Top Picks for Optimum Compatible Modems
- Reliable for years
- Multiple Ethernet ports for extended plans
- Supports spectrum analyzer
- Solid performance
- Versatile ISP compatibility
- Easy maintenance
- Will suit futuristic internet plans
- Compatible with Mac OS
- Automatic detection of needed channel technology
Optimum is one of the most used internet connections in the USA. As the era’s basic need, everyone from a 6-year-old to a jobholder desires a reliable internet connection. A large part of this reliability depends upon the quality of modem connected to internet. Although, the company rents out its modems. But, they prove to be quite money-draining because of high renting costs.
So, the idea of purchasing an optimum compatible modem pops out in mind. Since the task of finding out correct modem requires a bulk of efforts, we have prepared an optimal list you can chose from. The list below contains five modems because everyone wants a model according to their preferences. But, if you are looking for a quick and worthy recommendation, look into the Netgear CM1000.
Still wondering why is it necessary to buy your modem and what perks do these self-purchased modems offer? Well, don’t worry! we will go through the complete discussion around it later in this post. Keep reading!
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How Did We Make Our Picks?
The Optimum network is no doubt a favorite ISP in America. Similar to other known ISPs, it also has a list of approved modem requirements. Let’s see how we aligned the list with those requirements.
Technology
Optimum ISP is compatible with both DOCSIS 3.1 and 3.0 technology. Although today most plans work with DOCSIS 3.0, the ISP is likely to upgrade its compatibility with 3.1 soon. Hence, choosing a modem with DOCSIS 3.1 will prove a wise investment.
Next comes the type of modem. Since the cable version of Optimum is common, therefore, we picked the cable modems only. Pairing dissimilar modems with internet plans are nothing but a waste of money.
Also Read: 5 Best DOCSIS 3.1 Powered Modems
Speed
Next was the speed analysis. No modem has the magic to make your internet fast. It only smoothens the overall potential of the provided service. Therefore, buying an expensive model for a smaller internet package is like pouring a liter of water into an ice cube mold.
For Optimum plans of more than 400 Mbps, the modems with 24by8 channels work best. As for 200 to 300 Mbps packages, modems with at least 16by4 channels are recommended.
Modem Router Combo
Optimum supports modem router combo as well. However, for this list, we are considering only modems. If you want to buy a modem router combo, we suggest you go with a model on the company’s approved list, like Netgear CBK40.
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Comparison Table
How to Choose A Modem For Your Internet Connection?
Internet Service Provider (ISP)
The ISP’s compatibility with your selected modem is the most important thing to consider when you are thinking of buying a modem. Make sure this box gets green. Contact your ISP before purchasing or visit their website to ensure the selected modem is on the approved list.
DOCSIS Type
Next comes the DOCSIS type. Since Optimum hasn’t launched its OFDM plans yet, many users prefer to stick to the DOCSIS 3.0 version. However, the company will move to the latest technology soon, so we’d suggest a unit compatible with both technologies, 3.1 and 3.0. But, there is no force of hand!
Budget
Your budget has the power to turn the game around. The main agenda of buying compatible modems is to save money. Hence, spending your entire savings on a unit isn’t the best thing to do. Thorough research and, of course, some recommendations will help you get the dart right.
DSL or Cable Modems
These days there are three kinds of internet connections available. The cable ones, DSL, and fiber networks. Resultantly, three modem technologies are present in the market. You must know what kind of technology your service provider uses.
Because a DSL modem won’t work for a cable network likewise, a fiber optic won’t work with a DSL connection.
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Detailed Review of 5 Best Optimum Approved Modems
Key Features
- Optimal for high-speed plans.
- Minimal latency.
- Congestion control.
- Coaxial RF connection port with surge shielding.
