It is important to have a reliable cable modem when connecting to the internet. A good quality modem ensures you are connected reliably and quickly and is cost-effective for long-term usage.
This article will overview five of the best available cable modems and why they may suit your needs. This overview will consider factors such as price, features, performance, compatibility with different networks, and ease of setup.
Table of Contents
Overview of Cable Modems
Modems are essential for anyone who wants to get the most out of their internet connection.
The DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) is a standard many Internet Service Providers use for delivering cable-based broadband service, and it’s important that your modem has this specification if you plan on using one provided by your ISP.
The best cable modems come with features such as multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports to connect wired devices like computers or gaming consoles easily. Some also have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing you to wirelessly connect multiple devices at once without buying additional routers.
Note:
Ensuring the modem is compatible with your ISP’s network is important. Still, these products generally provide great value and performance compared to other alternatives.What To Consider Before Buying Cable Modems
When shopping for the best cable modems, it is important to consider several factors that will determine how well your modem performs.
From understanding the type of internet connection you have and ensuring the modem has the necessary ethernet ports and wireless connectivity options to considering whether you should buy or rent a modem from your cable provider, there are many decisions to make before buying a new modem. Here is what to consider:
| Price | Compare different models to get the best value. |
| Speed | Check the supported download and upload speeds of the modem. You can conduct an internet speed test to make a good decision. |
| Compatibility | Ensure the modem is compatible with your internet service provider (ISP). |
| Networking Features | Check for features such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB ports for maximum flexibility. |
| Security | Ensure the modem has the latest security features, such as firewalls, malware protection, and parental controls. |
| Reliability | Look for models with good reviews to get reliable cable modems with a great performance track record. |
| Warranty | Check the warranty period and coverage to protect your investment. |
Best Cable Modems in the Market
1. Motorola MB7621: Our Best Pick
Product Description
The Motorola MB7621 is a top-rated cable modem that offers high-speed internet connectivity for smooth streaming, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities. With appropriate internet speed test tool, you can perfectly determine the speed of this modem. This DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem is compatible with most major cable ISPs in the United States, making it a versatile choice for many users. With its easy setup process and user-friendly interface, the MB7621 is designed to be convenient and hassle-free.
Features
The Motorola MB7621 has many features that make it stand out as a reliable cable modem. It supports 24×8 channel bonding, allowing efficient data transmission and preventing signal congestion, resulting in stable and consistent internet. It offers a maximum download speed of up to 600 Mbps, making it suitable for high-speed plans and bandwidth-intensive activities. The modem is also compact and sleek, making it space-saving and easy to fit in tight spaces or small home setups.
Ease of Use
Setting up the Motorola MB7621 is easy, thanks to its user-friendly interface and simple activation process. With a single Ethernet port to connect to a router and a coaxial cable connector, it’s simple to set up.
Security
The Motorola MB7621 does not have built-in security features like higher-end modems, but it provides a reliable and secure connection to your ISP’s network. It is important to follow best practices for securing your home network, such as using strong passwords and enabling encryption on your Wi-Fi router, to ensure the security of your internet connection.
Compatibility
The Motorola MB7621 is compatible with most internet providers such as Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox, BrightHouse, CableOne, Time Warner Cable, SuddenLink, RCN, and other cable service providers. However, checking with your ISP to ensure compatibility before purchasing the modem is always recommended. Comcast Xfinity offers cable connection download speed 20% higher than the actual plan.
Price
The Motorola MB7621 is competitively priced and offers great value for its performance and features. As of the time of writing, the price of the MB7621 is approximately $89.99 USD on Motorolla’s official website, making it a cost-effective option for users looking for a high-performance cable modem.
Pros
- High-speed performance with a maximum download speed of up to 600 Mbps.
- Compatible with most major cable ISPs in the United States
- The easy setup process and user-friendly interface
- Compact and space-saving design
- Competitive price for its performance and features
Cons
- Does not have built-in security features
- Uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology, which may not be as future-proof as newer DOCSIS 3.1 modems
- It may lack advanced features in higher-end modems, such as built-in Wi-Fi or phone jacks.
2. Netgear CM500: Budget Pick
Product Description
The Netgear CM500 is a budget-friendly cable modem that provides a reliable and fast internet connection without breaking the bank. This DOCSIS 3.0 modem is designed for users looking for an affordable yet efficient solution for their home internet needs. With its compact and straightforward design, the CM500 is easy to set up and use, making it suitable for users of all technical skill levels.
