Key Points
- Our choice for the #1 Best Overall DOCSIS 3.1 Modem is Arris Surfboard S33.
- Purchasing a DOCSIS 3.1 modem can save you money on modem rental fees charged by your internet service provider. You will also be future-proofing your internet connection, as DOCSIS 3.1 devices can handle high-speed plans up to up to 10Gbps.
- When selecting a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, consider compatibility with your internet service provider, download and upload speeds, and the number of devices it can support.
Did you know that as of 2023, only 30% of US households have a fast-speed broadband internet connection? With the rise of remote work, online education, and streaming services, a reliable and fast internet connection has become necessary for many people. Choosing the wrong DOCSIS 3.1 modems can lead to slow internet speeds, buffering, and connectivity issues, causing frustration and hindering productivity.
That’s why we have researched over 20 different DOCSIS 3.1 modems to identify the best ones on the market. Furthermore, we paid close attention to readers’ frequently asked questions in the comment sections to ensure we covered all the bases. So, sit tight and read on to find the perfect DOCSIS 3.1 modem that fits your needs and budget. Here is the list of our top picks.
- Best Overall: Arris Surfboard S33
- Best for Performance: Motorola MB8611
- Best for Modem-Router Combo: Netgear Nighthawk CM1150
- Best for Wired Connections: Netgear CM1200
- Best for Link Aggregation: Arris Surfboard SB8200
Best Overall: Arris Surfboard S33
- Compatible with Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and more
- Approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5-Gbps
- Save up to $168 in cable modem rental fees
- Includes DOCSIS 3.1 technology
The ARRIS Surfboard S33 cable modem is the best overall DOCSIS 3.1 modem for its exceptional performance and reliability. This modem provides superior connectivity and network capability, plus it offers faster streaming and downloading speeds. It is compatible with major US cable internet providers, including Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity. Additionally, the Arris S33 is approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5Gbps.
The Surfboard S33 is built on the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, providing 10x faster speed than DOCSIS 3.0, better security, and lag reduction for gamers. Additionally, every year you own the Surfboard S33, you will save money on cable modem rental fees.
What makes Surfboard S33 stand out is its simple and secure setup, which involves plugging in the device, downloading the SURFboard Central App, and following the instructions to activate the modem. Furthermore, the device has one 2.5-gigabit ethernet port and one 1-gigabit ethernet port to connect to a Wi-Fi router or other wired devices.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It is compatible with major US cable internet providers. | Surprisingly, it is not compatible with DSL, Fiber, or satellite services. |
| The modem is 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0, providing better security and reducing lag. | It can get hot during extended use. |
| You can save money on cable modem rental fees. | It only has one 2.5-gigabit ethernet port and one 1-gigabit ethernet port. |
Check out Arris Surfboard S33 on Amazon.
Best for Performance: Motorola MB8611
- Provides Gigabit-plus speeds
- Compatible with Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum
- Backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0
- Works with any Wi-Fi modem
If you’re looking for a high-performance modem, look no further than the Motorola MB8611. This modem delivers accurate gigabit-plus speeds with support for fast internet plans from Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum. Moreover, it’s also backward compatible with 32×8 DOCSIS 3.0. Thus, you can use it with older devices. The Motorola MB8611 also pairs with any Wi-Fi router. Consequently, this makes it seamlessly compatible with all your devices. However, it doesn’t have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability.
One of the standout features of the Motorola MB8611 is its multi-gigabit Ethernet speed. With a 2.5GB Ethernet port, this DOCSIS 3.1 modem delivers high-speed connectivity to even the fastest routers and computers. Consequently, this provides downstream speeds just below 2,500Mbps and upstream rates up to 800Mbps when supported by your internet service plan. Additionally, it utilizes Active Queue Management (AQM) for reduced latency and better performance. Comparatively, owning a Motorolla MB8611 modem saves you the monthly rental charges from your ISP.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It delivers true gigabit-plus speeds. | Surprisingly, it does not have built-in wireless. |
| The modem is seamlessly compatible with any Wi-Fi router. | |
| It has multi-gigabit Ethernet speed. | |
| It applies AQM for reduced latency. |
Check out Motorola MB8611 on Amazon.
Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem for Modem-Router Combo: Netgear Nighthawk CM1150
- Replaces your cable modem
- Great for cable plans up to 2.5Gbps
- Xfinity certified (not compatible with DISH, Verizon, DirecTV, AT&T, CenturyLink, or DSL)
- Also works with Xfinity Voice
- Compatible with any Wi-Fi router
The Netgear Nighthawk CM1150 is the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem for a modem-router combo, offering top-notch performance, versatility, and compatibility. It’s compatible with Xfinity internet and voice services, replacing the need for a cable modem and also saving users up to $168 in rental fees per year based on estimates of Xfinity fees. With DOCSIS 3.1 modem technology, 32×8 channel bonding, and OFDM 2×2, it is built for ultimate speed and capable of supporting cable provider plans up to 2 gigabits speed.
The CM1150 modem works seamlessly with any Wi-Fi router through its Ethernet port. Consequently, this offers versatile connections and faster-wired ethernet speed through multi-gig Ethernet link aggregation. The Netgear Nighthawk CM1150 also comes with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports to provide faster connections to a computer, a separate Wi-Fi router, a printer, a game box, and other devices.
