In today’s fast-paced digital world, a reliable and high-speed internet connection is essential. For those upgrading to gigabit internet, choosing the best cable modem is crucial to maximize your speeds and ensure smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing. This guide reviews the top 10 cable modems compatible with gigabit plans, highlighting their features, pros, cons, and helping you make an informed decision.
| # | Image | Product | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Best Overall |
|
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem...
|
Check Price |
| 2 Best Value |
|
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 - Compatible with...
|
Check Price |
| 3 |
|
NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1...
|
Check Price |
| 4 |
|
Arris (G18) - Cable Modem Router Combo -...
|
Check Price |
| 5 |
|
Hitron CODA56 Cable Internet Modem ONLY - DOCSIS...
|
Check Price |
| 6 |
![ARRIS (SB6190-RB) - Cable Modem - DOCSIS 3.0 32x8 Gigabit Modem, [Check with your provider for compatibility]1 Gbps Port, 800 Mbps Max Speed, 2 Year Warranty -Renewed](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31dUaMH9LML.jpg)
|
ARRIS (SB6190-RB) - Cable Modem - DOCSIS 3.0...
|
Check Price |
| 7 |
|
NETGEAR Cable Modem DOCSIS 3.1 (CM1000) Gigabit Modem,...
|
Check Price |
| 8 |
|
Hitron CODA56 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem ONLY (NOT...
|
Check Price |
| 9 |
|
NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000-1AZNAS)...
|
Check Price |
| 10 |
|
KabelDirekt – Network Cable – 5Gbps, for Maximum...
|
Check Price |
Top 10 Best Cable Modem for Gigabit Internet Reviews
1. Motorola MB8600
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
- Recommended for all service speeds from the slowest to over 1,000 Mbps. A Broadcom modem chipset provides security from Denial of Service attacks. This modem connects to a WiFi router, computer, HDTV, game station, or streaming video device. Great for use with Whole Home WiFi or Mesh networks like eero, Google WiFi, and Orbi. (This cable modem does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability. The Motorola MG7310, MG7315, MG7550, and MG7700 have a built-in wireless router.)
- Requires cable Internet service. Approved by Comcast Xfinity, Cox and CableOne for all speeds, including Comcast Gigabit services and Cox Gigablast. Saves up to $132 per year in cable modem rental fees. (Savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and vary by cable service provider. No cable modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.)
- One open and 3 masked 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet ports allow connection of any SINGLE device with an Ethernet port including a router, Windows/Mac computer, HDTV, game station. The multiple Ethernet ports are NOT for connecting multiple devices; they allow connection to a router that can bond more than one Ethernet port to achieve speeds over 1Gbps when supported by your cable service. Supports IPv4/IPv6. Includes Broadcom full-band capture digital tuner to enhance speed and save energy.
- Active Queue Management (AQM) significantly reduces Internet latency, much better than popular 32x8 3.0-only cable modems. AQM results in faster page loads for all Web traffic and greatly enhances interactive applications like online gaming and video conferencing.
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.1 technology
- Supports gigabit speeds up to 1.5 Gbps
- 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Built-in active Queue Management (AQM)
- IPv6 support
Pros:
- Excellent speed for gigabit plans
- Future-proof with DOCSIS 3.1
- Easy setup and reliable connection
- Compact design
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Requires compatible router for Wi-Fi
Price Range: $130 – $150
Best For: Users seeking reliable gigabit performance with minimal fuss.
2. NETGEAR CM2000
- Mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem delivers up to 2Gbps of download speeds and 1Gbps of upload speeds
- Unlock faster cable internet speeds, such as Xfinity’s 900Mbps download speeds and 100Mbps upload speeds. Works with all major US internet providers. Not compatible with Xfinity Voice plans
- Faster download speeds powers your digital lifestyle with enhanced speed, capacity, efficiency, and response times
- 10x faster upload speeds for seamless multi-family gaming, video conferencing and uploading even the largest files—simultaneously. Plus provides easy remote access to your home security cameras and files on your NAS
- For the ultimate in performance, link a NETGEAR WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 router or Orbi system to the CM2500 cable modem
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.1 support
- Supports internet speeds up to 2 Gbps
- 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- IPv6 ready
Pros:
- High-speed performance
- Easy to set up
- Solid build quality
- Compatible with major ISPs
Cons:
- Price slightly above average
- No Wi-Fi built-in
Price Range: $170 – $190
Best For: Power users needing ultra-fast gigabit connections.
3. Arris SURFboard SB8200
- Multi‑Gig speed for today & tomorrow: DOCSIS 3.1 performance supports cable internet plans up to 2 Gbps, delivering ultra‑fast streaming, gaming, and downloads.
- Save on rental fees: Own your modem and avoid monthly equipment charges—check with your cable provider for plan compatibility.
- Compact, modern design: Space‑saving footprint with discrete LED indicators for power, upstream/downstream, and online status.
