6 best cable modem cnet
CNET is a well-known technology media website that provides reviews, news, and information about various consumer electronics, including cable modem router combos and other networking products. CNET offers in-depth reviews and expert opinions on a wide range of tech products, helping consumers make informed decisions when purchasing items such as cable modem router combos, computer accessories, and electronics.
Cable modem router combos, also known as gateway modems or modem router gateways, are devices that combine the functions of a cable modem and a wireless router into a single unit. These devices are commonly used to provide internet connectivity and create Wi-Fi networks in homes and small offices.
CNET's coverage of cable modem router combos and related networking products typically includes:
Reviews: CNET conducts thorough reviews of various cable modem router combos, evaluating factors like performance, compatibility, ease of setup, and features. They provide ratings and recommendations based on their testing.
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Below you can find our editor's choice of the best cable modem cnet on the marketProduct description
The ARRIS SURFboard S33 is a DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem that delivers the fastest speeds and the latest technology. With a 2.5 Gigabit and a 1 Gigabit Ethernet port, the S33 enables a multi-gig experience for things like online gaming, 4K video streaming and more. It’s best for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5 Gbps and setup is simple with an easy-to-use app. It's compatible with any Wi-Fi router and saves you money on monthly rental fees. Upgrade your home network with an ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem.
- MULTI-GIG NETWORKING: The SURFboard S33 features a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port plus an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port for a 2nd network
- DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5 Gbps
- 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3 1 channels
- Connects to any existing Wi-Fi router for blazing-fast internet.
- Compatible with major U.S. Cable Internet Providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity & others.
- Cable internet service required. Does not include Wi-Fi and does not support cable digital voice service.
- Stop renting your modem and save on monthly modem rental fees!
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this support xfinity extreme 1200mbps ? it's not on the supported device list |
Answer: | The Arris S33 is a DOCIS 3.1 capable device 32 x 8 rated for speeds up to 2.5 Gb. While the modem is indeed on Xfinity supported device list (check detailed discussions on dslreports.com), what matters is your router. Ensure you have a router capable of 1+Gb speeds. |
Question: | Is there a way to mount this device to a wall |
Answer: | We recommend placing the device on a tabletop in an open space to avoid any interference |
Question: | Is this modem compatible with suddenlink |
Answer: | It will work at the lower speeds since it is capable of up to 2.5Gb but runs just fine as low as 100mbps/5mbps (down/up) with 32x8 channels. Suddenlink allows ARRIS SB6190 and the S33 is a superior upgrade. |
Question: | Can you use both ethernet ports at the exact same time |
Answer: | Update...... I have picked mine up from BestBuy and YES you can use both Ports at the same time. I have the 2.5 to my PC and the other port to my Asus Ax11000 router. Hope this helps. |
Product features
Multi-Gigabit Download Speeds
Your multi-Gigabit home network will be ready with the SURFboard S33. A DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem. With a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port plus an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port it's capable of combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. The S33 is the fastest modem in the SURFboard lineup delivering the fastest speeds and the latest technology without the premium rental cost.
Future-Proof Your Home Network
DOCSIS 3.1 technology enables multi-gigabit networking. Future-proof your home network with the S33 DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem.
2.5 Gbps and 1 Gbps Ethernet Ports
The S33 has two Ethernet ports: 2.5 Gbps plus a 1 Gbps capable of providing combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. (Note, a 2nd IP address may be required by your cable internet provider to achieve 3.5 Gbps speeds.)
Save Money on Monthly Modem Rental Fees
When you purchase your modem, not only are you powering your home network with the latest technology, you can save money on modem rental fees. Own your modem and start saving today!
Product description
Experience a new generation of cable modems with DOCSIS 3.1 that delivers 2.5Gbps ultra-high speed Internet connections, so you can be ready for the fastest cable Internet service plans of today and tomorrow. DOCSIS 3.1 delivers the world’s fastest cable Internet with speeds that are 10 times faster than DOCSIS 3.0. Save up to $168 per year by eliminating monthly cable modem rental fees. The Nighthawk 2.5Gbps Internet Speed Cable Modem is backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 and works with all Internet service speed tiers.
- BUILT FOR FASTEST MULTI-GIG SPEEDS: Best for cable provider plans up to 2.5Gbps
- COMPATIBLE WITH ALL MAJOR CABLE INTERNET PROVIDERS: Including Xfinity, COX and Spectrum. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service.
