Best Modems of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Modems are essential electronic devices that allow users to connect to the internet. They come in various types, such as cable modems, DSL modems, and wireless modems. Cable modems are used to connect to the internet through cable television lines, while DSL modems use telephone lines. Wireless modems, on the other hand, use cellular networks to connect to the internet. Modems are necessary for internet connectivity, and they are available from various manufacturers and at different price points.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000 Modem Cover #TOP 1
NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000 Modem
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Hitron DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Cover #TOP 2
Hitron DOCSIS 3.1 Modem
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ARRIS Surfboard S34 Cable Modem Cover #TOP 3
ARRIS Surfboard S34 Cable Modem
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Modems

#TOP 1

NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000 Modem

CM3000-100NAS
Black
NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000 Modem Cover
NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000) – Approved for Today’s Fastest Speeds - Works with All Cable Providers Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - for Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps

The NETGEAR CM3000 Modem is designed to deliver lightning-fast internet speeds of up to 2.5Gbps for downloading and 1Gbps for uploading. This means you can enjoy seamless streaming, gaming, and video conferencing without interruptions. With its advanced technology, you can take advantage of high-speed plans from all major US providers, making it a versatile choice for any household. Additionally, the modem's impressive upload speeds allow you to share large files and access your home security systems effortlessly, enhancing your digital experience.

What We Like
Top-tier speed support
Easy setup with ISPs
Reliable performance
Compact, sleek design
Future-proof technology
What We Don't Like
No built-in Wi-Fi
Pricey compared to others

Hitron DOCSIS 3.1 Modem

CODA
DOCSIS 3.1 Modem
Hitron DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Cover
Hitron CODA DOCSIS 3.1 Modem | 1 Gbps Max Internet Speeds | Certified with Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox & More | 10x Faster Than DOCSIS 3.0 | Cable Modem with 1 Gbps Ethernet

The Hitron DOCSIS 3.1 Modem is a high-performance modem that provides 10x faster speeds than DOCSIS 3.0. It is compatible with any WiFi router or mesh and certified to work with Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox and other providers. It is built for reliability and easy to set up in three simple steps. The modem also works with DOCSIS 3.0 networks.

What We Like
Easy installation process
High download and upload speeds
Cost-effective alternative to rentals
Reliable performance with no issues
Supports next-gen speed tiers
What We Don't Like
No telephony jacks
No built-in Wi-Fi router

ARRIS Surfboard S34 Cable Modem

White
ARRIS Surfboard S34 Cable Modem Cover
ARRIS Surfboard S34 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem | Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum & More | 2.5 Gbps Max Internet Speeds | Next-Generation Upload Speed Optimized| 2 Year Warranty

The ARRIS Surfboard S34 is designed to help you save money by eliminating rental fees from your cable provider, potentially cutting your bill by up to $168 annually. It features the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is ten times faster than its predecessor, ensuring smoother online experiences and enhanced security. With optimized upload speeds, you can enjoy better performance for activities like gaming or video conferencing. Setting it up is a breeze; just plug it in, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to get started quickly.

What We Like
High performance and stability
Easy installation and setup
Future-proof with DOCSIS 3.1
Compact design
What We Don't Like
Limited Wi-Fi range
No built-in router
#TOP 4

NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 Cable Modem

CM1200-100NAS
Black
NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 Cable Modem Cover
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 - Compatible with all Cable Providers including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox | For Cable Plans Up to 2 Gigabits | 4 x 1G Ethernet ports | DOCSIS 3.1, Black

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 Cable Modem is compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 2Gbps. It works with any WiFi router, allowing you to connect any WiFi router to this modem's Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices. It also saves monthly rental fees, replacing your cable modem, and has four Gigabit Ethernet ports to give you fast wired connections to your devices. Additionally, the modem technology is engineered with 32x8 channel bonding, OFDM 2x2, DOCSIS 3.1, and multi-gig Ethernet, link aggregation combines two 1G ports into one 2G port for faster wired ethernet speed.

What We Like
Fast and easy installation
Compatible with various ISPs
Consistent connection for gaming
Great technical support
Advanced web interface options
What We Don't Like
Initial setup can be complex
Intermittent connectivity issues reported
#TOP 5

NETGEAR Cable Modem DOCSIS 3.1 (CM1000)

CM1000-100NAS
Black
NETGEAR Cable Modem DOCSIS 3.1 (CM1000) Cover
NETGEAR Cable Modem DOCSIS 3.1 (CM1000) Gigabit Modem, Compatible with All Major Cable Providers Including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, For Cable Plans Up to 1 Gbps,Black

The NETGEAR Cable Modem DOCSIS 3.1 (CM1000) is a high-speed modem that supports all cable internet speed tiers up to Gigabit service, providing download speeds up to 10 times faster than DOCSIS 3.0. It has 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels for DOCSIS 3.0 connection, and is compatible with major cable providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, among others. A separate router is required for WiFi and it eliminates monthly cable modem rental fees, saving up to $120 per year.

