5 Best Cable Modems of 2021

The rule of thumb to accessing seamless and high-speed internet is to have a good cable modem. This does not mean that you can enjoy superfast speeds off a modem when you have subscribed to a low-tier internet plan but it does mean that the modem augments your experience exponentially and even if you have the best plan, you still need a great modem to uplift your connection.

Furthermore, one important thing to consider is to check the compatibility of your preferred modem with your internet provider. This is mentioned in the service agreement of the modem and you can contact your provider for clarification as well.

If you are someone who wants to buy a modem but does not know which one, read this article to find out the best cable modems of 2021.

Why should I buy a modem instead of renting it?

Previously, buying a modem might have been a wrong choice as internet providers would charge you for equipment fee even if you did not use it. However, as per the Television Viewer Protection Act 2019, internet providers cannot charge you for anything that you do not use, which means that you are free to choose any modem of your choice now. Buying a modem is a one-time investment that you make for yourself and can do so in a manner that aligns with your requirements. In the long run, this decision also saves you money.

Another possible way to go about it is to subscribe to an internet provider that offers a complimentary modem with internet plans – this is the real definition of having your cake and eating it too! One such service provider is Spectrum and if you need more info about its internet plans, simply click here.

What are the merits of the best cable modems?

In this article, we have chosen the best modem on account of the following merits:

• Value for money and price
• Supported speeds
• Customer Feedback
• Specifications

The best cable modems of 2021

1. Netgear Nighthawk CM2000

• Supported Speed: 2.5 Gbps, 800 Mbps
• Channels: 2 x 2 and 32 x 8
• Voice Support: Not Available
• Wired Ports: One
• MOCA: Not Available
• DOCSIS Technology: 3.1

The Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 has one of the sleekest hardware. It is a high performer and makes sure that you get the high speeds that your internet provider offers. It is supported with the latest DOCSIS technology 3.1, which adds to its brilliance. The 2 downstream and 2 upstream OFDM channels allow you to achieve speeds up to 2.5 Gbps (download) and 800 Mbps (upload).

In the event that your internet provider is not compatible with DOCSIS 3.1 tech, you can use the DOCSIS 3.0 tech of Nighthawk CM2000 that allows you to stream 32 x 8 channels. It has one 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port allowing you to connect a superpower router and get the maximum output. With all these fancy features, you must know that it is a bit on the pricier end.

2. Motorola MB8611

• Supported Speed: 2.5 Gbps, 800 Mbps
• Channels: 2 x 2 and 32 x 8
• Voice Support: Not Available
• Wired Ports: One
• MOCA: Not Available
• DOCSIS Technology: 3.1

If you are subscribed to a blazing fast internet plan, be sure to get a modem that is suitable for it like the Motorola MB8611. It supports the latest tech standards, DOCSIS 3.1, and is able to deliver speeds up to 2.5 Gbps (download) and 800 Mbps (upload). This cable modem is ideal for households with heavy internet usage.

The Motorola MB8611 offers low latency, which makes it a great option for streamers and gamers. The 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port at the back is compatible with the Ethernet port of a Wi-Fi 6 router making sure that you get superfast speeds via one cable only.

Just like Netgear Nighthawk CM2000, if your ISP does not support DOCSIS 3.1, you can shift to use the DOCSIS 3.0 of MB8611 giving you 32 x 8 channels.

3. Arris Surfboard SB6190

• Supported Speed: 1.2 Gbps, 216 Mbps
• Channels: 32 x 8
• Voice Support: Not Available
• Wired Ports: One
• MOCA: Not Available
• DOCSIS Technology: 3.0

One of the newest flagships of Arris, the popular SB6190 is another remarkable device by the company. It is like a powerhouse that delivers exceptional performance. It is compatible with most internet service providers and exudes a great sense of reliability.

The DOCSIS technology 3.0 and the channel bond of 32 x 8 are able to deliver up to 1.2 Gbps download speeds and almost 200 Mbps upload speeds. It has one gigabit Ethernet port which might not be a problem since most people connect a wireless router as well. It is a great pick for gaming and streaming.

4. Motorola MB7621

• Supported Speed: 912 Mbps, 216 Mbps
• Channels: 24 x 8
• Voice Support: Not Available
• Wired Ports: One
• MOCA: Not Available
• DOCSIS Technology: 3.0

Motorola MB7621 is one of the most affordable modems that offer extraordinary speeds. Its 24 x 8 channels and DOCSIS technology is one that can take care of your high-speed gigabit internet plans. Theoretically, its download speed reaches up to 1000 Mbps while the upload speed is over 200 Mbps.

The MB7621 has a sleek and attractive outer body and is a superb option for families that use mid-tier internet plans. It is mostly compatible with all internet providers and is priced under 80 USD. The wired port at the back provides you with a power pack connection with your router. Motorola MB7621 offers a 2-year warranty so you are covered on all bases.

5. Arris Surfboard S33

• Supported Speed: 2.5 Gbps, 800 Mbps
• Channels: 2 x 2 and 32 x 8
• Voice Support: Not Available
• Wired Ports: Two
• MOCA: Not Available
• DOCSIS Technology: 3.1

Arris Surfboard S33 has an uber-chic design that handles multi-GB speeds with just a single wire. It flaunts two Ethernet ports: 2.5 Gbps and 1 Gbps – so you can enjoy the best speeds with two compatible routers. This means that you can create two networks with this cable modem that offers 3.5 Gbps combined.

If your ISP does not accept DOCSIS 3.1, you have the option to use its 3.0 technology as well.