Best Modem Router Combos to Buy in 2022
If you have had enough and are fed up with spending hundreds of dollars every year to pay your internet provider, this article is precisely what you need!
Upgrading your cable modem (the device that transforms the cable coming into your house into an internet signal) and Wi-Fi router (the device that takes this connection and transforms it into Wi-Fi) is an excellent way to make your internet experience cheaper and better.
Generally, internet providers charge around $10-$15 monthly to lease an all-in-one router and modem, which costs more than $360 yearly. Considering this surprising cost, purchasing a modem router combo seems logical. Moreover, it will be more practical, and you will not have to stress over any additional fees charged by your ISP.
Xfinity provides three services: cable TV, internet, and phone. Buying the best modem router for Xfinity will give you a boost in speed, and it is also cost-friendly.
To help you make the right purchase decision, we’ve reviewed some of the best modem router for Xfinity in this article. Have a look!
What to consider before purchasing a modem router combo
Selecting the correct modem router will optimize the provider plan, enhance download speeds so you can view and stream in high definition (HD), as well as link numerous devices in your home at once.
If you want to streamline your internet setup and avoid the trouble of dealing with numerous devices, a modem router combo is the way to go, mainly if you work from home.
To choose the right modem router combos, you must know a few details.
Bandwidth
To take the maximum advantage of the bandwidth provided by your ISP, you will require a modem router combo that matches, and ideally surpasses, the highest speed promised by your provider. The maximum bandwidth is demonstrated in gigabits per second (Gbps) and is normally shown in a modem or router’s label title or description.
Security
The first and foremost thing to consider when purchasing a modem router combo is the safety and security of the cable modem. It should be able to protect you from others trying to hack the server.
Good Range
Make sure the modem router combo has a strong signal range that reaches every room in your home. It will be pointless to have the fastest speed when you do not have the signal all over the house. Check how many antennas the modem router combo has and ask the company about the strength of the signal. Most of the time, you will find this information in people’s reviews. You will always have some spots in the apartment or house that will not receive a signal, but finding a router with a good range will help.
Speed
Another essential element is internet speed. Assess the full download and upload internet speed you can obtain. If you like to stream HD movies or videos often or are a gamer, fast speed is your topmost priority. You would want to purchase a modem and router combo to handle and support faster speeds.
Price
The most important feature to most people is the price tag. However, it is essential to remember that cheaper combos do not always mean a smaller range or worse products, just like expensive combos do not always mean the best speed and good range. Do proper research!
DOCSIS
Cable internet providers have largely embraced DOCSIS technology to enable quick, highly efficient, and reliable internet speeds. Nowadays, almost all modems in the market are either DOCSIS 3.0 or DOCSIS 3.1. The difference between these two is that DOCSIS 3.1 offers internet speeds up to 10 Gbps while DOCSIS 3.0 only delivers speeds up to 1 Gbps. Normally, DOCSIS 3.0 is enough if speed is not essential for you.
Best Modem Router for Xfinity
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| PHOTO | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
#1 Top Pick  | Arris Surfboard SB8200 Modemand W121 AX6600 When you decide to buy Arris Surfboard SB8200, you will not only power your home network or small office with the latest technology; you will also save a great deal of money on modem fees! The Arris Surfboard SB8200 is presently one of the most famous cable modems in the market, and it is all for the right reasons! | Check Price → |
Best for Cable Internet Speed Plans  | ARRIS Surfboard G34 Cable Modem The Arris Surfboard G34 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem and AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 router; it gives you all you need for less. It features 4 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports. Gigabit Ethernet connection makes connecting to your home/office network easy. | Check Price → |
Best Value  | Arris Surfboard SBG10 Modem & AC1600 Router This product is in 2-in-1; The Surfboard SBG10 connects a DOCSIS 3.0 modem with a Wi-Fi router with 2 one-gigabit Ethernet ports. It also includes 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels with AC1600 Wi-Fi, making it an excellent choice for offices and homes with fewer devices to manage. | Check Price → |
Best Choice  | Motorola MB8611 Modem Motorola Internet devices are mainly developed with the Broadcom chipset, which is secure, reliable, and high-performance. Broadcom also provides security against Denial of Service attacks, a plague for Internet-connected devices. | Check Price → |
Best Budget  | Netgear Cable Modem Router Combo C6220 Netgear C6220 is aimed at people who like to rent their modems from their cable internet providers, have tiny compact homes, do not have high-speed connectivity (not more than a 200Mbps connection), and do not have a lot of different devices to connect with. | Check Price → |
Best Performance  | Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 The Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 is among the most powerful devices on this list. This ultra-fast modem router combo is an excellent tool for every enthusiastic internet user. | Check Price → |
1. Arris Surfboard SB8200 Modemand W121 AX6600: Best for Xfinity Gig Plans
It is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem that includes 32 downloads and 8 upload channels, making it the ideal cable modem for Gigabit speed internet plans. The Surfboard SB8200 is best for faster connections. Plus, it can handle 4K Ultra-HD (High Definition) video streaming and VR (Virtual Reality) gaming with incredible ease.
