The search for the best cable modem can be overwhelming, considering the numerous options available in the market. Whether you are streaming movies, playing online games, or working remotely, having a reliable and efficient cable modem is essential for smooth internet connectivity. In 2024, we have compiled a list of the best cable modems available on Amazon that guarantee high performance and value for money.
Buying Guide for the Best Cable Modem
Before diving into our top 10 cable modems, it is crucial to understand what features to look for when selecting the best cable modem for your needs. The key aspects to consider include:
1. Compatibility
Ensure that the modem is compatible with your internet service provider (ISP) as not all modems work with every ISP. Check the modem’s specifications and consult your ISP’s compatibility list to avoid future issues.
2. DOCSIS Standard
The Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) version indicates the modem’s technology standard. DOCSIS 3.0 is standard for most ISPs, but DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest version and offers better speed and efficiency, making it a more future-proof option.
3. Speed Ratings
Look for modems that clearly state their speed ratings. Match the modem’s capability with your internet plan to ensure optimal performance. Higher speeds typically provide better performance, especially for heavy users.
4. Number of Channels
The number of downstream and upstream channels affects the modem’s performance. More channels help in processing data more efficiently, especially during peak usage times. Opt for at least 16×4 channels for moderate use and 24×8 for high usage.
5. Built-in Router
Some cable modems come with integrated Wi-Fi routers. This feature can simplify your setup and reduce clutter. However, if you require faster speeds and advanced features, consider using a separate modem and router.
6. Price and Warranty
Consider your budget, but also look for long-term value. Some modems may have a higher upfront cost but save money on rental fees. Warranty and customer service are also important factors to consider in case you encounter issues later.
Top 10 Best Cable Modems on Amazon
1. NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 is one of the best cable modems available in 2024. It is DOCSIS 3.1 compatible, ensuring you’re future-proofed for high-speed internet needs. With four Gigabit Ethernet ports, the Nighthawk supports multiple connections and boasts a speed rating of up to 2 Gbps.
The modem’s performance is exceptional for high-bandwidth applications like gaming and 4K streaming. Users have praised its reliability and ease of setup. Having the capability to handle speeds suitable for service plans of up to 2 Gbps makes this device a top choice.
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 2Gbps. Currently certified with Cox, Spectrum and Xfinity.. Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service
- 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 box, and other devices
- Modem technology: Engineered with 32x8 channel bonding, OFDM 2x2, and DOCSIS 3.1
2. Motorola MB7621
For those seeking an affordable yet high-performing option, the Motorola MB7621 is a standout. This DOCSIS 3.0 modem is capable of delivering speeds up to 650 Mbps, making it suitable for most households. With 24×8 channel bonding, it provides ample capacity for multiple devices streaming simultaneously.
Installation is straightforward, and its compact design means it won’t hog too much space. The MB7621 is a reliable choice for mid-tier internet plans and is well-regarded for its durability. Users report minimal issues and reliable performance over time.
- 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 1 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.
- Attractive, compact design minimizes shelf space, improves cooling, and extends product life while looking great in any home or office. A 2-year warranty plus rugged lightning and power surge circuits protect your investment.
3. ARRIS SURFboard SB8200
The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is another excellent choice, especially for users looking for cutting-edge technology. This modem is DOCSIS 3.1 compatible and supports speeds up to 10 Gbps, ideal for high-demand users. With 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels, you get top-notch performance for streaming, gaming, and more.
Users appreciate its performance and stability, making it a perennial favorite. With two 1-Gbps Ethernet ports, it also allows you to connect to multiple devices seamlessly. The SB8200 is perfect for users looking to invest in a modem that will last.
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Better connectivity, better speed. The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is designed to bring you superior connectivity, increase your network capability and provide faster streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing. .Telephone Port : None. HD Multi-Media Streaming : Yes.
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings vary by cable service provider). Certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers. For a complete list see additional details below.
