Best Cable Modem for High-Speed Internet in 2023

Cable modems are an essential component of any home internet setup. They allow you to connect to your internet service provider (ISP) and access the internet. With the increasing demand for faster and more reliable internet, choosing the right cable modem has become more critical than ever.

When it comes to purchasing a cable modem, there are a few things you should consider. The first is compatibility with your ISP. Not all cable modems work with all ISPs, so it’s essential to check with your provider before making a purchase. The second is speed. You’ll want to choose a modem that can handle the maximum speed offered by your ISP. Finally, you’ll want to consider the number of devices you plan to connect to your modem. If you have a large household with multiple devices, you’ll want a modem that can handle the traffic.

After researching and testing various cable modems, we have identified the best cable modems on the market. Our top picks offer fast and reliable internet speeds, are compatible with most ISPs, and can handle multiple devices. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of each modem and help you choose the best one for your needs.

Best Cable Modems

We know that finding the best cable modem for your home can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best cable modems available. Our top picks were chosen based on factors such as speed, compatibility with major cable providers, and ease of setup. Whether you’re a gamer, streamer, or just looking for reliable internet, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect cable modem for your needs.

1) NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700

We highly recommend the NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700 for anyone looking to upgrade their internet speed and save money on rental fees.

The NETGEAR CM700 is a great choice for those who want to save money on rental fees and experience faster internet speeds. It is compatible with all major cable internet providers, including Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum, and supports speeds up to 1.4 Gbps. With its 32×8 channel bonding, OFDM 2×2, and DOCSIS 3.1 modem technology, you can enjoy faster access and downloads.

One of the biggest advantages of the CM700 is that it can save you up to $168 per year in rental fees. Instead of paying your internet service provider to rent a modem, you can purchase the CM700 and own it outright. This can lead to significant savings over time.

However, there are a few downsides to the CM700. It is not compatible with DSL providers, Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DirecTV, DISH, or bundled voice services. Additionally, it only has one Gigabit Ethernet port, which may be a limitation for some users. Finally, there is no built-in Wi-Fi, so you will need to connect a separate Wi-Fi router to the modem’s Ethernet port.

Overall, we believe that the NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700 is a great investment for anyone looking to upgrade their internet speed and save money on rental fees.

2) ARRIS Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem

If you are looking for a high-speed cable modem, the ARRIS Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem is a great option.

We recently upgraded to the ARRIS Surfboard S33 and have been impressed with its performance. The set-up was straightforward, and we were up and running in no time. The modem’s DOCSIS 3.1 technology provides fast and reliable internet speeds, even during peak usage times.

One of the best things about the ARRIS Surfboard S33 is that it allows us to save money by owning our modem and reducing our cable bill. The modem is compatible with most U.S. cable internet service providers, including Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity. We appreciate the peace of mind that comes with owning our modem and not having to worry about rental fees.

The SURFboard Central App makes it easy to manage the modem and network settings. We were able to set up our Wi-Fi network and customize settings to our liking. The app also provides helpful tips and troubleshooting advice.

While we have not experienced any issues with the modem dropping connection, we have noticed that it can run hot. We made sure to place the modem in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.

Overall, we highly recommend the ARRIS Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem for anyone looking to upgrade their internet speeds and save money on their cable bill.

3) NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200

If you’re looking for a cable modem that can deliver fast internet speeds, then the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 is worth considering.

In our experience, the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 is a reliable and fast cable modem that can handle multiple devices simultaneously. We found the setup process to be straightforward and easy to follow. We also appreciate the modem’s sleek design, which makes it easy to fit into any home office or entertainment setup.

One thing to keep in mind is that this modem may not work with all cable internet providers, so it’s essential to check your provider’s website for data speed tier compatibility. Additionally, while the modem is compatible with any WiFi router, we recommend pairing it with a high-quality router for the best performance.

Overall, we recommend the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 for anyone looking to upgrade their internet speeds and save money on rental fees.

4) ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem

The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and fast cable modem. Its compatibility with major U.S. cable internet providers and its ability to handle internet speed plans up to 1 Gbps make it a great purchase.

We were impressed with the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200’s ability to provide faster streaming and downloading throughout our home. We were also able to reduce our cable bill up to $168 per year in cable modem rental fees by owning our own modem. The DOCSIS 3.1 technology ensures faster internet speeds, better security, and reduces lag while gaming.

The installation process was simple and secure. We just had to plug in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. We were able to connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking and enjoy faster internet speeds.

The SURFboard SB8200 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and others. We were able to check our Internet Service Provider (ISP) website to confirm compatibility. The modem comes with two 1-Gigabit ethernet ports to connect to a Wi-Fi router or other wired device. We were also impressed with the dedicated customer support available via live chat and phone support from 8am -1am EST.

In conclusion, we highly recommend the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem for its reliability, compatibility, and speed. It’s a great investment for those who want to save money on their cable bill and enjoy faster internet speeds.

5) NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 – Compatible with All Cable Providers| For Cable Plans Up to 2 Gigabits | 4 x 1G Ethernet Ports | DOCSIS 3.1, Black (Renewed) 2000Mbps Max Download Single

If you’re looking for a reliable cable modem that can handle high-speed internet plans, the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 is a great option to consider.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200, and we were impressed with its performance. The modem is easy to set up and compatible with all major cable internet providers, including Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. This means that you can use it with your existing internet service and start saving money on monthly rental fees.

