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Best Modems

High-performance modems for cable internet, including DOCSIS 3.1 models compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and more. Unlock gigabit and multi-gig speeds for seamless streaming and gaming.

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ARRIS Surfboard SVG2482AC Renewed: 24x8 DOCSIS 3.0 Modem + AC1750 WiFi Router + Xfinity Voice for Comcast - Up to 600 Mbps

The ARRIS Surfboard SVG2482AC (Renewed) is a 3-in-1 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, AC1750 dual-band Wi-Fi router, and Xfinity telephony device certified exclusively for Comcast Xfinity internet and voice services up to 600 Mbps. It's perfect for Xfinity customers wanting a reliable, space-saving combo unit with solid wired and wireless connectivity.

  • Streamline your setup with a 3-in-1 device combining modem, router, and Xfinity voice for effortless connectivity
  • Handle internet plans up to 600 Mbps with 24 download and 8 upload channels for smooth streaming and downloads
  • Enjoy AC1750 dual-band Wi-Fi covering your home with speeds up to 1750 Mbps for multiple devices
  • Connect wired devices reliably via 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for gaming or work without lag
  • Get certified compatibility with Comcast Xfinity internet and voice using RDK-B technology

Certified for Xfinity internet and voice services. Powerful 24x8 channel bonding for high-speed performance. AC1750 Wi-Fi plus 4 Gigabit ports for versatile connectivity.

Compatible only with Comcast Xfinity, not other providers. Not suitable for Xfinity Gigabit speed plans. Requires separate Xfinity router for home security services.

Motorola MG7550 16x4 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem + AC1900 WiFi Router - Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum Certified, Power Boost, Gigabit Ports

The Motorola MG7550 combines a 16x4 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with an AC1900 dual-band WiFi router, delivering up to 686 Mbps speeds and certified for Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. It eliminates rental fees while offering Power Boost for extended WiFi range, ideal for households with cable internet up to 375 Mbps.

  • Eliminate up to $156/year in modem rental fees with major ISP certification
  • Achieve blazing 686 Mbps download speeds for seamless streaming and gaming
  • Power Boost and AnyBeam technology extend WiFi range and speed throughout your home
  • Four Gigabit Ethernet ports enable lag-free wired connections for multiple devices
  • Easy setup with browser-based management and guest network for secure visitor access

Broad ISP compatibility including Comcast, Spectrum, and Cox. Integrated modem-router reduces clutter and simplifies setup. Advanced WiFi features like beamforming boost coverage and performance.

DOCSIS 3.0 limits support to actual speeds up to 375 Mbps. Lacks phone jack for VoIP or home phone services. Single low rating suggests potential reliability concerns for some users.

ARRIS CM820A DOCSIS 3.0 8x4 Cable Modem - High-Speed 300Mbps+ for Home & Business

The ARRIS CM820A is a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with 8x4 bonded channels delivering speeds over 300Mbps. Its superior throughput and ARRIS reliability suit home or small business users seeking high-performance cable internet.

  • Unlock ultra-high speeds over 300Mbps with 8x4 channel bonding for seamless streaming and downloads
  • Enjoy reliable performance backed by ARRIS industry-leading quality for worry-free connectivity
  • Boost productivity for homes and small businesses with flexible downstream/upstream bonding
  • Block interference effortlessly with built-in MoCA immunity filter
  • Tune into channels up to 1GHz using dual independent RF tuners for optimal signal reception

Exceptional 8x4 throughput for high-speed data access. Flexible channel bonding adapts to your needs. Robust build meets surge and immunity requirements.

Compatibility must be verified with your ISP. Limited to DOCSIS 3.0, not ideal for gigabit plans. Activation process may require provider steps.

ARRIS SURFboard G20 DOCSIS 3.1 WiFi 6 AX3000 Cable Modem Router Combo - Gigabit Speeds for Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox

The ARRIS SURFboard G20 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem router combo delivering up to 1 Gbps speeds with WiFi 6 AX3000 and upload optimization to 450 Mbps. It's perfect for households on Xfinity, Cox, or Spectrum seeking fast streaming, gaming, and video calls without rental fees.

