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5 Best Comcast Xfinity Recommended Modems 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

ARRIS (S34) - Cable Modem - Fast DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem, for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum & More, 2.5 Gbps Max Internet Speeds, 2 Year Warranty - (No Built-in WiFi)

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,295
Speed

Most important from
393 reviews

Speed
The ARRIS SBG8300 gateway is excellent, with no problems after one week and delivering performance above the purchased speeds.

The ARRIS (S34) Cable Modem is a robust choice for those looking to eliminate rental fees from their cable provider. Its standout feature is the DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is significantly faster and more secure compared to the older DOCSIS 3.0. This modem supports high-speed internet plans up to 2.5 Gbps, making it ideal for households with heavy internet usage, such as gamers or those who stream a lot of 4K content. It also includes a unique feature of switchable upstream filters, which can optimize upload speeds depending on your service provider's offerings.

It is important to note that this modem is not a built-in router, so you will need to connect it to a separate Wi-Fi router for networking. The device is straightforward to set up using the SURFboard Central App, ensuring a secure and hassle-free installation process. It is compatible with major U.S. cable providers like Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum. The modem comes with two Ethernet ports – a 2.5 Gbps port and a 1 Gbps port, which combined can support up to 3.5 Gbps download speeds.

The modem's dimensions are 10.55 x 6.75 x 2.46 inches, and it weighs 1.43 pounds. If future-proofing your home network with the latest technology is a priority, the ARRIS (S34) is certainly a compelling option.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,295
Speed

Most important from
393 reviews

Speed
The ARRIS SBG8300 gateway is excellent, with no problems after one week and delivering performance above the purchased speeds.
#2

Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem | Pairs with Any WiFi Router | Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox Gigablast, Spectrum | 2.5 Gbps Port | 2500 Mbps Max Internet Speeds

Rating
9.4
DOCSIS Standard

Most important from
29389 reviews

DOCSIS Standard
Upgrading to this modem resulted in a roughly 10% improvement in speed, even on DOCSIS 3.0.

The Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is designed for ultra-fast internet speeds, making it suitable for Comcast Xfinity, Cox Gigablast, and Spectrum users. It supports DOCSIS 3.1 standards, ensuring compatibility with the latest internet plans. With a maximum speed of 2,500 Mbps and a 2.5 GB Ethernet port, it can handle high-speed connectivity for demanding activities like gaming, streaming, and video conferencing.

One of its key advantages is its ability to work with any WiFi router, giving you the flexibility to choose the best router for your needs. However, it's important to note that the modem does not have a built-in router or telephone call capability, which may require additional purchases if you need those features. The Active Queue Management (AQM) enhances app performance by reducing latency, which is particularly beneficial for gaming and streaming.

Additionally, owning this modem can lead to significant cost savings by eliminating rental fees typically charged by internet service providers. The modem is built for reliability and comes with a 2-year warranty and free support from Motorola's USA-based technicians. Weighing only 1.1 ounces and featuring compact dimensions, the absence of built-in WiFi might be a drawback for some users, but it remains a solid choice for those who need high-speed internet and are willing to pair it with a separate WiFi router.

Rating
9.4
DOCSIS Standard

Most important from
29389 reviews

DOCSIS Standard
Upgrading to this modem resulted in a roughly 10% improvement in speed, even on DOCSIS 3.0.
#3

Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem - Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum, Supports Cable Plans up to 1000 Mbps | 1 Gbps Ethernet Port

Rating
9.1
Speed

Most important from
29389 reviews

Speed
Replacing an old modem with the MB8600 was seamless and quick, without the need to contact Comcast, providing future-proof internet speed capabilities.

The Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is an excellent choice for users subscribed to gigabit internet plans with Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum. Its support for DOCSIS 3.1 and 3.0 standards ensures top-speed internet performance, making it ideal for heavy internet users who need fast and reliable connections for streaming, gaming, or remote work. A standout feature is its compatibility with a variety of routers, including advanced systems like mesh Wi-Fi, which allows for flexible network setups tailored to different home sizes and needs.

