Top 3 Picks of Spectrum Compatible Modems
- Approved to work by major service providers
- Superb performance at a great price
- Simple and easy setup using a mobile application
- Two Link Aggregation enabled Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Two years of warranty
- Works with major internet providers
- Strong and speedy performance
- Supports multi-gigabit speeds
- Quick and simple setup
- Two years of warranty
- Compatible with major ISPs
- Great overall performance
- Plenty of additional features
- Easy setup and use
- Two years of warranty
We conducted extensive testing on various well-rated modems available on the market for the review of the finest Spectrum modems.
Through our tests, we concluded that the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 provides the highest performance, quality, and value for your Spectrum internet connection at a great price.
Considering your different preferences and usage, we’ve also put together a list of six top-performing Spectrum-approved modems that might fit your needs best. So, let’s go on and check them.
Also Read: How To Activate The Modem Of Different Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
How we did the test?
We began the testing by selecting 15 different top-rated modems listed as approved by Spectrum on their authorized modems list. We used the Spectrum Gig plan and ran these modems through different testing phases and selected six modems based on their performance throughout this test. Our testing included the following phases.
Also Read: GCI Approved Modems for Fast Internet Connections
Performance:
We put the modems through their tests by connecting various wired and wireless devices to the network. On these devices, we then browsed the internet, streamed 4K videos, and downloaded large files to test the connection’s stability. We also verified the connection speed at various intervals to ensure that it did not decline.
Reliability:
Most modems on the market are equipped with faulty circuits using the Intel Puma chipset. We also ensured our selected products were built with a reliable circuit and had a lengthy warranty period that guarantees a reliable product.
Read Now: How to Reset Charter Spectrum Compatible Modems and Routers
User-friendly Setup and Features:
Because not everyone is familiar with the usage of modems, we also double-checked that the modems were simple to set up and operate. We also made sure our modems had extra features for increased network security and a better user experience.
Also Read: List of Compatible Modems for Mediacom Internet Users
Comparison Table of the 6 Best Modems for Chartered Spectrum
Reviews of the Best Spectrum Approved Modems
Key Features
- Approved with major service providers
- Two Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Quick setup with the SURFboard Central app
- Two years of warranty period
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 | – |
Product Review
The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 remains the greatest value modem allowed by Spectrum, having been ranked first on other service providers’ networks. This incredible modem offers an unrivaled combination of quality and performance.
This white-colored, plastic tower modem with vent holes has a maximum download speed of 2 Gbps. All of this is made possible by DOCSIS 3.1 and 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels. For more connectivity, the SB8200 has two Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Throughout our performance tests, even when the network was overloaded with heavy tasks like multiple 4K video streams and massive file downloads across numerous devices, the SB8200 delivered a seamless connection that didn’t slow down.
The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is powered by energy-efficient hardware and comes with a two-year warranty to protect your investment.
Also Read: Best Modems for Google WiFi Router
Plus Point: The hardware of the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is optimized for high-bandwidth network applications while preserving low latency.
- Excellent overall performance
- Easy install and usage
- Supports Link Aggregation
- Two years of warranty
- Bad support service
Complete Review Video
Key Features:
- Wide coverage with reputable service providers
- Multi-Processor Technology
- Broadcom Full-Band Capture Digital Tuner
- Active Queue Management
- Proactive Protection
- 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 | – |
Product Review
While the SURFboard SB8200 offers the best value, the Motorola MB8611 stands out for its faster speeds and additional features. However, the premium comes at a hefty price, as it always does.
The Motorola MB8611 features a gray-black tower design that is similar to that of other Motorola modems. Heat vents are perforated into the modem’s design. It uses DOCSIS 3.1 and 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels to give the fastest 2.5 Gbps speeds. The fact that Spectrum does not yet support this speed makes it future-proof.
To get started, the Motorola MB8611 features a straightforward setup process. We had a great time surfing the internet using the newly established fast network. Everything loaded in an instant, and there were no network outages.
This isn’t it. This powerful modem has remarkable features for a great and secure network. It only features a single Gigabit Ethernet connector, which limits connectivity, but the two-year warranty is a decent bet.
