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10 Best Modems 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2 -1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Works with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | For Cable Internet Plans up to 2Gbps | Modem Only, Router Required
The ARRIS SB8200 Cable Modem is a powerful device designed for users who need fast internet speeds and reliable connectivity. Its use of DOCSIS 3.1 technology means it can offer speeds up to 10 times faster than the older DOCSIS 3.0 standard, making it ideal for heavy internet use, such as streaming HD multimedia and online gaming. The modem is compatible with major U.S. providers like Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, ensuring broad usability.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,348
Speed
Built-in Router
Most important from
20355 reviews
#2
NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router - AX2700 2.7 Gbps - Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and More - Gigabit Wireless Internet
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) is a versatile device that combines a high-speed DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a WiFi 6 router, providing speeds up to 2.7 Gbps. It is compatible with major cable providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox but not with DSL, fiber providers, or services like Verizon and AT&T. This makes it suitable for users with cable internet plans up to 2Gbps. The device covers up to 2,000 sq. ft. and supports up to 25 devices simultaneously, making it a strong choice for medium to large homes.
Rating
9.1
Speed
Built-in Router
Most important from
1286 reviews
#3
NETGEAR Nighthawk Multi-Gig Cable Modem (CM2000) - Compatible with All Cable Providers Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - for Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps - DOCSIS 3.1
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Multi-Gig Cable Modem (CM2000) is a solid option for users looking for high-speed internet from major cable providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. It supports cable plans up to 2.5Gbps, making it ideal for heavy internet users, gamers, and streaming enthusiasts. The modem is built on the latest DOCSIS 3.1 standard, which ensures faster and more efficient data transmission with 32x8 channel bonding and 2x2 OFDM(A). This tech enables high-speed connectivity and reduced latency, which is great for high-demand tasks.
Rating
9.1
Compatibility
DOCSIS Standard
Speed
Most important from
2919 reviews
Top 10 Best Modems 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2 -1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Works with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | For Cable Internet Plans up to 2Gbps | Modem Only, Router Required
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2 -1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Works with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | For Cable Internet Plans up to 2Gbps | Modem Only, Router Required
Compatibility: Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum
DOCSIS Standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Speed: up to 1 Gbps
Built-in Router: No
Ethernet Ports: Two 1-Gigabit ports
Chosen by 1348 this week
NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router - AX2700 2.7 Gbps - Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and More - Gigabit Wireless Internet
NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router - AX2700 2.7 Gbps - Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and More - Gigabit Wireless Internet
Compatibility: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox
DOCSIS Standard: 3.1
Speed: 2.7 Gbps
Built-in Router: WiFi 6
Ethernet Ports: 4
NETGEAR Nighthawk Multi-Gig Cable Modem (CM2000) - Compatible with All Cable Providers Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - for Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps - DOCSIS 3.1
NETGEAR Nighthawk Multi-Gig Cable Modem (CM2000) - Compatible with All Cable Providers Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - for Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps - DOCSIS 3.1
Compatibility: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox
DOCSIS Standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Speed: up to 2.5Gbps
Channels: 32x8 bonding, 2x2 OFDM(A)
Built-in Router: No
Ethernet Ports: 1
Motorola MG8725 WiFi 6 Router + Multi-Gig Cable Modem | 2-in-1 Device | Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum| Up to 6000 Mbps | DOCSIS 3.1 | AX6000
Motorola MG8725 WiFi 6 Router + Multi-Gig Cable Modem | 2-in-1 Device | Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum| Up to 6000 Mbps | DOCSIS 3.1 | AX6000
Compatibility: Not compatible with Comcast 5G internet
DOCSIS Standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Speed: WiFi 6 AX6000, supports multi-gigabit speeds
Built-in Router: WiFi 6 router
Ethernet Ports: One 2.5G plus three Gigabit ports
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router Combo (CAX80) - Compatible with All Major Cable Providers incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 6Gbps - AX6000 WiFi 6 Speed - DOCSIS 3.1
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router Combo (CAX80) - Compatible with All Major Cable Providers incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 6Gbps - AX6000 WiFi 6 Speed - DOCSIS 3.1
Compatibility: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox
DOCSIS Standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Speed: up to 6Gbps
Built-in Router: Yes, WiFi 6
Ethernet Ports: Four 1 Gig ports, one multi-gig
Security Features: NETGEAR Armor (30-day trial)
Related Products
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NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000-1AZNAS) – Approved for Today’s Fastest Speeds - Works With all Cable Providers, Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps
NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000-1AZNAS) – Approved for Today’s Fastest Speeds - Works With all Cable Providers, Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps
Compatibility: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox; PC, Router, Laptop