Features
The Netgear CM500 offers a range of features that make it a reliable option for budget-conscious users. It supports 16×4 channel bonding, allowing efficient data transmission and preventing signal congestion for smooth internet performance. It offers a speed of up to 400Mbps.
Ease of Use
Setting up the Netgear CM500 is a breeze thanks to its simple and intuitive interface. The LED status lights provide visual feedback on the modem’s operational status, making it easy to troubleshoot and ensure optimal performance. It is simple to connect to any other wireless router.
Security
The Netgear CM500 does not have built-in security features like higher-end modems, but it provides a reliable and secure connection to your ISP’s network. It is important to follow best practices for securing your home network, such as using strong passwords and enabling encryption on your Wi-Fi router, to ensure the security of your internet connection.
Compatibility
The Netgear CM500 is compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, and Cox.
Price
The Netgear modems are priced competitively for their performance and features, making them an affordable option for budget-conscious users. As of the time of writing, the price of the CM500 is approximately $60, making it a budget-friendly choice for users looking for a reliable cable modem without breaking the bank.
Pros
- A budget cable modem for reliable internet connectivity
- Supports 16x4 channel bonding for efficient data transmission
- Easy to set up and use with its simple interface
- Gigabit Ethernet ports for easy connectivity to devices
- Compatible with most major cable ISPs in the United States
Cons
- Relatively slow speed
- Uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology, which may not be as future-proof as newer DOCSIS 3.1 modems
3. Motorola MB8611: Upgrade Pick
Product Description
The Motorola MB8611 is a sleek and compact cable modem designed to deliver fast and reliable internet speeds for residential and small business users. It is compatible with most major cable ISPs, making it a versatile choice for many internet service providers.
Features
The Motorola MB8611 has advanced features, including DOCSIS 3.1 technology, the latest standard for cable internet, allowing for faster download and upload speeds. It also has multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting wired devices, as well as advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features that allow for better management of network traffic. The notable feature of this brand is its active queue management, which is available in Motorola MB8611.
The Motorola MB8611 is the fastest modem on our list, with Gigabit speed internet with downloads of up to 2500Mbps and uploads of up to 800Mbps, making it ideal for heavy internet users or those who require high-speed for online gaming, streaming and other bandwidth-intensive activities.
Ease of Use
The Motorola MB8611 is easy to set up, with a simple plug-and-play installation process. It also comes with a user-friendly web interface for managing and configuring modem settings, making it easy for users to customize their internet connection according to their needs.
Security
The Motorola MB8611 includes advanced security features, such as built-in DOCSIS 3.1 security with traffic encryption and support for customizable security settings and firewall options to protect against potential security threats.
Compatibility
The Motorola MB8611 is compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox Communications, and RCN.
Price
The Motorola MB8611 is priced at around $186.99, making it a premium option in terms of price.
Pros
- Supports DOCSIS 3.1 technology for ultra-fast internet speed
- Multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections
- Advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features for better network management
- Easy to set up with a user-friendly web interface
- Advanced security features for enhanced protection
Cons
- Highly-priced
- It may have more features than needed for basic internet usage, making it overkill for some users.
- It may require additional configuration for optimal performance, which may not be suitable for users with limited technical knowledge.
4. Arris SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1
Product Description
The Arris SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 is a sleek, modern cable modem that provides blazing-fast internet speeds for residential and business users. It features DOCSIS 3.1 technology, the latest standard for cable internet, allowing for faster download and upload speeds.
Features
The Arris SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 comes with advanced features, including support for multi-gigabit internet speeds, 32×8 channel bonding, and two ethernet ports for connecting wired devices. It also has a sleek and compact design, making it a space-saving option for any setup.
The Arris SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 supports ultra-fast internet speeds, with up to 2 Gbps download speeds, making it ideal for heavy internet users or those requiring high-speed for online gaming, streaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities.
Ease of Use
The Arris SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 is easy to set up, with a simple plug-and-play installation process. It also comes with a user-friendly web interface for managing and configuring modem settings, making it easy for users to customize their internet connection according to their needs.
Security
The Arris SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 includes advanced security features, such as support for customizable security settings and built-in protection against Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, making it a reliable option for keeping your internet connection secure.
Compatibility
The Arris SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 is compatible with Comcast XFINITY, Cox Communications, Charter Spectrum any other cable internet provider, mostly in the US.
Price
The Arris SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 is priced at around $151 on Amazon, which is fair for a Gigabit Modem.
