Finding a Best DOCSIS 3.1 modem that pairs with your gigabit service plan and provides a stable connection even in network-hogged conditions can take forever. Because with the market crowded with so many options claiming to be the best, the search is now more complicated than ever.
We’ve found Motorola MB8611 to be the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem through our tests. Because of the efficeint performance, high reliability, and future-proof ability of this modem, we consider it our top pick and one of the best modem for all of your needs.
Still, since everybody has different requirements, we’ve reviewed other options that might suit your needs better. So let’s go ahead.
Also Read: The 6 Best Modems For Google WiFi Router
Top 3 Best Picks for DOCSIS 3.1
| Top Pick | Budget Pick | Best Value |
| Motorola MB8611 Cable Modem | ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 Cable Modem | NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 |
Wide compatibility with top ISPs Extremely fast Multi-gig speeds support Simple and easy setup Two years of the warranty | A premium taste at a budget-friendly price Compatible with major service providers Two Ethernet ports with link aggregation Easy set up through the app Two years of the warranty period | Approved by major ISPs Great quality and performance Futuristic design Easy configuration through the app One year of warranty |
How We Did the Test?
We started the test by selecting the best 12 DOCSIS 3.1 modems on the market. We chose to keep it short and avoid confusion by reviewing all 12 modems. So we looked at the following aspects to pick the five most optimal options worth suggesting.
Compatibility
We weren’t looking for a modem that would work with a certain network provider; therefore, compatibility with various providers was the first item we looked at. We evaluated each modem’s compatibility and made sure it was generally accepted by popular ISPs while testing it.
Best Armstrong Approved Modems Review – Updated List Of Self Tested Modems
Performance
Even when buying a low-cost modem, the device’s performance is always the most crucial factor to consider. The performance includes the modem’s speed handling and network stability. So we checked each of these aspects to ensure the modem performs as expected.
Reliability
Nobody would just throw money without ensuring that the modem works for a specified period since we were short on time to use each modem and check its reliability. We went through the reviews of past customers about how reliably each modem works.
Value
Purchasing a modem isn’t just for connecting to the internet, especially when you’re spending a good amount on it. However, the value also includes specific features for optimal use. Therefore, we made certain that each modem provides a fair value for the price.
Top 9 RCN Approved Modems (Detailed Guide In 2022)
Comparison of 5 Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modems
| Top Pick | Budget Pick | Best Value | |
| Motorola MB8611 Cable Modem | ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 Cable Modem | NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 | |
| Product type | Cable Modem | Cable Modem | Cable Modem |
| Technology | DOCSIS 3.1 | DOCSIS 3.1 | DOCSIS 3.1 |
| Channels | 32 x 8 | 32 x 8 | 32 x 8 |
| Max Download Speed | 2.5Gbps | 2 Gbps | 2 Gbps |
| Gigabit Ethernet Ports | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo (C7800) | NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80) |
| Modem/Router Combo | Modem/Router Combo |
| DOCSIS 3.1 | DOCSIS 3.1 |
| 32 x 8 | 16 x 4 |
| 2 Gbps | 6 Gbps |
| 4 | 4 |
Things to Look for in a DOCSIS 3.1 Modem
If you’re a less-techy person, then you might not be familiar with all the technical stuff of a modem. Therefore, avoid throwing your money down the drain and randomly grabbing a modem that won’t work for you. Consider the following factors to ensure that the modem best fits your network.
Compatibility
The first thing to check when purchasing a modem is its compatibility with your network provider. Each service provider has its criteria for approving a modem to work with its network. Thus, before checking anything else, check out your ISP’s website to see if the modem is present on their compatibility list.
Top 5 Wave Compatible Modems – Best Picks To Consider
Type
The next thing is to make certain what type of modem you’re looking for. It can be a standalone cable modem or a modem-router combo (gateway). If you want full control over your network configuration, a standalone modem should be your choice.
Otherwise, with a modem-router combo, you can avoid the hassle of buying a separate router to complete your connection. However, standalone modems still work better as compared to gateways, where the router part often suffers in performance.
Warranty
Purchasing your own modem may appear to be a risk. Because you’re spending quite an amount, and what if it doesn’t turn out to be reliable enough? Warranty is a significant factor when determining a modem’s reliability. So lookout for a long period of warranty to rest assured that you wouldn’t be at a loss if something goes wrong.
