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10 Best Cable Modem 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2 -1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Works with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | For Cable Internet Plans up to 2Gbps | Modem Only, Router Required

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,461
ISP Compatibility
Speed
Ethernet Ports

Most important from
19954 reviews

ISP Compatibility
Setting up the modem is straightforward, but be prepared for potential hurdles with your ISP, like unnecessary tech visits.
Speed
Despite initial connectivity issues, once resolved, the SB8200 delivers excellent speed and stability.
Ethernet Ports
It's compact and easy to hook up, with two Ethernet ports for added convenience.
Built-in Router
The SB8200 is a fast modem that works exceptionally well with high-end routers, providing a rock-solid connection.

The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is a solid choice for those looking to upgrade their home internet experience, particularly for users with high-speed connections. With DOCSIS 3.1 technology, it supports internet speeds up to 1 Gbps, making it a great fit for heavy internet users who stream, game, or download large files. Its compatibility with major U.S. cable providers like Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum ensures that it can meet the needs of many households.

One of the standout features of the SB8200 is its channel bonding capability, which allows for better speed and efficiency. This modem includes two 1-Gigabit ethernet ports, enabling you to connect multiple devices directly for stable wired connections. Additionally, you can save money over time by owning the modem instead of renting one from your ISP, potentially cutting your bills significantly.

While the SB8200 is powerful, it lacks a built-in Wi-Fi router, which means you'll need to purchase a separate router for wireless connectivity. This could be an added expense for some users. The setup process is straightforward with the SURFboard Central App, but those who aren't particularly tech-savvy might still find it a bit challenging if they encounter issues. Moreover, it’s slightly bulkier compared to other modems, which could be a consideration for those with limited space. Customer support is available, which is reassuring for first-time users. The ARRIS SB8200 is a powerful modem for anyone looking to maximize their internet speed, but make sure to pair it with a compatible router for a complete home connectivity solution.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,461
ISP Compatibility
Speed
Ethernet Ports

Most important from
19954 reviews

ISP Compatibility
Setting up the modem is straightforward, but be prepared for potential hurdles with your ISP, like unnecessary tech visits.
Speed
Despite initial connectivity issues, once resolved, the SB8200 delivers excellent speed and stability.
Ethernet Ports
It's compact and easy to hook up, with two Ethernet ports for added convenience.
Built-in Router
The SB8200 is a fast modem that works exceptionally well with high-end routers, providing a rock-solid connection.
#2

ARRIS (SBG10) - Cable Modem Router Combo - DOCSIS 3.0 16 x 4 Gigabit & AC1600 WiFi, [Check with your provider for compatibility]400 Mbps Max Internet Speeds

Rating
8.8
ISP Compatibility

Most important from
15589 reviews

ISP Compatibility
Works like a dream with Cox, allowing easy activation without needing any subscriptions.

The ARRIS SBG10 is a cable modem router combo that offers a convenient two-in-one solution for home internet needs. It uses the DOCSIS 3.0 standard, which is reliable and widely available, ensuring you get high-speed internet. With 16 downstream and 4 upstream channel bonding, it can efficiently handle internet speeds up to 400 Mbps, which is sufficient for most households' streaming, gaming, and browsing needs.

The modem is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers like Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, making it a flexible choice for many users. Additionally, it features AC1600 WiFi, which provides decent wireless coverage and speed for your home network. The setup process is straightforward, thanks to the SURFboard Central App that guides you through activation and customization. It also offers real-time monitoring and parental controls for added security and control over your network.

However, the DOCSIS 3.0 standard is not the latest technology, so it may not provide the maximum speeds available from some ISPs offering DOCSIS 3.1. The device has limited Ethernet ports, which might be a downside if you have multiple wired devices. Despite these limitations, the ARRIS SBG10 is a reliable and cost-effective option for users looking to save on modem rental fees and get solid internet performance for everyday use.

Rating
8.8
ISP Compatibility

Most important from
15589 reviews

ISP Compatibility
Works like a dream with Cox, allowing easy activation without needing any subscriptions.
#3

ARRIS (SBG7400AC2) - Modem Router Combo - Fast DOCSIS 3.0 & AC2350 WiFi, [Check with your provider for compatibility], Four 1 Gbps Ports, 800 Mbps Max Internet Speed

Rating
8.8
DOCSIS Standard
ISP Compatibility
Built-in Router

Most important from
5030 reviews

DOCSIS Standard
Delivers consistent, uninterrupted performance and eliminates the need for costly equipment rentals.
ISP Compatibility
Setup is straightforward and user-friendly, making activation and configuration hassle-free.
Built-in Router
Supports 5GHz Wi-Fi that enables smooth gaming experiences, including cloud-based Xbox gaming.

