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Best Cable Modems 2025

Save on rental fees and maximize your internet with these cable modem pro picks

Our pick: Which cable modem is best?

A modem may not be the most exciting thing to shop for—but it sure is important. Purchasing a modem can help you save on rental fees from your internet provider and maximize your internet plan. Our overall choice for most cable plans is the Motorola MB8611. The MB8611provides plenty of speed for the average household and its relatively affordable price tag is the cherry on top.

The 5 best cable modems

Compare cable modem specs and features

Best forModelMax download speedPrice*
OverallMotorola MB86112,500Mbps$217.75 on Amazon
BudgetsNETGEAR CM500343Mbps$49.99 on Amazon
GamersNETGEAR Nighthawk CM30002,500Mbps$269.99 on Amazon
Multi-gigARRIS SURFboard SB82002,000Mbps$125.00 on Amazon
Modem/router comboARRIS SURFboard G362,500Mbps$329.00 on Amazon

Save even more with a modem/router combo!

If you want to keep your setup simple and don’t want to worry about buying both a router and modem, check out our best modem/router combos to help you save space and money—plus they’re easy to set up.

How to find the right cable modem for your needs

The most important thing to consider when purchasing a router is the maximum download speed supported—you need to make sure it can support your internet plan speeds. The channel count and specs on a modem will tell you exactly what the max upload and download speeds are. Most modems use DOCSIS 3.1 that provide plenty of speed. As amazing as it is that the latest DOCSIS 4.0 supports outrageous download speeds of 10,000Mbps, it’s definitely over the top for most households.

The Ethernet port controls the modem’s maximum output to your network. You’ll want to make sure the modem’s Ethernet port is capable of handling your cable internet plan. If you have a plan over 1,000Mbps, a Gigabit Ethernet port won’t be enough.

Verify modem compatibility with your cable internet provider first

Never buy a modem before ensuring it works with your cable internet network. Imagine how terrible it would be to invest in a modem, just to find out during the set up process that it doesn’t work—especially with how pricey some modems can get.

Here is a list of compatible modems for popular cable providers:

Best overall: Motorola MB8611

Motorola MB8611

Specifications

  • 1x 2.5Gbps Ethernet port
  • 2×2 OFDM/A channels (DOCSIS 3.1)
  • 32×8 SCQAM channels (DOCSIS 3.0)
  • Max download speed: 2,350Mbps
  • Max upload speed: 800Mbps

Pros

Multi-gig speeds

5 Gbps Ethernet

MotosSync app

Cons

Pricey compared to other options

Motorola is one of the most reliable cable modem brands out there, and the MB8611 does not disappoint as a top seller. The biggest standout it has to offer is its reduced latency through Active Queue Management. You can use the handy MotoSync app to set up and manage your modem or to troubleshoot any issues.

You’ll get a two-year warranty and free tech support if you go with a Motorola modem—sweet! A zippy 2.5Gbps port should provide plenty of speed for most internet plans and households. So unless you need speeds over 2,350Mbps, the MB8611 is a solid choice that comes with plenty of perks.

The Motorola MB8611 will work with the following providers:

  • Astound
  • Cox
  • Mediacom
  • Optimum
  • Sparklight
  • Spectrum
  • WOW!
  • Xfinity

Best for budgets: NETGEAR CM500

NETGEAR CM500

Specifications

  • 1x Gigabit Ethernet port
  • 16×4 SCQAM channels (DOCSIS 3.0)
  • Max download speed: 343Mbps
  • Max upload speed: 123Mbps

Pros

Low price

Decent cable speeds

Cons

No DOCSIS 3.1 support

Can’t support plans over 400Mbps

If you’re on a budget and don’t have crazy-high internet needs, the NETGEAR CM500 is the modem for you. It’s very basic, but will get the job done at a low price-point. It can support plans up to 400Mbps, making it a solid choice for smaller households. There are some reports of dropped connections and durability issues for the CM500, but overall most customers are satisfied with the value for its cost.