DOCSIS Standard: 3.1
Speed: 2.5Gbps down, up to 1Gbps up
Built-in Router: No
Ethernet Ports: 3
NETGEAR Nighthawk Multi-Gig Cable Modem for Xfinity Voice (CM2050V) – for Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps - DOCSIS 3.1-2 Phone Lines
NETGEAR Nighthawk Multi-Gig Cable Modem for Xfinity Voice (CM2050V) – for Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps - DOCSIS 3.1-2 Phone Lines
Compatibility: Xfinity
DOCSIS Standard: 3.1
Speed: Up to 2.5 Gbps
Channels: 32 down, 8 up
Built-in Router: No
Ethernet Ports: 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port
Arris Surfboard S34 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2.5Gbps + 1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum for Cable Internet Plans up to 2.5Gbps Next Gen Upstream. Modem Only, Router Required
Arris Surfboard S34 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2.5Gbps + 1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum for Cable Internet Plans up to 2.5Gbps Next Gen Upstream. Modem Only, Router Required
Compatibility: Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum
DOCSIS Standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Speed: Up to 2.5 Gbps
Built-in Router: No
Ethernet Ports: 2.5 Gbps and 1 Gbps
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem and Router - DOCSIS 3.1 (CM1000) Gigabit, Compatible with All Major ISP Providers Including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, for Cable Plans Up to 1 Gbps,Black
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem and Router - DOCSIS 3.1 (CM1000) Gigabit, Compatible with All Major ISP Providers Including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, for Cable Plans Up to 1 Gbps,Black
Compatibility: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox
DOCSIS Standard: 3.1
Speed: up to 1 Gbps
Built-in Router: No
Ethernet Ports: 1
Security Features: None
#10
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 - Compatible with All Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox | for Plans Up to 2 Gigabits | 4 x 1G Ethernet Ports | DOCSIS 3.1, Black
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 - Compatible with All Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox | for Plans Up to 2 Gigabits | 4 x 1G Ethernet Ports | DOCSIS 3.1, Black
Compatibility: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox
DOCSIS Standard: DOCSIS 3.1
Speed: up to 2Gbps
Channels: 32x8
Built-in Router: No
Ethernet Ports: 4
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Buying Guide for the Best Modems
Choosing the right modem is crucial for ensuring a stable and fast internet connection. A modem is a device that connects your home network to your Internet Service Provider (ISP). When selecting a modem, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and provides the best performance for your internet usage. Here are the key specs you should consider and how to navigate them.CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the modem works with your Internet Service Provider (ISP). This is important because not all modems are compatible with all ISPs. To ensure compatibility, check with your ISP for a list of approved modems. If a modem is not on the list, it may not work properly with your service. Always start by confirming that the modem you are considering is supported by your ISP.
DOCSIS StandardDOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) is a standard used to provide internet access via a cable modem. The most common standards are DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. DOCSIS 3.0 is suitable for most users and supports speeds up to 1 Gbps, which is sufficient for typical home use. DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest standard and supports speeds up to 10 Gbps, making it ideal for future-proofing and for users with very high-speed internet plans. Choose DOCSIS 3.0 if you have a standard internet plan, and DOCSIS 3.1 if you have a high-speed plan or want to be prepared for future upgrades.
SpeedThe speed of a modem is measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps). This spec is important because it determines how fast your internet connection can be. Modems are often rated for maximum download and upload speeds. For basic internet usage like browsing and streaming, a modem with speeds up to 300 Mbps is usually sufficient. For gaming, 4K streaming, or multiple users, consider a modem with speeds of 1 Gbps or higher. Match the modem speed with your internet plan to ensure you are not paying for more speed than your modem can handle.
ChannelsChannels refer to the number of downstream and upstream channels a modem has. More channels can mean better performance and higher speeds. For example, a 16x4 modem has 16 downstream channels and 4 upstream channels. This is important because more channels can help manage network congestion and provide a more stable connection. For basic use, a modem with 8x4 channels is usually sufficient. For higher performance and faster speeds, look for modems with 16x4 or 32x8 channels. Choose based on your internet usage and the number of devices connected to your network.
Built-in RouterSome modems come with a built-in router, which combines the functions of a modem and a wireless router in one device. This is important for convenience and space-saving. If you prefer an all-in-one solution, a modem with a built-in router can simplify your setup and reduce the number of devices you need. However, if you want more control over your network or plan to use a high-performance router, you might prefer a standalone modem. Choose a built-in router if you want an easy setup and fewer devices, or a standalone modem if you want to pair it with a specific router.
Ethernet PortsEthernet ports on a modem allow you to connect wired devices directly to the modem for a more stable and faster connection. This is important for devices that require a reliable connection, such as gaming consoles, desktop computers, or smart TVs. Most modems come with at least one Ethernet port, but some have multiple ports. If you have several devices that need a wired connection, look for a modem with multiple Ethernet ports. Choose based on the number of wired devices you plan to connect to ensure you have enough ports.