Pros
- Fat internet speed
- Advanced features like multi-gigabit speeds and 32x8 channel bonding
- Dual Ethernet ports for wired connections
- Easy to set up with a user-friendly web interface
- Advanced security features for enhanced protection against DoS attacks
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- It might have unnecessary features.
5. Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1
Product Description
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 is a sleek, compact cable modem that provides ultra-fast internet speeds for residential and business users. It supports DOCSIS 3.1 technology, the latest cable internet standard, allowing for faster download and upload speeds.
Features
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 comes with advanced features, including support for high internet speeds, 32×8 channel bonding, and a Gigabit Ethernet port for connecting wired devices. It also has a simple design, making integrating into any home or office setup easy.
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 supports lightning-fast internet speeds of up to 1000Mbps, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities such as online gaming, streaming, and large file transfers.
Ease of Use
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 is easy to set up, with a quick and hassle-free installation process. It also comes with a user-friendly web interface for managing and configuring modem settings, making it easy for users to customize their internet connection according to their needs.
Security
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 includes basic security features, such as support for customizable security settings and built-in protection against Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, ensuring a secure internet connection for your home or office.
Compatibility
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 is compatible with Comcast, Cox, and Mediacom Cable.
Price
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 is priced at $169 on Amazon.
Pros
- Supports DOCSIS 3.1 technology for ultra-fast internet speeds
- Advanced features like multi-gigabit speeds and 32x8 channel bonding
- Gigabit Ethernet port for wired connections
- Easy to set up with a user-friendly web interface
- Compatible with major cable ISPs in the United States
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Basic security features may not be as robust as other high-end models
- May not have as many advanced features as premium models
- Some users may find the price slightly higher compared to budget options
Note:
Prices may differ from the ones shown as new plans and deals are launched on a regular basis. Please be sure to check the most current price on the official website.Modem vs. Router: What’s the Difference?
In the world of technology, it is important to understand the difference between modems and wireless routers. A modem is a device that establishes an Internet connection by converting signals from your Internet Service Provider (ISP) into digital data that can be sent over a home network. On the other hand, routers provide access points for multiple devices connected within a local area network (LAN). Understanding the distinction between these two pieces of hardware is key to setting up an effective home network.
Modern router/modem combos offer integrated solutions for establishing connectivity with ISPs such as DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 cable models like Arris modems. These combined units have multi-gig ethernet ports for the best ethernet cables capable of providing downstream channels at speeds reaching 10 Gbps, ideal for high-speed gaming and streaming activities on a single device.
Additionally, most modem/router combos have advanced security features, including secure guest networks that help protect personal information while browsing online without compromising performance quality.
The Gear To Get Reliable Wi-Fi in Any Home
When it comes to reliable Wi-Fi in any home, the best cable modems are a must-have. They provide gigabit internet speeds that allow users to experience the fastest internet speeds available today.
With most major Internet Service Providers (ISP) support, these modems offer multiple Ethernet ports and wireless routers for maximum connectivity. Cable modems also have additional features, such as dual-band networks or built-in firewalls for enhanced security.
Furthermore, they often include Voice over IP (VoIP) capabilities which help reduce overall phone costs by utilizing an existing broadband connection instead of traditional landline services. All this makes them ideal for providing fast, secure connections throughout your home network.
When To Replace Your Old Modem
Replacing an old cable modem is a smart decision if you want to get the most out of your internet. Cable modems are used to give access to high speed and come with features such as two-gigabit ethernet ports for faster speeds, a better range for Wi-Fi signals, and improved modem performance overall.
In order to ensure that your modem can keep up with current internet speeds and provide reliable service, here are some signs it’s time for a replacement:
- Your cable modem needs frequent rebooting to maintain stable internet access.
- You have difficulty maintaining connection during peak hours or streaming video services like Netflix constantly buffer.
- It doesn’t support DOCSIS 3 technology which provides greater bandwidth capacity than earlier versions.
- The device shows slow data transfer rates compared to advertised download/upload speeds from your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Note:
In addition to these issues, consider replacing your cable modem periodically since manufacturers often update their products on a regular basis; this way, you’ll be assured of having the latest technologies available for your home network setup and optimal performance at all times.Modem Cable Setup and Activation
When you get your own modem, the first step in setting up a modem cable is to connect the cable from the wall outlet to the modem. Typically, the wall outlet will have a coaxial cable, while the modem will have a coaxial port. Connect one end of the cable to the modem and the other end to the wall outlet. Once the cables are connected, it’s important to ensure the modem is powered on.
