Best DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modems Of 2024

Best WiFi Cable Modem Router

Gone are the days when only the fibre optic cables provided high-level gigabit speeds. Now we have DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem technology introduced by CableLabs, which is more efficient and effective.

Due to these modems’ outstanding performance and extraordinary results, most of the cable service providers have started opting for the DOCSIS 3.1 technology in different locations. 

Do you wish to have uninterrupted high-speed internet while working from home? Do you want to experience seamless, lag-free online gaming sessions? If yes, then it’s high time you invest in a DOCSIS 3.1 modem and boost your internet speed. Whether you want to take online classes, hold business meetings, want to have a seamless gaming session, or watch movies in 4k, DOCSIS 3.1 is your best bet. 

Are you eager to find the best DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem, check first with your ISP if they offer the service? You being here tells that you’ve already confirmed it, and now you just want to know which modem will be worth your time and money. 

DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem List

To save you from all the hassle, here’s a list of the top 8 best DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems of all time. 

1. NETGEAR Cable Modem CM500

Best Cable Modem Reviews

Quick Features

  • 300 Megabits Per Second
  • Upstream: 123 Megabits Per Second
  • Works with Any Wi-Fi Router
  • HD streaming and more
  • DOCSIS 3.0 and 16×4 Channel Bonding

The first DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem we have on our list is none other than the NETGEAR CM500 modem. NETGEAR is popularly known for their impressive devices and modems. This is exactly what the CM500 is about. It’s one impressive high-speed cable modem that works with some of the most famous cable service providers such as Time Warner Cable and Comcast XFINITY.

The best part about this third-party modem is you save upto $168/yr when paying up your equipment rental fees. Moreover, it has an impressive design which you can place just about anywhere without hurting your home/office aesthetics. 

When it comes to performance, the CM500 modem is unbeatable. It supports a speed that’s 16x times faster than what the DOCSIS 2.0 devices offer. In a nutshell, you don’t have to worry about a slow internet connection when streaming HD videos.

On top of everything else, this modem comes with a high-speed Gigabit Ethernet port that allows you to transfer the speed to your local network. With a simple web browser, you can monitor and control the modem, and there aren’t any feature-rich software functionalities you have to stress about. From its design to its functionality, each and everything is worth it! 

2. ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

Cable Modem Approved for Cox

Quick Features

  • Max Internet Speed Plan 2000 Mbps
  • 32 x 8 Downstream/Upstream
  • Best for 4K Ultra-HD Video Streaming, VR Gaming
  • Compatible with major US Cable
  • Quick & easy setup

Want a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that offers a reasonable price without compromising on the quality? If yes, then you need to get your hands on the ARRIS SB8200 modem right away because it’s just the best in that regard. The best thing about this modem is that it reaches up to 2Gbps of download speed.

For someone who wants to future-proof his internet setup without spending a lot of money, ARRIS SB8200 is just the right choice. Furthermore, with this modem, you’ll enjoy reduced latency, less interference, reduced gaming ping, & network traffic transmission will be easier, thanks to active queue management. 

Unlike other modems, the ARRIS SURFboard DOCSIS Cable Modem is easy to set up. One of the most attractive features here is that the processor is extremely powerful, which is exactly what people look for when they are buying a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem.

ARRIS modem compatible with several different ISPs, and it comes with two gig Ethernet ports that will help provide you with the best experience. The only problematic thing about this device is that it heats up quickly. Otherwise, it is a very satisfactory modem for cables. 

3. NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem

Compatible with Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast

Quick Features

  • Cable Internet Plan Speed: Up to 2Gbps
  • Wi-Fi Speed: AC3200 (up to 3200Mbps)
  • Wi-Fi Coverage: Up to 3000 sq ft and 45 devices
  • Gigabit Ethernet Ports: 4 x 1G
  • Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 and 32×8 Channel Bonding

Most people complain about not having the feature of a Wi-Fi router in the DOCSIS 3.1 modems. However, if you’re using NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 modem, you get the complete package. This device comes with an AC3200 Wi-Fi router, and it also serves as a DOCSIS 3.1 modem to provide you with the best speed.

An appealing factor of this modem is that it can cover around 3000 sq. ft of area, and you can connect more than 45 devices all at the same time. If you are someone with a big family and if you want to connect multiple devices, then this modem+router will be the best thing to make investments. 

It comes with the parental control feature where you get to control your network completely. If you are the kind of person who prefers wired connections, then this device will serve you just right as it comes with a total of 4 gigabit Ethernet ports. These ports combined will give you unlimited speed and connection.

Moreover, if you wish to connect your non-wireless devices such as an XBOX or PS4 to the modem, then you have two hi-speed USB 3.0 ports for it. This modem also serves as a Wi-Fi router. If you are looking for the best device to make an investment this year, here’s one to spend on. 

4. Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 Modem

Best Combo Modem Router

Quick Features

  • DOCSIS 3.1 plus 32×8 DOCSIS 3.0
  • Max Internet Download Speed: 6000 Mbps
  • Approved for majoe US Cable provider
  • Wirecutter recommend this Best Cable Modem
  • Works with any WiFi router

If latency and connection drops are two of your biggest concerns, then the Motorola MB8600 modem is the right device to get your hands on. This device will help by giving you the highest internet speed connection for seamless streaming and gaming.

Performance-wise, you won’t have to face any regrets as it comes with eight upload channels and 32 download channels. The next time you load web pages, they will load up faster because of minimized latency issues. It uses active queue management to minimize the latency significantly. 

If you are looking for a modem with the highest possible download speed, the MB8600 will fulfill your needs. It offers a speed upto 3.8 Gbps. In simpler words, within minutes, you’ll have your files, videos, or games downloaded no matter how big the file size is.

The only two drawbacks of this modem are that first, it’s a little pricey, and second that it comes with only a single Gigabit Ethernet port. However, both these drawbacks can be overlooked, especially if you consider the rich features that this modem offers. 

5. NETGEAR Cable Modem CM1150V

Cable Modem with Voice

Quick Features

  • Internet Plan Speed: Up to 2Gbps
  • Gigabit Ethernet Ports: 4 x 1G (with multi-gig port aggregation)
  • Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1, 32×8 Channel Bonding, OFDM 2×2
  • Save up to $120 per year
  • 4 x 1G Ethernet Ports

Looking for a modem that supports Xfinity Internet? The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1150 v modem is the best option. Here’s a standalone modem which offers the best voice support when communicating over phone lines.

Moreover, this modem comes with the best link aggregation that will help you add more strength and value to your wired connections. The modem seldom heats up because, first, it comes with a beautiful vertical design, and secondly, it has enough vents for appropriate heat dissipation.

With it, you can connect to multiple devices all at the same time, and due to the 4 gigabit Ethernet ports, you’ll have a very strong, reliable, and fast internet connection. On top of everything else, there are some more interesting features offered by the CM1150 V modem, including; 3-way conference calling, caller ID, and call forwarding. 

Thanks to the link aggregation feature, you get an extremely high-speed internet connection to enjoy all your long distance calls, high-quality video streamings, and low ping gaming sessions. The only concern is the price. If compared to other modems, the CM1150 V is a bit expensive.

But for someone who knows what NETGEAR offers and what quality it delivers, price won’t be much of an issue, especially when you are getting complete voice support and several other useful features. 

6. ARRIS SURFboard T25

DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem

Quick Features

  • Cable internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps
  • DOCSIS Downstream x Upstream 32 x 8
  • Gigabit Ethernet Ports: 2
  • 4K Ultra-HD video streaming and VR gaming
  • Best Modem for Xfinity Internet

If you don’t want to rely on your ISP and want to future proof your internet setup, then the ARRIS T25 cable modem is probably the best thing to buy this year. It comes with the voice support feature similar to CM1150 V modem. Moreover, it offers high-end hardware along with extraordinary downstream and upstream speeds.

On top of that, you get 2×2 OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels which is the best bang for the buck considering the price you have to pay for it. Due to the combination of these channels, you won’t ever have to stress about having a poor internet connection with low latency levels. 

As said earlier, this modem supports voice services, especially Xfinity digital voice service, and for this, you get 2 telephony ports and two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports. So if you’re looking for a 2-in-1 device, here’s a modem that works wonders.

The product is very durable and thanks to proper ventilation and compact tower design, the modem seldom heats up. As far as the drawbacks are concerned, the battery backup is fairly less and it does not have a USB port. If you haven’t made up your mind yet, now you can. 

7. Motorola Modem MB7621

Best Motorola Modem Reviews

Quick Features

  • Max Internet Speed: 650 Mbps
  • Saves 156 dollars per year
  • GigE Ethernet port
  • Fast Internet Speed
  • Easy Setup

Want the best bang for your buck? How about you consider purchasing the Motorola MB7621 cable modem. It’s one of our most favorite modems because, first of all, it’s less costly as compared to other modems, and it doesn’t compromise on the speed of the internet. Keeping both these things in view, one can easily tell that this modem by Motorola is one worthy device to invest in.

With it, you get eight downstream channels and 24 upstream channels that are capable of handling speeds upto 650 Mbps. If you’re looking for a more affordable option then you shouldn’t think twice before investing in MB7621 modem. It comes with a 2-year warranty that ensures that this modem comes with a long lifespan. 

Gigabit Ethernet port is the most impressive thing about this modem as it connects to a Wi-Fi router easily. It can connect to a gaming station or any other external device without any hassle. Moreover, it comes with a quick guide that will help you with the setup, and you’ll be done with it within a few minutes.