Design
This also affects the performance of your modem. So make sure the modem has LED lights to show the modem’s functioning, vents to keep the device cool, and Ethernet ports to connect to other devices for faster speeds through an Ethernet cable.
Review of 5 Best Modems for DOCSIS 3.1
1. Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem (TOP PICK)
Features
- Approved by major U.S cable providers
- Multi-Processor Technology
- Broadcom Full-Band Capture Digital Tuner
- Active Queue Management
- Two years of warranty
Specifications
| Weight | 0.06 lbs |
| Color | Gray |
| Dimensions | 7.25 x 2.25 x 7.88 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | – |
Approved ISPs for Motorola MB8611 Modem: Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox, Grande, Suddenlink, and WOW
Product Review
Not all modems allow you to take full advantage of your gigabit connection. Among those that do, the Motorola MB8611’s great performance and excellent quality stand out. The power-packed rectangular box delivers multi-gig speeds of 2.5 Gbps through the advanced DOCSIS 3.1 technology.
That speed doesn’t sound familiar, does it? Because such a plan is currently available from only a few service providers. That is why it is future-proof.
The standard design includes five status-reporting LED lights on the front, with a perforated black chassis to keep it cool under demanding circumstances. While on the back, the 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port rests with coaxial input and power input port.
Also, a simple guide that comes along with it will take just a few minutes to set it up. So since the MB8611 won’t let you down with its wide compatibility and can easily connect with your service plan, this highly reliable modem is a brilliant choice.
The 5 Best WOW Compatible Modems – (Full Review)
Plus Point: In Motorola MB8611, Motorola has given an extra layer of circuit protection with the power surge and ruggedized lightning circuits.
| PROS | CONS |
| Multi-gigabit speed plans support | Lacks link aggregation support |
| Excellent quality build | |
| Two years of warranty |
2. ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem (BUDGET PICK)
Features
- Two Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Quick and simple installation through SURFboard Central app
- Compatibility with major Internet Service Providers
- Two years of the limited warranty
Specifications
| Weight | 1.46 lbs |
| Color | White |
| Dimensions | 5 x 2 x 5 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | – |
Approved ISPs for ARRIS SURFboard SB8200: Comcast Xfinity, RCN, Optimum, Atlantic Broadband, Armstrong, Suddenlink, WOW, Sparklight, Spectrum
Product Review
Because DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest and most advanced technology, the pricing may not be as low as you would want. ARRIS always puts out budget-friendly modems to bless your connection speeds. The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is the company’s best release that provides excellent value and is yet reasonably priced.
The budget factor usually means making some compromises, but the SURFboard SB8200’s 2 Gbps of maximum speeds has put an end to this concept. The modem’s design includes a white-colored, plastic rectangular box having four status-reporting LEDs on the front.
Aside from the coaxial and power input ports on the back, there are two gigabit Ethernet ports that enable link aggregation.
The SURFboard SB8200 provides a powerful set of functions as well as an uncomplicated, straightforward setup method for piping an internet connection to your home and office. And because it rests on every service provider’s list, it has always been a good bet.
Top 4 Grande Communication Approved Modems
Plus Point: The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is designed with a unique hardware configuration for excellent performance against high-bandwidth network applications and low latency.
| PROS | CONS |
| Support for multi-gig speeds | Unsatisfactory customer support |
| Link aggregation support | |
| Easy and quick installation | |
| Two-years warranty |
3. NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 (BEST VALUE)
Features
- Extensive compatibility with major ISPs
- Multi-IP Address Support
- Four Gigabit Ethernet port
- One year of the limited warranty
Specifications
| Weight | 1.22 lbs |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 6.1 x 3.4 x 10.3 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | – |
Approved ISPs for NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200: Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox
Product Review
NETGEAR can’t miss a place in the top-three with its popular modems screaming quality in the market. The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 stood as a strong runner-up in our test with its incredible performance and excellent reliability.
Because of its aggressive appearance, the first glance at the Nighthawk CM1200 makes an impression of a powerful modem, which it is. The hexagon-shaped black box has sharp edges and heat-dissipating vent holes on the chassis.
It has a long row of status-reporting LEDs on the front. The backside features four gigabit Ethernet connections, a power button, coaxial input, and a power input port.
The CM1200 uses the latest DOCSIS 3.1 to support 2 Gbps of ultra-fast and smooth internet for your 4K streaming and multiplayer gaming sessions. Not only that, but it has advanced features to prevent latency and connection dropping issues. So with a quick and simple setup, the Nighthawk CM1200 has the potential to take your networking to the next level if given a chance.
