require reliable, high-speed internet service. Additionally, cable modems usually offer symmetrical upload and download speeds, ensuring that users can upload and download files at the same rate.
What are some factors to consider when choosing a Cable Modem?
When selecting a Cable Modem, there are several factors you should consider to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. These factors include: compatibility with your cable provider; the availability of built-in Wi-Fi routers; the supported data speed; and the presence of advanced features like parental controls, guest networks, and multiple user support.
It is essential to verify the compatibility of the Cable Modem with your cable provider, as different providers may offer specific services, modem types, or firmware upgrades. Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi routers can be convenient for users who don't want to purchase a separate device, as they can eliminate the need for additional cables and ensure seamless connectivity among devices.
How does a Cable Modem differ from a DSL Modem?
A Cable Modem and a DSL Modem are different in terms of the infrastructure they use to provide internet access. While a Cable Modem relies on the existing cable TV network to transmit data packets, a DSL Modem uses a telephone line to deliver its services. This means that a Cable Modem typically offers faster internet speeds compared to a DSL Modem, as it utilizes unshared bandwidth to deliver data.
Furthermore, Cable Modems often come with built-in Wi-Fi routers, providing an all-in-one solution for internet connectivity. In contrast, DSL Modems typically require a separate router to create a wireless network. Other factors, such as the supported data speed and advanced feature set, can also differ between Cable Modems and DSL Modems.
Are there any potential downsides to using a Cable Modem?
While Cable Modems offer a range of benefits, such as high-speed internet access and built-in Wi-Fi routers, there are a few potential downsides to consider. For example, the distance between the modem and the cable outlet in your home may impact the overall performance of your internet connection. In some cases, users may need to install a cable signal booster or use an Ethernet cable for optimal performance.
Another downside to using a Cable Modem is that it is generally a more expensive option compared to alternative internet services such as DSL or satellite. Additionally, if you live in a rural or remote area, cable internet may not be available, making it essential to research the availability of cable providers in your region before purchasing a Cable Modem.
Can I use a Cable Modem with a satellite internet connection?
No, a Cable Modem is designed to work with cable internet services provided by cable providers. It is incompatible with satellite internet connections, as they use a different infrastructure to transmit data packets. In order to access the internet using a satellite connection, you will need a device specifically designed for satellite connectivity, such as a satellite modem or a satellite-compatible router.
Using a Cable Modem with a satellite internet connection may result in various issues, including reduced performance, compatibility issues, and difficulties in establishing a connection. It is essential to choose a modem or router that is compatible with your specific internet service provider to ensure optimal performance and functionality.
Do all Cable Modems have built-in Wi-Fi routers?
No, not all Cable Modems have built-in Wi-Fi routers. Some Cable Modems are designed to work with existing Wi-Fi routers, allowing users to continue using their current wireless setup. Other Cable Modems come with integrated Wi-Fi routers, providing a more convenient and all-in-one solution for internet connectivity.
When choosing a Cable Modem, it is essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you already have a Wi-Fi router that you are satisfied with, you may prefer a modem that is compatible with your current setup. On the other hand, if you want a more streamlined and hassle-free experience, you may opt for a Cable Modem with a built-in Wi-Fi router.
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