Also Read: Best Modems With Phone Jacks
Plus Point: The Motorola MB8611 includes Active Queue Management (AQM), a feature that reduces lag and allows you to enjoy smoother gaming, videoconferencing, streaming, and other tasks.
- Maintains zero-latency using AQM
- Exceptional and fast performance
- Multi-gigabit internet support
- No Link Aggregation support
Key Features:
- Compatible with most ISPs
- Fast and simple setup through Quick Start
- Full-Band Capture, a digital tuner for even faster connections and a more stable Internet experience
- Two years of limited warranty
Specifications
| Weight | 1.0 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 | – |
Product Review
For buddies with a limited budget, Motorola has another banger on the shelf in the name of Motorola MB7621. A power-packed modem that flawlessly balances the speed, reliability, and budget factor.
This modem has the same Motorola’s traditional modem design, with a gray-black-themed tower having vent holes for heat dissipation. On the back, the MB7621 has a single Gigabit Ethernet port. The modem delivers a maximum of 800 Mbps speed by employing DOCSIS 3.0 and 24 x 8 downstream and upstream channels.
During testing, the MB7621 was easily configured using an in-box guide. When tested, the modem gave a smooth networking experience with a stable network connection. All of the devices connected to the internet ran network-hogging tasks, but the internet connection remained balanced.
With this, the Motorola MB7621 also comes with an impressive feature package that includes a variety of network-enhancing features. Moreover, the two-year warranty ensures a lengthy period of reliability. So, if your wallet is low on cash, we believe your hunt has come to an end.
Also Read: Best Modems for Optimum Internet
Plus Point: The Motorola MB7621 is designed with ruggedized lightning and power surge circuitry to protect your investment.
- Great performance for the price
- Includes a power button
- Offers incredible features
- Two years of warranty
- It is not so compact
Key Features:
- Approved with major service providers
- Four Gigabit Ethernet port
- Multi-gigabit internet support
- One-year 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 | – |
Product Review
The NETGEAR CM1200 follows, putting on a quality show with its sleek design and quick performance. This may be expensive, but the fact that it is a NETGEAR device makes it worth it.
The NETGEAR CM1200 is a beautiful tower-shaped modem with sharp edges that give it an aggressive appearance. This modem, like other modems, features vent holes in the body to keep the heat at bay. The back is packed with connectivity possibilities, including four Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting multiple devices, as opposed to the Motorola MB8611’s single port.
The CM1200 performs admirably. The modem can support up to 2 Gbps download speeds through DOCSIS 3.1 and 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels. The network connection produced by this beast is worth every clap because we didn’t feel it declining over long browsing sessions when we checked it at different intervals.
Moreover, the CM1200’s setup process will not become tiresome because it is straightforward and quickly connects to Spectrum’s network. So, if you decide to get this superb modem, we’re confident you won’t be disappointed with the quality that comes with a one-year warranty.
Recommended Read: Comcast Business Approved Modems List
Plus Point: The NETGEAR CM1200 supports multiple IP addresses, allowing up to four home networks and various servers to operate simultaneously.
- Stylish modern look
- Superfast multi-gigabit performance
- Includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Simple and easy setup
- Manual firmware upgrade isn’t supported
Detailed Video Review
Key Features:
- Compatible with major ISPs
- Enhanced parental controls
- Four Gigabit Ethernet port
- Network monitoring with the NETGEAR Genie Mobile App
- One-year 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 |
Product Review
Finally, for those wishing to save the extra effort and cost of purchasing a router, the NETGEAR C7800 modem-router combo is available. Although many people complain that gateways never reach their full potential on the router side, the NETGEAR C7800 puts an end to compromising gateway performance with its incredible performance.
The NETGEAR C7800 is a black plastic modem with four antennas and a garden bench design. The modem component of this premium gateway offers 2 Gbps download speeds using DOCSIS 3.1 technology and 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels. On the router side, you get a dual-band AC3200 technology router.
The advanced router guarantees a flawless connection to up to 45 wireless devices within a 3000 sq. ft. range, making it perfect for large homes and offices. We put the NETGEAR C7800 through its tests by accessing and using the internet on over 20 wireless devices at the same time. Even with heavy usage, the internet remained fast and smooth.
