The cable internet speed has increased to Gigabit and is still evolving. So, if you want to avail of the best performance with your existing internet service provider, all you require is a feature-packed and powerful DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
But with so many DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combos available, it is not simple to quickly make a decision. Moreover, the technology is continuously changing and at the same time we all want to keep our expenses to the minimum.
Keeping all such and more aspects into consideration, we have listed the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combos. These devices will not only serve your present requirements but will also future-proof your home or office network.
Just check them out!
Table of Contents
8 Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Router Combo Reviews
1. NETGEAR CM100 Cable Modem CM1000
Buyer’s Experience
The buyers love this device as it is compatible with most of the major internet service providers like Cox, Comcast, Spectrum, and more. It also helped them save fees up to $168 per year.
Why It Stands Out
It is a superiorly engineered router designed for ultimate speed, which makes it best for plans up to 1 Gigabit speed. You can connect the Wi-Fi router to the Ethernet port of the modem supporting wireless device.
The ultra-reliable internet speed makes it perfect for multiplayer gaming, 4K HD streaming, and more. Designed with 32×8 channel bonding, OFDM 2x 2 technologies, it guarantees rich performance.
Ideal for
It is a great buy for those who want to choose and connect the router to endless options. With no Wi-Fi limits and durable construction, it boasts of easy 5 minute installation.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
This modem router comes in superiorly engineered design based on the latest technology. Being compatible with most of the internet cable service providers and having no limit to Wi-Fi connections, it offers absolute ease, convenience, and reduced monthly bills. Simple setup and exceptional performance makes it worth buying.
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 1Gbps. Currently certified with Spectrum...
- Save monthly rental fees: Model CM1000 replaces your cable modem saving you up to dollar 168/year in equipment rental...
- Works with any Wi-Fi router: Connect any Wi-Fi router to this modem's Ethernet port to support all your wireless...
- Ethernet connections: 1 Gigabit Ethernet port connects to your computer or separate Wi-Fi router.
2. ARRIS SB8200 SURFboard DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem
Buyer’s Experience
Almost all buyers loved the blazing fast speed delivered by this modem router combo. It is based on the newest technology and allowed them handling up to 8 upstream and 32 downstream 3.0 channels along with enhanced bandwidth for fast Gigabit speed capability. For this reason, it is a perfect solution for virtual reality gaming and 4K ultra-HD video streaming.
Why It Stands Out
Equipped with two Gigabit Ethernet Ports, it lets you easily link to a Wi-Fi router and enjoy fast and reliable speed for gaming, smart TV, and more. The setup comes with limited cable connecting, hence, making it very convenient to install. You only have to visit the ISPs self-activation portal the network will run in no time.
Further, the link aggregation control is efficient to create two networks for home from a single modem.
Ideal For
It is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy great speed, easy setup, and convenience while saving their monthly bills. It comes in a sleek and compact design, which will never intervene with your décor. Using this device lets you avail of fastest speed and reliable internet connection.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
This compact and superiorly engineered design is perfect to avail great performance and speed needed to run most of the high-speed applications. It is compatible with most of the cable internet service providers and serves various connection ports, including Ethernet and Gigabit.
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Better connectivity, better speed. The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable...
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees...
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers. Its 10x faster than...
- System requirements 1. High-speed Internet access account 2.Web browser access – Internet Explorer, Google Chrome,...
3. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 Cable Modem Wireless Router Combo
Buyer’s Experience
Users enjoyed the extended Wi-Fi coverage of almost 3000sqft using this device. It enhanced the antenna range and being equipped with Beamforming technology, it served them efficient performance.
The other great thing users like is that it allows them to seamlessly connect almost 45 devices. Users can also select between single band and dual band to reduce intervention and boost connectivity speed.
Why It Stands Out
This is a great product engineered to deliver extreme streaming of 3200Mbps. As a result, you can easily perform heavy-duty multi-player and streaming gaming. It is a user-friendly design that is compatible with most of the cable internet service providers. Unlike other devices, it is certified to perform flawlessly delivering you a great experience.
