List of Best Mediacom Compatible Modems in the year 2022 – Detailed Review

Disclaimer: We are a team of Network Engineers and Computer Experts with a wealth of experience in networking. We employ our experience in testing modems and routers with different service providers and recommends the most optimal devices, suitable for you. Also, We may earn small commisison on the qualified purchases at no extra cost to you

We tested several well-rated, expert-recommended modems for this review of Mediacom-compatible modems.

After extensive testing, we concluded that the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is the best option for Mediacom service customers. Because it not only provides satisfying internet speed and quality, but it also provides an excellent value for money.

However, because everyone’s needs and network usage differ, we’ve also included a few other options that performed well in our testing. Also, if you are already a mediacom user but facing some issues in modem configuration, read our guide on how to troubleshoot the mediacom modem isuues . Keep reading to learn more.

Recommended Read: Detailed Review of Armstrong Compatible Modems

The Three Top Mediacom Compatible Modems

Top PickRunner-upBest Performance
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 Cable ModemMotorola MB8600 Cable ModemNETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1000


Compatible with major service providers in the USA
Exceptional performance at a great value
Two Link Aggregation supporting Gigabit Ethernet ports
Simple and easy setup through mobile application
Two years of warranty


Approved with major ISPs
Speedy fast performance
Great additional features
Quick and easy setup
Two years of limited warranty


Works with major service providers
Efficient performance
Modern design
Easy setup process
One year of limited warranty

How We Did the Test?

We began the test by selecting nine expert-recommended modems that were approved by Mediacom to work on their network. To test the modems’ performance, we used Mediacom’s 1 GIG plan. The modems were tested at different phases, and only four modems made the list, ensuring optimal performance. The stages of testing were as follows.

Performance

We connected multiple wireless and wired devices to the network. We used these devices to continuously consume the network by performing tasks like web browsing, file downloads, and 4K streaming. We monitored the internet speeds at various intervals over this time to ensure the internet remained stable.

Also Read: List of Modems Compatible with Windstream Internet

Setup, Usage, and Features

Modems have been no one’s favorite device to use. This is because of most modems’ out-of-date user interfaces. However, because purchasing a third-party modem implies no help from your ISP, we made sure the modems were simple to set up and operate. For a better network, we also remained focused on the modem features.

Reliability

Most modems on the market are equipped with a problematic Intel Puma Chipset. We kept a close check on our choices to ensure they do not employ this chipset and are reliable enough.

Comparison of the Four Best Modems for Mediacom

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 Cable ModemMotorola MB8600 Cable ModemNETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1000
Product typeCable ModemCable ModemCable Modem
TechnologyDOCSIS 3.1DOCSIS 3.1DOCSIS 3.1
Channels32 x 832 x 832 x 8
Max Download Speed2 Gbps1 Gbps1 Gbps
Gigabit Ethernet Ports211
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80)
Product typeModem/Router Combo
TechnologyDOCSIS 3.1
Channels16 x 4
Max Download Speed6 Gbps
Gigabit Ethernet Ports4

What to Look for in a Modem?

Modems aren’t something you just pull off the shelf and start using. To achieve the desired performance and speeds, you must first understand a few things before selecting a suitable modem based on your service plan and usage conditions. Here are some crucial factors to consider.

ISP Approval

Before you purchase a third-party modem, the first thing to always double-check is your service provider’s compatibility with that specific modem. Not all modems are always friendly with your service provider’s network. 

Therefore, Mediacom maintains a list of modems that they claim to have tested and marked as compatible with their network based on their performance. You can head over to their MEDIACOM COMPATIBLE RETAIL MODEMS page to check if your chosen modem is approved.

Device Type

The next thing is to make certain which device type you want: a standalone modem or a gateway (modem-router combo). A standalone modem is a good choice if you wish to configure your network yourself and pair it with the router of your choice. However, if you want to neglect the hassle of purchasing another router, you can go for a gateway.

DOCSIS Technology

Modems rely on DOCSIS technology to achieve optimal download rates. ISPs currently support two DOCSIS versions: DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. Which version you choose is determined by your speed plan.