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers. Its 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0, provides better security, reduces lag while gaming & enables multi-gig networking (ability to run fast speeds on your copper cable from your internet provider).
- System requirements 1. High-speed Internet access account 2.Web browser access – Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari 3. Compatible operating systems: 4. Windows 10 5. Windows 8 6. Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1) Note: Although older versions of Microsoft Windows operating systems are no longer specifically supported, they should still function with your SB8200. a.Macintosh 10.4 or higher b. UNIX c. Linux
- Simple and Secure Set-up: Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. Connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking.
4. TP-Link TC7650
For high-speed needs at a reasonable price, the TP-Link TC7650 is worth considering. This modem supports DOCSIS 3.1 technology and offers speeds up to 2 Gbps, perfect for busy homes. The modem features 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, ensuring smooth internet connectivity.
Users find it easy to set up with various ISPs. Its performance meets expectations, especially when used in conjunction with a robust router. It’s an excellent choice for both streaming and gaming without breaking the bank.
- OneMesh Compatible Range Extender/Router- Form a seamless WiFi network with other TP-Link OneMesh WiFi Extenders and routers.
- Dual band 1750 Mbps high speed internet(450mbps for 2.4GHz, 1300Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K streaming
- 3 external antennas for long range Wi-Fi. System Requirements-Internet Explorer 11, Firefox 12.0, Chrome 20.0, Safari 4.0, or other JavaScript-enabled browser. Cable or DSL Modem (if needed)
- 4 Gigabit LAN ports, fast access to multiple connected wired devices
- TP-Link tether app easily set up and remotely manage your home network
5. NETGEAR CM500
The NETGEAR CM500 is an affordable reminder that you don’t have to spend excessively to get a high-performing modem. This DOCSIS 3.0 modem is capable of supporting speeds of up to 300 Mbps, making it ideal for light to moderate users. The modem features 16×4 channel bonding for optimal performance during peak hours.
Installation is straightforward, and it meets the needs of many customers who use it for streaming and browsing. It’s a solid choice for those who don’t require the fastest speeds available.
- Save monthly rental fees: Model CM500 replaces your cable modem, saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees.
- Speeds by carrier: Spectrum (up to 400Mbps), Xfinity (up to 200Mbps), Cox (up to 150Mbps).
- 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.
6. ARRIS SURFboard SB6190
The ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 is another solid offering in the market, supporting DOCSIS 3.0 technology with speeds up to 1.4 Gbps. Ideal for households with multiple devices, the modem comes with 32×8 channel bonding for enhanced performance. Users enjoy its easy installation and excellent performance across devices, making it suitable for high-demand usage scenarios.
Notably, it often receives high marks for reliability and consistent performance, making it a robust choice for streaming apps and gaming platforms.
- Power your home network with the SB6190 to deliver fast speeds and a reliable connection to the Internet. The SURFboard SB6190 is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem that's capable of download speeds up to 1.4 Gbps.
- Get internet speeds up to 1.4 Gbps for downloads and 262 Mbps for uploads based on your cable ISP subscription.
- Gigabit Ethernet port connects to your computer or router for fast downloads.
- Stream HD video and games on multiple devices at the same time.
- Download 32 channels and upload 8 channels to future proof your modem as your Cable ISP enhances service offerings.
7. Motorola MB8600
The Motorola MB8600 is a top-of-the-line DOCSIS 3.1 modem that supports internet speeds of up to 6 Gbps. With 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels, it delivers exceptional performance for heavy-duty users such as gamers and streamers. Users appreciate its easy setup process and compatibility with various ISPs.
Additionally, the MB8600’s robust build quality ensures that it will last for years, and its integrated power boost feature enhances the Wi-Fi signal strength when paired with a separate router.
- 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.
8. Linksys CM3016
Offering solid performance at a budget-friendly price, the Linksys CM3016 is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem that supports speeds up to 400 Mbps. With 16×4 channel bonding, it’ll effectively handle streaming and light gaming. Users appreciate the compact design and ease of installation, making it a perfect choice for smaller households or users with moderate internet needs.