  • Achieve gigabit download and 450 Mbps upload speeds for lag-free gaming and video calls
  • Eliminate monthly rental fees and save up to $168 yearly with your own modem
  • WiFi 6 dual-band coverage extends fast wireless throughout your entire home
  • All-in-one design combines modem and router to save space and simplify setup
  • Two 1 Gbps Ethernet ports enable reliable wired connections for multiple devices

DOCSIS 3.1 technology supports 10x faster speeds than DOCSIS 3.0 with better security. Built-in WiFi 6 router provides greater range and efficiency for multiple devices. Broad compatibility with major cable providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox.

Only two Ethernet ports may limit wired connections for larger setups. Requires cable ISP service and activation process. WiFi speeds capped at 1 Gbps, not ideal for multi-gigabit plans.

NETGEAR Nighthawk CM2500 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem (Renewed) - Up to 2Gbps Speeds for Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM2500 is a renewed DOCSIS 3.1 mid/high-split cable modem delivering up to 2Gbps downloads and 1Gbps uploads. Its standout mid/high-split technology unlocks faster plans from Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, ideal for gamers, streamers, and multi-device households ditching ISP rentals.

  • Achieve blazing 2Gbps downloads for lag-free 4K streaming and instant app downloads
  • Enjoy 1Gbps uploads for smooth video conferencing, gaming, and large file sharing
  • Unlock high-speed plans like Xfinity's 900Mbps down/100Mbps up with mid/high-split tech
  • Save up to $300 yearly by owning instead of renting from your ISP
  • Boost performance with link aggregation using dual Gigabit ports for multi-gig routers

Exceptional speed capacity up to 2Gbps downloads and 1Gbps uploads. Works with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and other major US cable providers. Dual Gigabit ports enable link aggregation for enhanced throughput.

Not compatible with Xfinity Voice plans. Requires a link aggregation-compatible router for full 2Gbps speeds. Renewed condition may involve minor cosmetic imperfections.

ARRIS SURFboard SBG7400AC2 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router Combo: AC2350 WiFi, 4 Gigabit Ports, Up to 960Mbps - Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity Approved

The ARRIS SBG7400AC2 is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem router combo with 24x8 channels, AC2350 WiFi, and four 1Gbps Ethernet ports for speeds up to 960 Mbps. Gamers, streamers, and households on Cox, Spectrum, or Xfinity should buy it to eliminate rental fees and boost home network performance.

  • Eliminate monthly rental fees and save up to $168 yearly with your own reliable modem
  • Achieve blazing-fast streaming and gaming with 24x8 DOCSIS 3.0 channels up to 960 Mbps
  • Enjoy whole-home WiFi coverage via AC2350 dual-band concurrent technology
  • Connect multiple devices effortlessly with four 1Gbps Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Simplify setup and manage your network securely using the SURFboard Central App

Powerful 24 downstream x 8 upstream channels for high-speed cable internet. User-friendly app for quick activation, monitoring, and parental controls. Four Gigabit ports enable ultra-fast wired connections for demanding devices.

DOCSIS 3.0 only, not ideal for gigabit+ plans requiring DOCSIS 3.1. Incompatible with fiber, DSL, satellite, or non-cable ISPs. No support for cable digital voice service.

ARRIS SURFboard G34 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router (AX3000) - Xfinity Cox Spectrum Approved, Up to 1Gbps Speeds

The ARRIS G34 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem router combo with built-in WiFi 6 AX3000 delivering up to 1 Gbps speeds and four 1 Gbps Ethernet ports. It's perfect for Xfinity, Cox, or Spectrum users wanting to ditch rental fees for seamless streaming, gaming, and multi-device connectivity.