Best Blue Ridge Approved Modems for Faster and Reliable Internet Connection
Plus Point: Multi-IP Address support is included on the NETGEAR CM1200, allowing up to four home networks and several servers to operate simultaneously.
| PROS | CONS |
| Strong quality build | It doesn’t support manual firmware upgrade |
| Attractive and stylish design | |
| Exceptionally fast performance |
4. NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo (C7800)
Features
- Approved by major service providers
- Quad-stream Architecture
- Active Antennae Technology
- Network controlling, installing, and monitoring through NETGEAR genie® mobile app
- One year of the limited warranty
Specifications
| Weight | 3.15 lbs |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 12.4 x 10.4 x 7.5 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11 a/n/ac |
Approved ISPs for NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 Modem Router Combo: Comcast Xfinity, Optimum, Spectrum, Cox, Sparklight, WOW, Suddenlink, Mediacom, Grande, Atlantic Broadband, and RCN
Product Review
If you want to quickly access the internet and wait no more to explore and purchase a router. Then here comes the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combo by NETGEAR, the Nighthawk C7800. Not only just a modem router combo but a combo of efficient performance and rapid fast speed.
With the appearance of a garden bench, this gateway has a lot to offer in terms of performance. It has four antennas with power amplifiers in the back to improve the Wi-Fi range.
In addition to the DOCSIS 3.1 powered modem that supports plans of up to 2 Gbps of speeds, the router part has the AC3200 dual-band technology. Through which, you’re free to make blazing-fast downloads of up to 3.2 Gbps.
With such fast speeds, it also has a fairly wide range of up to 3000 sq. ft., allowing it to reach nearly 45 devices in every part of your home/office. Such excellent router performance among gateways is uncommon, so the Nighthawk C7800 deserves your complete trust the same way it got mine.
GCI Approved Modems for Fast Internet Connections
Plus Point: The NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 employs Beamforming+, which is perfect for improving WiFi device reliability, speed, and range.
| PROS | CONS |
| Great network speeds | Bulky design |
| Easy network setup | |
| Guest network support |
5. NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80)
Features
- Widely compatible with various network providers
- Powerful Dual-Core Processor
- Two-port aggregation for speed boosting
- One year of the limited warranty
Specifications
| Weight | 4.45 lbs |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 12.44 x 10.24 x 5.24 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Approved ISPs for NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 Modem Router Combo: Comcast Xfinity, Optimum, Spectrum, Cox, Sparklight, WOW, Suddenlink, Mediacom, Grande, Atlantic Broadband, and RCN
Product Review
The next gateway is a popular NETGEAR product, the Nighthawk CAX80, known for its high security and powerful performance. Equipped with the latest Wi-Fi 6 in-built router, the CAX80 is fairly huge.
The off-center arrow-shaped gateway is constructed with ABS plastic, giving a complete futuristic appearance. On the front is a row of LEDs for status reporting, and when we turn to the back, there’s the same vertical placement of vents to keep it cool.
The modem has the advanced DOCSIS 3.1 technology assistance to support internet plans of up to 2 Gbps. At the same time, the Wi-Fi 6 protocol-powered router extends the taste of this speed to up to 6 Gbps.
The gateway will win your heart right away when it takes no time to set up and instantly establish a stable network. Once the installation is completed, this delivers a wireless range of 2500 square feet and connectivity to 32 of your smart wireless devices simultaneously.
So, with all of this and a slew of advanced security features, the Nighthawk CAX80 offers consistent performance and unit control via the NETGEAR Nighthawk app.
How To Reset You Charter Spectrum Modem And Router
Plus Point: The NETGEAR CAX80 is powered by a 1.5 GHz dual-core processor that efficiently manages multi-gigabit LAN/WAN traffic.
| PROS | CONS |
| Wide connection range | A bit heavy |
| Superfast connection speeds | |
| Impressive modern design | |
| Feature-packed unit |
Conclusion
These were the top five DOCSIS 3.1-gigabit modems and modem-router combos that passed our tests. We’ve attempted to detail each modem’s specification in such a way that you can make a final decision.
However, if you are still perplexed by these five options, the Motorola MB8611 is the clear winner. Our top pick hides some serious specifications inside to get you through stressed networks and is widely compatible with all the major service providers across the U.S.