This modem consistently receives customer satisfaction ratings, making it a reliable purchase for those looking to avoid modem rental fees from their ISP.
- Compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Time Warner Cable, Charter, Cox, Cablevision, and more. Requires Cable Internet Service
- Not compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink
- Cable modem only (no WiFi router)
- Experience high speed Wi Fi speeds from your existing ISP plans upto 250 Mbps. Ideal for HD media streaming, simultaneous online gaming, web surfing and more
- Features Intel Puma 6 chipset to achieve high speed downstream and upstream performance
9. Actiontec ECB6200
The Actiontec ECB6200 is a versatile option that supports speeds up to 720 Mbps and is also DOCSIS 3.0 certified. With support for 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, this modem is great for users who stream videos or participate in online gaming but aren’t necessarily heavy users of multiple high-bandwidth devices simultaneously.
Users often rave about its great value, speed, and reliability, making it an ideal purchase for casual internet users who want to save money on rentals and still enjoy solid performance.
- Faster than Wi-Fi: Use your home’s coax cables for internet speeds up to 1 Gbps, perhaps outpacing Wi-Fi. With multiple adapters and a native MoCA router, MoCA speeds can reach 2.5 Gbps. Speed may vary due to cable quality and other MoCA devices.
- Get Better Speeds and Bandwidth: The 1Gbps network card for high-speed internet is ideal for 4K streaming, gaming, and working from home. If your devices don't have a 1Gbps Network Card, it's backwards compatible with 10/100 Mbps network devices.
- Skip the Wi-Fi! Use existing coax cables for wired Ethernet connections in your home. MoCA Adapter 2.5 delivers faster, more reliable speeds than Wi-Fi for up to 16 nodes on one network. You can also use these to connect remote Wi-Fi access points.
- Check MoCA Compatibility: You will need 1 ECB or a MoCA compatible router or 2+ for non-MoCA routers. Most FiOS routers have MoCA built-in. Connect ECBs in each room with coax for wired access and switches to the ECBs for more ethernet connections.
- Device Compatibility: This MoCA adapter for ethernet over coax works with most devices and routers with an ethernet port. However, some DOCSIS 3.1 modems might conflict (frequency overlap) and cause random disconnects. Check with your ISP for a fix.
10. TP-Link TC7650
Rounding out our list is the TP-Link TC7650. Like its predecessor on the list, the TC7650 boasts DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which supports internet plans of up to 2 Gbps. It features 32×8 channel bonding for optimal performance in busy households. Notable for its stability and speed, this modem has become a popular choice for high-demand internet users.
Users find the modem’s setup easy and its maintenance hassle-free. If you’re looking for a modem that’s compatible with the latest technology and can handle multiple devices effortlessly, the TC7650 is definitely one to consider.
- OneMesh Compatible Range Extender/Router- Form a seamless WiFi network with other TP-Link OneMesh WiFi Extenders and routers.
- Dual band 1750 Mbps high speed internet(450mbps for 2.4GHz, 1300Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K streaming
- 3 external antennas for long range Wi-Fi. System Requirements-Internet Explorer 11, Firefox 12.0, Chrome 20.0, Safari 4.0, or other JavaScript-enabled browser. Cable or DSL Modem (if needed)
- 4 Gigabit LAN ports, fast access to multiple connected wired devices
- TP-Link tether app easily set up and remotely manage your home network
Conclusion
When shopping for the best cable modem, it’s essential to consider compatibility, speed, price, and additional features. With so many options available on Amazon in 2024, we hope this list has provided comprehensive insights into the top ten choices suited for various needs and budgets. Whether you’re a heavy user or looking for something for basic internet browsing, there’s a modem out there that will fit your requirements.
Remember to regularly check for updates on compatibility and technology trends, as the internet landscape continually evolves. Investing wisely in the best cable modem will ensure you enjoy fast, reliable internet for years to come.