  • Eliminate monthly rental fees and own your high-performance modem router
  • Ultra-fast DOCSIS 3.1 speeds up to 1 Gbps for lag-free gaming and 4K streaming
  • WiFi 6 AX3000 dual-band coverage blankets your home in reliable wireless performance
  • Four 1 Gbps Ethernet ports for wired connections to PCs, TVs, and consoles
  • Easy plug-and-play setup via SURFboard Central App with provider activation

Combines modem and router to save space and simplify management. DOCSIS 3.1 reduces latency for gaming and video calls. WiFi 6 improves efficiency for multiple connected devices.

Limited to cable internet; not for fiber, DSL, or satellite. Ethernet ports capped at 1 Gbps, no multi-gig support. Requires separate provider activation process.

ARRIS SURFboard S34 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem: 2.5G + 1G Ethernet, Xfinity Cox Spectrum, Up to 2.5Gbps + Next-Gen Upstream

The ARRIS SURFboard S34 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with 2.5Gbps and 1Gbps Ethernet ports for multi-gig plans up to 2.5Gbps from Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum. Its support for next-gen upstream speeds and easy app-based setup make it perfect for users ditching rentals to future-proof high-speed home networks.

  • Unlock blazing multi-gig speeds up to 2.5Gbps for lag-free gaming, 8K streaming, and massive downloads
  • Future-proof your connection with next-gen upstream speeds from leading cable providers
  • Slash monthly rental fees by owning this reliable modem and keeping more cash in your pocket
  • Effortless setup via SURFboard Central App—plug in, activate, and connect your router in minutes
  • Dual Ethernet ports (2.5G + 1G) for wiring high-speed routers, PCs, or business setups

DOCSIS 3.1 delivers 10x faster speeds than 3.0 with enhanced security and low lag. 2.5Gbps Ethernet port supports cutting-edge multi-gig internet plans. Simple activation process saves time and frustration.

Modem only—requires a separate Wi-Fi router for wireless coverage. Compatibility varies by provider plan; always verify with your ISP. Not suitable for fiber, DSL, or satellite internet services.

ARRIS SURFboard G18 DOCSIS 3.1 WiFi 6 AX1800 Cable Modem Router Combo - Xfinity Spectrum Cox Approved Gigabit Speeds

The ARRIS SURFboard G18 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem router combo with WiFi 6 AX1800 delivering gigabit download speeds and up to 100Mbps uploads. It's ideal for Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum users seeking an all-in-one device to replace rentals and boost home networking.

  • Slash monthly rental fees by owning your high-performance modem router
  • Unlock gigabit speeds with DOCSIS 3.1 for seamless streaming and gaming
  • WiFi 6 AX1800 provides wider coverage and faster wireless for multiple devices
  • Effortless setup via SURFboard Central App in minutes
  • Boost uploads to 100Mbps for smooth video calls and file sharing

DOCSIS 3.1 technology supports next-gen gigabit plans with low lag. Built-in WiFi 6 router eliminates need for separate devices. Two 1Gbps Ethernet ports for reliable wired connections.

Only two Ethernet ports limits wired device expansion. WiFi speeds capped at 1Gbps compared to higher-end models. Lacks multi-gigabit Ethernet for ultra-fast wired needs.

Arris Touchstone CM8200A DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem - 2.5Gbps Speeds, Dual Gigabit Ports, ISP Compatible (Renewed)

The Arris Touchstone CM8200A is a renewed DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem supporting up to 2.5 Gbps downstream and 1 Gbps upstream speeds with dual Gigabit Ethernet ports. It's perfect for heavy internet users handling 4K streaming, gaming, and multiple devices.

  • Achieve blazing-fast downloads up to 2.5 Gbps and uploads to 1 Gbps for lag-free 4K streaming and gaming
  • Stay future-proof with cutting-edge DOCSIS 3.1 technology as internet speeds evolve
  • Connect multiple wired devices simultaneously via two Gigabit Ethernet ports without speed loss
  • Protect your network effortlessly with a built-in firewall against common threats
  • Get online quickly with simple plug-and-play setup in minutes

Exceptional high-speed performance for bandwidth-heavy tasks. Dual Gigabit ports for multi-device connectivity. Straightforward setup and broad ISP compatibility.