Specifications
| Brand | Motorola |
| Dimensions | 7.25 by 2.25 by 7.88 |
| Weight | 1.09 ounces |
| Supported ISP | Includes Optimum |
Product Review
The 8600 incorporates a cylindrically elliptical design with a premium matte grey finish on all four sides and a glossy black touch on the top and bottom. The front of the modem hosts a vertical line of indicative LEDs for accurate performance measurement. Although it is pretty elegant itself, we found it considerably heavier than Netgear CM500 with about identical dimensions.
Its Active Queue Management works to keep the latency minimal and eliminates the lag in the bandwidth-demanding applications. The high-functioning chipset eats away the congestion providing consistent speed. Although 8600 features DOCSIS 3.1, but; it is also backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0, which makes it ideal for Optimum high-speed internet plans now and in the future.
We tested the modem with Motorola MB7220 and MG7700, and MG8600 tore the competition apart with its 32×8 channel bonding. Our tests reveal that 8600 can muster up a download speed of 930Mbps. It also brings an intriguing figure of 1Gbps for router connections.
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- It has a sturdy casing with LED indicators.
- It consists of 4 Ethernet ports to provide fast connection speeds.
- It’s slightly expensive.
Plus Point: Top-tier congestion control.
Find the detailed review video here:
Key Features
- Versatile for internet plans ranging from 500 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
- Compatible with Optimum ISP.
- Appealing chassis.
- Commendable performance when paired with routers.
Specifications
| Brand | Netgear |
| Weight | 1.79 pounds |
| Connection technology | WLAN/LAN |
| Chipset | Intel Puma 6 |
Product Review
Firstly, let’s spare some seconds for the design of the modem. With sharply angled edges, it gives a futuristic look. At the back, you will find the LAN port, followed by a coaxial port, a power button, and a reset button. The front of the modem gleams with LEDs.
During our tests, the results revealed that it is suitable for internet plans with higher speeds as it features 32 by 8 channels which muster up a speed of 1Gbps. Unlike other modems, this model supports the complete range of 32 channels, ultimately allowing you to choose a channel that isn’t overloaded. We also tested the performance by connecting to it a router, and it boosted the download speed digits up to 880Mbps.
Congestion wreaks havoc during peak hours. But, the incorporated chipset by Intel easily slices down the congestion. Hence, providing stable speeds.
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- It supports both DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 OFDM/OFDMA.
- It delivers 10 Gbps downstream and 1 Gbps upstream speed.
- It includes only one Ethernet port.
Plus Point: Worthy investment for plans as it hosts flexibility for plan configurations.
Check out the detailed review video here:
Key Features
- Consistent low pings for gaming.
- Pocket friendly.
- Good streaming speed.
- 2-year warranty.
Specifications
| Brand | Arris |
| Weight | 1.15 lbs |
| Telephone port | No |
| Wi-Fi Support | No |
Product Review
The SB6183 offers the versatility of pairing with all top-tier American ISPs, and luckily, Optimum is on the list too. This poses convenience if you want to change your internet plan with zero additional cost.
Opening the packaging reveals a unit with refreshing white chassis. At the first look, it looks like a rectangular frame surrounds the main functioning unit.
Channeling the power of DOCSIS 3.1, it incorporates 4 upstream and 16 downstream channels. The strengthened channels give the modem space to operate at 131 uploads and 686 download speeds. These figures make it adaptable for heavy bandwidth activities like torrenting and streaming.
We tested the modem on a 300 Mbps plan. The upstream remained the same. However, for the download speed, the figures dropped to 257 Mbps. As the speeds depend on the internet plan subscribed, we concluded that the model performed reasonably well with the given connection.
There is also a downside to report. The modem has a rigid design and got unpredictably hot while testing. Therefore, despite its compact design, you need to keep it in a spacious place.
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- It performs exceptionally fast and is easy to setup.
- It saves a good amount of money.
- It doesn’t function well for multiple heavy streaming devices.
Plus Point: An adequate choice for more realistic and smooth networking applications.
Check out the detailed video review here:
Key Features
- Online setup interface.
- Interactive LEDs for operation observing.
- An excellent pick for saving money.
