The best modems for gaming on the market.
If you are a serious gamer, you probably know that a great gaming experience is impossible without a reliable Internet modem for gaming. So I’ve decided to create this guide that describes top models with excellent performance.
Quick download speed, great level of convenience, stable connection are only possible with the best modem for gaming. With the help of a highly capable device, you will forget about constant lags, interrupted connections and other annoying issues. This article will introduce to your attention the seven greatest modems for gaming and provide you with instructions on how to set up your new assistant.
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.
Featuring the advanced DOCSIS 3.1 technology, the modem is compatible with the speediest ISPs. Besides, it offers 10x faster speeds for downloading various games, apps and other content from the Web. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that it is backward compatible. It means that it supports older DOCSIS 3.0 technology.
Offering 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels, the modem allows you to use a separate IP address from the same ISP.
Another feature that makes the NETGEAR Nighthawk the best modem for gaming is that is compatible with all Wi-Fi routers. Besides, you won’t experience any difficulties while installing it, as this process is quite simple. You need to insert the cable Ethernet in the device and connect it to your PC.
Speed: Up to 1.4Gbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: Save on monthly modem rental fees. This unit is jam-packed with features that are responsible for its excellent performance.
The ARRIS SB6190 is a great Internet modem for gaming that has all the features for ensuring a smooth and quick connection. Besides, the device has impressive connectivity options. Incorporating a great variety of advanced features like DOCSIS 3.0 and a 1 GigE port, this model boasts high functionality and trouble-free performance.
One more advantage of this modem is its versatility. The ARRIS SB6190 is compatible with various ISPs. It is a great choice for gaming, video streaming and your other daily needs.
Speed: Up to 6Gbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: All Major Cable Providers and Certified for Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, COX
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 is a modem router combo for gaming, which makes it a great option for those who don’t want to buy two separate units. However, it’s impossible to upgrade the router and modem separately. The indisputable advantage of this model is that it’s future-proof.
Although the design is a bit large and bulky, it is quite attractive and slick. The modem provides a speedy connection that is enough for streaming in 4K resolution without any issues. The CAX80 supports up to 32 devices making this model a perfect choice for smart home enthusiasts.
Speed: Up to 600mbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: Compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers, Quick & easy setup
The ARRIS SURFboard SBG7600AC2 is a perfect modem for gaming because of many reasons. First of all, this model improves the Internet connection provided by the ISP. It will help you get rid of such problems as unstable signals, poor connectivity, overheating. Besides, this modem is simple to install, and the customer support team is always ready to help you with any issues.
Therefore, this model is great for people who have not had any experience in the technical field. The ARRIS SURFboard SBG7600AC2 has a practical design and numerous other handy features that make it a worthy option. Furthermore, this model can function as a modem and router. Although this unit is quite expensive, it is definitely a great investment.
Speed: Up to 300mGbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: 3 products in 1, Compatible with major U S Cable Internet Providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity & others.
The SURFboard SBG10 is a cable modem for gaming that supports DOCSIS 3.0 technology and has the Wave 2 AC1600 Dual Band Concurrent Wi-Fi Access Point. It can also be used as a 2-port Gigabit Ethernet router. Users highly appreciate this model, but some of them complain about rare updates.
However, some minor drawbacks, such as limited Wi-Fi coverage, are not a deal-breaker. The model is very easy to set up. It has a user-friendly interface, which makes the device simple to use. It is definitely a perfect product because of a great variety of advanced features.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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NETGEAR Nighthawk
Our Choice
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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ARRIS SURFboard SB6190
Budget
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80
High speed
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CHECK PRICE → |
Compatibility is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a modem. I recommend you to check whether a model you have selected is compatible with your ISP. You can do it by reading the description of a cable modem for gaming where the manufactures usually list the providers supported by the device. Another significant thing to pay attention to is whether your modem has been approved by your ISP.
Before acquiring a modem, I recommend you to check its download and upload speed. The download speed defines the rate at which you can save files or other content from the Internet to your PC. This is the speed at which you receive data from remote servers. So if you are in search of the best modem for gaming, this value should be high enough. The upload speed defines the speed at which files from your PC or smartphone are transferred to a remote server. The upload speed is usually lower.
Just remember that you should have a subscription plan that allows you to use a high-speed connection. Otherwise, even the most powerful modem won’t be able to deliver the result you expect. Your task is to find a model that supports or even exceeds the download speed provided by your ISP. If you are acquiring a modem for long-time use, opt for models that offer a little higher rate in case you will decide to upgrade your plan.
Nowadays, Wi-Fi is the most popular way of connecting your computer or other devices to the Web. However, serious gamers know that online gaming demands a speedy and stable Internet connection that can be ensured only by a cable modem for gaming. It means that the number of Ethernet ports is one of the most essential aspects to consider, as modern models don’t have many ports. I recommend you to look for a powerful modem equipped with two Ethernet ports. This way, you can use them to connect your router and gaming station. By using a Wi-Fi connection, you will be able to enjoy Internet browsing, streaming, etc. A wired connection will ensure the best possible gaming experience without any lags.
Many users do not understand the difference between routers and modems. However, these devices are designed for different tasks. A modem connects one device to the Internet using a wired connection. It determines which Internet operator to work with, connects to it, starts transmitting user data and downloading information from the network to the computer. A modem is only responsible for maintaining an Internet connection for one device. At the same time, a router connects to the Internet via a modem or an Internet cable and allows you to connect to the Web from various devices.
As for a modem router combo for gaming, this option is very convenient. It incorporates the functionality of both a modem and router. Such a device will not only save space on your shelf but your money as well. Besides, such a unit eliminates problems with clutter.
A cable modem delivers a speedier connection than that one offered by a router. So, it will be a good idea to establish a direct connection from your gaming device to a modem via the cable that will transfer data at a higher speed.
I advise you to purchase your own modem rather than rent it. Of course, the best modem for gaming costs a lot of money, but it is better to pay once. The average rental fee in the US is $120, but it may vary depending on your Internet provider. When purchasing a router, you will be able to select a device with the desired specs and speeds.
If you are a serious gamer who often plays some heavy games online, or if you regularly use Xbox Game Pass or Playstation Now, I would recommend you to consider routers designed specifically for online gaming. Firstly, they are more powerful. Secondly, they are fitted with some features that will improve your online gaming experience.
Yes, each modem has its own upload and download speed limitations. If the speed offered by your provider is higher than those rates supported by a modem, you won’t get the maximum speed provided by your plan. Therefore, one of the most important things to consider while selecting the best modem for gaming is whether its capabilities match the capacity offered by your Internet service provider.
