Best Fax Modems of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Fax modems are devices that allow computers to send and receive fax messages over telephone lines. These modems work by converting digital data from the computer into analog signals that can be transmitted over a phone line. They are commonly used in offices and homes that still rely on fax machines for communication, and they can also be used to send and receive faxes via email. Some fax modems also offer additional features such as voice messaging and caller ID. With the rise of digital communication, fax modems may not be as popular as they once were, but they still provide a reliable way to send and receive important documents.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

StarTech.com USB 2.0 Fax Modem Cover #TOP 1
StarTech.com USB 2.0 Fax Modem
ftb score rating icon 9.9
USB 56K Voice Fax Data External Modem with Dual Ports Cover #TOP 2
USB 56K Voice Fax Data External Modem with Dual Ports
ftb score rating icon 9.8
56K External Dial Up Fax Data Modem Cover #TOP 3
56K External Dial Up Fax Data Modem
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Fax Modems

StarTech.com USB 2.0 Fax Modem

USB56KEMH2
Black
0.8"x1.1"x3"
StarTech.com USB 2.0 Fax Modem Cover
StarTech.com USB 2.0 Fax Modem - 56K External Hardware Dial Up V.92 Modem/ Dongle/Adapter - Computer/Laptop Fax Modem - USB to Telephone Jack - USB Data Modem - Network Fax/CMR/POS, TAA (USB56KEMH2)

The StarTech.com USB 2.0 Fax Modem is an external hardware-driven dial-up modem that provides data and fax support to your computer/laptop via USB. It offers compatibility with various data and fax modes, including V.92, V.90, V.34, V.32bis, V.32, V.22bis, V.22, V.23, V.21 Bell 212A & Bell 103 and V.17, V.29, V.27, V.21 Ch 2, EIA/TIA 578 Class 1 & T.31 Fax Class 1.0 fax modes. The modem's hardware-driven performance ensures it doesn't put any additional load on your CPU, and it is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Windows Server operating systems.

What We Like
External hardware-driven modem
Compatible with various data and fax modes
No additional load on CPU
#TOP 2

USB 56K Voice Fax Data External Modem with Dual Ports

Black
USB 56K Voice Fax Data External Modem with Dual Ports Cover
AGPtek®External USB 2.0 3 in 1 Data Fax Voice Dial Up usb fax Modem 56K V.92 V.90 CX93010 WIN7 Receive Send Fax on Computer with RJ11 Cable

This USB modem provides a 56K data/fax modem with USB interface and is compliant with V.90, and V.42/V.42bis/MNP5 protocols and V.17, V.29, and V.27ter Group 3 fax protocol. It supports Caller ID and distinctive ring detect, Auto format/speed sensing, Data/Fax/Voice call discrimination, and call forward/fallback. The modem has 2 RJ11 ports, Quick Connect, and Modem-on-Hold features. It supports Auto-Dial, Tone and pulse dialing, Auto answer, Auto retrain, and compatible with Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP/Vista/Win 7.

What We Like
Easy to install and use with a USB interface
Supports Caller ID and distinctive ring detect, Auto format/speed sensing, and Data/Fax/Voice call discrimination
Has 2 RJ11 ports and Quick Connect and Modem-on-Hold features
#TOP 3

56K External Dial Up Fax Data Modem

Miyagle
Black
56K External Dial Up Fax Data Modem Cover
USB 56K External Dial Up Fax Data Modem Windows 10 / 8 / 7 / XP / Vista

The 56K External Dial Up Fax Data Modem allows you to connect your laptop or desktop computer to the internet using a dial-up internet service. It is USB-powered and compatible with various Windows operating systems. It has a maximum speed of 56K V9.2/V9.0. With its compact size of 7.5", it is portable and easy to carry around.

What We Like
Easy to use
Portable design
USB-powered

HiRO V92 56K External USB Data Fax Dial Up Internet Modem

H50228
HiRO V92 56K External USB Data Fax Dial Up Internet Modem Cover
HiRO V92 56K External USB Data Fax Dial Up Internet Modem Dual Port Built in Buzzer Truly Plug n Play Driverless Installation Built in Driver Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, 32-bit 64-bit (H50228)

The HiRO V92 56K External USB Data Fax Dial Up Internet Modem is a plug and play device that is compatible with Windows 10 and a range of other Windows operating systems. It features dual port built-in buzzer, dual RJ-11 phone jack for expansion, and fax compatibility ITU-T-send and receive rates up to 14.4k BPS. The modem is USB 2.0 powered and requires no power adapter, making it fast and easy to install.

