The best DOCSIS 3.1 modems available on the market.
DOCSIS 3.1 stands for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification and represents a worldwide standard for transferring data using a cable television system. It also offers backward compatibility with the previous editions of this standard. A cable network that relies on DOCSIS 3.1 can achieve a max speed of above 2Gbps, which is enough for providing high-speed internet. Gigabit plans typically cost a lot and the price goes even higher if you’re also paying for the rent of a modem provided by your ISP.
The best DOCSIS 3.1 modem can achieve a speed of up to 10Gpbs. Sadly, it’s not easy to find a provider that can allow you to fully utilize its capabilities. Nonetheless, having such a modem is still worth it, as it allows you to prepare for all future network improvements. Most DOCSIS 3.1 modems rely on OFDM tech that employs a unique data encoding method to decrease latency. As a result, you get to enjoy a faster and more stable performance that can be offered by any of the modems reviewed below.
Speed: Up to 2gbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem, Approved for Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum & others
The release of the SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 modem with WiFi was exactly what ARRIS needed to restore its reputation in the eyes of its customers a while back. It’s reliable, well-designed, and will provide unbelievable internet speed once the ISPs catch up with the latest hardware. While it’s currently there’s not much benefit to purchasing a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, by getting a product like the SB8200, you’re future-proofing your network equipment and preparing for the next generation while achieving the maximum speeds available today in the process.
Overall, the SB8200 by ARRIS offers everything you can expect from a model in this class, with CM1200 being possibly the only option that will outshine it in the future. That said, given how expensive this modem is, it’s mostly recommended for tech enthusiasts rather than the average internet user.
Speed: Up to 2Gbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: Approved by Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. Engineered with 32×8 channel bonding, OFDM 2×2, and DOCSIS 3.1.
The Nighthawk CM1200 is widely considered the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem available right now, as it allows you to obtain the maximum speed offered by your ISP. Other than the potential download speed increase of up to 10 times, this device also offers backward compatibility, meaning it can be paired with the DOCSIS 3.0 standard.
The CM1200 comes with 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels and lets you have different IP addresses from a single ISP.
Another impressive characteristic of this modem is that supports any WiFi router out there, meaning you don’t have to purchase a new one and can simply continue using the one you already have installed.
Speed: Up to 4Gbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: Compatible with Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity and other major U.S. cable internet providers. Has its own app for both Android and iOS, with support for Amazon Alexa’s home Wi-Fi management.
The SBG8300 is among the most expensive options on the market. While its future-proof nature makes it a worthy investment, unless you already have an over 400Mbps plan or will subscribe to one soon, you should look for a more budget-friendly modem that supports the DOCSIS 3.1 standard.
That said, if money isn’t an issue, then the SBG8300 is one of the best devices in this category you can buy.
Speed: Up to 2000 Mbps| Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem, Certified for Xfinity Internet & Voice
This DOCSIS 3.1 internet modem comes with 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels while also being supplied with 2x2 OFDM channels. Such a variety guarantees minimal latency and increased connection speed. When it comes to the number of included inputs, the SURFboard T25 represents a middle-of-the-road option, as it includes a pair of Gigabit Ethernet ports and a pair of telephony inputs for Xfinity. It’s a 2-in-1 device that can be used as both a cable modem and voice adaptor. While it doesn’t come with an integrated router, its compatibility range with various third-party routers is nothing short of impressive. Finally, the compact tower build of this modem provides superior ventilation and increases its longevity.
The SURFboard T25 comes with a rather high price tag, but that isn’t the only aspect holding it back. The best telephony modems are equipped with a backup battery that allows you to continue using them even if you have a power outage. Sadly, this model doesn’t come with such a feature.
Speed: Up to 6Gbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: All Major Cable Providers and Certified for Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, COX
The CAX80 is a fantastic all-in-one DOCSIS 3.1 modem and wireless router combo for users that don’t want to meddle with two separate devices. The only downside of this option is that you won’t be able to upgrade any component individually, so if it ever breaks or gets outdated, you’ll have to invest in a new combo or purchase two devices. That said, this being a DOCSIS 3.1 model, you don’t have to worry about it becoming outdated for years.
The CAX80 looks stylish and slick while providing the speed DOCSIS 3.1 modems are known for. You receive a bandwidth of up to 6Gbps, which can handle even 4K video streaming without any issues, and the ability to connect up to 32 devices simultaneously. If you have smart home devices such capacity is invaluable. This option also offers plenty of security features including data encryption, parental controls, and the Nighthawk app, which lets you configure the network straight from your phone.