When it comes to the design, it’s quite beautiful with that meshy look. The modem is compact, so it saves you a lot of shelf space. Whether it’s your home or your office, we can bet this modem will look good anywhere you place it. 

8. Netgear Nighthawk CM1100

DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem review

Quick Features

  • DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem
  • 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
  • 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Internet speed tiers up to 2Gps
  • Separate router required for WiFi

Lastly, we have the NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1100 cable modem, an exceptionally good DOCSIS 3.1 modem to make investments. Want to cut down on your rental and stop yourself from relying on your ISP? It’s high time to consider buying the CM1100.

If you want an experience of multi-gig internet speeds with both a wireless and a wired connection, then the CM1100 will fulfill your needs here. Yes, other high-end modems support gig speeds upto 2Gbps, but with the CM1100, you can expect a support of just 1Gbps.

As far as the ports are concerned, this modem comes with a single Gig Ethernet port, so you can either opt for a wireless connection or a wired connection as per your preference. What makes it a good option is that it supports OFDM 2 x 2 technology, reducing latency to a whole other level due to 32 x 8 channel bonding.

The drawback here is that you don’t get any link aggregation with a single port, but if compared with all the other features that you are getting, this isn’t something to worry about. 


Buying Guide for the Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem

For starters, you should never make the mistake of buying a used modem because if you do, the modem will still be connected with the previous owner and his internet setup. So instead of wasting your money there, you should be ready to spend a little extra and get a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that brings you your desired results. 

Here are a few important factors to consider when trying to find the best DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem.

  • ISP Compatibility

The very first thing you need to do is to confirm that your internet service provider is supporting the DOCSIS 3.1 technology in your area or not. You won’t be able to activate your modem if it’s not compatible with your internet service provider, which means that you’ll just be wasting your money here. 

  • Signal Range

When looking for a combo that serves you both as a modem and as a router, you are supposed to consider the signal range offered. The signal range tells how much area it covers, and you also need to consider the number of devices that it can support all at the same time. The latest Wi-Fi technology is 802.11ax, but that can be quite expensive for you, so if you opt for a reasonably priced modem, then even the 802.11ac technology will be enough for you. 

  • Security 

Considering the WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocol is a must when you are looking for a modem that also serves as a router. Following this security protocol means that no random user or hacker can enter your network. 

  • Price 

Lastly, price is an important factor to consider, and when it comes to DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems, they can be quite expensive, so you better decide on a budget before time. If you want something cheaper, then the NETGEAR CM1100  will be the best one as it gives you the option to use different plans. 

Considering these factors will help you land on the right DOCSIS 3.1 modem. 


DOCSIS 3.0 vs 3.1

Whenever you are buying cable modems, the most important feature that you need to consider is that of the DOCSIS. As far as DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1 are concerned, they are version numbers assigned to two different protocols. They both are different from one another, and of course, DOCSIS 3.1, being the new version, is a little more advanced than DOCSIS 3.0. 

Here are some ways DOCSIS 3.1 is different and better; 

1-Less energy consumption 

The DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem efficiency is better than the 3.0 version, and due to the queue management technology, less energy is wasted and consumed. This is one of the biggest differences between the two DOCSIS versions. 

2-Speed 

The second major difference is that of the speed. DOCSIS 3.1 offers downloading and uploading speed that is unbeatable, and when compared to DOCSIS 3.0, it’s a lot more. DOCSIS 3.1 offers a downloading speed upto 10GB, and its uploading speed is 1GB per second, which is exactly what users look for nowadays. 

3-AQM

DOCSIS 3.1 comes with active queue management, which is probably the one difference and reason why people opt for this version instead of 3.0. With active queue management, you won’t have to worry about any lags or delays when streaming HD content or playing games. It will be a seamless and smooth experience due to no or very little network delay. 


FAQs

What DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Is The Best For Comcast?

NETGEAR CM500 cable modem will be the best suitable modem for Comcast. It supports speed, which is 16x times faster than that of DOCSIS 2.0.

What DOCSIS Modem Do I Need For 1000 Mbps?

All of the above-mentioned modems on the list are worth using if you want something for 1000 Mbps. It all falls back to your choice and the considerations you make when deciding on a modem that you’ll be spending your money on. 

Overall Verdict 

You might be experiencing lag and latency issues with your previous DOCSIS modems, but with the DOCSIS 3.1 modems mentioned in the list above, we assure you that you won’t ever have to go through any such issues.

By upgrading to DOCSIS 3.1, you’ll witness some real-time benefits like increased internet speed, no lagging, no latency, and on top of everything else, you’ll be able to stream your favorite shows, attend online classes and play games in a better way. 

By James Klett

James Klett a senior editor at GeekyMag focused on computer hardware and gadgets, offers a wide range of information in this field. Have a question, need some help, or want to give your opinion? Drop us a comment below!

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