- Versatile connectivity.
Specifications
| Brand | Netgear |
| Installation | via CD |
| OS support | Up to Windows 8 and Mac OS |
| Dimensions | 60 x 124 x 185 mm |
Product Review
The CM500 from Netgear is a prudent option when you are looking to bundle it up with Optimum internet packages. Featuring bonded channels of 16 by 4, it is excellent for handling mid-tier packages up to 300 Mbps. Netgear modems have a signature speed, and fortunately, the CM500 carries on the tradition.
It offers about 105 Mbps upload speed, and 680 Mbps download speed. We tested it using a 100Mbps plan. The speed digits for upload and download speeds closed at around 45 and 95 Mbps, respectively.
Coming to the DOCSIS technology of CM500. It uses the 3.0 version; therefore, you may need to replace it sooner as major ISPs are shifting towards the advanced version of 3.1. Including a RAM of 128 MB and flash memory of 8MB, it can easily store configurations for multiple devices. The memory chunk comes in handy when installing this Optimum compatible modem in an office setting.
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- It works with all routers.
- It’s an excellent product for lower internet packages.
- Upgradation of ISPs to DOCSIS 3.1 may eventually make it incompatible.
Plus Point: Auto-sensing Ethernet port and heat-dissipating design.
Key Features
- High-speed telephony.
- Perfect for offices.
- Compatible with the latest DOCSIS technology.
- Allows remote configuration.
Specifications
| Brand | Arris |
| Weight | 1 pound |
| Frequency | 108 to 1002 MHz |
| VoIP Ports | 2 |
Product Review
The TM3402 is Optimum custom hardware. Therefore, you’ll have to work a nerve to get your hands on it. Firstly, let’s take some time to appreciate the user-friendly setup interface. It merely took us minutes to set it up and running using a brilliant GUI web setup.
It exhibits compatibility with both the DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1. However, the thing that should be noted here is it’s only compatible with the Optimum networks. We tried pairing it with Cox internet but had no luck. Now coming to the performance.
We conclude that it works for users looking for a piece supporting both high-speed plans and telephony. It features high-quality RJ-11 ports for VoIP and 32 by 8 bonding channels for steady speed.
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- It’s specially designed for optimum plans.
- It has a great bandwidth tuner.
- It’s not compatible with other ISPs.
Plus Point: High demand ensures the quality of the product
Read the detailed review here: https://offthebroiler.com/arris-tm3402/
List of Optimum Internet Approved Modems
Brand | Model number | With Router | Channels | DOCSIS | Puma Chipset | VoIP |
TP-Link | TC7650 | No | 24x8 | 3 | No | No |
Netgear | CM500 | No | 16x4 | 3 | No | No |
Netgear | CM600 | No | 24x8 | 3 | No | No |
Netgear | CM700 | No | 32x8 | 3 | Yes | No |
Netgear | CM1100 | No | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | No |
Arris | SB8200 | No | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | No |
Arris | CM8200 | No | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | No |
Arris | TM1602 | No | 24×8 | 3 | Yes | Yes |
Arris | TM1672 | No | 24×8 | 3 | No | Yes |
Arris | TM3202 | No | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | Yes |
UBEE | UBC1322 | Yes | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | Yes |
Arris | SB6183 | No | 16x4 | 3 | No | No |
PS: Intel Puma Chipset is a faulty Chip having latency issues. Due to some recent updates, most of the issues in Puma Chipset are resolved. Yet I would recommend you to buy the modem which don’t have Intel Puma Chipset inside it.
Conclusion
Now, it’s finally time to blow out the candle of our Optimum compatible modems show. Since the market is brimming with possibilities, finding the right one is critical.
Features that help to achieve the cause include DOCSIS type and ISP compatibility. However, you need to look into things like channels and speeds also as they also play a part in the performance.
The Netgear CM1000 and Arris Surfboard SB6183 are two universal picks to consider before jumping to any other pleasantries.