Once the modem is powered on, it’s time to activate the cable. This typically involves accessing the modem’s user interface and entering the activation code, which can be found on the modem’s packaging. After the activation code is entered, the modem should be fully activated and ready to use. Depending on the type of modem and the provider, additional setup steps may be required.
What Is It About DOCSIS 1 and Gigabit Internet?
Cable internet providers have made great strides in recent years, offering higher speeds and more reliable connections.
Among the cable modem contenders is DOCSIS 1 technology, which many providers have used for decades to deliver high-speed cable internet to customers. But with increasing demand for faster download and upload speeds, some are now turning to newer technologies such as Gigabit Internet.
Gigabit Internet offers significantly faster data transfer rates than traditional DOCSIS 1 modems, providing customers with even quicker access to streaming services and other online activities that require substantial bandwidth. This makes it ideal for large households or businesses needing multiple devices connected simultaneously without sacrificing speed. Additionally, due to its robust network infrastructure requirements, many cable companies offer discounts when purchasing a plan bundled with a compatible modem.
The Competition
The competition to be the best cable modem is fierce. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult for consumers to determine which model has the features they need and is within their budget.
When shopping for a cable modem, there are several considerations to make. These factors should all be considered when selecting a cable modem, as these will ultimately help you decide which product suits your needs. When weighing up the pros and cons of each device, customers must consider what type of performance they wish to achieve from their home network. It may take some time, but understanding what you require regarding reliability, performance, and cost will ensure you purchase the right cable modem for your home or business.
What To Look Forward To
In the near future, modems will continue to evolve with increased download and upload speeds and will become more energy efficient. Wi-Fi 6 and 5G technologies are also expected to become more widely available, providing faster and more reliable connections.
Additionally, more options will be available for combining multiple services into one modem, such as combining telephone and internet services into one unit. As technology advances, modems will become even smaller and more compact, allowing for easier installation in tighter spaces.
Cable modems connecting users to their internet providers via high-speed coaxial cables are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to provide extremely fast download and upload speeds.
Shopping Tips
When shopping for a cable modem, it is important to consider the renowned cable providers in your area. Researching the internet service provider and cable company offerings can help determine a plan that best fits your needs. It is also essential to keep an eye on any discounts or promotions from these providers when selecting a cable internet plan.
Here are some tips to maximize savings when buying a cable modem:
- Compare deals between different companies before making a purchase.
- Choose a model with features you know will be used often rather than overpaying for those that may not be utilized as much.
- Look out for promotional offers such as free installation fees or discounted packages.
- Opt for higher speed plans if they are within budget; this allows faster streaming and downloads.
Note:
Finding the right balance of cost versus quality ultimately comes down to personal preference. Remember that many major cable providers have money-back guarantees, so if one plan isn’t working out, customers can always switch without losing out on their investment.Alternatives to Cable Modems
There are several alternatives to cable modems that you can use to connect to the internet. Here are some of the most common ones:
1. Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
DSL is a high-speed connection that uses the existing copper phone line to deliver data. It is affordable and more reliable than dial-up connections but slower than cable and fiber connections. Some of the best DSL internet providers offer competitive speeds and pricing.
2. Fiber Optic
Fibre optic internet connections use light pulses to transmit data along strands of glass or plastic. The fastest internet connection available offers up to 1 Gigabit per second.
3. Satellite
Satellite internet connections use orbiting satellites to transmit data to and from a satellite dish on the user’s property. It is available in rural and remote areas but can be slow and expensive.
4. Fixed Wireless
Fixed wireless internet connections use radio signals to transmit data from a transmitter to a receiver on the user’s property. It is faster than satellite internet but can be unreliable in bad weather.
5. Mobile Broadband
Mobile broadband internet connections use 3G, 4G, and 5G cellular networks to provide internet access. It is typically used as a backup internet connection or for users who require internet access while on the go.
Conclusion
Cable modems are a great way to get fast internet speeds without worrying about slow connections and unreliable service. Before purchasing, it is important to consider the existing network setup, budget limitations, and desired performance. Getting your personal internet modem is a great way to save.
After researching many cable modem models on the market, Motorola MB7621 emerged as our pick for its reliable connection and competitive price point. For those looking for an upgrade option, we recommend Motorola MB8611 due to its advanced features. However, if you’re operating on a tighter budget, Netgear CM500 may be your best bet.
With all these options in mind, shoppers can rest assured that they will find the perfect cable modem.