Best Modem Router Combo: How To Choose The Right One?
In today’s fast-paced digital world, having a reliable and speedy internet connection is essential. Whether you’re working from home, streaming your favorite shows, or participating in online gaming, a seamless and uninterrupted connection starts with having the perfect modem router combo. With a multitude of options available in the market, choosing the best one for your needs can be a challenging task.
A modem router combo is a convenient all-in-one device that combines the capabilities of a modem and a router, providing a simple solution for both internet access and Wi-Fi connectivity. By opting for a combo, you not only save space, but also avoid the hassle of dealing with multiple gadgets and their respective cables. While some combos are priced higher than individual modems or routers, they often deliver superior performance and advanced features, ensuring a fast and stable online experience.
When searching for the best modem router combo, it’s important to consider factors such as your internet service provider’s (ISP) compatibility, supported download and upload speeds, size and design, range, and additional features like QoS and MU-MIMO. Some notable modem router combos available in 2023 include the Motorola MG7700, Netgear Nighthawk C7000, and Arris Surfboard G36. Choosing the right one for you depends on your personal preferences, budget, and specific requirements.
Best Modem Router Combo for Different Purposes
When choosing a modem router combo, it’s essential to identify your specific needs. In this section, we will discuss the best modem router combos for various purposes, such as gaming, budget, larger homes, and power users.
Gaming
For gamers, a reliable and fast internet connection is critical to ensure an unparalleled gaming experience. The Netgear Nighthawk CAX30S stands out as an excellent option, featuring high speeds, low latency, and advanced QoS settings that prioritize gaming traffic. Its powerful processor also ensures smooth streaming and data transfer, making it perfect for gamers who want to stay competitive online with minimal lag.
Budget
If you’re on a tight budget but still need a modem router combo that delivers reliable performance, consider the NETGEAR CABLE MODEM ROUTER COMBO (C6250-1AZNAS). This device offers compatibility with major US providers, 2 Gigabit wired connections, DoS protection, and WPS, all at a great value. Although not the quickest, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a cost-effective solution that doesn’t skimp on necessary features.
Larger Homes
For those with larger homes, a modem router combo with extensive coverage and robust signal strength is crucial. The Netgear Orbi CBR750 is an excellent pick for those looking for a device that can handle expansive spaces. Its tri-band mesh technology ensures seamless internet coverage throughout your home, eliminating dead zones and allowing for a stable connection even in the furthest reaches of your living space.
Power User
Power users require a modem router combo with top-notch performance and advanced features to handle their demanding internet activities. The Arris Surfboard G36 Multigigabit is the go-to choice for such users, offering gigabit speeds, enhanced security features, and advanced Wi-Fi 6 technology. With this powerful combo, you’ll enjoy high-speed data transfer, smooth video conferencing, and a reliable connection throughout your home or office.
Top Modem Router Combo Brands
In this section, we will discuss some of the top modem router combo brands, including Netgear, Arris, Motorola, and Zoom. These brands are widely known for their high-quality modem-router combos and have been used by customers for years.
Netgear
Netgear is a prominent player in the networking industry, offering a variety of modem router combos to suit various needs. One of their standout products is the Netgear Nighthawk CAX80, recommended for those who need reliable and powerful performance for gaming and heavy-duty internet usage. The Nighthawk CAX80 supports Wi-Fi 6 and features a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem, making it future-proof for increased internet speeds.
Some features of the Netgear Nighthawk CAX80:
- Wi-Fi 6 support
- DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem
- Speeds up to 6 Gbps
- Compatible with major cable providers
Arris
Arris is another established brand in the networking space, with its popular Surfboard line of modem-router combos being a top choice for customers using Xfinity and Cox internet services. The ARRIS SURFboard SBG7600AC2 is a high-performance modem-router combo that can handle Wi-Fi speeds up to 2350 Mbps, providing an excellent choice for those needing fast and stable Wi-Fi connections.
Some features of the Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2:
- Wi-Fi speeds up to 2350 Mbps
- 32 downstream x 8 upstream channels
- 4 Ethernet ports
- Easy-to-use SURFboard Central app for setup and network management
Motorola
Motorola has been a trusted name in consumer electronics, and their modem router combos are no exception. The Motorola MT8733 is a versatile modem-router combo that also supports landlines, making it an excellent option for customers who need a reliable connection for both internet and voice services. The MT8733 is compatible with Xfinity Voice, offering downstream speeds up to 600 Mbps.