If you’re using Mediacom’s Internet 100 or Internet 300 speed plans, DOCSIS 3.0 will suffice. Otherwise, if you’re on the Internet 1 GIG plan, you’ll need DOCSIS 3.1 to handle gigabit speeds. You can also utilize DOCSIS 3.1 modems for lower-speed plans because they are backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0.

Channels

If you’re choosing a DOCSIS 3.0 modem, channels are another thing to know about. Channels determine how fast your modem can download and upload data. The greater the number of channels, the greater the speed. Depending on your speed package, you can select from 16 x 4, 24 x 8, or 32 x 8 channels.

Recommended for you: Self tested Modems for Charter Spectrum Internet

Review of the Four Best Modems for Mediacom Internet

1. ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 Cable Modem

Features

  • Compatible with major ISPs
  • Two Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Simple setup with the SURFboard Central app
  • Two Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Two years of warranty period

Specifications

Weight1.46 lbs
ColorWhite
Dimensions5 x 2 x 5 inches
IPv4 SupportYes
IPv6 SupportYes
Telephone Voice PortsNo
Wi-Fi Standard

Product Review

The competition for providing the best value and performance combo in the modem market is fierce. However, the way in which ARRIS has stolen the game with its ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is unexplainable. The performance and quality that this powerful modem provides usually place it at the top of most reviews.

The SURFboard SB8200 is a decent-looking, white plastic, tower-style modem with a status indicating LEDs, heat vents, and a coaxial port, as well as two Gigabit Ethernet ports. This modem is equipped with the DOCSIS 3.1 with 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels ready to reach 1 Gbps of maximum speeds.

During testing, the SURFboard SB8200 surprised us with its fairly straightforward setup process through the SURFboard Central application. It also did not disappoint us with its lightning-fast connection, which satisfied the speed needs of our devices running 4K streams and high-resource games on the server.

The SURFboard SB8200 not only achieves maximum speeds but also offers an impressive feature set for advanced and secure network usage. Moreover, ARRIS guarantees the device’s reliability by providing a two-year limited warranty. So, if it’s all under one hood, there doesn’t seem to be any point to search any further. By knowing the difference between DSL modem and Cable modem , you will get to know why should you specifically chose cable internet and why SURFboard SB8200 is really a best cable modem.

Also Read: Wow Approved Modems Review

 Plus Point:  The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200’s hardware is designed for high-bandwidth network applications with low latency.

PROSCONS
Fast and reliable performanceUnsatisfactory customer support
Supports link aggregation feature
Easy and simple installation
Comes with two years of warranty

2. Motorola MB8600 Cable Modem

Features

  • Broad compatibility with major service providers
  • Active Queue ManagementProactive Protection
  • Broadcom Full-Band Capture Digital Tuner
  • Multi-Processor Technology
  • Two years of warranty

Specifications

Weight0.06 lbs
ColorGray
Dimensions7.25 x 2.25 x 7.88 inches
IPv4 SupportYes
IPv6 SupportYes
Telephone Voice PortsNo
Wi-Fi Standard

Product Review

The Motorola MB8600, which came as a runner-up due to its outstanding performance, is yet another popular and one of the first modems equipped with the latest DOCSIS technology. We’ve seen it give the same flawless performance with many service providers.

The Motorola MB8600 has a standard tower design and is made of gray-black plastic. It has side heat vents, front status LEDs, and, of course, a coaxial port with one Gigabit Ethernet port on the back. This modem is powered with powerful DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which includes 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels capable of reaching rates of up to 1 Gbps.

When we tested it, we went through a short setup process to get it connected to the Mediacom network. We tried stressing the network by connecting it to many devices that were downloading updates, streaming Netflix, and browsing the web. Even with this many devices, we didn’t see any latency issues. Instead, the network was unaffected.

The smooth performance of the Motorola MB8600 is backed up by a slew of other features that actively secure and stabilize the network connection. With all of this and a two-year guarantee in the case of device failure, the Motorola MB8600 is perfect for your home or office.

After buying this modem, you may need to know how to activate it. Don’t worry, this modem activation guide will help you with the step by step process.

Plus Point: The Motorola MB8600 uses Active Queue Management (AQM) to reduce lag and enable smoother gaming, streaming, video-conferencing, and other tasks.

