Best Gigabit Modems of 2026
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Gigabit modems are the latest technological advancement in the world of internet connectivity. These modems provide lightning-fast internet speeds, up to 1000Mbps, making them ideal for heavy internet users, gamers, and households with multiple devices connected to the internet simultaneously. Gigabit modems are compatible with most internet service providers and offer a more stable and reliable connection than their predecessors. They are easy to install and come with a variety of features that enhance internet speed and performance. With a gigabit modem, users can enjoy seamless streaming of high-quality videos, faster downloads, and an overall improved internet experience.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Gigabit Modems
Hitron CODA56 Modem
The Hitron CODA56 is a powerful modem that supports internet plans up to 2.5 Gbps, providing you with speeds ten times faster than previous DOCSIS 3.0 models. It features a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, allowing you to connect to a router or WiFi mesh system for optimal speed throughout your home. Since it lacks built-in WiFi, you can easily pair it with your existing WiFi setup. Additionally, by switching to the CODA56, you can eliminate rental fees, potentially saving you up to $168 annually. This modem is certified to work with various ISPs, ensuring broad compatibility for your internet needs.
NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 Cable Modem
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.
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem
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.
NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem offers incredibly fast download speeds up to 2.5Gbps, perfect for streaming, gaming, and handling multiple devices without lag. It supports advanced mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1 technology, allowing you to enjoy some of the fastest internet plans available, like Xfinity's 2Gbps service. With upload speeds up to 1Gbps, you can easily share large files, video conference smoothly, and keep your home security cameras connected without interruption. Plus, its enhanced speed and efficiency ensure a reliable internet experience that keeps up with your busy digital lifestyle.
ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem & AX3000 Wi-Fi Router
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.
ARRIS Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem
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.
ARRIS Surfboard S34 Cable Modem
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.
Hitron CODA56 Modem
The Hitron CODA56 Modem empowers you to maximize your internet plan with speeds reaching up to 2.5 Gbps, making it ten times faster than earlier DOCSIS 3.0 models. It features a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, ensuring your router receives the full benefit of these high speeds. You can connect any WiFi router or mesh system to it, allowing all your devices to enjoy speedy internet. Plus, by switching to the CODA56, you can eliminate rental fees, potentially saving you up to $168 annually. This modem is a great choice for those seeking to enhance their online activities.
NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000 Modem
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.
Motorola MT7711 Cable Modem/Router with Phone Ports
The Motorola MT7711 is a three-in-one cable modem with a built-in high-speed router and two XFINITY Voice compatible phone ports. It is approved by Comcast for use with Xfinity Internet and Voice services and can eliminate up to $156 per year in cable modem rental fees. The wireless power boost feature improves speed and range for better performance on WiFi devices. Four Gigabit Ethernet ports provide wired connections to computers and other Ethernet devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do you need a special modem for Gigabit internet?
Yes, to fully utilize a gigabit internet plan, you will need a cable modem that is compatible with DOCSIS 3.0. This standard supports speeds up to 1,000 Mbps. It is recommended to choose a modem with a 32x8 configuration to ensure optimal performance.
2. Do I need Docsis 3.1 for gigabit?
Yes, to fully take advantage of gigabit speeds with a cable internet plan, a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem is required. While DOCSIS 3.0 can technically support speeds up to 1,000 Mbps, it is recommended to use DOCSIS 3.1 for optimal performance.
3. Is gigabit internet overkill?
For most homes, gigabit internet may be considered overkill as it provides more bandwidth than the average household needs. Gigabit internet has enough capacity for multiple devices to stream 4K content simultaneously. However, it may become more necessary in the future as 8K content streaming becomes more common.
4. What equipment do I need for gigabit internet?
To set up gigabit internet, you will need a DOCSIS 3.0 or newer modem (for cable internet), a router with a Gigabit Ethernet WAN port or faster, and a computer or device with a Gigabit Ethernet port or USB 3 port (with a compatible adapter). For optimal wireless connectivity, consider a router with Wi-Fi 6.
5. Do I need a special Ethernet cable for gigabit?
For gigabit Ethernet, the most commonly used cable is CAT5e, which is suitable for most applications. However, it is important to ensure that the cable meets the transfer speeds required for the specific application. CAT6 and CAT6a Ethernet cables are also available and can be used if needed.
6. Is DOCSIS 3.0 going away?
DOCSIS 3.0, released in 2006, is considered an older modem technology and is considered end-of-life by many service providers. It has been replaced by DOCSIS 3.1, which is now the accepted standard for modem technology by ISPs.
During our gigabit modem research, we found 24 gigabit modem products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 195,343 customer reviews through our big data system to write the gigabit modems list. We found that most customers choose gigabit modems with an average price of $190.28.
The gigabit modems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of gigabit modems, including Hitron, NETGEAR, ARRIS, Motorola. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 135 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
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.