Some features of the Motorola MT8733:
- Built-in voice support
- DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem
- 24 downstream x 8 upstream channels
- 4 Ethernet ports, 2 phone ports
Zoom
Zoom Telephonics is a lesser-known brand, but their modem-router combos are known for their performance and affordability. They offer modem-router combos with various features and specifications to cater to different consumer needs.
Keep in mind the brands listed above, and make sure to consider your needs and budget when deciding on a modem router combo. Good luck!
Key Features to Look for in a Modem Router Combo
In this section, we discuss the key features to consider when choosing a modem router combo.
Wi-Fi
A modem-router combo’s Wi-Fi performance is a primary consideration. The latest Wi-Fi standard, Wi-Fi 6 (also known as 802.11ax), offers faster speeds, increased efficiency, and better handling of multiple devices compared to older standards such as Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). Look for a modem-router combo that supports Wi-Fi 6 for optimal performance.
Dual-Band
A dual-band router offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, allowing for better flexibility and reduced interference between devices. The 2.4GHz band offers better range but slower speeds, while the 5GHz band provides faster speeds with a shorter range. It’s important to select a modem-router combo with dual-band capability to ensure optimal network performance.
Ports
The number and type of ports on a modem-router combo are critical for connecting wired devices. At minimum, look for a modem-router with:
- At least four Gigabit Ethernet (LAN) ports
- One WAN port
- One USB port for connecting devices like printers or external storage
Internet Connection
Consider the maximum supported download and upload speeds of the modem-router combo. The device should be compatible with your internet service provider’s (ISP) speed tier to take full advantage of their service. Check the modem-router’s specifications to ensure it supports your ISP’s recommended download/upload speeds.
Beamforming
Beamforming is a technology that directs Wi-Fi signals toward specific devices, improving range and performance. It helps maintain a strong connection with devices, even as they move around your home or office. Look for a modem-router combo that includes beamforming technology for enhanced connectivity.
Parental Controls
Parental controls allow you to manage and limit internet access for specific devices or users on your network. Features may include blocking certain websites, restricting usage during specific times, or setting up content filters. Opt for a modem-router combo with robust parental controls if managing your family’s internet usage is a priority.
Guest Networks
A modem-router combo with guest network functionality enables you to set up separate Wi-Fi networks for visitors. This keeps your primary network secure and private. It’s useful if you frequently have guests using your Wi-Fi and want to provide them with a separate, secure connection.
Warranty
A good warranty can provide peace of mind when purchasing a modem-router combo. Look for a warranty that covers at least one to two years, protecting you from manufacturing defects and other issues. Remember to check the terms and conditions of the warranty, as some companies may offer different levels of coverage.
In summary, consider the Wi-Fi standard, dual-band capability, number of ports, internet connection speeds, beamforming technology, parental controls, guest networks, and warranty when choosing a modem-router combo. Balancing these features will help you find the right device for your needs.
DOCSIS Versions and Wi-Fi Standards
In this section, we’ll discuss the different DOCSIS versions and Wi-Fi standards that are available for modem router combos. Understanding these standards will help you make an informed decision when choosing the best modem router combo for your needs.
DOCSIS 3.0
DOCSIS 3.0 is a widely-used standard for cable modems that allows for faster speeds and more reliability compared to its predecessor, DOCSIS 2.0. Some of the features of DOCSIS 3.0 include:
- Support for channel bonding, which allows multiple channels to be used simultaneously for faster and more reliable internet connections
- Improved security and encryption protocols
- Backward compatibility with DOCSIS 2.0 devices
DOCSIS 3.0 modems can cost between $50 and $150, making them an affordable option for many households.
DOCSIS 3.1
DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest standard for cable modems and provides even faster internet speeds than DOCSIS 3.0. Some benefits of DOCSIS 3.1 include:
- Faster download and upload speeds, allowing for gigabit-level internet connections
- Support for low-latency features, perfect for precision gaming and streaming
- Enhanced energy efficiency compared to DOCSIS 3.0
One example of a DOCSIS 3.1 modem is the Arris SURFboard SB8200, which features 32 downstream and 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, as well as 2 downstream and 2 upstream DOCSIS 3.1 bonded channels.