What We Like
Plug and play device
Compatible with Windows 10 and other Windows operating systems
Features dual port built-in buzzer and dual RJ-11 phone jack for expansion
#TOP 5

USRobotics V.92 USR5686E External Modem

USR5686G
black
USRobotics V.92 USR5686E External Modem Cover
US Robotics V.92 USR5686E External Modem + Fax, 56K

The USRobotics External Modem is designed for fast and easy Internet access. You can set it up in just three simple steps, making it user-friendly. It allows you to send emails and attachments at twice the speed, enhancing your productivity. You can also send faxes directly from any Windows application, which adds convenience to your communication needs. Plus, with this modem, you can take incoming calls while staying online, eliminating the need for extra phone lines. Enjoy smoother audio and video streaming thanks to its built-in processor, making it a great choice for multimedia use.

What We Like
Easy installation
Fast email and attachment sending
Fax from any Windows app
Receive calls while online
Smoother streaming experience
#TOP 6

GOTOTOP Fax Modem

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Black
GOTOTOP Fax Modem Cover
Fax Modem, Convenient External USB 2.0 56K Modem with Compatible at and Extended at Command Sets for Win 7/Win 8/Win 10/Win

The GOTOTOP USB 2.0 Modem is a convenient external 56K modem that offers plug and play functionality. Compatible with various Windows operating systems, including Win 7, Win 8, Win 10, and Win XP, this modem eliminates the need for external drivers. With its multifunction capabilities, it supports auto dialing, both tone and pulse dialing, as well as auto answering and sending/receiving faxes. The USB 2.0 Type A connection ensures fast data transmission at a speed of 56kb/s. Additionally, this modem is protocol compliant, utilizing V.92, V.90, and V.42, V.42bis/MNP5 protocols, and compatible with V.17, V.29, and V.27ter Group 3 fax protocols. The GOTOTOP USB 2.0 Modem is a reliable solution for all your faxing needs.

What We Like
Plug and Play
Fast Data Transmission
Multiple Functionality
#TOP 7

Qiilu USB 56K Modem

Qiilu
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Black
Qiilu USB 56K Modem Cover
Rj11 to USB Adapter Fax Modem USB 10 Abs Black USB 56K External Dial Up Voice Fax Data Modem Fit for Win7 Win8 Win10

The Qiilu USB Modem provides a reliable solution for fast internet connectivity through its USB 2.0 interface. With 56K download speeds and 48K upload capabilities, you can enjoy efficient data transfer for various online activities. This modem also supports easy fax sending and receiving directly from your computer, making it a convenient tool for your communication needs. Additionally, the quick connect feature enhances your connection experience, allowing for quicker online access and improved performance. Overall, this modem is designed to meet the needs of users looking for a straightforward and effective solution for both data and fax functionalities.

What We Like
Fast internet connectivity
Easy fax sending/receiving
High download/upload speeds
Quick connect feature
#TOP 8

V BESTLIFE Dual Ports USB2.0 56K Voice Fax Modem

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default
V BESTLIFE Dual Ports USB2.0 56K Voice Fax Modem Cover
V BESTLIFE Dual Ports USB2.0 56K Voice Fax Data External V.90 V.92 Modem for Win 7/Win 8/Win 10/Win XP, Support Auto-Dial/Tone and Pulse Dialing/Auto Answer

The V BESTLIFE Dual Ports USB2.0 56K Voice Fax Modem is a plug-and-play modem that does not require any external drivers. It is compatible with various operating systems, including WIN 98/2000/ME/XP/Vista/CE5.0/10/8.1/8/7. The modem supports automatic dialing, tone and pulse dialing, automatic answering, automatic fax sending and receiving, caller ID, and call forwarding. It is also compliant with V.92, V.90, and V.42, V.42bis/MNP5 protocols and supports up to 56k data download, 48k data upload, and 14.4k fax communication.

