7 Best Modems in 2024

By Robin Owens 21 days ago, Modems

The best modems available on the market.

best modems

With the development of technology, a stable Wi-Fi network became an important part of any modern home. Whether you use the Internet for leisure or work, the best modem is what you need for a smooth experience. It will allow you to play your favorite online games, watch movies and sports matches, view photos, videos, etc.

Moreover, working from home is becoming more and more popular these days. Therefore, you need a reliable Wi-Fi router to organize your online business well.

Top 7 Best Modems

  1. NETGEAR CM500 - Our Choice
  2. ARRIS SURFboard - Stylish
  3. Asus Modem Router Combo - Affordable
  4. Motorola Cable Modem - High quality
  5. TP-Link AC2600 - Modern
  6. NETGEAR CM1000 - Highspeed
  7. Linksys Mesh AC2200 - Cheap

When choosing a suitable computer modem, you should remember that models differ in speed, overall performance and price. You should take into account the requirements of the devices that you will connect to the Internet and their number. All this affects a router’s performance. I also recommend replacing your old modem if it provides slow Internet and download speeds.

1. NETGEAR CM500

Our Choice
best modem netgear cm500

Speed: 680Mbps | Connectivity: high-speed cable | Features: DOCSIS® 3.0 is 16X faster than 2.0. | Item Weight: 1.46 lbs

  • ✚ Delivers speedy performance
  • ✚ Suitable for any Wi-Fi router
  • ✚ Quick setup
  • High price
Rating

This fast modem is compatible with most cable Internet plans and delivers 300Mbps connection speed. It is great for a variety of purposes, including HD streaming. Installation is very simple and doesn’t take much time. All you need to do is to plug the device into a suitable router. This model is perfectly compatible with your favorite Wi-Fi routers, supports DISH and any bundled voice service.

By choosing this modem, you can save up to $168 a year in rental fees. The advantage of this option is high speed up to 300 Mbps. By connecting the router via Ethernet port, you will provide a stable wireless connection for all your home devices.

2. ARRIS SURFboard

Stylish
best modem arris surfboard

Speed: 2000 Mbps | Connectivity: Ethernet | Features: DOCSIS 3.0 Cable| Item Weight: 1.87 pounds

  • ✚ Includes 2 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • ✚ Easy setup won’t take much time
  • ✚ Fast
  • Price tag
Rating

This option supports DOCSIS 3.1, the latest technology from cable Internet providers. This highspeed cable modem is ideal for virtual gaming, 4K Ultra-HD video streaming and other needs. What’s more, this modem comes with two Gigabit Ethernet ports.

It meets the requirements of popular US cable providers, including Cox and XFINITY. This is one of the best options on this list in terms of maximum Internet speeds. It’s great for any home packed with state-of-the-art gadgets. Buy this modem and say goodbye to rental payments.

3. Asus Modem Router Combo

Affordable
best modem asus modem router combo

Speed: 2534 Mbps | Connectivity: Cable modem&Router | Features: ac2600 wifi router| Item Weight:2.09 lbs

  • ✚ Top-tier cable modem provides impressive Wi-Fi
  • ✚ Great Wi-Fi capabilities for homes with plenty of devices
  • ✚ Affordable
  • Heavy
Rating

If you are looking for the best modem with incredible coverage then this option is worth considering. With four Wi-Fi 5dBi antennas, it can deliver a stable connection to any corner of your home. Using advanced power plus AiRadar beamforming technology, the ASUS CM-32 outperforms other cable modem routers. This model consists of a Wi-Fi AC2600 router powered by unique wireless technologies and a DOCSIS 3.0 32x8 cable modem.

This combination allows you to get excellent connections and coverage without monthly fees. Moreover, it has dual USB 2.0 ports for a variety of connections. You can share access to printers and external USB drives, as well as use remote access options via AiCloud.

4. Motorola Cable Modem

High quality
best modem motorola cable modem

Speed: 650 Mbps | Connectivity: cable modem's | Features: minimizes shelf space| Item Weight: 1.10 ounces

  • ✚ Speedy Internet performance
  • ✚ Simple setup
  • ✚ Suitable for most cable providers
  • Expensive
Rating

You can easily configure the connections of all your Wi-Fi and Ethernet-capable devices. Just plug this Ethernet modem into your router. Flexible connection options are among the strong points of this model. It is compatible with almost all routers, including gaming and mesh models.

The Ethernet port can be used to connect to a router or other devices such as a game station, computer, TV, etc. This modem provides equal service speeds to Comcast even if you use other service providers.

5. TP-Link AC2600

Modern
best modem tp-link ac2600

Speed: 1733 Mbp | Connectivity: internal antenna | Features: Higher overall throughput| Item Weight:1.23 lbs

  • ✚ Simple setup
  • ✚ Supports Alexa
  • ✚ Includes parental controls and QoS features
  • Price
Rating

If we talk about the declared coverage, speeds and the number of connected devices, it is worth noting that they are indicated taking into account tests in normal conditions. This simple modem can appear to deviate from this data depending on several factors. First, various environmental factors (physical objects, obstacles and building materials) affect the actual wireless transmission rate.