Wi-Fi 5
Wi-Fi 5, also known as 802.11ac, is a popular Wi-Fi standard that provides faster wireless speeds and improved range compared to previous Wi-Fi standards. Some key features of Wi-Fi 5 include:
- Support for multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output (MU-MIMO) technology, allowing multiple devices to connect simultaneously without a loss in speed
- Beamforming technology, which helps improve Wi-Fi signal range and strength
- Backward compatibility with previous Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
Wi-Fi 6
Wi-Fi 6, or 802.11ax, is the latest Wi-Fi standard and offers several improvements over Wi-Fi 5. These include:
- Faster data transfer rates, with speeds up to 2.7 Gbps
- Improved performance in dense environments, such as apartments or public spaces
- Advanced energy efficiency, lowering power consumption on supported devices
- Improved security through the use of WPA3 encryption
While Wi-Fi 6 is still relatively new, it’s becoming more common in modem router combos, providing users with cutting-edge wireless performance.
In conclusion, understanding DOCSIS versions and Wi-Fi standards is crucial for choosing the right modem router combo for your needs. Consider your specific requirements and select a device that offers the best combination of features for your internet connection and home network.
Top Modem Router Combos for Major ISPs
In this section, we will discuss the great modem-router combos for the major Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, CenturyLink, and Frontier.
Xfinity
For Xfinity customers, the Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2 is a fantastic choice. This DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem and Wi-Fi router offer good Wi-Fi coverage and are easy to set up. It is approved for use with Xfinity, and some of its significant features include:
- Top speeds of up to 1.9 Gbps
- Dual-band Concurrent AC Wi-Fi
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
Cox
The best modem-router combo for Cox users is the NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000. This powerful device boasts a top speed of 960Mbps and a 1.6GHz processor. Some of its key features are:
- DOCSIS 3.0 with 24×8 channel bonding
- Beamforming technology for a better range
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
Spectrum
For Spectrum subscribers, the Arris Surfboard G36 MultiGigabit is a great modem-router combo. This device is perfect for those who need fast internet speeds and robust Wi-Fi connectivity. It features:
- DOCSIS 3.1 and 32×8 channel bonding
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
CenturyLink
If you’re a CenturyLink customer, consider getting the Motorola MD1600. This modem-router combo is built for DSL internet, making it compatible with CenturyLink’s service. Its critical features include:
- ADSL/VDSL capabilities
- Dual-band AC Wi-Fi
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
Frontier
For Frontier users, the NETGEAR Nighthawk D7000 is another excellent option. This DSL modem/router combo is compatible with Frontier’s network and offers some great features like:
- Dual-band AC Wi-Fi
- VDSL/ADSL support
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
Remember to always confirm the compatibility of a modem-router combo with your specific ISP before making a purchase.
High-Performing Modem Router Combos
Netgear Nighthawk C7200
The Netgear Nighthawk C7200 is an excellent modem router combo known for its great performance and vast compatibility. It comes with a top speed of 960Mbps and a powerful 1.6GHz processor. This powerful machine ensures seamless online gaming and streaming. Key features include:
- Beamforming technology for better signal coverage
- 4 Ethernet ports for wired devices
- DOCSIS 3.0 technology
Motorola MG7700
Motorola MG7700 is another top-performing modem router combo on the market. It’s an all-in-one device with great features and reliability. Some of its benefits include:
- DOCSIS 3.0 technology for faster internet speeds
- 24×8 channel bonding for enhanced throughput
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for better wireless coverage
- 4 Ethernet ports for wired devices
Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2
The Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2 is a versatile modem router combo that delivers high-speed internet connectivity and a reliable Wi-Fi network. Here are some of its top features:
- DOCSIS 3.0 technology for improved internet speeds
- 32×8 channel bonding for enhanced throughput
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for optimum wireless coverage
- 4 Ethernet ports for wired devices
- Easy setup and configuration process
Netgear Nighthawk C7800
Another high-performing modem router combo is the Netgear Nighthawk C7800. This device is built for users who need an efficient and reliable connection. Its features include:
- DOCSIS 3.1 technology for gigabit internet speeds
- 32×8 channel bonding for ultimate throughput
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for reliable wireless coverage
- 4 Ethernet ports for wired devices
- Enhanced security features for network protection
These modem router combos provide an excellent balance between performance and features, making them ideal choices for users looking for seamless internet connectivity and networking options.
Mark is a tech-obsessed serial entrepreneur who also enjoys reading and writing. He has a strong urge to keep learning and talking about technology, which led him to become an author. Mark has co-founded two successful startups, one of which was acquired in 2018.