However, the Netgear Nighthawk CM1150 is incompatible with AT&T, Verizon, DISH, CenturyLink, DirectTV, DSL providers, and non-Xfinity voice services. Additionally, the modem requires a Bluetooth connection, which may be inconvenient for some users.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The Nighthawk is compatible with Xfinity internet and voice services. | It is incompatible with AT&T, Verizon, DISH, CenturyLink, DirectTV, DSL providers, and non-Xfinity voice services. |
| It is capable of supporting cable provider plans up to 2 gigabits. | The device requires a Bluetooth connection for setup. |
| It works seamlessly with any Wi-Fi router through its Ethernet port. | |
| There are four gigabit Ethernet ports. | |
| Multi-gig Ethernet link aggregation delivers more speed. |
Check out Netgear Nighthawk CM1150 on Amazon.
Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem for Wired Connections: Netgear CM1200
- Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity certified
- Replaces your cable modem so you can save money on rental feels
- Four gigabit Ethernet ports
- Works with any Wi-Fi router
The best DOCSIS 3.1 modem for a wired connection is the Netgear CM1200. In addition, its ultimate speed is unrivaled and is perfect for cable provider plans of up to 2 gigabits. This model has certification from major internet service providers such as Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum.
One of the primary advantages of the Netgear CM1200 is that it acts as a replacement for your cable modem, which can save you money in equipment rental fees. Moreover, it is compatible with any Wi-Fi router so that you can connect all your wireless devices without any issues. Additionally, it boasts versatile connections with four gigabit Ethernet ports, providing faster wired connections to computers, printers, game boxes, and other devices.
The modem technology of the Netgear CM1200 offers 32×8 channel bonding, OFDM 2×2, and DOCSIS 3.1. Consequently, it also features multi-gig Ethernet and link aggregation, which integrates two 1G ports into one 2G port for faster Ethernet speed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The CM 1200 is compatible with all major cable internet providers. | The device is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, or DSL providers. |
| The device replaces your cable modem, saving you money in equipment rental fees. | |
| It is best for cable provider plans up to 2 gigabits speed. | |
| It works with any Wi-Fi router. | |
| There are four gigabit Ethernet ports. | |
| It offers multi-gig Ethernet with link aggregation. |
Check out Netgear CM1200 on Amazon.
Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem for Link Aggregation: Arris Surfboard SB8200
- Compatible with Spectrum, Xfinity, and Cox
- Plug in your device, download the SURFboard Central app, then follow instructions to activate
- Network by connecting to any Wi-Fi router
- Easily connect to a Wi-Fi router with two 1-gigabit ethernet ports
Arris Surfboard SB8200 is one of the best DOCSIS 3.1 Modems for link aggregation globally. As a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold, ARRIS has established itself as a leader in home connectivity.
By owning your modem, you can get rid of rental fees and reduce your cable bill (savings vary by cable service provider). Additionally, it enables multi-gig networking, making it easy to run fast speeds on your copper cable from your internet provider.
The ARRIS Surfboard SB8200 offers a simple and secure setup, with easy instructions to activate the modem and also connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking. It’s compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers, including Gigablast-Cox, Spectrum Internet Gig-Spectrum, Blast!/Extreme Pro-Xfinity, and more. In addition, it has two 1-gigabit ethernet ports. Thus, you can easily connect to a Wi-Fi router or other wired device.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It has superior connectivity and speed. | Arguably, it is not the most aesthetically pleasing design. |
| They are a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold. | |
| It has a simple and secure setup. | |
| It is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers. | |
| Two 1-gigabit ethernet ports. |
Check out Arris Surfboard SB8200 on Amazon.
How to Pick the Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modems on Earth Today: Step-By-Step
When choosing the best DOCSIS 3.1 modems on Earth today, several factors must be considered. These modems are essential for providing high-speed internet connectivity, so choosing the right one that suits your needs is important. Here are some features to look for when purchasing a DOCSIS 3.1 modem:
Compatibility
Firstly, ensuring that the modem you choose is compatible with your internet service provider is important. Different providers have different requirements, so purchasing a modem that’s not compatible could result in slower speeds or no connectivity at all. Nonetheless, check with your provider or look for a certified modem to work with your provider.
Speed and Performance
One of the main reasons for choosing a DOCSIS 3.1 modem is its fast speed capabilities. Look for a modem that comparatively supports your desired speed tier and can handle multiple devices and high-bandwidth activities such as streaming or gaming. In addition, you’ll want to consider factors like the number of channels and downstream and upstream speeds.
Features and Price
While performance is key, you’ll also want to consider additional features and the price point. Look for modems that offer features like built-in Wi-Fi or advanced security options. Additionally, compare prices and choose a modem that fits your budget while meeting your performance and feature needs.
What to Know Before Buying a DOCSIS 3.1 Modem
If you’re in the market for a new modem, you should consider a few things before making a purchase. Firstly, not every modem is compatible with every internet service provider. Additionally, if you want to future-proof your connection, the modem you choose should be capable of handling high-speed plans. In addition, pick one with a higher number of upstream/downstream channels, preferably 32×8. Furthermore, you should also consider the DOCSIS protocols, port management, design, security features, and any built-in perks.
Using the Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modems on Earth Today: What It’s Like?
Undoubtedly, the best DOCSIS 3.1 modems on Earth today are game-changers in internet connectivity. Using them is like having lightning-fast internet at your fingertips. The ease of installation and setup is remarkable, and the data transfer speed is also incredibly fast.
With the best DOCSIS 3.1 modems, you can say goodbye to buffering and hello to seamless streaming and gaming. Additionally, the modems offer stable connections with low latency, making them perfect for households with multiple devices. These modems provide an unparalleled internet experience, and their impressive statistics make them a wise investment for any avid internet user.
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