Secondly, network complexity, local interference, product location, volume and density of traffic, and other network conditions are important aspects for a stable and fast connection. Finally, the connection quality, rated performance and client condition can both increase or decrease its performance.

6. NETGEAR CM1000

High-speed
best modem netgear cm1000

Speed: 1Gbps| Connectivity: cable internet | Features: faster download speeds than DOCSIS 3.0| Item Weight:0.84 lbs

  • ✚ Meets Xfinity’s Gig-speed Internet requirements
  • ✚ Comes with high-speed cable
  • ✚ Small
  • Design isn't the best
Rating

This fast Internet modem is based on the DOCSIS 3.1 protocol and supports speeds of up to 1Gbps. It has great options for future updates. Thanks to the Gigabit Ethernet port, you can enjoy faster access and downloads.

This modem provides you with constant fast download speeds and is great for ultra HD video streaming over IP with 2x2 OFDM or 32x8 channel bonding. It meets the requirements of Cox, Comcast, Mediacom Cable, etc. The lack of monthly fees is another benefit.

7. Linksys Mesh AC2200

Cheap
best modem linksys mesh ac2200

Speed: 1.2 Gbps | Connectivity: cable | Features: Provides up to 2,000 sq. ft. of WiFi| Item Weight: 1.59 lbs

  • ✚ Simple setup
  • ✚ Stunning Wi-Fi coverage
  • ✚ Small
  • Slow work
Rating

If you are looking for the best modem for a reliable and fast internet connection on multiple devices at the same time, consider this option. It delivers awesome speed thanks to its unique Tri-Band and MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) technology. It is an ideal solution for those who want to play VR games, browse the Internet, stream 4K media at high speeds.

Setting up an Internet connection will not take long, and you will easily figure everything out. First, connect your router to your modem, install the Linksys app, choose a password and a network name. What’s more, the modem comes with four Gigabit Ethernet ports for quick and easy connection of various peripherals.

IMAGE NAME FEATURES
best modem netgear cm500
NETGEAR CM500
Our Choice
  • Speed:680Mbps
  • Connectivity:high-speed cable
  • Features:DOCSIS® 3.0 is 16X faster than 2.0.
  • Item Weight:1.46 lbs
CHECK PRICE
best modem arris surfboard
ARRIS SURFboard
High-speed
  • Speed:2000 Mbps
  • Connectivity: Ethernet
  • Features:DOCSIS 3.0 Cable
  • Item Weight:1.87 pounds
CHECK PRICE
best modem asus modem router combo
Asus Modem Router Combo
Compact
  • Speed: 2534 Mbps
  • Connectivity: Cable modem&Router
  • Features: ac2600 wifi router
CHECK PRICE

How to Choose the Best Modem?

best modem

DOCSIS Protocols

DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1 protocols are used in most fast modems. However, it is quite difficult to find clear info on them and their differences. DOCSIS stands for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification. ISPs use this protocol to deliver Internet services via coaxial cable. In other words, it refers to the ability of a modem to deliver broadband Internet access.

The most popular protocol versions are 3.0 and 3.1. In general, they differ only in the number of simultaneous channels and speed. I recommend choosing a DOCSIS 3.1 router if the Internet speed from your provider is more than 1Gbps. If your Internet speed is around 66 Mbps (this is the US average), then an affordable modem that supports DOCSIS 3.0 will suit your needs.

Upstream and Downstream Channels

When choosing a modem, you may come across different numbers, such as 8 x 4 or 32 x 8, in the model description. However, without being an expert, you are unlikely to understand what they mean. In fact, everything is very simple. These numbers represent downstream and upstream channels. For example, if you see the numbers 16x8 on a computer modem, then 16 stands for downstream channels and 8 for upstream ones. Simply put, it has to do with how much download data your ISP can deliver at a definite time. Typically, there are more downstream channels than upstream ones.

Upload and Download Speeds

computer modem

Upload and download speeds are also important when choosing the best modem for you. You will find this info at the bottom half of the manufacturer’s or retailer’s web page. Typically, they indicate a download speed. Therefore, if you come across an ad with an impressive 600 Mbps, these numbers represent download speeds. Upload speeds are usually around a quarter of the download speed. Also, keep in mind that a fast modem with a speed of 1 Gigabit can pull up to 1,000 Mbps from your ISP.

FAQ

  • • Is it important what modem to choose?

First of all, you must make sure that your cable modem is compatible with your Internet provider. This is the main aspect you should keep in mind. Besides, models differ in the set of functions. Some options can be used as a router to provide a wireless connection.

  • • Why should I buy my own modem?

Although you will have to pay a large sum of money for a modem and router, in the long run, it will allow you to reduce your monthly Internet spending. You can buy a separate router and modem, or choose a combo model. The latter option is great if you need a simple setup.

  • • Should I have both a router and a modem?

A router will allow you to connect all your devices, such as a printer, smart TV, laptops and modem. Using a router you can create a LAN without an Internet connection. By the way, you don't need to connect your router to a modem. 

  • • Does a new modem provide faster Internet?

Experts claim that a new device may solve some problems, such as an unreliable connection. However, if the low internet speed is caused by poor NBN speed or other reasons, then even the best modem will not fix it.

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