What We Like
Eliminates monthly cable modem rental fees, saving up to $120 per year
Supports all cable internet speed tiers, up to Gigabit (1000 Mbps) service
Compatible with major cable providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, among others
#TOP 6

ARRIS Surfboard SB6190-RB DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem

SB6190
White
ARRIS Surfboard SB6190-RB DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Cover
ARRIS SURFboard - SB6190 - Renewed - DOCSIS 3.0 32 x 8 Gigabit Cable Modem, Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, 1 Gbps Port, 800 Mbps Max Speeds, Easy Set-up with SURFboard Central App - (Renewed)

The ARRIS Surfboard SB6190-RB DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem is a renewed modem that requires cable internet service and is compatible with major U.S. Cable Providers. It has 32 DOWNLOAD & 8 UPLOAD channels to future-proof your modem as your Cable ISP enhances service offerings, and it supports IPv4 and IPv6 - the latest Internet standard. With a recommendation for plans up to 800 Mbps, it is a reliable modem for high speed internet.

What We Like
Excellent speed performance
Easy installation process
Compact size for storage
Reliable for multiple devices
What We Don't Like
Minor app issues
Power adapter fit problem
#TOP 7

NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200

CM1200-100NAS-cr
Black
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 Cover
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 - Compatible with All Cable Providers| For Cable Plans Up to 2 Gigabits | 4 x 1G Ethernet Ports | DOCSIS 3.1, Black (Renewed)

NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 is a black modem engineered with 32x8 channel bonding, OFDM 2x2, and DOCSIS 3.1. It is compatible with all major cable internet providers except Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service. The modem can save you up to dollar 168/yr in equipment rental fees and is best for cable provider plans up to 2 gigabits speed. It features versatile connections with its 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports giving fast wired connections to your computer, separate WiFi router, printer, game box, and other devices. You can also link aggregation to combine two 1G ports into one 2G port for faster wired Ethernet speed.

What We Like
Cost-effective alternative to rental
High internet speed performance
Easy activation process
Good build quality and durability
Multiple Ethernet ports available
What We Don't Like
Telephone activation is cumbersome
Refurbished unit may have issues

Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem

MB8611
Black
Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem Cover
Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem | Pairs with Any WiFi Router | Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox Gigablast, Spectrum | 2.5 Gbps Port | 2500 Mbps Max Internet Speeds

The Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is a fast, reliable, and cost-saving option that delivers true Gigabit-plus speeds. It pairs with any WiFi router, connects all your devices, and supports fast internet plans with Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum. The AQM technology ensures reduced Internet latency and better performance for streaming, gaming, and conferencing. The modem has a multi-gigabit Ethernet speed with a 2.5 GB Ethernet port to deliver high-speed connectivity to the fastest routers and computers. It is backward compatible with 32x8 DOCSIS 3.0.

What We Like
Reliable connection
Cost-effective investment
Separate modem and router
Easy setup
Fast performance
What We Don't Like
No phone connection
#TOP 9

Renewed Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000

C7000
black
AC1900 - Nighthawk
Renewed Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000 Cover
Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000-Compatibility Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox (Renewed)

The Renewed Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000 is an efficient device that saves you up to $150/yr in rental fees by replacing your cable modem and WiFi router. With compatibility of all major cable internet providers, it is built for fast speed, giving you up to 400 Mbps speed and 1800 sq ft wireless coverage for up to 30 devices connected with AC1900 speed. Moreover, this versatile modem has 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 USB ports that provide fast wired connections to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices. It is engineered with 24x8 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0 modem technology and comes with parental controls and supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols.

What We Like
Easy setup
User-friendly interface
Strong Wi-Fi coverage
Cost-effective
Powerful features
What We Don't Like
Incompatibility with NightHawk app
Setup not entirely plug-and-play
#TOP 10

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem

SB8200
White
Cable Modem
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem Cover
ARRIS (SB8200) - Cable Modem - Fast DOCSIS 3.1 , Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum, & more | 1 Gbps Max Internet Speed, 4 OFDM Channels

The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem offers superior connectivity, faster streaming, and downloading throughout your home. Featuring DOCSIS 3.1 modem technology, it's ten times faster than DOCSIS 3.0, providing better security, reducing lag while gaming, and enabling multi-gig networking. By owning the modem, you can save up to $168 per year in rental fees. The device comes with two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports, is easy to set up, and compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers. The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 Cable Modem is backed by a 2-year limited warranty and dedicated customer support.