- WORKS WITH ANY WIFI ROUTER, BEST WITH WIFI 6: Connect any WiFi router to this modem’s Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices. For the fastest Internet, connect to a NETGEAR WiFi 6 router or Orbi Mesh system.
- MULTI-GIG ETHERNET: 1 x 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for the fastest, true multi-gig Internet connections.
- SAVE MONTHLY RENTAL FEES: Replaces your cable modem saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees.
- MODEM TECHNOLOGY: Engineered with DOCSIS 3.1 32x8 channel bonding and OFDM(A) 2x2.
Product features
Supports up to 2.5Gbps Speed with the Latest Generation DOCSIS 3.1 Technology
DOCSIS 3.1’s 2x2 OFDM(A) channel bonding delivers the world’s fastest multi-gig Internet speeds, up to 10 times faster than first generation DOCSIS 3.0 technology.
Simple Setup in a Few Easy Steps
Step 1: Connect your coax cable into the modem.
Step 2: Activate the modem by either:
(a) connecting an Ethernet cable to your computer and following the on-screen setup, or
(b) calling your cable provider to activate over the phone.
Step 3: Plug an Ethernet cable between the modem and your WiFi router.
Step 4: Plug in up to 2 telephone lines.
Eliminate Monthly Modem Rental Fees
Never pay costly modem rental fees ever again and save up to 168 dollars per year.
- Model MB7621 is recommended for actual cable Internet service speeds up to 650 Mbps. Wirecutter rates this “the best modem for most people.” A Full-Band Capture Digital Tuner ensures faster, more reliable Internet.
- This cable modem's one Gigabit Ethernet port connects to a WiFi router, computer, HDTV, game station, or streaming video device. Great for use with Whole Home WiFi or Mesh networks like eero, Google WiFi, and Orbi. (This cable modem does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability. The Motorola MG7315, MG7540, MG7550, and MG7700 have a built-in wireless router.)
- Requires cable Internet service.Approved by and for use with Comcast Xfinity and Xfinity X1, Cox, Charter Spectrum, Time Warner Cable, BrightHouse, CableOne, SuddenLink, RCN, and other cable service providers. Eliminate cable modem rental fees up to 156 dollars per year. (Savings are shown for Xfinity and vary by cable service provider. No cable modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others. Model MB7621 has no phone jack.)
- Setup is fast and easy using the quick start guide. Experienced USA-based Motorola customer support specialists are happy to help if you need them. Support is in English or Spanish.
- Attractive, compact design minimizes shelf space, improves cooling, and extends product life while looking great in any home or office. A two-year warranty plus rugged lightning and power surge circuits protect your investment. Includes phone and web support by friendly, professional USA-based technical support specialists.
User questions & answers
Question: | So how do control the cable modem if comcast doesn't provide one |
Answer: | Once you install the modem you can either go online and register the device or call Comcast with the serial number. It will then activate and you are good to go. I’ve had no issues with mine at all. And online registration was very easy. |
Question: | Quick start quide says it doesn't have wifi capability or router. so, can i get to xfinitywifi wirelessly or not |
Answer: | Model MB7621 is a bridge modem, or a Cable modem without a built in WiFi router. You can either purchase an all in one (modem with the built in WiFi router) such as a Motorola MG7700, or purchase a a WiFi router to connect to the MB7621. |
Question: | Which one is better for my needs - the mb-7621 or the mb-7420? comcast highest speed for home use is 150 mbps and 100 for downloads |
Answer: | 3 things I can tell you. 1. The 7621 is 24 x 8 channels vs 16 x4 for the 7420. More channels means better flow of the data. 2. The 7621 can handle 1000 Mbps vs 643 Mbps for the 7420. Good for future upgrades of your internet speed if needed. 3. The 7621 came out in Dec 2017 vs 2015 for the 7420, newer tech, longer support from right now. |
Question: | What chipset is the mb7621 utilizing? intel or broadcom or other |
Answer: | Model MB7621 and all Motorola modems utilize the Broadcom modem chipset. |
Product features
The smart choice for your cable Internet service
Eliminate monthly cable modem rental fees – Typically saves 156 dollars per year in Xfinity cable modem rental fees. Actual savings depend on your service provider.