Ideal For
It alleviates monthly rental fees to a great extent and is perfect for those who want superior wireless coverage along with numerous features in their home network. You can buy it to enjoy using excellent performance, advanced features and gain a convenient setup.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
You must invest your money for this device if you are looking for high performance, efficient speed, and unmatched reliability. Along with multiple connections, superior buildup, great compatibility, and inclusion of safety features like WEP, parental controls, and wireless security makes it worth buying.
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 1Gbp. Currently certified with Spectrum and...
- Save monthly rental fees: Model C7800 replaces your cable modem and Wi-Fi router saving you up to Dollar 168/year in...
- Get up to 3000 square feet wireless coverage and 45 devices connected with AC3200 speed (up to 3200 Mbps)
- Four (4) Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 hi-speed USB 3.0 ports give you fast wired connections to your computer, printer,...
4. MOTOROLA MB8600 Cable Modem, DOCSIS 3.1, 6 Gbps Speed
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers not only liked its advanced engineering and beautiful appearance but also the fact that they were able to reduce the monthly rental bills to a great extent. It is compatible with most internet service providers, and hence, they were able to carry most of the activities easily.
Why It Stands Out
It is one of the best internet speed providers that serves people using Gigabit connectivity plans. Integrated with DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1, it is backed with rich capabilities offering high speed most of the time. You can use it with any wireless router including Google, Eero, Orbi, and others.
There is a Broadcom chipset integrated into it that offers complete security from denial of service attacks to your entire network. The presence of Active Queue Management technology reduces connectivity latency to a great extent.
Ideal For
It is an ideal pick for most of the home connections. From online gaming, downloading to video conferencing, it serves all applications efficiently. Being equipped with numerous advanced features like full-band capturing digital turner and safety controls, it ensures your entire home network stays secured and swift.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
With this device, you no more have to spend heavily on the rental fees. It offers reliable and ultra-fast connections, ensuring most of your hefty requirements are met optimally. The compact and sleek design in grey and black color makes it a perfect fit to your home décor. Along with versatile connections, it serves great compatibility and holds a flexible approach for coupling the modem to your wireless needs.
- Top Internet Speeds for all Multi-gigabit Speed Tiers - Wirecutter recommends this model as the best cable modem for...
- Save Money - Eliminate up to 168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and...
- Flexible Compatibility - Pair with any Wi-Fi router you’d like, including Whole Home Wi-Fi or Mesh routers like eero,...
- Proactive Network Security - A broadcom chipset provides advanced security from denial-of service attacks.
5. NETGEAR CM1200 Cable Modem, Supports 2 Gigabits Cable Plans
Buyer’s Experience
The best thing about Netgear’s Nighthawk is that it holds excellent compatibility with most internet service providers. Hence, buyers don’t have to spend additional money on looking out for an additional service.
Also, it comes with limitless Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring users can make selections as per their preferred home’s network needs. The benefit of saving on monthly bills is an added advantage.
Why It Stands Out
The reason that makes this unit better than others in this range is that it works exceptionally well with all Wi-Fi routers. You only have to plug into the router to modem and begin streaming.
It supports a speed of 2Gbps, which is enough to flawlessly perform heavy-duty streaming applications and enjoy playing games. Equipped with 4 Ethernet Gigabit ports let you gain the quickest wired speed.
Ideal For
Easy setup, ultimate speed, and great compatibility make it a great fit to almost all homes. But you may avoid picking it if you have a bigger space as it offers network within a limited range. For smaller homes or apartments it is a great buy that comes with multiple connection options and numerous advanced features.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
This Nighthawk modem router combo from NETGEAR is a great buy supporting link aggregation for delivering multi-Gigabit fast internet speed. Using it will not only boost your internet connection, but will also offer you smooth gaming and online streaming experience. It comes with ready to use setup and can be upgraded for network boost as per requirement.
