5 best modems compatible with optimum

Optimum, an internet service provider, typically supports a variety of modems that are compatible with its network. When choosing a modem for use with Optimum, it's important to consider factors such as DOCSIS compatibility, speed capabilities, and whether the modem is approved by Optimum. Here are some general points to keep in mind:

  1. DOCSIS Compatibility: Optimum uses DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) technology for its cable internet service. It's crucial to select a modem that is compatible with the DOCSIS version supported by Optimum.Common versions include DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1.

  2. Optimum Approved Modems: Optimum provides a list of approved modems that are known to work well with its network. It's advisable to choose a modem from this list to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. The list is often available on Optimum's official website or can be obtained by contacting their customer support.

  3. Internet Speed Requirements: Consider the internet speed plan you subscribe to with Optimum. Different modems support different maximum speeds. Ensure that the modem you choose can handle the speed tier you are paying for to get the best performance.

  4. Router vs. Modem-Router Combo: While a standalone modem is sufficient for basic internet access, if you also need Wi-Fi capabilities, you might consider a modem-router combo or use a separate router. Make sure that the router component (if applicable) is also compatible with Optimum.

  5. Brand and Model: Reputable brands in the networking industry, such as Netgear, ARRIS, and Motorola, often produce modems that are compatible with Optimum. Popular models include the Netgear CM600, ARRIS SURFboard SB6190, and Motorola MB7621, among others.

  6. Channels: Modems have downstream and upstream channels that affect their data transfer capabilities. Optimum's approved modems typically have an optimal number of channels for their network. This information can be found in the modem's specifications.

  7. Certification: Look for certifications such as CableLabs certification. This indicates that the modem has undergone testing and meets industry standards.

  8. Upgrading Equipment: If you've been using Optimum for a while, it's worth checking if your current modem is outdated. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient modem can potentially improve your internet experience.

Before purchasing a modem, it's a good idea to check Optimum's official resources or contact their customer support to ensure that the model you are considering is still approved and supported on their network. Keep in mind that technology evolves, and newer modem models with improved features and compatibility may become available over time.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best modems compatible with optimum on the market
  

NETGEAR Cable Modem CM500 - Compatible with All Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox | for Cable Plans Up to 300 Mbps | DOCSIS 3.0

NETGEAR

Based on 22 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NETGEAR CM500 high speed Cable Modem provides a connection to high-speed cable Internet, up to 680Mbps. It is cable labs Certified and with DOCSIS 3. 0 is 16x faster than 2. 0 devices. It works with U. S. Cable Internet provider Comcast XFINITY & more. It is not compatible with cable bundled Voice services.

System Requirements

  • Save monthly rental fees: Model CM500 replaces your cable modem, saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees.
  • Built for fast speed: best for cable provider plans up to 300 Mbps speed.
  • Works with any wifi router: Connect any WiFi router to this modem's Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices.
  • Ethernet connections: 1 Gigabit Ethernet port connects to your computer or separate WiFi router.
  • Modem technology: Engineered with 16x4 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0.

User questions & answers

Question: Why does it say 4x ethernet ports in your description where there is only one
Answer: Because Amazon hasn't corrected their product subscription. I submitted one two weeks ago and has yet to be done. If you need more than 1 ethernet port, then this one is not for you. This has only (1) 2.5 Multi-Gig port.
Question: Does netgear cm500-1aznas work with tds provider
Answer: Yes. But you need to call the TDS customer service and provide your CMAC or SN to register your device. These numbers are on the box and the unit
Question: Can you use a phone to ethernet splitter for voice to work
Answer: I have never heard of a phone to internet splitter, at least not expressed in those terms. However, for VOIP (which means Voice Over Internet Protocall), you must have at least one phone jack in a modem, or a modem-router combination. Some modems have two such jacks, which could provide two different "lines." Most importantly, you must have your internet service provider's PERMISSION to install and use such a modem, or modem-router combination! My own ISP (Wow, aka Wowway.com) REFUSED to give such permission because that would cut into their profits, since they would no longer receive a monthly FEE to RENT their age-old junk, much of which are at least five years old, which is like a millenia in this day of super-fast-paced electronic offerings. I had to send back every VOIP-capable modem I bought from Amazon and other places because my ISP REFUSED to enable them to work with their so-called service(s). Talk about anti-competitive business practices ... U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), are you paying any attention?
Question: I understand that this modem says it will only work with xfinity. but has anyone tried this with spectrum? (aka time warner cable
Answer: Hello. I am writing this Dec 2, 2020 and just activated this modem 2 days ago with Spectrum. It is not on the list of approved modems, but oddly enough the CM400 is. I just told the tech support who activated it that it was compatible and it's worked fine with no problems. I went from 100-120 mbs on my 100 mb plan to 250 to 450 mbs, still on the 100 mb plan. This modem is not on the list of approved models but it seems to work fine so far without periodic latency/drops like the Arris model from Spectrum had.