600+ Mbps – Maximum actual Internet download speed
GigE Ethernet port – For a high-speed wired connection to any router, computer, or other Internet-capable device.
Connect any WiFi router you choose
Plugs easily into any router for shared Internet access by all your WiFi and Ethernet-capable devices. This flexible approach lets you pair this cable modem with any router you choose for your WiFi needs, including a mesh router or gaming router.
If the MB7621’s Ethernet port isn’t used for a router, it can plug into a computer, HDTV, game station, or other Ethernet device.
Compatible with Most Cable Providers
Certified by Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum, and other cable providers.*†
* Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, and other fiber optic, satellite, or DSL services.
† This cable modem does not have telephone jacks for the support of voice calls.
Fast Internet Speed
For other service providers, supported service speeds are similar to Comcast.
Easy Setup
Connects fast with just 3 connections – power, coax cable, and Ethernet.
Product description
Introducing the first DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem in the SURFboard lineup. The SURFboard SB8200 is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem – the newest technology being offered by cable providers. It is capable of the fastest speeds available by cable Internet service providers, perfect for things like 4K Ultra-HD Video Streaming and Virtual Reality Gaming. Plus, it has 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports! The SB8200 is compatible with major US Cable providers like Comcast (Xfinity service by Comcast) Cox, and others. Today’s connected home demands speeds far more powerful than ever. Power your home network with the SB8200 and get the fastest speeds and most reliable connection to the Internet. Own yours today and stop paying rental fees.
- DOCSIS 3 1 Cable Modem best for cable internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps. Note, a 2nd IP address is required from your cable internet provider to reach 2 Gbps.
- 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3 0 bonded channels, 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3 1 channels
- Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports capable of link aggregation
- others Not compatible with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink or other DSL or Fiber internet providers
- Cable internet service required Does not inlcude Wi-Fi and does not support cable digital voice service
User questions & answers
Question: | How is this model different than the arris surfboard sb |
Answer: | The sb6121 only has speeds of 172 Mbps download and up to 131 Mbps upload. This model has up to 343 Mbps download and 131 Mbps upload. |
Question: | Going with the cable modem option what’s the best router to pair this with for spectrum |
Answer: | It depends on your needs. Needs are based on the number of devices connected and the size of area you are trying to cover. I would highly recommend a mesh network unless your home is 1200sqft or smaller. A centrally located router could cover that. The biggest problem is getting the 5ghz frequency to reach throughout the home. The 5ghz gives you speeds over 30mbps on wireless devices. 5ghz will reach roughly 40ft in all directions from your access point (ap). A mesh system gives you multiple ap and thus more area covered by the 5ghz. |
Question: | How many devices can connect at once? Is that that the 8x refers to |
Answer: | The 8x doesn't refer to the number of devices you can connect to it. You only want to connect one device and that's your WiFi router. You wireless router determines how many devices can be connect based on the available number of ip addresses on the wireless device. The 8x refers to the speed of Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS). Its informing you on the speed of DOCSIS 2.0 vs the newer DOCSIS 3.0. Ultimately your speed will be determined by how much you want to pay your internet provider. And you can determine how many devices you want to connect by the router you choose. |
Question: | Do I also have to buy a router for the modem? And to make sure it obviously speeds up internet connection right |
Answer: | If you only need to have one computer hooked up to the internet you do not need a router. If you want to hook up more than one computer or if you want a wireless network, you will need to buy the appropriate router. My internet speed went from 20mb to 100mb(the speed I pay extra for). TWC has also stopped charging me $8.00 a month for the use of their inadequate equipment. |
Product features
Harness the power of DOCSIS 3.1 with the SURFboard SB8200 Cable Modem
Compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers: The SURFboard SB8200 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity and others. It's approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps. Check your cable ISP website to confirm compatibility. (Note, a 2nd IP address may be required by your cable internet provider to achieve 2 Gbps speeds.)
The newest, fastest technology available
DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers that enables fast, efficient internet speeds.
Two 1-Gigabti Ethernet Ports
Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports capable of providing speeds up to 2 Gbps. (Note, a 2nd IP address may be required by your cable internet provider to achieve 2 Gbps speeds.)
Quick & easy setup
With a few simple cable connections and a quick visit to your ISPs self-activation portal, your network will be up and running in no time.