- Easy setup: Connect cable, power on, and activate with your cable provider. Then connect a Wi‑Fi router to the Ethernet port for home Wi-Fi coverage.
- Modem only: This cable modem requires a separate Wi-Fi router or mesh system for home Wi-Fi network.
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.1 standard
- Supports speeds up to 2 Gbps
- 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- IPv6 support
Pros:
- Excellent speed support
- Reliable and durable
- Easy to install
- Good compatibility with ISPs
Cons:
- Large size
- No built-in Wi-Fi
Price Range: $150 – $170
Best For: Users seeking high-speed wired connectivity for gigabit plans.
4. ASUS Modem CM-AX6000
- New-generation WiFi 6 - Enjoy ultrafast speeds up to 6000 Mbps with the latest WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and 160MHz channels.
- Dual 2.5G ports -Traffic via 2.5G ports has top priority; flexible WAN/LAN network port configurations.
- Extreme Quad-Core CPU Power – High-performance 2.0 GHz quad-core 64-bit CPU takes computational capabilities to the next level.
- Expanded coverage – The exclusive ASUS RangeBoost Plus improves signal range and overall coverage.
- Commercial-grade Security Anywhere – Protect your home network with AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro. And when away from home, ASUS Instant Guard gives you a one-click sharable secure VPN.
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.1 technology
- Supports gigabit internet speeds
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6 router
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
Pros:
- Dual functionality: modem and Wi-Fi router
- Fast Wi-Fi 6 support
- Multiple Ethernet ports
- Easy management via app
Cons:
- Higher price
- Large device size
Price Range: $250 – $280
Best For: Home users wanting integrated Wi-Fi and high-speed internet.
5. Motorola MB7420
- Model MB7621 is recommended for actual cable Internet service speeds up to 900 Mbps. Wirecutter rates this “the best modem for most people.” A Full-Band Capture Digital Tuner ensures faster, more reliable Internet.
- Pairs with any WiFi router - Seamlessly compatible with any WiFi router to connect all your devices. This cable modem does NOT have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability.
- Cost-saving solution: Owning your own modem typically saves the average home $156 per year in monthly rental charges. (Savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and vary by cable service provider.)
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.0 standard (up to 686 Mbps)
- Supports gigabit plans with certain ISPs
- 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- IPv6 support
Pros:
- Affordable option
- Simple setup
- Reliable performance for moderate usage
Cons:
- Limited to DOCSIS 3.0
- Less future-proof
Price Range: $70 – $90
Best For: Budget-conscious users with gigabit plans from compatible ISPs.
6. NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200
- Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service. Best for cable provider plans up to 2Gbps
- Coverage up to 2, 500 sq. ft. , 25 concurrent devices with dual-band WiFi 6 (AX2700) speed (up to 2.7Gbps)
- 4 X 1 Gig Ethernet ports (supports port aggregation) and 1 USB 3.0 port for computers, game consoles, streaming players, storage drive and other wired devices
- Replaces your cable modem. Save up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees
- DOCSIS 3.1 and 32x8 channel bonding. Supports WPA/WPA2/WPA3 wireless security protocols
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.1 support
- Supports speeds up to 2 Gbps
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- IPv6 support
Pros:
- High-speed capacity
- Multiple Ethernet ports
- Easy to set up with app
- Future-proof technology
Cons:
- Price higher than basic modems
- No Wi-Fi built-in
Price Range: $200 – $230
Best For: Tech-savvy users needing high throughput wired connections.
7. ARRIS SURFboard SB6183
- This product may come white or black in color
- Approved for Cox, Spectrum and Xfinity internet along with other US cable internet providers. Is NOT compatible with ATT, CenturyLink, Verizon, Frontier or other Fiber Optic, DSL or Satellite internet service providers.
- Does NOT include Wi-Fi and Does NOT support cable digital voice service.
- Modem Technology/Simple Set-Up: DOCSIS 3.0 is a reliable, broadly available & affordable technology that delivers high speed internet to your home devices. Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App & follow the instructions to activate.
- Compatibility: Compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity and others. It's approved for cable internet speed plans up to 400 Mbps. Check your Internet Service Provider website to confirm compatibility.
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.0 standard
- Supports speeds up to 400 Mbps
- 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Energy-efficient power supply
Pros:
- Affordable and reliable
- Easy installation
- Good for moderate gigabit plans
Cons:
- Limited to DOCSIS 3.0
- Not ideal for full gigabit plans
Price Range: $80 – $100
Best For: Users with limited budget on gigabit plans from compatible providers.