Product features

Why Buy Your Own Modem?

Save up to 168 Dollars/year

Eliminates monthly rental fees that can amount to 168 dollars or more per year.

No WiFi limits

You’re free to choose & connect the best router for your home’s WiFi needs.

Flexible Compatibility

Swap modems. Not problems. CM500 is compatible with all major cable providers including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, and COX.*

*Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirectTV, DISH and any bundled voice services.

Built for Serious Speed

Supports cable internet plans with speeds up to 300Mbps ensuring fast, reliable internet speed for HD streaming and more.

Works with Any Wi-Fi Router

Plug the modem into the router that best meets your wireless needs and start streaming.

Easy 5 Minute Setup

Step 1: Plug your coax cable into the modem.

Step 2: Activate by either

(a) connect an Ethernet cable to your computer and follow the on-screen setup, or

(b) call your cable provider to activate over the phone.

Step 3: Plug an ethernet cable between the modem and your Wi-Fi router.

MOTOROLA 16x4 Cable Modem, Model MB7420, 686 Mbps DOCSIS 3.0, Certified by Comcast XFINITY, Charter Spectrum, Time Warner Cable, Cox, BrightHouse, and More

Motorola

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price
  • This 16x4 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem provides speeds up to 686 Mbps, sixteen times faster than DOCSIS 2.0. A Full-Band Capture digital tuner ensures a faster, more reliable Internet.
  • Cable modem's Ethernet port connects to a computer, HDTV, game station, or wireless router. (This Model MB7420 cable modem does NOT have a built-in wireless router and does not have a telephone adapter or phone jack. The Motorola MG7310, MG7315, MG7540 and MG7550 have a built-in wireless router.)
  • Requires cable Internet service. Certified by Comcast XFINITY for residential speeds up to Extreme 300, by Comcast Business for speeds up to Deluxe 250, Time Warner Cable, Cox, Charter Spectrum, BrightHouse, and other leading cable service providers for modem ownership programs that typically save rental charges of $120 or more per year
  • Setup is fast and easy with a few quick steps set out in a Quick Start guide. Experienced USA-based customer support specialists are there to help if you need them.
  • 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.

User questions & answers

Question: How warm does this modem run? Some of the more recent SB modems ran too hot, leading to early failure
Answer: Handling of heat was definitely considered in the MB7420 design. All cable modems generate heat, the good designs get rid of the heat efficiently. The MB7420 is very well ventilated on both sides and on the top, and has robust heat sinks on the circuit board to dissipate the heat. The vertical design also helps air circulation. The two year warranty is the longest in the industry and speaks to the durability of the product. With that said, definitely do not operate the MB7420 on its side. The MB7420 is intended to be in a vertical position.
Question: Are the leds insanely bright like on other motorola modems
Answer: Whether the LEDs have the right amount of brightness is an opinion. The MB7420 LED brightness was reduced in response to user reviews on earlier modem designs. Definitely attention was paid to the output level and the electronic design throttled back the brightness. You will probably find it a good, but can't say for sure. Your opinion would be welcome.
Question: Can the stabilizing foot be removed so the modem can lay on its side? Is it screwed/clipped on
Answer: The foot is attached with 2 screws under the label. It is designed to stand up on the foot to allow for adequate cooling for the modem at high speeds. It is not designed to lay flat on its side with one panel blocked. It is recommended that both side panels and the top not be blocked. Laying it on its side and blocking the ventilation could produce improper operation and unit failure.
Question: Is this part of the arris motorola surfboard line up of modems
Answer: No, it is not. This is a much newer design. The MB7420 has a Full Band Capture Digital Tuner, upgraded power handling to protect against lightning and power surges, robust heat sinks to handle a broad temperature range. And the MB7420 looks a lot better than the Arris SB6141.