1. Connect the cables: coaxial, power, Ethernet
2. Contact your ISP (via web portal) to activate
3. Connect to a Wi-Fi router to setup your devices
- Top Internet Speeds for all Multi-gigabit Speed Tiers - Wirecutter recommends this model as the best cable modem for people using Gigabit Internet plans. Built-in DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 3.0 32x8 capabilities give top Internet speeds for all cable Internet services.
- Save Money - Eliminate up to 168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and vary by cable service provider.) Approved by Comcast Xfinity and Xfinity X1, Cox, and CableOne for all speeds including Comcast Gigabit services and Cox Gigablast. Not compatible with RCN. No cable modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services, available from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.)
- Flexible Compatibility - Pair with any Wi-Fi router you’d like, including Whole Home Wi-Fi or Mesh routers like eero, Google Wi-Fi, and Orbi. A 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet port allows connection of any SINGLE device with an Ethernet port including a router, Windows or Mac computer, HDTV, or game station. This cable modem does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability.
- Proactive Network Security - A broadcom chipset provides advanced security from denial-of service attacks.
- Active Queue Management (AQM) - AQM significantly reduces Internet latency on both DOCSIS 3.1 and 3.0 services, resulting in faster page loads for all Web traffic and enhanced interactive applications like online gaming and video conferencing. The MB8600 also includes a full-band capture digital tuner to enhance speed and save energy.
User questions & answers
Question: | Confirming that only one device can be connected to the modem, despite additional lan ports? you can't connect, say your pc and a router at same time |
Answer: | The MB8600 will allow for one device. You can connect your PC to the MB8600, or connect a router to the MB8600.If, in the very unusual situation, you are paying for and receiving more than one IP address from your provider, then you can directly connect up to 4 devices to the MB8600. |
Question: | I also need wifi, what do you recommend |
Answer: | The MB8600 modem will work with any WiFi router. Given the speed of the MB8600, you should be using at least an AC1900 router and given the other devices in your network, you might be able to take advantage of a wireless speed even faster than AC1900.The Ethernet port on the MB8600 simply plugs into the WiFi router of your choice. The router should be current enough to have a Gigabit WAN port (10/100/1000 Ethernet port), since you will need that for the speeds that the MB8600 can deliver. And for now, 1 Gbps service is the fastest cable service Comcast is providing in the US. When Comcast or other cable Internet service providers begin providing service speeds over 1Gbps, the MB8600 has the bonded Ethernet ports which will allow the MB8600 to deliver speeds above 1 Gbps. We are not aware of a consumer-home/small office router that does Ethernet port bonding today, but they are coming. Ethernet port bonding is available on Enterprise level routers (routers used in large organizations), but we can't recommend that class of product for a consumer at this point. They are more complicated than you need and more expensive. Bonded Ethernet ports for consumers will appear by the time Comcast is ready to begin delivering speeds above 1Gbps and the MB8600 will be ready to deliver those speeds.In summary: Use at least an AC1900 wireless router Be sure the router you choose has a Gigabit Ethernet WAN port. |
Question: | Does this use the now-notorious Intel Puma 6 chipset |
Answer: | Model MB8600 and all Motorola products use Broadcom chipsets and do not have the problem associated with the Puma 6 chipset. |
Question: | Do all four Ethernet ports on this modem output the same amount of bandwidth or are there only certain ports that operate at maximum capacity |
Answer: | The reason for four ports on a modem requires some explanation. It is important to understand the MB8600 does not do routing. The MB8600 is a modem only. A router can be connected to any of the MB8600 GigE ports. The link between the router and the modem is then capable of using the full rate of the one Gbps service Comcast currently can provide with their new DOCSIS 3.1 service. In the future, Comcast and other cable services are expected to offer services faster than on 1 Gbps. When those faster services are offered, the additional ports in the MB8600 will be needed. Ports 1 and 2 can be bonded to allow up to 2 Gbps to be delivered by the MB8600. The other two ports on the MB8600 are there to allow additional port bonding for speeds over 2 Gbps. When Comcast has service speeds over 1 Gbps, the router connected to the MB8600 also needs to do port bonding to take advantage of the port bonding in the MB8600. Routers used by consumers today do not support port bonding. Some routers used in corporate networks do support port bonding. In the future, routers used in homes and small businesses will be sold that support port bonding so they can take advantage of future service speeds that will be faster than 1Gbps. In summary, the four ports on the MB8600 are there to allow the MB8600 to deliver service speeds above 1 Gbps WHEN THOSE SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE. That is good design. Think twice before you buy a modem that pretends to offer speeds above 1Gbps and does not have multiple ports that can be bonded. You can not get a speed above 1 Gbps unless you have a way to get the fast speed out of the modem. The MB8600 is designed to allow speeds above 1 Gbps to be delivered to a router with bonded GigE ports. Other modems are not as well designed. |
Product features
The smart choice for your cable Internet service
Eliminate monthly cable modem rental fees – Typically saves 156 dollars per year in Xfinity cable modem rental fees. Actual savings depend on your service provider.