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 2Gbps. Currently certified with Cox,...
- Works with any WiFi router: Connect any WiFi router to this modem’s Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices
- Save monthly rental fees: Model CM1200 replaces your cable modem saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees
- Four (4) Gigabit Ethernet ports give you fast wired connections to your computer, separate WiFi router, printer, game...
6. ARRIS SBG8300 Surfboard Cable Modem, Gigabit, Double Wi-Fi Router
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers are impressed with its impeccable performance, affordability, and space-saving design. It is built on the latest standards capable of linking 8 upstream and 32 downstream channels offering enhanced bandwidth for great gigabit speed.
Why It Stands Out
This Arris modem router offers a clutter-free network setup even when you link multiple devices simultaneously. It is equipped with a Wi-Fi router and DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem delivering powerful connections.
It comes with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports making it a robust device. Holding high compatibility with major U.S. cable internet service providers, allows convenient and simple setup. Undoubtedly, it is a power-packed product with various advanced features and capabilities.
Ideal For
This modem router combo is a great choice for Gigabit high speed plans. It is an ideal pick for you, if you want to avail of upgraded the services from cable providers. It comes with network ready capabilities ensuring there is no speed loss. This award-winning project is equipped with AC Wave dual Wi-Fi, which makes it an ideal high speed internet connection.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
With this modem router combo, you can future proof the home network. Equipped with Surfboard SBG8300, this DOCSIS 3.1 modem delivers great Wi-Fi connectivity.
It is an innovative product for smart homes offering download speed till 10 Gbps and a wave speed of 230 Mbps. Not only you can easily stream ultra-HD and 4K videos, but can play games without any interruption.
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Get high speeds, low latency, and a two-in-one product! With the ARRIS SURFboard...
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees...
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers. Its 10x faster than...
- Simple and Secure Set-up: Just plug-in, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the step-by-step intrstuctions to...
7. NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1150V Modem, Voice Supports
Buyer’s Experience
Holding high compatibility with voice service and Xfinity internet makes it very easy for the users to gain a strong home network connection. It not only rendered great performance but helped them save yearly rental bills till $168 per year. It works with any wireless router, and hence, offers great support to all the wireless devices.
Why It Stands Out
The Netgear Nighthawk is designed to offer ultimate speed offering up to 2 Gigabits. The 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports offer speedy wired connections to all your devices including game box, printer, router, computer, and others. Incorporated with 32 x 8 bonding of channels it also offers voice phone support to be used for Xfinity voice service.
You can connect 2 telephone lines and avail of enhanced features such as 3-way conferencing, caller ID, call forwarding, and others. The link aggregation capability combining dual 1G ports ensure you always get the fastest speed.
Ideal For
You must go for this device if you want to save on your bills, work without Wi-Fi limits, and get your hands on Xfinity voice and internet services. Designed to offer fast speed, it is very easy to set up and will work with your existing router as well.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
Delivering fast Gigabit speed, this cable modem supports voice technology. It offers great performance and would future-proof your network. The device is engineered with multiple ports delivering uninterrupted and smooth network connection. Offering enhanced features like call forwarding, 3 way conference calling, and other features are well complemented with fast wired connections.
- Supports internet speed up to 2Gbps. Certified with Xfinity Internet & Voice Plans up to 800Mbps speed. Future speed...
- Works with any WiFi router. Connect any WiFi router to this modem’s Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices
- Save monthly rental fees. Model CM1150V replaces your cable modem saving you up to $150/yr in equipment rental fees
- Four (4) Gigabit Ethernet ports give you fast wired connections to your computer, separate WiFi router, printer, game...
8. ARRIS Surfboard SVG2482AC Cable Modem, DOCSIS 3.0, Double Band Wi-Fi Router, Xfinity Internet and Voice Certified
Buyer’s Experience
Using this modem router combo helped buyers save a lot on their monthly cable fees. It is an economical and space saving design that lets them manage distinct devices with ease.
