Best Modems for Gaming of 2025

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

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Modems are essential for online gaming. They allow gamers to connect their devices to the internet and play with others from around the world. When it comes to gaming, a modem with high speed and low latency is crucial. This is because online games require a constant and stable connection to avoid lag and other performance issues. Modems designed specifically for gaming offer features such as Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize gaming traffic, and advanced security options to protect against DDoS attacks. Choosing the right modem can greatly enhance the gaming experience and give players a competitive edge.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 Cable Modem Cover #TOP 1
NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 Cable Modem
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ARRIS Surfboard S34 Cable Modem Cover #TOP 2
ARRIS Surfboard S34 Cable Modem
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Hitron DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Cover #TOP 3
Hitron DOCSIS 3.1 Modem
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Modems for Gaming

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
Compatible with all major cable internet providers with speeds up to 2Gbps.
Works with any WiFi router to support all your wireless devices.
Saves up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees by replacing your cable modem.
#TOP 2

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
Cost-saving potential
Fast DOCSIS 3.1 technology
Optimized upload speeds
Easy setup process

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
10x faster speeds than DOCSIS 3.0
Compatible with any WiFi router or mesh
Certified to work with major providers
Built for reliability and easy to set up
Works with DOCSIS 3.0 networks
#TOP 4

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
Compatible with all major cable internet providers
Saves up to dollar 168/yr in equipment rental fees
Best for cable provider plans up to 2 gigabits speed
Versatile connections with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
Link aggregation combines two 1G ports into one 2G port for faster wired Ethernet speed

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
Ultra-fast DOCSIS 3.1 performance delivers true Gigabit-plus speeds
Multi-gigabit Ethernet speed with a 2.5 GB Ethernet port for high-speed connectivity
Fast streaming, conferencing, and gaming with AQM technology
Extreme cost savings by owning your own modem
Built for reliability with a 2-year warranty and free support from USA technicians
#TOP 6

ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem & AX3000 Wi-Fi Router

Black
ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem & AX3000 Wi-Fi Router Cover
ARRIS (G36) - Cable Modem Router Combo - Fast DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit WiFi 6 (AX3000), Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum & More, 1.2 Gbps Max Speeds , 4 OFDM Channels

The ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem & AX3000 Wi-Fi Router is a two-in-one product that saves money by reducing cable modem rental fees up to $168 per year. It is compatible with most U.S. cable internet service providers, including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and others. The modem technology is DOCSIS 3.1, 10 times faster than DOCSIS 3.0, provides better security, reduces lag while gaming, and enables multi-gig networking. The setup is simple and secure, and you'll get enhanced parental controls through the SURFboard Central App. The router technology includes four 1-Gigabit and one 2.5-Gigabit ethernet port with Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 3 Gbps. The product also comes with a two-year limited warranty from ARRIS.

What We Like
Saves money by reducing cable modem rental fees up to $168 per year.
Compatible with most U.S. cable internet service providers, including Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity.
Modem technology is DOCSIS 3.1, 10 times faster than DOCSIS 3.0, provides better security, reduces lag while gaming, and enables multi-gig networking.

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
Compatible with all major cable internet providers
Built for fast speed
Provides up to 1800 sq ft wireless coverage for up to 30 devices
#TOP 8

NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 Modem Router

CAX30-100NAS-cr
Black
NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 Modem Router Cover
NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6Cable Modem Router CAX30-100NAR Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, AX2700 (Up to 2.7Gbps) DOCSIS 3.1 (Renewed)

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 offers impressive compatibility with major cable providers, allowing you to enjoy internet speeds up to 2Gbps. With coverage extending up to 2,500 square feet, you can connect up to 25 devices simultaneously, making it ideal for busy households. The four Gig Ethernet ports and one USB port provide versatile connectivity for your computers and gaming consoles. Plus, setting up your network is a breeze with the Nighthawk app, where you can manage settings and monitor your data usage effortlessly.

What We Like
High-speed internet access
Wide coverage area
Multiple device connectivity
Easy app setup
#TOP 9

ARRIS Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem

White
ARRIS Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem Cover
ARRIS (S33) - Cable Modem - Fast DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Modem For Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum & More 1 & 2.5 Gbps Ports 2.5 Gbps Max Internet Speeds 4 OFDM Channels 2 Year Warranty

The ARRIS Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is designed to bring you superior connectivity, increase your network capability and provide faster streaming and downloading throughout your home. Save money by owning your modem and reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees. DOCSIS 3.1 is ten times faster than DOCSIS 3.0, provides better security, reduces lag while gaming, and enables multi-gig networking. The SURFboard S33 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers and approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5-Gbps. Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. Connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking.

What We Like
Easy to set up and use
DOCSIS 3.1 technology provides faster speed and better security
Compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers
Reduces cable bill up to $168 per year
#TOP 10

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem

SB6190
White
ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Cover
ARRIS® Surfboard® SB6190 Cable Modem, White

The ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem is compatible with major U.S. Cable Internet Providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity & others. It is not compatible with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink, or other DSL or Fiber internet providers. With 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, it is best for cable internet speed plans up to 600 Mbps. It has 1 Gigabit Ethernet port for connecting to a Wi-Fi router or other device. Note that this modem does not include Wi-Fi and does not support cable digital voice service.

What We Like
Compatible with major U.S. Cable Internet Providers
Best for cable internet speed plans up to 600 Mbps
32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels
1 Gigabit Ethernet port for connecting to a Wi-Fi router or other device
Does not include Wi-Fi and does not support cable digital voice service
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do modems matter for gaming?

There is no such thing as a "gamer" modem/router. That is all marketing. Game performance is most affected by consistent latency they use very little bandwidth most in the 500kbits/sec range, a 2mbps connection will likely run a game just as well as a 500mbps.

2. Do gaming modems make a difference?

The most significant benefit of a gaming router is the QoS feature, which prioritizes your gaming traffic to cut through network congestion. That said, most online games experience faster speeds through a wired connection, regardless of which wireless router you use.

3. What modem do pro gamers use?

For anyone seeking gear to match such premium speeds, the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 is one of the best premium modems out there. With downstream speeds of up to 2.5Gbps, the Nighthawk CM2000 can handle any and every cutting edge data plan without issue.

Editor's Notes

During our modem for gaming research, we found 24 modem for gaming products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 283,689 customer reviews through our big data system to write the modems for gaming list. We found that most customers choose modems for gaming with an average price of $157.60.

The modems for gaming are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of modems for gaming, including NETGEAR, ARRIS, Hitron, 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.