PROSCONS
Exceptional performanceDoesn’t support link aggregation feature
Reduces latency through AQM
Two years of limited warranty

3. NETGEAR CM1000 Cable Modem

Features

  • Approved by major ISPs
  • Multi-gigabit internet support
  • Four Gigabit Ethernet port
  • One-year limited warranty

Specifications

Weight1.22 lbs
ColorBlack
Dimensions6.1 x 3.4 x 10.3 inches
IPv4 SupportYes
IPv6 SupportYes
Telephone Voice PortsNo
Wi-Fi Standard

Product Review

We were drawn to the NETGEAR CM1000 as soon as we noticed it on the Mediacom compatibility list. This is because of its excellent performance in prior service providers’ compatible modem reviews.

This modem has an aggressive appearance, with its black plastic tower form and sharp edges. It has status LEDs, vent holes for better heat dissipation, and a coaxial port on the back, as well as a Gigabit Ethernet port. The CM1000, like its competitors, is future-proof, as it supports the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology and has 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels.

The NETGEAR CM1000 connects to the internet through a quick setup process and then provides a reliable throughput of the connection. It gave an excellent performance in our tests, providing a balanced network that didn’t drop under heavy load usage.

This sporty-looking modem also comes with a one-year warranty to ensure reliable functioning. Therefore, if you seek a stylishly designed modem with high-speed delivery, the NETGEAR CM1000 is just a purchase away.

Read this article: Blue Ridge Compatible Modems List

Plus Point: The NETGEAR CM1200 supports multiple IP addresses, allowing up to four home networks and various servers to operate simultaneously.

PROSCONS
Modern and stylish appearanceDoesn’t support manual firmware upgrade
Superfast performance
Features four Gigabit Ethernet ports
Simple and quick setup

4. NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80)

Features

  • Compatibility with the major service providers
  • Up to 6 Gbps of wireless speeds
  • Two-port aggregation to maximize speeds
  • One year of limited warranty

Specifications

Weight4.45 lbs
ColorBlack
Dimensions12.44 x 10.24 x 5.24 inches
IPv4 SupportYes
IPv6 SupportYes
Telephone Voice PortsNo
Wi-Fi Standard802.11a/b/g/n/ac

Product Review

Next, let’s eliminate wire clutter with the NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80’s dual modem/router capabilities. There are several gateway models on the market, but the fact that CAX80 manages your huge number of wireless devices with a wide wireless range is unquestionably excellent.

The Nighthawk CAX80 is a black-plastic, arrow-shaped unit that represents the power it possesses. The modem portion has 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels and uses the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology. The router, on the other hand, is outfitted with modern wireless 6 technology and promises to provide a steady connection to more than 30 wireless devices.

The CAX80 is claimed to have a download rate of up to 6 Gbps thanks to its superior equipment. You’ll also be able to connect within 2500 square feet of range, no matter how far away you are. The Nighthawk CAX80 linked with our 15 devices within 30 feet and gave a fast enough connection when we tested it. We could even effortlessly stream 4K videos from a distant place.

This isn’t all; the Nighthawk CAX80 is also known for its security capabilities, which help to keep your business and family’s network safe. So, if you’re looking for a future-proof device with dual functionality and security, go no further.

 Plus Point:  The NETGEAR CAX80 has a 1.5 GHz dual-core processor that can handle multi-gigabit LAN/WAN traffic efficiently.

PROSCONS
Incredibly fast performanceBulky and huge design
Great customer service support
Wide wireless connectivity
Advanced additional features

Conclusion

For the ones seeking to enjoy the Mediacom internet to the fullest and dump the outdated rental equipment, Mediacom allows a list of third-party modems to work on its network. We tested several of the modems on the list and discovered that the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is the best modem for Mediacom internet because it provides the highest quality and speeds at the best price.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use my own modem with Mediacom?
Yes, you can use any third-party modem with the Mediacom network as long as it’s approved. Mediacom publishes a list of modems that they claim to have tested and are compatible with their network. You can check if your modem is listed as approved on their website. 
2. What kind of modems work with Mediacom?
For the best performance, Mediacom suggests using DOCSIS 3.1 modems with their service plan. They suggest buying the modems listed on their MEDIACOM COMPATIBLE RETAIL MODEMS page because they’ve been tested.

Latest Posts

Leave a Comment