It is equipped with multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports delivering wired networking and high speed for smart TV, gaming, and others.
Why It Stands Out
This modem router combo is a 4-in-1 product including AC1750, 3.0 cable modem, Xfinity Telephone modem, and 4-port Gigabit Ethernet router. It is a certified device for Xfinity voice and internet service offering 8 upstream and 24 downstream high speed internet plans of 600 Mbps. Designed with 2 telephone ports and 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, it serves digitally enabled voice service. Offering Wi-Fi speed of 1750Mbps makes it a great product.
Ideal For
It is a great pick for those who want to build a robust Xfinity home network. It is packed with various features and capabilities serving the requirements of all modern customers. The product comes with channel bonding functionality ensuring the more you get, the faster and efficient performance you avail of.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
This 3.0 cable modem is designed with 2 telephony ports and wireless network connection. It is highly compatible with voice service and Xfinity internet service rendering AC Wi-Fi speed of 1750Mbps. Offering great download speed of 2 telephone lines and up to 1Gbps makes it a perfect solution for your home network.
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Get high speeds, better coverage, and a two-in-one product! With the ARRIS...
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees. For...
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem with AC2350 Wi-Fi Router that delivers high speed internet to your home...
- Simple and Secure Set-up: Just plug-in, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the step-by-step intrstuctions to...
Editor’s Choice
While all above mentioned modem router combos are proven for exceptional performance, great speed, and absolute convenience, but the leader among them is the NETGEAR CM100 Cable Modem.
Engineered in a sleek and compact design, it can save yearly bills to almost $168 while delivering unmatched performance and brilliant speed. It is based on the latest technology and holds excellent compatibility with almost all Wi-Fi routers and ISP networks.
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 1Gbps. Currently certified with Spectrum...
- Save monthly rental fees: Model CM1000 replaces your cable modem saving you up to dollar 168/year in equipment rental...
- Works with any Wi-Fi router: Connect any Wi-Fi router to this modem's Ethernet port to support all your wireless...
- Ethernet connections: 1 Gigabit Ethernet port connects to your computer or separate Wi-Fi router.
It delivers a speed till 1 Gigabit and comes with various Gigabit and Ethernet ports allowing you to make superior wired connections. Designed with downstream and upstream channels, it is easy to set up and simple to use.
What is Exactly A DOCSIS 3.1 Modem?
The full form of DOCSIS is Data over Cable Service Interface Specification. This term is used for modems based on efficient and modern technology transferring data through coaxial cables. The main purpose of developing such cables is offering a secured TV connection.
Because of exceptional performance delivered by DOCSIS, it is certified as an international standard among the cable service providers. It offers high speed internet and supports video and voice services using the available cable TV systems. The technology is paired with coaxial cable offering smooth and secured connection without any hassle.
Difference Between DOCSIS 3.0 VS 3.1
When you purchase a modem router combo, you will see the mention of DOCSIS 3.0 or DOCSIS 3.1. We have already told what DOCSIS means. We suggest avoid going for modems with less than DOCSIS 3.0 in order to avoid any issues or low speed. It is because modems lower than DOCSIS 3.0 support would not support most of the internet plans.
Moreover, DOCSIS 3.1 supporting modems may not be essential for all the plans, but they are perfect for most of the devices.
What DOCSIS 3.0 Means?
DOCSIS 3.0 is one of the most used versions available today. It offers decent speed and usually offers till 1 Gbps speeds. For this reason, modems with DOCSIS 3.0 are unable to reach their maximum performance.
Downstream and upstream channels play a pivotal role in the overall modem speed. DOCSIS 3.0 modems usually come with 8, 4, or 2 upstream channels at maximum depending on the model you select. The advanced models are integrated with up to 24 downstream channels.
What Does DOCSIS 3.1 Mean?
