The best fiber optic modems on the market.
If you want to select the best fiber optic modem that will allow you to connect your device to the Internet, take a closer look at this article. I will tell you why you should take into account your Internet Service Provider when purchasing a model that suits your needs. Besides, it’s important to know which modems aren’t reliable enough.
I have compiled this list to make it easier for you to understand what specifications are a must for any good modem. While the final choice is up to you, it’s always important to consider your ISP and budget to purchase a decent model. After you figure out what various specifications refer to, it will help you select a great fiber Internet modem at an affordable price.
Speed: 1 Gbps | Connectivity: Cable | Features: Works with Any Wi-Fi Router | Item Weight: 2.14 lbs
If you want to find a reliable modem that supports an up to 1Gbps connection speed, take a closer look at this model. It allows you to stream 4K HD videos and play online games, which makes it the best fiber optic modem at this price range. It’s easy to set up and use.
If your cable provider supports up to 1 Gigabit speed, it’s a great option to consider. This modem is compatible with various Wi-Fi routers. You just need to plug a router in the 1 Gigabit Ethernet port to ensure a stable connection.
Speed: 650 Mbps | Connectivity: Cable | Features: Fast Internet Speed | Item Weight: 1.1 ounces
Just like other similar fiber modems, it ensures high-speed data transfer thanks to power, coax cable and Ethernet connections. Whether you use Comcast or another service provider, the speeds will remain pretty much the same. You can quickly connect it to any router to access the Internet from any device that supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connection.
For instance, it’s possible to use this modem with a mesh or gaming router as well. The MB7621 supports a speed of up to 650 Mbps. Thanks to its Full-Band Capture Digital Tuner, you can enjoy high speed without connection drops.
Speed: 2000 Mbps | Connectivity: Cable | Features: Approved for Cox | Item Weight: 1.87 pounds
The Surfboard SB8200 is a Gigabit fiber modem that supports DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which makes it fully future-proof. Thanks to it, this model ensures high connection speed, which makes it a great option for those who want to enjoy 4K Ultra-HD streaming and playing online games. Another advantage is that it has two Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Besides, it’s compatible with popular cable providers, such as Cox and XFINITY. Since you might need to connect several devices to the Internet, the SB8200 is a great solution for a modern home. If you buy this modem, it will save you much money on monthly rental fees.
Speed: 1000 Mbps | Connectivity: Cable | Features: Compact | Item Weight: 1.1 ounces
You won’t face any difficulties when setting up and configuring this fiber optic cable modem since you just need to plug it in and connect your devices to the Internet. If you connect it to a router, it will support Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections.
You can use either a mesh or gaming router for a better wireless connection. Even if you don’t use Comcast, other ISPs will support the same speeds. For high speed, you need to use power, coaxial cable and Ethernet connection.
Speed: 1000 Mbps | Connectivity: Cable | Features: Minimize shelf space | Item Weight: 2.14 lbs
This fiber optic modem router allows you to connect to the Internet by using various devices with Ethernet and Wi-Fi support, such as smartphones, gaming computers, tablets, HDTVs, etc. Whether you use Comcast or other ISPs, the speeds will remain at the same high level. This model doesn’t take up much space and has a great cooling system. Both a modem and an integrated router ensure a stable connection.
With this model, you can avoid cluttering your table with wires. Thanks to its vertical design, it will perfectly fit any interior, whether you prefer using it at home or office. Besides, it comes with a 2-year warranty, which makes it one of the best options to consider. This device is guaranteed to serve you for years to come as it has Rugged Lightning and Power Surge circuits.
Speed: 400 Mbps | Connectivity: Cable | Features: BUILT FOR FAST SPEED | Item Weight: 4.71 lbs
If you need to find a fiber DSL modem for work, take a closer look at this model since it allows you to use 2 telephone lines, supports 3-way calls, call forwarding and other features. Besides, it enables you to see a caller ID. For better call quality, it automatically ensures a stable telephone connection. You will be impressed by the remarkable Wi-Fi coverage.
The modem is fitted with external antennas and supports Beamforming technology. Thanks to Xfinity Voice and 2 telephone lines support, it’s a perfect option for those who always want to keep in touch with their family members and colleagues.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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NETGEAR Cable Modem CM1000
Our Choice
|
CHECK PRICE → | |
|
Motorola MB7621
Stylish
|
CHECK PRICE → | |
|
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200
Compact
|
CHECK PRICE → |
Until recently, it was impossible to configure wireless router settings without using a complicated UI accessed via a browser. Since many users found it too difficult to adjust settings in this way, manufacturers released handy mobile apps that allow people to configure various parameters in no time. If you aren’t ready to spend hours trying to figure out how to configure your router, check if a model of your choice has a smartphone app. It will allow you to adjust the settings on the go and manage access rights regardless of your location.
When making your choice, keep in mind that there are different apps available that vary in their usability and sets of features. For instance, some routers have mobile apps that allow you to set the Wi-Fi password and configure other basic parameters. If you want to control other settings, it’s better to select a model with a more advanced app.
When looking for a modem, you will notice that manufacturers indicate its upload and download speeds in the description. While some users tend to disregard this information, make sure to read the description to find it. For instance, you might see that a modem has speeds of up to 600 Mbps without any indication whether it’s an upload or download speed. In this way, manufacturers always indicate download speeds. If a model has an estimated download speed of 1 Gigabit, it indicates that you will be able to download files at up to 1,000 Mbps. An upload speed is usually lower. It’s about one-quarter the download speed.
While advanced fiber modems allow you to download large amounts of data more quickly, you need to understand that the speed also depends on your subscription plan. If your modem supports a download speed of 1.4 Gigabits, but you are paying for a subscription plan that allows you to download data at 25 Mbps, the overall speed can’t be higher than the limit set by your ISP. However, if you want to purchase a future-proof model, it’s better to buy a more expensive modem to avoid upgrades if you decide to switch to another subscription plan.
While many routers allow you to configure their privacy settings to your liking, you won’t need to think about security issues when choosing a modem. However, sometimes you will still need to make some adjustments to ensure that your data is safe. For instance, many modems are fitted with Broadcom chips. They have a dangerous vulnerability that allows hackers to control your modem and use it to access suspicious websites. While Broadcom claims that they have fixed this issue, you still need to contact your ISP to check if your modem has it or not. Internet Service Providers usually upgrade the firmware if any issue arises, but these updates are often late. For better protection, you can also purchase antivirus software, however, there is no guarantee that it will block all online threats.
Yes, since different models vary in upload and download speeds. While basic fiber modems support low speeds, more expensive models allow for a high-speed connection.
You can find this information on your modem. Usually, manufacturers indicate a number of a model and a download speed. If you can’t see the name of a manufacturer or a model number on your modem, you can find this information by using an FCC number.
It’s better to purchase both a modem and a router since it allows you to configure the network settings to get faster speeds. Besides, you can quickly replace your router if it gets outdated. If you are on a budget, you can buy a 2-in-1 model, but a separate router will have more advanced features.
Routers are convenient when you need to connect your devices, such as computers, Smart TVs or printers, to the modem. They can be used without a modem as well. For instance, you can create a LAN without accessing the Internet. In this way, your devices will be connected.