8. TP-Link Archer CR700
- Eliminate rental fee: eliminate your cable Modem monthly rental fee - up to $120 per year
- Cable Modem router: item is cable Modem router and this will serve as both your cable Modem and Wi-Fi router
- Industry leading support: 2-year warranty and free 24/7 technical support; J. D. Power Ranked TP-LINK "highest in customer satisfaction for wireless routers in 2017"；great for cable internet plans up to 300Mbps with Infinity from Comcast, spectrum (including Charter, time Warner Cable, and bright house networks), Cox, Sudden link, Mediacom, and wow
- Faster speed: up to 1750Mbps Wi-Fi speeds with simultaneous 2. 4GHz (up to 450Mbps) and 5GHz (up to 1300Mbps) bands; Channel bonding of up to 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, up to 680Mbps download speeds
- Increased Wi-Fi range: six internal antennas and high-powered amplifiers Boost signal strength and reduce interference
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.0 standard
- Supports speeds up to 400 Mbps
- Built-in Wi-Fi router
- Dual-band Wi-Fi
Pros:
- Combination modem/router
- Affordable
- Decent performance for moderate plans
Cons:
- Limited speed for full gigabit plans
- Could be slower under heavy load
Price Range: $100 – $130
Best For: Home users seeking an all-in-one device at a budget price.
9. Cisco DPC3008
- Compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Mediacom & Other US Cable Internet Providers
- DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Only - WiFi Router Sold Separately
- 8x4 Channel Bonding Allows for Wired Download Speeds up to 343Mbps
- Features 1 Gigabit Ethernet Port + 1 USB 2.0 Port
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.0 support
- Supports speeds up to 343 Mbps
- 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Energy-efficient design
Pros:
- Reliable brand
- Easy setup
- Good for moderate gigabit speeds
Cons:
- Limited to DOCSIS 3.0
- Not future-proof for higher speeds
Price Range: $80 – $100
Best For: Users with compatible ISPs wanting dependable performance.
10. Linksys CM3016
- Compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Time Warner Cable, Charter, Cox, Cablevision, and more. Requires Cable Internet Service
- Not compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink
- Cable modem only (no WiFi router)
- Experience high speed Wi Fi speeds from your existing ISP plans upto 250 Mbps. Ideal for HD media streaming, simultaneous online gaming, web surfing and more
- Features Intel Puma 6 chipset to achieve high speed downstream and upstream performance
Key Specifications:
- DOCSIS 3.0 standard
- Supports speeds up to 300 Mbps
- 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
- Energy-efficient design
Pros:
- Affordable and reliable
- Simple setup process
- Good for entry-level gigabit plans
Cons:
- Limited to DOCSIS 3.0
- Not suitable for multi-gigabit plans
Price Range: $70 – $90
Best For: Budget-conscious users with basic gigabit internet plans.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Price | Key Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorola MB8600 | $130 – $150 | DOCSIS 3.1, Dual Ethernet | 4.8/5 |
| NETGEAR CM2000 | $170 – $190 | 2 Gbps, DOCSIS 3.1 | 4.7/5 |
| Arris SURFboard SB8200 | $150 – $170 | 2 Gbps, Dual Ethernet | 4.6/5 |
| ASUS CM-AX6000 | $250 – $280 | Wi-Fi 6, 4 Ethernet ports | 4.7/5 |
| Motorola MB7420 | $70 – $90 | DOCSIS 3.0, Affordable | 4.2/5 |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 | $200 – $230 | 4 Gbps, DOCSIS 3.1 | 4.7/5 |
| ARRIS SB6183 | $80 – $100 | DOCSIS 3.0, Budget | 4.1/5 |
| TP-Link Archer CR700 | $100 – $130 | Router Combo, Dual-band | 4.0/5 |
| Cisco DPC3008 | $80 – $100 | Reliable, Moderate Speed | 4.0/5 |
| Linksys CM3016 | $70 – $90 | Entry-Level, Budget | 3.9/5 |
Buying Guide
What to Look For
Ensure your chosen modem supports DOCSIS 3.1 for gigabit speeds. Check for multiple Ethernet ports if wired connections are needed, and verify compatibility with your ISP. Future-proofing with advanced standards and features like IPv6 can also be beneficial.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid purchasing a modem with lower DOCSIS standards like 3.0 for gigabit plans, as it limits speeds. Also, don’t forget to confirm your ISP’s compatibility, and steer clear of models with no warranty or poor reviews.
Additional Tips
Consider buying a modem-router combo if you prefer fewer devices, but for maximum performance, separate modem and router setups are often better. Keep in mind that investing in a quality router can significantly enhance your overall internet experience.
FAQs
Can I use any cable modem for gigabit internet?
No, only models supporting DOCSIS 3.1 or high-end DOCSIS 3.0 standards can handle gigabit speeds effectively.
Do I need a separate router with these modems?
If the modem doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi, you’ll need a separate router to access wireless internet; many models do include integrated Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cable modem for gigabit internet depends on your speed needs, budget, and future-proofing preferences. The top picks listed here offer reliable performance, compatibility, and features to maximize your gigabit plans. Carefully consider your requirements to select the ideal device for seamless high-speed connectivity.