DOCSIS 3.1 is a future-proof technology offering great internet speed. It is compatible with most of the modern internet cable service providers.
In comparison to DOCSIS 3.0, DOCSIS 3.1 is more powerful. Modems integrated with DOCSIS 3.1 deliver till 10Gbps speed. If you want your present modem to precisely cater to your entire upcoming and future needs, you must go for modem router combo with DOCSIS 3.1 technology. Such modems are useful for today’s internet speeds.
Disadvantages of DOCSIS 3.0
The biggest drawback of DOCSIS 3.0 it offers limited features and speed. There are even modems integrated with DOCSIS 3.0 that are equipped with Puma6 chipset that are highly flawed.
Moreover, DOCSIS 3.0 is not compatible with the future internet technology. For this reason, it may not serve your present and future needs to the fullest.
Disadvantages of DOCSIS 3.1
The limitation with DOCSIS 3.1 is its price. The modem router combos incorporated with this technology are expensive, and if you are looking for affordable options, you may not be able to grab it.
Also, there is no certainty on how long DOCSIS 3.1 will continue to serve as if more speed is required then a new technology will be introduced.
But DOCSIS 3.1 modem will serve you for at least the next five years.
Benefits of DOCSIS 3.1 over DOCSIS 3.0
DOCSIS 3.1 is beneficial over DOCSIS 3.0 in various aspects.
- AQM – The full form of AQM is Active Queue Management that makes sure there is very little delay of network as the data traffic is managed within the home network. As a result, those using DOCSIS 3.1 never experience lag when streaming videos, playing games, downloading movies, and others. Even the resolution display is better in DOCSIS 3.1 than DOCSIS 3.0.
- Speed – The speed offered by DOCSIS 3.1 is higher than that offered by DOCSIS 3.0.
- Low Energy Consumption – Modem routers with DOCSIS 3.1 consume less energy in comparison to DOCSIS 3.0 thereby resulting in enhanced modem efficiency.
- High Capacity – DOCSIS 3.1 offers a great network capacity as it has the power to transmit 50 percent higher data over the same panel in comparison to DOCSIS 3.0 technology.
What are the Benefits of Using DOCSIS 3.1 Modem?
Using DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combos is a wise decision as it can offer you with the following prominent benefits.
- Affordable Installation
Definitely, you would not want to spend too much money on the installation. The best thing about DOCSIS 3.1 is that it comes in sleek and compact design making the installation work simpler and cost-effective.
- Better Data Capacity and Speed
It is a known fact that DOCSIS 3.1 modem boosts the capacity over a spectrum by almost 50%, which is great.
- Reduced Lag Time
Coupled with other advanced technologies like AQM, DOCSIS 3.1 modem ensures the lag time is reduced to a great extent. It means you have to spend less time for applications that need heavy data supply.
- High Speed Connectivity
DOCSIS 3.1 combined with your current ISP network offers greater speed and better performance.
- Augmented Wireless Speeds
DOCSIS 3.1 offers great wireless speed ensuring your entire home network performs exceptionally well.
Buying Guide
Not all DOCSIS 3.1 modems are the same. They may differ in features, functionalities, and other aspects. But by making the right selection would ensure you gain unmatched performance, reliability, secured, and smooth internet connection. So, here check some of the important aspects to consider while buying a DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Router combo.
- Check Internet Plan at Your Home
Before selecting a modem, make sure you check the internet plan at your home. It is essential that your modem is compatible with your internet service and offers a great amount of speed. Only then you can benefit from your purchase.
- Compatibility
The modem selected by you must be compatible with your cable service provider. Most of the models available these days are compatible with internet services, and hence, selecting one would not be difficult. Most of the popular cable companies support any Wi-Fi modem.
- Practical and Durability
The engineering of modem must be advanced and done using advanced technology and sturdy components. Only then you will be able to avail of long-lasting performance. Only a sturdy design can offer lasting service.