Since this cable modem does not come with a router, it is recommended to purchase it with the Arris Surfboard Max Mesh System AX6600. This is a two-piece cylindrical mesh Wi-Fi system developed to spread the wireless connection to all corners of your home or office up to 5,500 square feet. As with most mesh systems, the AX6600 operates with a mobile application and is simple to install. Additionally, the router and nodes have solid signal strength.
Overall, solid performance and good signal strength are both excellent reasons to consider the Arris Surfboard Max Mesh Wi-Fi System AX6600 for your office or home network. It is also reasonably easy to install and operate using the mobile app and proposes a reliable 5GHz radio band for backhaul. However, it lacks many of the characteristics that you get with mesh systems priced similarly, including strong parental controls, advanced management settings, and anti-malware tools.
Pros
- DOCIS 3.1 compatible
- Easy to set up
- Certified for use with US cable internet providers like Cox and Xfinity
Cons
- Not compatible with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink or other DSL, Fiber internet providers, or Satellite Service
- It does not include Wi-Fi
- Does not support cable digital voice service
2. ARRIS Surfboard G34 Cable Modem: Best for Cable Internet Speed Plans
Nowadays, the technology in homes requires incredible speed, bandwidth, speed, and solid network connectivity, and the Arris G34 comes with the features that are ready to take up this challenge. It has a fast and secure setup with the new SURFboard Central mobile application. Its speed and capacity go up to 3000 Mbps, allowing more than 150 devices through a single internet connection. This modem router was specifically designed for individuals who want to upgrade and future-proof their office and home network for excellent performance.
The Arris G34 is the best modem router for Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum. For the most part, this Wi-Fi modem router is meant to be used with Gigabit speed tiers. But, it is compatible with lower speed tiers that currently use DOCSIS 3.0 technology. Moreover, this modem router provides internet security by protecting your information with WPA and WPA2, and AES.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Compatible with Xfinity
- Fast speed and reliable connection
- Good wireless coverage
Cons
- Not compatible with AT&T, Verizon
- Requires assistance from the internet provider to upgrade the device firmware
3. Arris Surfboard SBG10 Modem & AC1600 Router: Best Value
If you are looking for a high-speed internet experience that is quick and economical, the Arris Surfboard SBG10 is perfect for you!
It is the ultimate upgrade for home networks with lower bandwidth. The modem and router combo handles multiple devices and is most suitable for Cable Internet Speed Plans up to 400 Mbps. It saves money on monthly modem fees and works efficiently in any home office.
It is compatible with prominent U.S. cable internet providers, including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, etc. This Arris Surfboard SBG10 dual-band router comes with a mobile app for easy connection.
Pros
- Easy and quick to install
- Compact
. Perfect for connecting gaming consoles and smart TVs
- Economical
- Compatible with Comcast Xfinity
- Fast speed and reliable connection
- All-in-one modem router
- Value for money
Cons
- Does not have a USB port
- Only 2 wired Gigabit ports
- Not compatible with Verizon, CenturyLink, ATT, or other Fiber or DSL internet providers
- Requires assistance from internet provider to upgrade the device firmware
4. Motorola MB8611 Modem: Best Choice
The Motorola MB8611 supports true Gigabit speed tiers with a speedy 2.5 GB Ethernet port that allows faster, more reliable Internet for gaming, streaming, and more without lagging.
Approved for Cox, Comcast Xfinity, and Charter Spectrum, this cable modem is compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 (32*8). Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem can deliver speeds over 1 Gbps/sec and is prepared to keep you connected!
It is perfectly compatible with any Wi-Fi router, allowing you to connect all your Ethernet and Wi-Fi-capable devices. You can connect this cable modem to multiple services and devices, like tablets, smartphones, notebooks, game boxes, Google Home, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Apple TV, etc. Additionally, this Motorola device has built-in parental controls to ensure that your kids are secure when using the internet.