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.

300+ 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 MB7420’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.

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem, Approved for Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum & others

ARRIS

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

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

NETGEAR Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo C6250 - Compatible with All Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox | for Cable Plans Up to 300 Mbps | AC1600 Wi-Fi Speed | DOCSIS 3.0

NETGEAR

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NETGEAR C6250 provides 16 times faster download speeds, up to 680 Mbps, than DOCSIS 2.0. With C6250 2-in-1 AC1600 Wi-Fi router with DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, you can streaming HD videos, faster downloads, and high-speed online gaming without any interruption. Certified and worked with cable Internet providers like XFINITY from Comcast, Spectrum, COX, Cablevision and more. Customer-owned modems may not be compatible with certain cable networks. Please check with your cable provider to confirm this NETGEAR modem is allowed on your cable network. Check your cable Internet service provider web site for data speed tier compatibility.

  • COMPATIBLE WITH ALL MAJOR CABLE INTERNET PROVIDERS: Including certification by Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service.
  • SAVE MONTHLY RENTAL FEES: Model C6250 replaces your cable modem and WiFi router saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees.
  • BUILT FOR FAST SPEED: Best for cable provider plans up to 300 Mbps speed.
  • FAST WiFi PERFORMANCE: Get up to 1500 sq ft wireless coverage and 25 devices connected with AC1600 speed (up to 1600 Mbps).
  • VERSATILE CONNECTIONS: 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 1 USB port give you fast wired connections to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices.
  • MODEM TECHNOLOGY: Engineered with 16x4 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0.
  • SAFE & SECURE: Includes parental controls, and supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols.

User questions & answers

Question: What does "AC1200" mean
Answer: Dear Customer, For more questions, please feel free to contact us at ✉ ▶ [email protected]◀【☏ +1(833)816-6558】. And the 24 hour online after-sales service website is https: //rockspace. afterservice. vip. The answer is YES. 2000 square feet shouldn't be a problem with our whole-home wifi 6. The wifi 6 router delivers reliable coverage up to 2500 sq ft. However, to ensure the best wifi 6 signal, it is important to make sure the placement of your wifi router is as optimal as possible. Reducing obstructions and placing the router in a central location will help ensure your signal reaches the areas you need. Hope you have a good experience with our AX1800 smart wifi router. Best regards, Mary
Question: Does the box come with the necessary cables? (e.g. power cord and coax cable
Answer: Dear Customer, For more questions, please feel free to contact us at✉ ▶ [email protected] ◀【☏ +1(833)816-6558】. And the 24 hour online after-sales service website is https: //rockspace. afterservice. vip. The answer is YES, our Rockspace wifi 6 router support VPN to transfer data. Hope you have a good experience with our AX1800 smart wifi router. Best regards, Rockspace
Question: Does this modem have netgear genie
Answer: Dear Customer, For more questions, please feel free to contact us at✉ ▶ [email protected] ◀【☏ +1(833)816-6558】. And the 24 hour online after-sales service website is https: //rockspace. afterservice. vip. Yes. Our Rockspace AX1800 smart wifi router is equipped with WPA3 and built-in firewall, which can provide security protection on every aspects for your personal devices. Hope you have a good experience with our AX1800 smart wifi router. Best regards, Rockspace
Question: I see many ppl asking about a router and answers say “modem only” but the description says wifi modem combo. what am i missing
Answer: Dear Customer, For more questions, please feel free to contact us at✉ ▶ [email protected] ◀【☏ +1(833)816-6558】. And the 24 hour online after-sales service website is https: //rockspace. afterservice. vip. The answer is YES. The wifi 6 router is equipped with a USB 3.0 port. Firstly, the wifi router will charge your smart phone via the USB 3.0 port. Besides, the USB 3.0 port of the AX1800 wifi router can easily connect shared storage devices, printers, and other peripherals to your network. Hope you have a good experience with our AX1800 smart wifi router. Best regards, Mary

Product features

Why Buy Your Own Modem with WiFi?