What We Like
Easy plug-and-play setup
Supports automatic dialing, answering, and faxing
Compliant with various protocols for reliable performance
#TOP 9

FOSA 56K Dual Port USB Modem

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default
FOSA 56K Dual Port USB Modem Cover
Normal Dial up Modem,Fax Modem Dual Port USB2.0 56K External Modem Driver for WIN 98,2000,ME,XP,Vista,CE5.0,10,8.1,8,7,Support Dial The Internet,Automatically Send,Receive Faxes

The FOSA USB Modem offers a hassle-free experience with its plug-and-play capability, making it compatible with various Windows systems without the need for additional drivers. You can easily connect to the Internet and manage faxes, as it supports automatic dialing and fax operations. With a high-speed connection of up to 56 kb/s, it ensures quick data downloads and uploads. Additionally, it provides caller ID functionality, enhancing your communication experience by allowing you to identify incoming calls effortlessly.

What We Like
Plug and play setup
Fast data connections
Automatic fax handling
Caller ID support
#TOP 10

ciciglow USB 56K Fax Modem

ciciglow
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ciciglow USB 56K Fax Modem Cover
USB 56K External Dial Up Fax Data Modem, Rj11 Port Computer Laptop Fax Modem Support Caller ID, for Windows for Linux

The ciciglow Fax Modem is designed for easy connectivity and reliable performance. With its RJ11 ports, you can connect two fax lines or a phone simultaneously, making it convenient for multitasking. It supports Caller ID, which enhances communication by letting you see who is calling before you answer. This modem is user-friendly, ensuring you can easily send and receive faxes without hassle. Compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and Linux, it provides flexibility for different users. Additionally, its anti-thunder protection helps safeguard your device from electrical surges.

What We Like
Easy installation
Supports Caller ID
Multi-device connectivity
Compatible with multiple OS
Thunder protection
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a fax machine and a fax modem?

The main difference between a fax machine and a fax modem is that a fax modem requires software to generate the fax transmission from typed-in text or digital files, while a fax machine obtains its source material by scanning the page. Fax modems often produce sharper images compared to fax machines.

2. Are fax modems still used?

Fax modems are still used, especially in situations where there is a dial-up internet connection or a need to replace a standard fax machine. Some businesses that are not connected to high-speed internet still rely on fax modems for their faxing needs.

3. Can you fax with a modem?

Yes, you can fax with a modem. All you need is a telephone cable and modem to connect to your cable modem or all-in-one device. However, if you're looking to fax from a printer without a phone line, that is a different scenario.

4. Can you fax without a modem?

No, you need a dedicated fax modem for sending faxes. The normal internet modem does not work for faxing. Some computers come with a built-in fax modem, but if your computer does not have one, you can install an external fax modem.

5. How can I fax without a phone line or modem?

To fax without a phone line or modem, you have a few options. You can select an internet fax provider and use their service, use an app or fax directly via a web browser, compose a new fax message, upload the documents from your computer, and send the fax. You will receive an email confirmation.

6. Why is fax discontinued?

Fax machines have been discontinued or rendered obsolete due to the development of digital technology and broadband services. Email and document sharing software offer the same or better functionality, leading to a decline in the use of fax machines.

7. What has replaced fax machines?

Fax machines have been replaced by Internet-based technologies such as email and the World Wide Web. These technologies offer more efficient and convenient ways of sharing documents. However, fax machines are still popular in specific industries like medical administration and law enforcement.

8. Is there a way to fax without a landline?

Yes, there are ways to fax without a landline. You can select an internet fax provider and use their service, or use an app or fax directly via a web browser. You can compose a new fax message, upload the document, send the fax, and wait for an email confirmation.

9. Can I fax from my fax machine without a landline?

Yes, you can fax from a fax machine without a landline by using an internet fax solution like MyFax. With this service, you don't need a physical landline as you can easily send a fax without it.

Editor's Notes

During our fax modem research, we found 24 fax modem products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,922 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fax modems list. We found that most customers choose fax modems with an average price of $32.05.

The fax modems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fax modems, including StarTech.com, AGPTEK, Miyagle, HiRO, USRobotics. 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.