What We Like
Great customer support
Easy to set up
Works well with Xfinity
Reliable performance
Flexibility to upgrade Wi-Fi
What We Don't Like
Initial modem issues
Replacement process required
Best Modems Feature Image

The Basics of Choosing the Modems

It’s safe to say that almost everything we do in homes and offices requires an internet connection. To ensure that this internet connection is seamless, you might need to acquire certain devices. These devices ensure that you have a faster connection whenever you need to use the internet. This is where a good modem becomes useful; the modem paves the way for a solid internet connection.

To ensure that you enjoy all of the benefits of a modem device, you must buy a good one. There are different brands of modems in the marketplace, and it’s very easy to get confused. This guide gives you some useful tips that will help you identify the best modem for you.

Factors to consider before buying modems

Modem type: There are many modem varieties, and you must select one that fits your needs.

  • DSL modems: This is a built-in modem category that comes with certain computing devices. DSL modems connect directly with external modems, and it’s not often interrupted. Users of these modem types can continue to access their telephones while they are connected to the internet.
  • Cable modems: This setup of coaxial cables has one end connected to the modem, the other end is fixed into a cable box. Cable modems are often perfect for people looking for top-notch internet speed.
  • Ethernet modems: Most Ethernet modems fall into the category of internet modems as they can be plugged into the network card of an internet device.
  • Wireless modems: In contrast to cable modems, wireless modems bypass telephone systems. These types of modems have a direct connection to wireless networks.

ISP compatibility: One important check you must make when buying a model is to know if it is compatible with your service provider. Certain modem brands are not compatible with some internet providers; buying a non-compatible modem is a complete waste.

A good way to find out about compatibility is by contacting your service provider. That way, your ISP provider can verify the compatibility via the MAC of the modem in question.

Download Speed: No one likes to use slow internet; you must opt for a modem that gives you optimal speed. The modem manufacturers often display the modem speed details on their websites. In most cases, the advertised speed is the download speed, not the upload speed. The only limiting factor for internet speed when it comes to modems is the speed of the Internet plan.

Benefits of modems

  • Convenience: Modems make it possible to connect your devices to the internet on the go. The fact that it doesn’t need to be charged also makes it unique.
  • Ease of use: The modem doesn’t require any special knowledge before being configured for use. Since it’s compatible with your ISP, you only need to activate the modem before use.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Does the modem determine internet speed?

Internet speed is often determined by the strength of the internet from your service provider. However, modems usually have speed caps that manufacturers specify.

Can a modem be compatible with many ISPs?

A modem can be used with several internet service providers if they are compatible. However, not all modems offer this kind of service.

Conclusion

Modems are very useful for those who desire an uninterrupted internet service. This guide gives you some tips that will help you choose the best modem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need a modem if I have a router?

Yes, both a modem and a router are essential components of most home networks. The modem is responsible for sending and receiving signals from the Internet Service Provider (ISP), while the router disperses the signal to devices on the network, allowing them to connect to the internet.

2. Do you need a modem for internet or just a router?

To establish a wired internet connection, you will need a modem. If you have only one device that needs to connect to the internet, such as a PC or laptop, you can get away with just having a modem. However, if you have multiple devices or want to use them wirelessly (WiFi), then you will need a router in addition to the modem.

3. Which is better: a modem or router?

If you choose to have separate modem and router devices, you can have a more secure connection and connect a variety of devices. A wireless router eliminates the need for cables. Additionally, a router typically offers more security features than a standalone modem.

4. Is it better to have a modem and router or a combo?

The choice between a modem-router combo and separate devices depends on personal preferences and needs. A modem-router combo can be more convenient and space-saving, while having separate devices provides greater flexibility and customization options. Consider your specific requirements before deciding which option is best for you.

Editor's Notes

During our modem research, we found 24 modem products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 312,482 customer reviews through our big data system to write the modems list. We found that most customers choose modems with an average price of $122.07.

The modems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of modems, including NETGEAR, Hitron, ARRIS, Motorola. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Modems Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand NETGEAR Hitron ARRIS NETGEAR NETGEAR ARRIS NETGEAR Motorola NETGEAR ARRIS
Connectivity Technology Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet Wi-Fi, Ethernet Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet Ethernet
Compatible Devices Router Personal Computer, Router, Ethernet connected devices Laptop, Gaming Console, Router, Personal Computer, Tablet, Smart Television, Smartphone Cable Internet Providers, WiFi Routers Router Router Personal Computer Personal Computer Printer Router
Internet service provider spectrum, optimum, cox, xfinity, and more Cox Gigablast, Astound, Grande, RCN, Wave, Zito Media, xFinity from Comcast, Charter Spectrum Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum spectrum, optimum, cox, xfinity spectrum, cox, xfinity Xfinity from Comcast, Cox Communications, Spectrum Comcast Xfinity, Cox Communications, Charter Spectrum, RCN - Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum
Item Weight - 1.02 pounds - - - 1.13 pounds 1.22 pounds 1.1 ounces 1.6 pounds -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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