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10 Best Modem Router Combinations 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router - AX2700 2.7 Gbps - Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and More - Gigabit Wireless Internet

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,201
Internet Speed Compatibility
Range and Coverage
Security Features

Most important from
794 reviews

Internet Speed Compatibility
Eliminating rental fees while enjoying internet speeds nearly double those provided by ISP equipment makes this device a smart long-term investment.
Range and Coverage
Excellent WiFi range covers large outdoor areas effectively, supporting smooth 4K streaming and lag-free gaming via Ethernet connections.
Security Features
Robust built-in security features help protect devices from online threats, providing peace of mind alongside high-speed connectivity.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 is a solid option if you have a cable internet provider such as Xfinity, Spectrum, or Cox and want to combine your modem and router into one device. It supports fast internet speeds up to 2Gbps, thanks to DOCSIS 3.1 technology and WiFi 6 (802.11ax) standard, which helps deliver wireless speeds up to 2.7Gbps on two bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz). This setup is suitable for medium-sized homes, covering around 2,000 square feet and supporting up to 25 devices at once, making it good for streaming, gaming, and general browsing. It also offers four Gigabit Ethernet ports to connect wired devices like computers or gaming consoles, plus a USB 3.0 port for extra storage or media sharing.

Security is strong with built-in NETGEAR Armor protection that guards against online threats, though this feature comes with only a 30-day free trial. The device is easy to set up and manage with the Nighthawk app. However, it won’t work with DSL providers, phone-based internet services, or some major ISPs like Verizon and AT&T, so it’s important to check if your internet provider is supported.

While the coverage is sufficient for most homes, very large houses or places with many walls might need additional WiFi extenders. If you want to save on equipment rental fees and need a reliable, high-speed connection for cable internet, the CAX30 is a practical choice, but keep in mind its compatibility limits and coverage range when deciding.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,201
Internet Speed Compatibility
Range and Coverage
Security Features

Most important from
794 reviews

Internet Speed Compatibility
Eliminating rental fees while enjoying internet speeds nearly double those provided by ISP equipment makes this device a smart long-term investment.
Range and Coverage
Excellent WiFi range covers large outdoor areas effectively, supporting smooth 4K streaming and lag-free gaming via Ethernet connections.
Security Features
Robust built-in security features help protect devices from online threats, providing peace of mind alongside high-speed connectivity.
#2

NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router Combo (CAX80) - Compatible with All Major Cable Providers incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 6Gbps - AX6000 WiFi 6 Speed - DOCSIS 3.1

Rating
9.6
Internet Speed Compatibility
Range and Coverage
ISP Compatibility

Most important from
3499 reviews

Internet Speed Compatibility
Setting up the device was straightforward with clear instructions and quick ISP activation, resulting in the fastest speeds experienced across multiple homes and providers.
Range and Coverage
Wi-Fi coverage is impressive, maintaining a strong signal up to about 200 feet from the house, providing excellent range for most home environments.
ISP Compatibility
While the CAX80 improves wireless throughput substantially, some users found it incompatible with wired TV boxes relying on MoCA, requiring a wireless TV box workaround.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 is a solid choice if you have a cable internet plan from providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, or Cox, especially if you’re aiming for fast speeds up to 6Gbps. It supports the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology and Wi-Fi 6, which means faster and more reliable wireless connections. The modem-router combo offers dual-band Wi-Fi with a coverage area around 2,500 sq. ft., which should be enough for most homes, and can handle about 30 devices at once without much slowdown.

One of its advantages is the variety of Ethernet ports including four standard gigabit ports and a special 2.5 gigabit port that can combine with another for super-fast wired connections—great for gaming or streaming. The included NETGEAR Armor security software adds a strong layer of protection for your network and connected devices, which is handy if you want ongoing security without extra setup.

Setup is straightforward with the Nighthawk app, allowing easy management of your Wi-Fi and monitoring your connection. This device only works with cable internet providers; if you use Verizon, AT&T, DSL, or satellite providers, it won’t be compatible. While its coverage is good for average homes, very large houses or spaces with many walls might require extra Wi-Fi extenders. The CAX80 combines a high-speed modem and router in one, making it a great fit for cable internet users who want to save on rental fees and enjoy fast, secure Wi-Fi with multiple wired connections. Just be sure your provider is supported and that your home size fits within its coverage capabilities.

Rating
9.6
Internet Speed Compatibility
Range and Coverage
ISP Compatibility

Most important from
3499 reviews

Internet Speed Compatibility
Setting up the device was straightforward with clear instructions and quick ISP activation, resulting in the fastest speeds experienced across multiple homes and providers.
Range and Coverage
Wi-Fi coverage is impressive, maintaining a strong signal up to about 200 feet from the house, providing excellent range for most home environments.
ISP Compatibility
While the CAX80 improves wireless throughput substantially, some users found it incompatible with wired TV boxes relying on MoCA, requiring a wireless TV box workaround.
#3

NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30S) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router - AX2700 6.0 Gbps - Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and More - Gigabit Wireless Internet - NETGEAR Armor

Rating
9.3
Internet Speed Compatibility
Range and Coverage
Security Features

Most important from
2011 reviews

Internet Speed Compatibility
The Nighthawk provides the fastest speeds ever experienced at home, with zero issues over weeks of use.
Range and Coverage
The range of the WiFi is impressive, maintaining connection even 200 feet away from the house.
Security Features
The security footprint is the best seen on a retail device, with NETGEAR Armor catching multiple attacks that other routers missed.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi 6 Router Combo (AX2700, DOCSIS 3.1) is a solid choice for users with higher-speed internet plans, supporting speeds up to 2Gbps. It is compatible with major cable providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox but not with DSL or fiber services like Verizon or AT&T, which limits its use for some customers.

