10 Best Modem For Wow Internet 2026 in the United States

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router Combo (model AX2700, DOCSIS 3.1) is an excellent option for those who need a high-speed modem that is compatible with major cable internet providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. Unfortunately, it’s not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, or any bundled voice service providers. It is best suited for cable plans up to 2Gbps and offers strong coverage up to 2,000 square feet, supporting up to 25 devices with dual-band WiFi 6 speeds reaching up to 2.7Gbps.

This makes it ideal for a busy household with multiple devices in need of fast and stable internet connections. Additionally, it comes with 4 Ethernet ports and 1 USB 3.0 port, which can be beneficial for wired devices like game consoles and computers. One of the standout features is the NETGEAR Armor software, which provides real-time protection against hackers and includes a 90-day subscription. Users can also manage their network easily with the Nighthawk app.

It is worth noting that this modem router combo is made exclusively for use in the US, and the initial price is higher compared to simpler models. However, it could save you up to $168 annually in equipment rental fees if you are currently renting a modem from your ISP. With 32x8 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.1 technology, this product ensures robust performance and future-proofing for faster internet speeds. It weighs 2.1 pounds and has compact dimensions of 10 x 8.3 x 2 inches, making it easy to fit in your home setup.

The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is a high-performance cable modem that supports the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology. This modem is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers such as WOW, Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, making it a versatile choice for many users. It supports internet speeds up to 1 Gbps, which is ideal for high-speed internet plans and ensures smooth streaming and downloading experiences.

The modem features 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels, with 4 OFDM channels that enhance its efficiency and speed further. The SB8200 also boasts two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to connect it to a Wi-Fi router or other wired devices for expanded networking options. Setup is straightforward with the SURFboard Central App, and you can rely on dedicated customer support through live chat or phone.

On the downside, the modem lacks a built-in router, so you'll need to purchase a separate one for Wi-Fi capability. Additionally, although it has strong compatibility with many ISPs, it's always best to confirm with your specific provider to avoid any issues. Despite these minor drawbacks, the ARRIS SB8200 offers robust performance and potential cost savings by eliminating rental fees from your ISP.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000 is designed to handle some of the fastest internet speeds available today, making it a great option for those who have high-speed internet plans from providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. Its DOCSIS 3.1 standard ensures impressive download speeds up to 2.5Gbps and upload speeds up to 1Gbps, which is ideal for activities like gaming, video conferencing, and uploading large files all at once.

If you pair it with a high-end WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 router, you can maximize its performance for a future-proof setup. Another significant advantage is the potential savings, as owning this modem can save you up to $300 a year in rental fees from your ISP. This modem is also noted for its ability to handle multi-gig internet speeds, thanks to its multi-gig and link aggregation ports.

It is important to note that this modem does not have a built-in router, so you will need to connect it to a separate router for WiFi access. Additionally, while it supports most major US internet providers, it's made for use only in the US. If you’re looking for top-tier internet performance and savings on rental fees, this modem is an excellent choice, especially for households with heavy internet usage and multiple devices.