Save up to 168 Dollars/year

Eliminates monthly rental fees that can amount 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 Major Cable Providers

Works with all major cable providers such as Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, and COX.*

*Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirectTV, DISH, and any bundled voice services.

Built for Serious Speed

Supports cable internet plans with speeds up to 300Mbps ensuring fast, reliable internet speed for HD streaming and more.

Up to 1500 Sq. Ft. WiFi Coverage

Enjoy strong, reliable WiFi coverage thanks to range-boosting amplified antennas.

Seamless WiFi for up to 25 Devices

Intelligently selects between dual bands to minimize interference and maximize speed for your many smart wireless devices.

Built for Serious Streaming

Up to 1600Mbps wireless speed (AC1600), perfect for demanding HD streaming and gaming.

Easy 5 Minute Setup

Step 1: Plug your coax cable into the modem router.

Step 2: Activate by either

(a) connect an Ethernet cable to your computer and follow the on-screen setup, or

(b) call 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.

ARRIS SURFboard T25 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem, Certified for Xfinity Internet & Voice (black)

ARRIS

Based on 733 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The T25 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem – the newest technology being offered by cable providers – with two telephone lines for digital voice support, plus two 1-gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting to a Wi-Fi router or other wired devices. It’s capable of bonding up to 32 downstream and 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 channels or 2 x 2 OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels, providing increased bandwidth for true gigabit speed capability, perfect for things like 4K ultra-HD video streaming and Virtual Reality gaming! It is the perfect choice for gigabit speed internet plans and saves money on monthly modem rental fees.

  • Certified to work with Xfinity internet & voice service Not certified for use with other cable internet service providers
  • DOCSIS 3 1 Cable Modem with 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3 0 channels, 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3 1 channels
  • Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 Telephony ports for Xfinity digital voice service
  • Best for Xfinity internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps
  • finity internet service required Does not include Wi-Fi

User questions & answers

Question: my arris tm822r has battery backup, which is great for when power goes out. does this modem have a battery backup
Answer: Yes, it fits well in appropriately dimensioned carry-on luggage.
Question: Does this model still use the Intel Puma chipset
Answer: It is 22 inches when all wrapped up.
Question: does it work with cox cable and voice service
Answer: Yes I bought it for my granddaughter she plays guitar but when we went to set. It up the bottom of the stands where there is a screw wasn't in correct it can be used but carefully her mom said. I was disappointed it was her xmas gift
Question: does it work with Mediacom cable and voice service
Answer: SEND IT BACK FOR ANOTHER ONE

Product features

SURFboard DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem for Xfinity Internet & Voice

10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0 - The SURFboard T25 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with Voice over IP (VoIP) for Xfinity Internet & Voice service. It's capable of bonding up to 32 downstream and 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 channels or 2 x 2 OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels, providing increased bandwidth for true gigabit speed capability.

2 products in 1 - Do you have digital voice service but don't want to rent your modem? The T25 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a digital voice adapter to provide telephone connectivity. It also has 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports, perfect for connecting to a Wi-Fi router.

Perfect for gigabit speed plans - The T25 is capable of gigabit download speeds and is approved for Xfinity internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps.

2 products in 1

The T25 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a 2-line digital voice adapter for telephone service.

Save on monthly rental fees

Stop spending on monthly modem rental fees. By purchasing your modem you will ensure you have the latest technology and save money in the long run.

Quick & easy setup

With just a few quick cable connections and a visit to your ISP's activation page, you can have a lightning-fast home network up and running.

1. Connect the cables: coaxial, power, Ethernet

2. Login to xfinity.com/activate

3. Setup your devices

Capable of true gigabit speeds

With 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels, plus 2 downstream and 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels, the T25 is capable of true gigabit download speeds, making it the perfect solution for gigabit speed internet plans.

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