Other than this, the NETGEAR C7800 design also includes 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting wired devices seeking a stable network connection. So, if you’re tired of dealing with excessive wire clutter, this reliable gateway with a one-year warranty is just a purchase away.
Also Read: Atlantic Broadband Approved Modems
Plus Point: The NETGEAR C7800 comes with the Genie App, which allows you to simply connect, monitor, and control your home or office network.
- Fast and reliable modem-router performance
- Broad wireless range
- Support available for guest networks
- Quite heavy design
- A bit pricier
Detailed Video Review
Key Features:
- AC1900 Wi-Fi Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit Ethernet Ports
- Wireless Power Boost
- Full-Band Capture digital tuner
- AnyBeam beamforming at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz for better range and performance
- Two years of warranty
Specifications
| Weight | 1.50 lbs |
| Color | Gray |
| Dimensions | 8.6 x 2.6 x 9 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Product Review
Gateways are more expensive because the modem and router functions are combined under one hood. Still, for those on a tight budget who want to avoid the hassle of purchasing a separate router, the Motorola MG7700 offers a premium gateway experience at an affordable price.
The MG7700, which uses the same Motorola modem design as the NETGEAR C7800, is a gray black-themed tower with a compact design as opposed to the bulky NETGEAR C7800. This amazing device uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology and has 24 x 8 downstream and upstream channels to provide download speeds of up to 600 Mbps. The router part is equipped with an AC1900 dual-band wireless router.
In our tests, the Motorola MG7700 proved to provide excellent value for money, establishing a seamless and balanced connection with 20 of our wireless devices across a distance of up to 2000 square feet. Even distant gadgets could connect to a rapid internet connection.
The MG7700 includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports for increased connectivity as well as many more features for a safe and fast network connection. Thus, for the few bucks you have, the Motorola MG7700 is the only quality gateway worth considering.
Also Read: Best Routers for Fiber Optic Internet
Plus Point: Motorola’s MG770 has user-friendly features like strong firewall protection and built-in parental controls to add an extra degree of security to your family’s networking.
- Great overall performance
- Offers an advanced security protocol
- Quick and simple setup
- WiFi range is not so wide
Detailed Video Review
What to Look For In A Modem? – Buying Guide
When buying a modem, there are a few things to keep in mind, because simply plugging in a power supply and coaxial cable won’t bring you fast internet. You must know a few things to decide suitable for your network plan and usage. Here are a few things to consider.
ISP Compatibility
The very first thing is to make sure the modem you’re about to purchase is compatible to work with your network provider. Internet providers maintain a list of approved modems that work on their network.
For Spectrum, you can visit their “Authorized Modems to Use on the Spectrum Network” page to check if a certain modem is listed and approved by the Spectrum.
Also Read: Frontier Compatible Modems Review
Type
The next step is to decide whatever device type you want. A standalone modem or a gateway can be used (modem-router combo). A standalone modem is the best option if you want to configure your network yourself and choose your own modem and router.
Otherwise, a gateway is a way to go if you don’t want to deal with the headache of buying and setting up a separate router. It’s worth noting, though, that gateways don’t perform as well as a standalone modem and router.
DOCSIS Technology
To support maximum speeds, modems use DOCSIS technology, similar to how wireless devices use WiFi or Bluetooth technology. DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 are the two DOCSIS versions that most service providers support at the moment. A DOCSIS 3.0 can suit you if you plan to use Spectrum’s 200 Mbps or 400 Mbps internet plans. Otherwise, the latest DOCSIS 3.1 must be selected for gigabit service plans.
Also Read: Best DOCSIS 3.1 Powered Modems
Channels
Channels are another factor to consider if you choose a DOCSIS 3.0 modem. The number of channels on a modem shows the maximum download and upload speeds it can handle. Depending on your network plan, you can choose from 16 x 4, 24 x 8, or 32 x 8 channels. Remember that the more channels your modem has, the faster plan it can support.
Conclusion
Spectrum allows its users to use any third-party modem on their network. However, the modem should be listed on Spectrum’s long list of approved modems to work with their internet. Also, if you have already have
After enough testing and research, we’ve found that the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is the best modem to use with Chartered Spectrum. Because it delivers outstanding performance and high quality at a decent price.