By using this modem, users can save a considerable amount of money on rental fees, potentially up to $168 a year. However, it's important to note that the MB8600 doesn't have a built-in router or telephone capabilities, which might require additional purchases if those features are needed. Additionally, it's not compatible with all service types, such as fiber optic, DSL, or satellite, so users should ensure their ISP is among the compatible ones.

The modem's single Gigabit Ethernet port provides a strong, dedicated connection to one device, which is suitable for connecting a high-quality router or a primary device. Although it lacks multiple Ethernet ports, its Active Queue Management and full-band capture digital tuner enhance internet speed and stability, reducing latency for applications like video conferencing and online gaming.

In terms of security, the built-in Broadcom chipset offers robust protection against denial-of-service attacks. With solid customer reviews and a good reputation in its category, the Motorola MB8600 serves as a reliable investment for users looking to maximize their cable internet service performance.

Rating
9.1
Speed

Most important from
29389 reviews

Speed
Replacing an old modem with the MB8600 was seamless and quick, without the need to contact Comcast, providing future-proof internet speed capabilities.

Buying Guide for the Best Comcast Xfinity Recommended Modems

Choosing the right modem for your Comcast Xfinity service is crucial for ensuring you get the best internet experience. The modem is the device that connects your home network to the internet, and having the right one can make a big difference in speed, reliability, and overall performance. When selecting a modem, there are several key specifications to consider. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
DOCSIS StandardDOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) is the technology standard that modems use to provide internet service over cable lines. 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 future-proofing your network and for users with very high-speed internet plans. If you have a high-speed plan or want to ensure your modem will be compatible with future upgrades, opt for a DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
SpeedThe speed rating of a modem indicates the maximum internet speed it can handle. This is usually measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps). To choose the right speed, consider your internet plan and usage. For basic browsing and streaming, a modem with speeds up to 300 Mbps is sufficient. For gaming, 4K streaming, or multiple users, look for a modem that supports speeds of 600 Mbps or higher. If you have a gigabit internet plan, you'll need a modem that supports speeds of 1 Gbps or more.
ChannelsModems use channels to send and receive data. The number of channels a modem has can affect its performance, especially during peak usage times. Channels are divided into downstream (download) and upstream (upload) channels. A modem with more channels can handle more data simultaneously, which can result in faster and more reliable internet. For basic use, a modem with 8x4 channels (8 downstream and 4 upstream) is adequate. For higher performance, look for modems with 16x4, 24x8, or even 32x8 channels. If you have a high-speed plan or multiple users, more channels can help maintain consistent speeds.
CompatibilityNot all modems are compatible with all internet service providers (ISPs). It's important to ensure that the modem you choose is approved for use with Comcast Xfinity. This information is usually available on the modem's packaging or the manufacturer's website. Using a compatible modem ensures that you can take full advantage of your internet plan and avoid any potential connectivity issues. Always check the compatibility list provided by Comcast Xfinity before making a purchase.
Built-in RouterSome modems come with a built-in router, which can be convenient if you want an all-in-one device. A modem-router combo can save space and reduce the number of devices you need to manage. However, separate modems and routers can offer better performance and flexibility, especially if you have specific networking needs or want to upgrade one component without replacing the other. If you prefer simplicity and ease of setup, a modem-router combo might be the right choice. If you want more control over your network or plan to use advanced features, consider getting a separate modem and router.
Ethernet PortsEthernet ports on a modem allow you to connect wired devices directly to the internet. The number of ports can vary, with some modems offering just one port and others offering multiple. If you have several devices that require a wired connection, such as gaming consoles, desktop computers, or smart TVs, look for a modem with multiple Ethernet ports. This can provide a more stable and faster connection compared to Wi-Fi. For most users, one or two ports are sufficient, but if you have a lot of wired devices, consider a modem with more ports.

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