1,000+ Mbps – Maximum actual Internet download speed
GigE Ethernet port – For a high-speed wired connection to any router, computer, or other Internet-capable device.
Connect any WiFi router you choose
Plugs easily into any router for shared Internet access by all your WiFi and Ethernet-capable devices. This flexible approach lets you pair this cable modem with any router you choose for your WiFi needs, including a mesh router or gaming router.
If the MB8600’s Ethernet port isn’t used for a router, it can plug into a computer, HDTV, game station, or other Ethernet device.
Compatible with Most Cable Providers
Certified by Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and other cable providers.*†
* Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, and other fiber optic, satellite, or DSL services.
† This cable modem does not have telephone jacks for the support of voice calls.
Ultra-Fast Internet Speed
For other service providers, supported service speeds are similar to Comcast.
Easy Setup
Connects fast with just 3 connections – power, coax cable, and Ethernet.
Product description
The NETGEAR AC1200 WiFi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router provides fast cable speeds with an AC1200 WiFi router and integrated DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, up to 680Mbps. It works with cable Internet providers such as XFINITY from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox and more.
- BUILT FOR FAST SPEED: Best for cable provider plans up to 300Mbps
- COMPATIBLE WITH MAJOR CABLE INTERNET PROVIDERS: Including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and more. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service
- FAST WIFI PERFORMANCE: Simultaneous dual-band WiFi provides coverage for medium sized homes with AC1200 speed (up to 1200Mbps)
- SAVE MONTHLY RENTAL FEES: Replaces your cable modem and WiFi router saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees
- VERSATILE CONNECTIONS: 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 1 USB port give fast wired connections to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices
- MODEM TECHNOLOGY: DOCSIS 3.0 and 16x4 channel bonding
- SAFE AND SECURE: Manage settings with the NETGEAR Nighthawk App, Includes parental controls; supports WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols
User questions & answers
Question: | Does it work with the nighthawk app |
Answer: | Dear, I don’t recommend you to apply the mask when you sleep, because this is not a sleep mask, the mask may fall when you sleep. |
Product features
Why Buy Your Own Modem WiFi?
Save up to 168 Dollars/year
Eliminates monthly rental fees that can amount to 168 dollars or more per year.
Better WiFi Performance
Get Superior WiFI coverage and more features compared to cable provider modems with WiFi.
Works with All Major Cable Providers
Works with all major cable providers such as Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox*.
*Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirectTV, DISH, and any bundled voice services.
Built for Speed
Supports cable Internet plans with speeds up to 300Mbps ensuring fast, reliable Internet speed for your home.
Up to 1,200 Sq. Ft. WiFi Coverage
Enjoy strong, reliable WiFi coverage thanks to amplified internal antennas and range-boosting Beamforming technology.
Seamless WiFi for up to 20 Devices
Intelligently selects between dual bands to minimize interference and maximize speed for your many smart wireless devices.
Built for Streaming
Up to 1200Mbps wireless speed (AC1200), perfect for HD streaming and gaming.
NETGEAR Nighhawk App
The NETGEAR Nighthawk App makes it easy to set up and manage your cable modem router. Pause the Internet to any device. Track internet data usage and set up separate WiFiaccess for guests.
Simple Setup in a Few Easy Steps
Step 1: Connect your coax cable into the modem.
Step 2: Activate the modem by either
(a) connecting an Ethernet cable to your computer and following the on-screen setup, or
(b) calling your cable provider to activate over the phone.
Two Gigabit Ethernet ports and one USB port give you super-fast wired connections to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices.
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