With WiFi 6 technology, it offers faster speeds and better performance for multiple devices, covering up to 2,000 sq. ft. and supporting up to 25 concurrent devices. This dual-band router ensures robust performance with speeds up to 2.7Gbps. It features 4 Ethernet ports (with port aggregation) and a USB 3.0 port, making it versatile for wired connections including game consoles and storage drives.

The integrated security features, including NETGEAR Armor and automatic firmware updates, provide a secure network environment. The initial 90-day subscription to NETGEAR Armor is a nice addition, though ongoing service will require a fee. Setup and management are streamlined through the Nighthawk app. However, users should note that it is intended for use in the US only and it replaces both your modem and router, which means savings on rental fees from your ISP. Despite its compatibility limitations and ongoing costs for security features, this modem-router combo is a robust and high-performing option for users with compatible services.

Rating
9.3
Internet Speed Compatibility
Range and Coverage
Security Features

Most important from
2011 reviews

Internet Speed Compatibility
The Nighthawk provides the fastest speeds ever experienced at home, with zero issues over weeks of use.
Range and Coverage
The range of the WiFi is impressive, maintaining connection even 200 feet away from the house.
Security Features
The security footprint is the best seen on a retail device, with NETGEAR Armor catching multiple attacks that other routers missed.

Buying Guide for the Best Modem Router Combinations

Choosing the right modem-router combination is essential for ensuring a reliable and fast internet connection in your home or office. A modem-router combo combines the functions of a modem, which connects to your internet service provider (ISP), and a router, which distributes the internet connection to your devices. This can simplify your setup and reduce the number of devices you need. When selecting a modem-router combo, consider the following key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and provides the best performance for your internet usage.
Internet Speed CompatibilityThis spec indicates the maximum internet speed that the modem-router combo can handle. It's important because if your device can't support the speed provided by your ISP, you won't get the full benefit of your internet plan. Internet speed compatibility is usually measured in megabits per second (Mbps). For basic browsing and streaming, a device supporting up to 100 Mbps may suffice. For gaming, 4K streaming, or multiple users, look for a device that supports 300 Mbps or higher. Match the speed compatibility with your internet plan to ensure optimal performance.
Wi-Fi StandardsWi-Fi standards determine the speed and range of your wireless network. The most common standards are 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4), 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5), and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). Wi-Fi 4 is suitable for basic internet use, Wi-Fi 5 offers better performance for streaming and gaming, and Wi-Fi 6 provides the fastest speeds and best performance for multiple devices. Choose a modem-router combo with a Wi-Fi standard that matches your usage needs. For future-proofing and the best performance, Wi-Fi 6 is recommended.
Number of BandsModem-router combos can operate on single-band (2.4 GHz), dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), or tri-band (one 2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz) frequencies. The number of bands affects the device's ability to handle multiple devices and reduce interference. Single-band is sufficient for light internet use, dual-band is better for moderate use with multiple devices, and tri-band is ideal for heavy use, such as gaming and 4K streaming, in a busy household. Consider the number of devices and the type of internet activities in your home when choosing the number of bands.
Range and CoverageRange and coverage refer to the area within which the modem-router combo can provide a strong Wi-Fi signal. This is important to ensure that all areas of your home or office have a reliable connection. The range is influenced by the power of the device and the presence of external antennas. For small apartments, a standard range may be sufficient. For larger homes or offices, look for a device with a longer range or consider additional features like mesh networking to extend coverage. Assess the size and layout of your space to determine the necessary range.
Number of Ethernet PortsEthernet ports allow you to connect wired devices directly to the modem-router combo for a more stable and faster connection. This is important for devices that require a reliable connection, such as gaming consoles, desktop computers, or smart TVs. Modem-router combos typically come with 2 to 4 Ethernet ports. If you have multiple devices that need a wired connection, choose a device with more ports. Consider the number of wired devices you have and ensure the modem-router combo can accommodate them.
Security FeaturesSecurity features protect your network from unauthorized access and cyber threats. Common security features include WPA3 encryption, firewalls, and guest network capabilities. WPA3 is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi encryption standard. Firewalls help block malicious traffic, and guest networks allow visitors to connect without accessing your main network. Choose a modem-router combo with robust security features to keep your network and data safe. Consider the sensitivity of the data you handle and the importance of network security in your environment.
ISP CompatibilityNot all modem-router combos are compatible with every ISP. This spec is crucial because using an incompatible device can result in connectivity issues or the inability to connect to the internet. Check with your ISP for a list of compatible devices or look for a modem-router combo that explicitly states compatibility with your ISP. Ensure the device you choose is approved by your ISP to avoid any potential issues.

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