The CM500 has a solid rating of 4.2 out of 5, with customers noting an easy set up process and reliable connection. If you’re looking for a modem that includes the core essentials of a good modem at the lowest price possible, NETGEAR’s CM500 can be a great addition to your home network. The CM500 is compatible with the following providers:

  • Cox
  • Mediacom
  • Optimum
  • Sparklight
  • Spectrum
  • Xfinity

Best for gamers: NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000

NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000

Specifications

  • 1 x 2.5Gbps Ethernet port
  • 2 x 1Gbps Ethernet ports
  • 2×2 OFDM/A channels (DOCSIS 3.1)
  • 32×8 SCQAM channels (DOCSIS 3.0)
  • Max download speed: 2,350Mbps
  • Max upload speed: 1,000Mbps

Pros

Two extra 1Gbps Ethernet ports

Cool design with LEDs

Cons

Reported durability and connectivity issues

Another solid NETGEAR modem is the CM3000—we particularly recommend this one for gamers. It supports download speeds up to 2.5Gbps with one 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, plus two extra Gigabit ports. You’ll want to ensuremake sure your router WAN port is also capable of 2.5Gbps speeds in order to maximize your modem and internet plan.

One of the reasons the CM3000 is our pick for gamers is the mesmerizing LED strip that runs along the sides. The sleek and modern look won’t clash with your gaming setup—we know aesthetics are especially important for gamers who stream. The CM3000 performs just as well as other modems, and itbut adds extra flare with its angular design that stands out above the rest.

It’s compatible with these providers:

  • Cox
  • Mediacom
  • Optimum
  • Sparklight
  • Spectrum
  • Xfinity

Best multigig alternative: ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

Specifications

  • 2x 1Gbps Ethernet ports
  • 2×2 OFDM/A channels (DOCSIS 3.1)
  • 32×8 SCQAM channels (DOCSIS 3.0)
  • Max download speed: 1,880Mbps
  • Max upload speed: 800Mbps

Pros

Multi-gig speeds

Simple set up

Cons

No 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port

ARRIS is another reliable cable modem manufacturer, so when it comes to performance and high reliability—the SURFboard SB8200 will not disappoint. This modem will be especially useful for those who already own a router without a 2.5Gbps port.

Keep in mind that your router will need to support link aggregation in order for you to be able to combine your router’s WAN and LAN 1 ports for a 2Gbps connection. Since the SB8200 has two Gigabit Ethernet ports, you’ll be able to get the most out of your modem and router without having to upgrade to a 2.5Gbps router. The SB8200 modem will work with the following providers:

Best combo: ARRIS SURFboard G36

ARRIS SURFboard G36

Specifications

  • 4x 1Gbps Ethernet ports
  • 1x 2.5Gbps Ethernet port
  • 2×2 OFDM/A channels (DOCSIS 3.1)
  • 32×8 SCQAM channels (DOCSIS 3.0)
  • Max download speed: 2,350Mbps
  • Max upload speed: 800Mbps

Pros

Four extra 1Gbps ports

Built-in Wi-Fi 6 router

Cons

High price

If you want to take the most simple approach to setting up your home network, —a modem/router combo is the way to go. This won’t just save you the hassle of buying a router, but it’ll save you some money too. The ARRIS SURFboard G36 is a dependable all-in-one solution with fast wired connections and, a reasonable price tag. Plus, it packs a punch with plenty of internet speed.

If you’ve got a ton of wired devices, the G36 comes with four Gigabit Ethernet ports to plug into, plus one 2.5Gbps port. This gives you plenty of flexibility to work with various router WAN ports and devices. The G36 will work with plenty of providers too:

Our verdict

There’s a lot of leeway when it comes to choosing a good modem. Modems are less complicated than routers, so you have more opportunities to base your decision on other features like colors and designs. Your speed needs are going to be the main deciding factor. As long as your modem can handle your internet plan speeds, you’re golden!

If you can, try to pick a modem you know will future-proof your internet connection so you don’t have to upgrade anytime soon. The Motorola MB8611 is our pick for a modem that will pack plenty of speeds and work for most households.

FAQ about cable modems

What is a modem?

Do I need a router if I have a modem?

How does DOCSIS 3.1 enable faster speed?

Disclaimer

Author -

After graduating from the University of Utah with an honors degree in Linguistics, Andrea Gutierrez Prieto transitioned from being an Analytic Linguist and Research Assistant to the HighSpeedInternet.com team. Andrea has a background in academic and research writing with a passion for helping readers make informed decisions. Off the clock, Andrea spends her time watching anime, reading manga, and baking delicious pastries at home.

Editor - Jessica Brooksby

Jessica loves bringing her passion for the written word and her love of tech into one space at HighSpeedInternet.com. She works with the team’s writers to revise strong, user-focused content so every reader can find the tech that works for them. Jessica has a bachelor’s degree in English from Utah Valley University and seven years of creative and editorial experience. Outside of work, she spends her time gaming, reading, painting, and buying an excessive amount of Legend of Zelda merchandise.

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