10 Best Modem Wi Fi Router Combos 2025 in the United States

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) is a versatile device designed for users looking to combine their cable modem and WiFi router into one unit. It supports major cable internet providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, with compatibility for plans up to 2Gbps, although it does not work with DSL providers or bundled voice services.

A standout feature is its WiFi 6 technology, offering faster speeds (up to 2.7Gbps) and better performance for up to 25 devices over a 2,000 sq. ft. area, making it suitable for home use, gaming, and small businesses. The dual-band coverage ensures stable connections across various devices. With four Gigabit Ethernet ports and one USB 3.0 port, it accommodates multiple wired connections for devices like computers and gaming consoles. Security is robust, thanks to NETGEAR Armor, which includes protection against malware and hackers. Setting up and managing the router is straightforward using the Nighthawk app.

On the downside, it's relatively bulky and may be overkill for smaller homes or less demanding users. Additionally, the device is only compatible with specific cable providers, which could be a limitation for some users. There's a financial benefit, too, as it can save users up to $168 per year in rental fees. This modem-router combo is a solid choice for users with high-speed internet plans and multiple devices, requiring advanced security features and broad coverage.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 is a strong choice if you need a modem-router combo that supports modern cable internet plans, especially if your provider is Xfinity, Spectrum, or Cox. It uses the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is great for handling fast internet speeds up to 2 Gbps, making it fit well for most high-speed cable plans. Its Wi-Fi 6 dual-band support lets you connect over 45 devices with coverage up to around 3,000 square feet, which is enough for most homes.

The router also has a good mix of ports, including one 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port and four regular Gigabit ports, allowing you to hook up several wired devices for stable connections. Security-wise, it supports standard WPA/WPA2 protocols to keep your network safe. One limitation is that it is not compatible with DSL providers or services like Verizon or AT&T, so it’s mainly for cable internet users. Also, it’s dual-band rather than tri-band, so if you have a very busy network with many devices streaming simultaneously, tri-band options might handle traffic better.

With solid performance and the benefit of saving rental fees by combining modem and router functions, the device is somewhat large and heavier than typical routers. If you want a reliable all-in-one solution for fast cable internet with Wi-Fi 6, the NETGEAR CAX80 is a practical and future-ready option.

The ASUS RT-AX1800S is a dual-band WiFi 6 router that offers several notable advantages for home and small business users. Its support for the latest WiFi 6 standard ensures fast and efficient connections, especially with multiple devices, thanks to technologies like MU-MIMO and OFDMA. This router can handle gaming and streaming effortlessly, making it ideal for households with high bandwidth demands. The four external antennas help in providing a decent coverage area, which should be sufficient for most average-sized homes.

Additionally, the inclusion of four Gigabit Ethernet ports allows for fast wired connections, which is a plus for devices that require a stable and fast connection, such as gaming consoles and smart TVs. Another strong point is its built-in security features, including AiProtection powered by Trend Micro, which offers a layer of protection for your network. The router also supports AiMesh, enabling you to expand your WiFi coverage if needed.

However, there are a few caveats to consider. The router, while supporting WiFi 6, may have its actual coverage and data throughput affected by environmental factors like building materials and network traffic. It’s something to keep in mind, especially in larger or more complex home layouts. Also, being a dual-band router, it might not handle extremely crowded networks as efficiently as tri-band routers. In terms of setup and usability, the ASUS RT-AX1800S is user-friendly, but users with less technical knowledge might need some initial guidance. On the whole, this router is a solid choice for those looking for a good balance of speed, security, and ease of use for everyday home and small business applications.