In terms of speed, the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 is built for ultimate speed, making it ideal for cable provider plans up to 2 gigabits speed. We noticed a significant improvement in our internet speed after switching to this modem, which was great for streaming video and gaming.

One downside of the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 is that it’s not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service. Additionally, it does not come with a built-in WiFi router, so you will need to connect any WiFi router to this modem’s Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices.

Overall, we highly recommend the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 for anyone looking for a reliable and speedy cable modem that can handle high-speed internet plans. It’s a great investment that can save you money in the long run.

6) NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router

If you’re looking for a cable modem that delivers blazing-fast internet speeds, the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router is a great option.

We were impressed with the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router. It is compatible with all major cable internet providers and provides coverage up to 2,500 sq. ft. with dual-band WiFi 6 (AX6000) speed (up to 6Gbps). This modem/router combo replaces your existing equipment, saving you up to $168 per year in equipment rental fees.

One downside is that it is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service. However, it sets up in minutes with the Nighthawk app, which allows you to easily manage WiFi settings at the device and network level, test internet speed, and monitor data usage.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-performance cable modem that delivers fast internet speeds and covers a large area, the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router is definitely worth considering.

7) Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-speed cable modem, the Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is a great option.

We have been using this cable modem for a few weeks now, and it has been performing exceptionally well. We were able to connect all our devices seamlessly, and the speed was impressive. The modem is compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Cox Communications, Charter Spectrum, RCN, and any WiFi router.

One of the best things about this modem is its ultra-fast DOCSIS 3.1 performance, which delivers true Gigabit-plus speeds. We were able to stream, game and conference without any lag or buffering. The multi-gigabit Ethernet speed is also a great feature, as it provides downstream speeds just below 2,500 Mbps and upstream speeds up to 800 Mbps when supported by your internet service plan.

Another great feature of this modem is its extreme cost savings. Owning your own modem typically saves the home $168 per year in monthly rental charges. This modem is built for reliability, and it comes with a 2-year warranty and free support from the team of USA technicians.

The only downside to this modem is that it does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability. However, this is not a big issue as it is seamlessly compatible with any WiFi router to connect all your devices. Overall, we highly recommend the Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem to anyone looking for a reliable and high-speed cable modem.

8) ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem & AX3000 Wi-Fi Router

If you’re looking for a cable modem that is efficient and reliable, the ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem & AX3000 Wi-Fi Router is a great choice.

The ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem & AX3000 Wi-Fi Router is a great investment for those looking for a reliable and efficient cable modem. With DOCSIS 3.1 technology, this modem provides faster speeds and better security than older models. The modem is compatible with most major U.S. cable internet providers, making it a versatile choice. The ARRIS SURFboard Central App makes setup and customization easy, and provides real-time monitoring of the devices on your network. If you’re looking for a cable modem that can keep up with your needs, the ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem & AX3000 Wi-Fi Router is a great choice.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a cable modem, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Compatibility

First and foremost, you need to make sure the modem you choose is compatible with your internet service provider (ISP). Some ISPs have specific requirements for the modems they support, so be sure to check with your provider before making a purchase.

Speed

The speed of your modem is another important factor to consider. Modems come with different download and upload speeds, so you’ll want to choose one that can handle your internet usage. If you’re a heavy internet user who streams a lot of video or downloads large files, you’ll want a modem with a higher speed rating.

Channels

The number of channels a modem has can also impact its performance. More channels generally mean faster speeds and better connectivity, so it’s worth considering when making your purchase.

Price

Of course, price is always a consideration when shopping for any product. Cable modems can range in price from under $50 to over $200, so it’s important to find a balance between price and features.

Warranty

Finally, be sure to check the warranty on any modem you’re considering. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in case of any defects or malfunctions.

By considering these factors, you can find the best cable modem for your needs and enjoy fast, reliable internet connectivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a top-rated cable modem for home use?

When choosing the best cable modem for your home, you should consider features such as compatibility with your internet service provider (ISP), speed capabilities, and the number of channels. It is also important to consider the number of devices that will be connected to the modem and the type of internet plan you have.

How do I choose a cable modem that is compatible with my ISP, such as Xfinity?

To ensure compatibility with your ISP, you should check their website or contact their customer service to find out which cable modems are approved for use with their service. It is important to note that not all cable modems are compatible with all ISPs, so be sure to double-check before making a purchase.

What are the advantages of having a separate cable modem and router versus a combined unit?

Having a separate cable modem and router allows for more flexibility in terms of upgrading or replacing individual components. It also allows for more customization and control over your network settings. However, combined units can be more convenient and save space.

What speeds can I expect from the latest DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems?

DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems can support download speeds of up to 10 Gbps and upload speeds of up to 1 Gbps. However, the actual speeds you will experience depend on your internet plan and the number of devices connected to your network.

Are there any new cable modem technologies on the horizon for 2023?

There are several new cable modem technologies currently in development, including DOCSIS 4.0 and Full Duplex DOCSIS. These technologies promise even faster speeds and increased efficiency, but it may be some time before they are widely available.

What are the benefits of a cable modem with built-in WiFi capabilities?

A cable modem with built-in WiFi capabilities eliminates the need for a separate router, which can save space and reduce clutter. It also simplifies the setup process and can be more convenient for those who are not tech-savvy. However, these modems may not be as powerful or customizable as separate modems and routers.