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5 Best Cable Modems 2025 in US

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Experienced product tester and reviewer with 5+ years, providing unbiased reviews and ensuring product quality.
Updated

Main Features

  • DOCSIS 3.1 technology
  • Two Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Compatible with major ISPs
  • Supports up to 10 Gbps download speeds

Product Overview

The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is designed to deliver ultra-fast internet speeds, making it an ideal choice for households with multiple devices and high bandwidth needs. It supports DOCSIS 3.1, the latest technology in cable internet, providing up to 10 Gbps download speeds.

This modem features two Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to connect multiple devices directly for maximum performance. It is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers, including Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum.

The SB8200 is built for reliability and speed, ensuring you get the most out of your internet service.

PROS
  • Extremely fast download speeds
  • Future-proof with DOCSIS 3.1
  • Supports multiple devices
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • Setup can be complex for beginners

Product Specifications

  • Max Download Speed 10 Gbps
  • Ethernet Ports 2 x 1 Gigabit
  • ISP Compatibility Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum

Main Features

  • DOCSIS 3.0 technology
  • One Gigabit Ethernet port
  • Compatible with major ISPs
  • Speeds up to 300 Mbps

Product Overview

The NETGEAR CM500 offers a great balance of performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for everyday internet users. It supports DOCSIS 3.0, providing download speeds up to 300 Mbps, which is sufficient for HD streaming, online gaming, and general web browsing.

The CM500 features a single Gigabit Ethernet port, offering a stable and fast connection to your router or computer. It's compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers and easy to set up, making it ideal for those looking to replace their ISP-rented modem.

PROS
  • Affordable price
  • Good performance for the price
  • Easy to set up
CONS
  • Not future-proof (DOCSIS 3.0)
  • Limited to one Ethernet port

Product Specifications

  • Max Download Speed 300 Mbps
  • Ethernet Ports 1 x 1 Gigabit
  • ISP Compatibility Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum

Main Features

  • DOCSIS 3.1 technology
  • Four Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Active Queue Management
  • Speeds up to 1 Gbps

Product Overview

The Motorola MB8600 is engineered for those who need the absolute best performance from their internet connection. Supporting DOCSIS 3.1, this modem can handle download speeds up to 1 Gbps, making it perfect for 4K streaming, online gaming, and other high-bandwidth activities.

It features Active Queue Management (AQM) to reduce latency, ensuring a smoother online gaming experience. The MB8600 is equipped with four Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing ample connectivity options.

It's compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers, ensuring broad compatibility and top performance.

PROS
  • Excellent performance for gaming
  • Future-proof with DOCSIS 3.1
  • Multiple Ethernet ports
CONS
  • Higher price
  • May be overkill for casual users

Product Specifications

  • Max Download Speed 1 Gbps
  • Ethernet Ports 4 x 1 Gigabit
  • ISP Compatibility Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum

Main Features

  • DOCSIS 3.1 technology
  • Four Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Compact design
  • Speeds up to 2 Gbps

Product Overview

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 is a sleek and compact modem designed for those who need high-speed internet without the bulk. Supporting DOCSIS 3.1, it offers download speeds up to 2 Gbps, making it an excellent choice for 4K streaming, online gaming, and demanding internet use.

The CM1200 features four Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing flexible connectivity options for your home network. It's compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers and easy to set up with the Nighthawk app.

The modern design and powerful performance make it a great addition to any home.

PROS
  • High-speed performance
  • Compact and stylish design
  • Multiple Ethernet ports
CONS
  • Premium price
  • Setup requires the app

Product Specifications

  • Max Download Speed 2 Gbps
  • Ethernet Ports 4 x 1 Gigabit
  • ISP Compatibility Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum

Main Features

  • DOCSIS 3.0 technology
  • Built-in dual-band Wi-Fi router
  • Four Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Speeds up to 1.3 Gbps

Product Overview

The ASUS CM-32 combines the functionality of a high-speed cable modem and a powerful wireless router in one device. Supporting DOCSIS 3.0, it delivers download speeds up to 1.3 Gbps, suitable for streaming, gaming, and heavy internet usage.

The built-in dual-band Wi-Fi router provides strong and reliable wireless coverage throughout your home. It features four Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring fast wired connections for multiple devices. The CM-32 is compatible with major U.

S. cable internet providers, making it a convenient and efficient all-in-one solution for your home network.

PROS
  • High-speed internet and Wi-Fi
  • All-in-one device
  • Strong wireless coverage
CONS
  • DOCSIS 3.0 not future-proof
  • Larger size compared to modems

Product Specifications

  • Max Download Speed 1.3 Gbps
  • Ethernet Ports 4 x 1 Gigabit
  • ISP Compatibility Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into the technical details, it's essential to identify what you need from a cable modem. Are you a casual internet user, or do you require high-speed internet for gaming and streaming? Do you have a preference for a modem-router combo, or do you want a standalone modem to pair with a separate router? Knowing your usage patterns and requirements will narrow down your choices.

Compatibility with Your ISP

The first and foremost step is to ensure that the modem is compatible with your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Most ISPs provide a list of approved modems on their websites. Using a modem not listed could result in suboptimal performance or no connectivity at all. Check for compatibility with your specific plan, as some modems are better suited for particular speed tiers offered by your ISP.

DOCSIS Standards

DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) is a standard that defines how data is transmitted over cable lines. The two primary versions you’ll encounter are DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1.

  • DOCSIS 3.0: Suitable for most users, supporting speeds up to 1 Gbps. It's generally more affordable and still widely used.
  • DOCSIS 3.1: The latest standard, supporting speeds up to 10 Gbps and offering better performance and efficiency. It’s more future-proof but also more expensive.

Speed and Channels

The speed of your modem should align with your internet plan. There's no point in buying a modem capable of gigabit speeds if your plan only offers 100 Mbps. Modems come with different channel bonding options, such as 8x4, 16x4, or 32x8. The first number represents downstream channels, and the second is upstream channels. More channels typically mean better performance and higher speeds, especially in congested networks.

Additional Features

Some modems come with additional features like built-in Wi-Fi, multiple Ethernet ports, or advanced security options. A modem-router combo can save space and reduce clutter, but it may not offer the same flexibility or performance as separate devices. If you already have a high-quality router, a standalone modem might be a better choice.

Reliability and Reviews

Once you have a list of potential candidates, look for user reviews and expert opinions. Reliability is crucial; a modem that frequently drops connections or requires constant reboots will be more trouble than it’s worth. Look for reviews that mention stability and long-term performance.

Warranty and Support

Consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period can provide peace of mind, and responsive customer support can be invaluable if you encounter issues.

Price and Value

Finally, balance the cost with the features and performance offered. An expensive modem isn’t always the best choice, especially if it has features you don’t need. Conversely, a very cheap modem might lack the performance and reliability you require.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best cable modem involves a careful evaluation of your needs, compatibility with your ISP, the DOCSIS standard, speed capabilities, additional features, reliability, warranty, and price. By taking the time to research and compare options, you can find a modem that provides a stable, fast, and reliable internet connection tailored to your specific needs.