In addition to be durable, it must be practical too. The modem must be convenient to access. It must fit well to your existing setup so that you don’t have to spend much money for the setting.
- Ethernet Ports
Another point of consideration is to know about the total number of ports that a device has. Probably, you want a separate router for accessing internet or you want to connect multiple devices, which can be plugged into the modem for uninterrupted speed.
Along with checking the number of Ethernet ports, it must be ensured that such ports can manage Gigabit speeds. A device with more numbers of Ethernet ports will let you gain high internet speed without many hassles.
- Speed
Though Gigabit speeds are new, but if your internet service provider is serving the same, you can avail of exceptionally amazing speed by connecting a DOCSIS 3.1 modem. Using such a modem ensures your network is future proof and delivers great performance always.
- Security
There is a continuous evolution of security standards. DOCSIS 3.1 is the most recent one. Hence, it is worth buying a modem router combo supporting DOCSIS 3.1 or 3.0 in order to keep your data secured from online hackers.
- Price
It is best to consider your affordability. Usually, a modem router with more features will cost more. So, first define your budget and then pick the best one that fits into it.
- Upstream and Downstream Channels
The numbers of downstream and upstream channels in a device tells about its download and upload data that it can utilize at a time. Usually, modern modem router combo offer 32 downstream and 8 to 16 upstream channels.
- Warranty
Most devices are supported with one or two year limited warranty covering catastrophic failures. It is worth buying a device with great warranty as your modem will be replaced only if it stops working because of internal defects. Just go for a product that offers extended warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Q1. What are disadvantages of buying a modem router combo?
A1. It is always beneficial to buy a modem router combo, but if you want to figure out the performance of each device separately, you must go for a separate modem and a separate router. It will make it simpler to stay tuned to the latest technology because you can upgrade each device individually. But if you are buying DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combo, it is worth investing your money.
Q2. Does a special modem is required for fiber-optic connectivity?
A2. Fiber internet doesn’t require modems and use only optical network terminals. It is a different technology. However, it is difficult to search a third-party ONT. Hence, you must lease your fiber internet cable provider.
Q3. Does a DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is needed for Gigabit service?
A3. DOCSIS 3.0 supports Gigabit speeds for a single user, but DOCSIS 3.1 modem with OFDM technology is needed for the Gigabit service for all ISP.
Q4. Is it worth purchasing DOCSIS 3.1 for ISP packages with low speed?
A4. It is better to go for DOCSIS 3.1 if you can afford it for a speed of 250 Mbps or better. It will boost speed, level of signal, and reliability.
Q5. Is it essential to upgrade the internet cable plan to use DOCSIS 3.1 technology?
A5. It is not necessary to upgrade the cable plan. DOCSIS 3.1 technology capitalizes on HFC network upgrades for augmented network capacity.
Q6. Does DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Operates in DOCSIS 3.0 systems?
A6. Yes, the modems with DOCSIS 3.1 hold backward compatibility. Hence, they operate on the DOCSIS 3.0 system as well.
Q7. What is the difference between the FTTH and DOCSIS 3.1 Technology?
A7. The main reason to introduce DOCSIS 3.1 technology is to support numerous Gbps and at the same time maintain costs and economical deployment on the existing HFC infrastructure. Therefore, it delivers Gbps performance to groups in contrast to FTTH with limited deployment solutions.
Q8. Is it important to update my modem router combo?
A8. It is always best to keep your modem router device updated with the latest version. It ensures your device performs to the best of its capacity. New software updates are regularly announced by manufacturers. For updating the device you must log in entering your password and username. After updating, restart your modem router and it will perform better than before.
Conclusion
With the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combo, you can easily and affordably reduce the clutter and cost associated with using additional cables and devices. However, before picking the final one, you must take into consideration the above-mentioned factors.
A perfect product will be one, which is compatible with the particular internet plan, your internet service provider, and delivers adequate balance between expenditure and features.
Last update on 2024-12-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API