It is not only cost-effective, but it covers every single Xfinity internet plan. Its inconspicuous design is perfect if you do not want your electronic device to ruin the aesthetic of your home or office.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Connects to any Wi-Fi router
- Saves money as it excludes monthly cable modem rental fees and saves around $168 yearly on your Comcast Xfinity bill
- Slim, sleek design
- Future-proof
- High-end manufacturer
- Advanced technology
Cons
- Requires assistance from internet provider to upgrade the device firmware
5. Netgear Cable Modem Router Combo C6220: Best Budget
There are just two Ethernet ports that allow plug-in devices with a cable, which is reliable and faster, but you have to attach a cable between them. Generally, despite its mediocre performance, it can efficiently handle Zoom calls and 4K streaming.
Netgear C62220 can offer up to 1200 sq. ft. Wi-Fi coverage on 20 different devices because of the antennas and range-boosting Beamforming technology.
The plus point of the Netgear C6220 AC1200 is that it is affordable. However, the performance is modest. Its design is not sleek and stylish like other modems and routers mentioned in this article.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Built-in DLNA media server to share pictures, music, and video
- Compatible with all leading cable internet providers such as Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, and Cox
Cons
- Limited Ethernet ports
- Unpleasant and big design
- Not suited for larger homes
6. Netgear Nighthawk CAX80: Best Performance
Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 is the best modem router for Xfinity and Cox and performs excellently with internet plans of up to 2-gigabit speed. For those that require the best security, speeds, and good range, the Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 is the right choice. This Netgear model is reliable, advanced, and will work perfectly with Xfinity.
This cable modem router with DOCSIS 3.1 is convenient if you are streaming in HD and gaming every day. It includes up to 6 Gbps Wi-Fi speeds, while the highest download speed is 1000 Mbps.
The three amplified antennas increase the signal throughout the whole house. The Wi-Fi coverage is up to 3000 square feet. It has Netgear Armor by BitDefender, which is the world’s greatest cybersecurity software that protects all your home devices from malware, virus, and data theft.
The Nighthawk CAX80 has 5 Ethernet ports, 1 USB port, and parental control features for parents who want to keep an eye on what their children are doing and Wi-Fi controls to give access to your guests. The Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 is also a terrific gaming router, as the Ethernet ports let you connect your Xbox or PlayStation through a cable rather than Wi-Fi, which is much faster.
You have to check off a lot of boxes to get the most from this modem/router, but if that’s you, you just met your future connection to the internet. Undoubtedly, Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 is one of the best investments you will ever make for your small office or home network.
Pros
- Supports the latest high-speed Wi-Fi 6 standard
- Works with high-speed cable connections (DOCSIS 3.1)
- 2.5Gbps Ethernet Port for plugging in devices with a cable
- Compatible with some cable internet providers such as Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, and Cox
- Costly but saves you money
- Easy to set up
- Safe
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires assistance from internet provider to upgrade the device firmware
- Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, Century Link, DSL providers, DirectTV, DISH, and any bundled voice services.
FAQs
Can I use my own router with Xfinity modem?
You can use your router with an Xfinity modem if you believe you are not satisfied with your wireless connection with Comcast Xfinity. Buying your own router or modem can boost the internet connection and might even save you money at the end of the day. There are numerous alternative devices available, but make sure they are compatible with Xfinity.
Is it better to have a modem and router separate?
Purchasing a cable modem router combo can help you save quite a lot of money. These all-in-one devices are mostly easily affordable than buying a cable modem and a router separately. Moreover, if you are renting your cable modem from your internet provider, you can save even more by returning it, decreasing your monthly bill. Even though modern cable modem routers are very efficient and cutting-edge, there are numerous options and features to choose from if you have more advanced requirements.
How do I set up my own modem and router with Comcast?
Comcast makes it easy for customers to purchase and set up their modem, router, or combo device. They also have a webpage that guides customers about which modems and routers are compatible with which speed tier.
After you obtain the Xfinity compatible device that you have bought, you first need to disconnect the device you had and then do the following:
- Connect your device to the power outlet and connect the cable coming out from the wall to the device.
- Turn on the device and wait a few minutes to boot up.
- If all the devices’ lights stay on, it will mean it has booted up fully. However, to be sure, also check the device’s manual.
- Connect to the Wi-Fi network of your new device. You can even connect to the Wi-Fi with an Ethernet cable to the device’s ports.
- Go to a web browser on your phone or computer and access https://xfinity.com/activate.
- Follow the instructions carefully to confirm your Xfinity account and finish the activation procedure (it might take a while to finish the registration process).
- To verify connection, try opening various sites.
Conclusion
Before buying a modem router combo, you must ensure that it is compatible with Xfinity. You can easily choose any modems and routers listed above as they are Comcast-approved and will work for Xfinity internet.
Picking the best modem and router for Xfinity depends on your preference. If your priority is to get the safest and secure network, look for these specifications. And, if you want to experience faster speeds, make sure to do your research on both modem and router.