Speed: Up to 6000 Mbps| Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem, 6 Gbps Max Speed. Approved for Comcast Xfinity Gigabit, Cox Gigablast, and More
Currently, the MB 8600 won’t give you any higher speeds than a CM1000 or SB8200, and that will continue to hold true until you’ll be able to order a service that provides speeds faster than Gigabit. Once that occurs, all owners of the MB8600 will have the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem on their hands, as it can offer unparalleled performance thanks to link aggregation.
The main advantage of any DOCSIS 3.1 modem is its future-proof nature, and with this model, that statement is more relevant than ever. Additionally, the MB8600 is fully compatible with Gigabit internet plans, provides a Spectrum Analyzer, is properly ventilated, and has a large number of channels for crowded nodes.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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ARRIS SURFboard SB8200
Our Choice
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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Docsis 3.1Nighthawk CM1200
Gaming
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300
Dual Band
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CHECK PRICE → |
Whatever you do, never get a used modem. It will still be connected to the previous owner’s account and you can suffer from plenty of issues when going through the activation process.
With that out of the way, you should know that DOCSIS 3.1 modems have plenty of common features such as 32x8-channel bonding and maximum supported speed. The difference between them comes down to other factors, the most important of which are listed below:
ISP Compatibility
Before you rush off to purchase a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, you have to make sure you’re subscribed to a plan that is compatible with this standard. If you happen to get a modem that is incompatible with your network, you probably won’t even be able to use it. You can find a rundown of supported modems on the official websites of most ISPs. Besides, if your ISP doesn’t have a gigabit plan, getting a DOCSIS 3.1 modem would mean you’re simply wasting your money.
Modem Router Combo
Industry experts constantly argue over whether it’s a good idea to get a modem router combo. Many of them consider it a poor decision since they aren’t upgradable like standalone versions of the two devices. That said, from a budgetary and aesthetic perspective, such a combo allows you to save money while also freeing up more space and having fewer wires in your house to mess with. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference and needs.
Signal Range
If you’re getting a DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combo, you have to take into account both the signal coverage area and the maximum number of devices that you can connect simultaneously. 802.11ax is the newest WiFi technology, but models that support it are quite expensive. In most cases, getting a modem with 802.11ac WiFi tech is a better choice in terms of value for money.
Ethernet Ports
The number of included Ethernet inputs determines how many wired devices you can connect to the web. The majority of DOCSIS 3.1 modems are supplied with 1, 2, or 4 ports. If you’re going to get a model with a single Ethernet input, it’s recommended to pair it with a router. Another thing you have to consider is that if you get a NETGEAR modem with link aggregation, you’ll only be able to employ half of the provided ports. For instance, if it comes with four inputs, only two of them can be used for your PC since the other ones are dedicated to link aggregation.
Security
If you plan to buy a modem and router combo, be sure to check if the router offers WEP and WMPA2 support. This way you can be certain your network is protected from hackers and malware, while a Broadcom chipset is the perfect tool for ensuring you don’t suffer from DoS attacks.
Features and Additional Capabilities
Consider any additional features or capabilities that may be important to you. For example, some modems include built-in Wi-Fi routers, which can eliminate the need for a separate router.
However, it's worth noting that dedicated routers often offer better wireless performance. Other features to look for include compatibility with IPv6, Quality of Service (QoS) for managing network traffic, and support for multiple IP addresses if needed.
Price
The majority of DOCSIS 3.1 modems come at a hefty price, but that doesn’t mean you have to go broke to buy yourself one. You can find more reasonably priced models such as the NETGEAR CM1100 that is also compatible with Gigabit plans.
DOCSIS 3.1 can transcend even the best DOCSIS 3 0 modem. It offers a bigger number of simultaneous channels, which makes it the superior choice if your internet service provider can offer a speed above 1Gbps.
Modems that support this technology noticeably boost the amount of data that you can send online, thus utilizing the data spectrum provided by your internet service provider to the maximum.
Each modem that you can find in this post is a good pick for a 1000Mbps plan. If you need help choosing between them, refer to the guide above.
There’s no clear-cut answer to this question, as some users may prefer one model over the other due to the inclusion of specific features. That said, the Arris Surfboard SB8200 is the optimal option for an average user who doesn’t care about various specs and is simply interested in the best combination of price and performance.