Renewed condition may include minor cosmetic imperfections. No built-in WiFi; requires separate router. Activation needed through your ISP.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on modems, the essential gateway to high-speed cable internet. Whether you're upgrading from a rented ISP modem to save money or seeking blazing-fast gigabit performance, this category features reliable DOCSIS 3.1 models from trusted brands like NETGEAR and TP-Link, compatible with major providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. Discover options for plans up to 2.5Gbps and beyond.

Understanding Modems: The Backbone of Your Internet Connection

Modems, short for modulator-demodulator, convert your cable provider's signal into usable internet data for your home network. In today's world of 4K streaming, online gaming, and remote work, a quality modem ensures low latency, high throughput, and reliability. Unlike older DOCSIS 2.0 or 3.0 models, modern DOCSIS 3.1 modems support multi-gigabit speeds, making them ideal for fiber-like performance over coaxial cable.

As part of our expansive Electronics and Computers & Accessories sections, these networking essentials fall under Networking Products. They're perfect for homeowners tired of ISP rental fees, which can add up to hundreds annually.

Key Features to Consider When Buying a Modem

Selecting the right modem boils down to compatibility, speed ratings, and future-proofing. Here's what savvy buyers prioritize:

  • DOCSIS Standard: Stick to DOCSIS 3.1 for plans over 600Mbps. Models like the NETGEAR CM1000 or CM3000 handle up to 2.5Gbps with mid/high-split technology for emerging ISP upgrades.
  • ISP Compatibility: Verify approval lists—most here work with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and others. Avoid headaches by choosing universally certified options.
  • Ethernet Ports: Look for 1Gbps or 2.5Gbps ports to match your router. Multi-gig ports on devices like the Hitron CODA56 future-proof your setup.
  • Channel Bonding: 32x8 or higher downstream/upstream channels ensure stability during peak hours.
  • Combo Units: Some, like NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30, integrate WiFi 6 routers for all-in-one convenience.

For NETGEAR enthusiasts, explore their NETGEAR Modems lineup, featuring renewed options via Amazon Renewed for cost savings without sacrificing quality.

Common Use Cases for Modern Modems

Modems shine in various scenarios. Families with multiple 4K streams and smart home devices benefit from gigabit models to eliminate buffering. Gamers need low-ping setups for competitive play, while remote professionals require unwavering stability for video calls. If you're in a multi-unit dwelling, a robust modem combats signal degradation.

Pair your modem with a separate router for optimal coverage, especially in larger homes. Need to boost WiFi range? Check our Wi-Fi Extenders or Routers categories for complementary gear. TP-Link models like the Archer AX21 offer seamless integration if you prefer router-modem combos.

Modem Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips

To maximize lifespan, reboot monthly, keep firmware updated via manufacturer apps, and use surge protectors. Common issues like slow speeds often stem from outdated activations—contact your ISP post-install. Standalone modems outperform all-in-one gateway rentals in speed and customization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a modem if my ISP provides one?

Not necessarily, but buying your own saves $10-15 monthly and offers better performance. Ensure it's on your ISP's approved list for seamless activation.

What's the difference between a modem and a modem-router combo?

A modem handles internet signal conversion; a combo adds WiFi routing. Choose standalone for flexibility with high-end routers, or combos for simplicity.

Are DOCSIS 3.1 modems compatible with older plans?

Yes, they're backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0/2.0, but shine on gigabit+ services. They're future-proof for ISP speed boosts.

How do I check if a modem works with my ISP?

Visit your provider's website for the approved device list. Popular models here, like NETGEAR Nighthawk series, cover most major cable ISPs.

Should I buy renewed modems?

Absolutely, especially Amazon Renewed Modems. They undergo rigorous testing for like-new performance at a discount.