The ARRIS SURFboard SBG7400AC2 is a solid choice if you want a combined cable modem and Wi-Fi router, especially for home use with cable internet providers like Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity. It uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology, which is reliable and common, but not the latest standard. This means it supports internet speeds up to about 800 Mbps, suitable for most everyday activities like streaming, gaming, and browsing, but may fall short for very high-speed plans or future upgrades.

It has four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing multiple wired devices to connect for stable, fast connections. The built-in Wi-Fi supports dual-band AC2350 speeds, providing decent wireless coverage and speed for a typical household. Setup is made easy through an app that helps activate the modem and control your network, including parental controls.

This modem-router combo does not support voice services (no phone line capability) and is not compatible with fiber or DSL providers like AT&T or Verizon. If your internet plan relies on these technologies, this product won’t work. While DOCSIS 3.0 offers solid performance, newer modems with DOCSIS 3.1 provide better future-proofing and faster speed potential. For internet speeds under 800 Mbps, this ARRIS model offers good value and reliable performance for cable internet users who need both modem and router functions in one device.

Rating
8.8
DOCSIS Standard
ISP Compatibility
Built-in Router

Most important from
5030 reviews

DOCSIS Standard
Delivers consistent, uninterrupted performance and eliminates the need for costly equipment rentals.
ISP Compatibility
Setup is straightforward and user-friendly, making activation and configuration hassle-free.
Built-in Router
Supports 5GHz Wi-Fi that enables smooth gaming experiences, including cloud-based Xbox gaming.

Buying Guide for the Best Cable Modem

Choosing the right cable modem is essential for ensuring a reliable and fast internet connection. A cable modem connects your home network to your internet service provider (ISP) and can significantly impact your internet speed and performance. When selecting a cable modem, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and is compatible with your ISP. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and get the best performance out of your internet service.
DOCSIS StandardDOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) is the technology standard that determines the speed and performance of your cable modem. The most common standards are DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. DOCSIS 3.0 is suitable for most users and supports speeds up to 1 Gbps, which is sufficient for streaming, gaming, and general internet use. DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest standard and supports speeds up to 10 Gbps, making it ideal for users with very high-speed internet plans or those who want to future-proof their setup. Choose DOCSIS 3.1 if you have a gigabit internet plan or anticipate needing higher speeds in the future.
Channel BondingChannel bonding refers to the number of downstream and upstream channels a modem can use simultaneously. More channels mean higher potential speeds and better performance during peak usage times. Common configurations include 8x4, 16x4, 24x8, and 32x8, where the first number represents downstream channels and the second number represents upstream channels. For basic internet usage, an 8x4 modem is sufficient. For higher speeds and more reliable performance, especially in busy households, consider a modem with 16x4 or higher channel bonding.
ISP CompatibilityNot all cable modems are compatible with every ISP. It's crucial to check if the modem you are considering is approved by your ISP. Most ISPs provide a list of compatible modems on their websites. Using a modem that is not approved by your ISP can result in connectivity issues or reduced performance. Ensure you verify compatibility before making a purchase to avoid any potential problems.
Speed TierThe speed tier of a cable modem indicates the maximum internet speed it can handle. This should match or exceed the speed of your internet plan. For example, if you have a 300 Mbps internet plan, you should choose a modem that supports at least 300 Mbps. If you plan to upgrade your internet speed in the future, consider a modem with a higher speed tier to avoid needing a new modem later.
Ethernet PortsEthernet ports on a cable modem allow you to connect wired devices directly to the modem for a more stable and faster connection. Most modems come with at least one Gigabit Ethernet port, but some models offer multiple ports. If you have several devices that require a wired connection, such as gaming consoles, smart TVs, or desktop computers, consider a modem with multiple Ethernet ports to accommodate all your devices.
Built-in RouterSome cable modems come with a built-in router, combining two devices into one. This can save space and reduce the number of devices you need to manage. However, built-in routers may not offer the same performance or features as standalone routers. If you have a large home, many connected devices, or specific networking needs, you might prefer a separate modem and router. For simpler setups or smaller homes, a modem with a built-in router can be a convenient and cost-effective option.

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