10 Best Cable Modem 2025 in the United States

The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is a solid choice for those looking to upgrade their home internet experience, particularly for users with high-speed connections. With DOCSIS 3.1 technology, it supports internet speeds up to 1 Gbps, making it a great fit for heavy internet users who stream, game, or download large files. Its compatibility with major U.S. cable providers like Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum ensures that it can meet the needs of many households.

One of the standout features of the SB8200 is its channel bonding capability, which allows for better speed and efficiency. This modem includes two 1-Gigabit ethernet ports, enabling you to connect multiple devices directly for stable wired connections. Additionally, you can save money over time by owning the modem instead of renting one from your ISP, potentially cutting your bills significantly.

While the SB8200 is powerful, it lacks a built-in Wi-Fi router, which means you'll need to purchase a separate router for wireless connectivity. This could be an added expense for some users. The setup process is straightforward with the SURFboard Central App, but those who aren't particularly tech-savvy might still find it a bit challenging if they encounter issues. Moreover, it’s slightly bulkier compared to other modems, which could be a consideration for those with limited space. Customer support is available, which is reassuring for first-time users. The ARRIS SB8200 is a powerful modem for anyone looking to maximize their internet speed, but make sure to pair it with a compatible router for a complete home connectivity solution.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 is a robust option for those needing high-speed internet with compatibility across major cable providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. It supports cable plans up to 2Gbps, making it ideal for users with demanding internet needs, such as streaming, gaming, or multiple device connectivity. Its DOCSIS 3.1 technology and 32x8 channel bonding ensure fast, reliable connections, which is a significant improvement over older DOCSIS 3.0 models.

The modem includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for multiple wired connections, which is beneficial for users with several devices like computers, gaming consoles, and printers. Additionally, the option for link aggregation can boost wired speeds by combining two 1G ports into one 2G port for even faster connections. This modem does not have a built-in router, so users will need a separate WiFi router to connect wireless devices. However, it pairs easily with any WiFi router, providing flexibility to choose one that best fits your specific needs.

Another advantage of the CM1200 is the potential savings on rental fees, which could add up to $168 per year. On the downside, this modem is not compatible with DSL providers, Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, or bundled voice services, limiting its use to cable internet services only. Additionally, the setup might be a bit challenging for users unfamiliar with networking equipment. This modem is particularly suitable for tech enthusiasts and households with high internet usage requirements.

The ARRIS S34 is a solid choice for anyone needing a cable modem that supports high-speed internet, particularly with DOCSIS 3.1 technology. With a maximum speed of 2.5 Gbps, it’s designed for users who want to future-proof their internet setup, making it ideal for gaming, streaming, and heavy internet usage. One of its strengths is compatibility with major U.S. providers like Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, which ensures that many users can benefit from its features. The ability to save on rental fees is notable; owning this modem could potentially save you up to $168 per year, depending on your provider's fees.

The modem also excels in upload speeds, being optimized for the new upload service tiers, which is great for users who often upload large files or engage in video conferencing. The device comes with two Ethernet ports, including a 2.5 Gbps port, allowing for multiple wired connections without sacrificing speed.

While the setup is generally user-friendly, it does require a Wi-Fi router for full functionality, meaning that those who don’t already own one will need to make an additional purchase. Additionally, some users might find it slightly bulky compared to other models. If you’re looking for a powerful modem that can handle heavy internet usage and save you money in the long run, the ARRIS S34 is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind that you will need to pair it with a compatible router to take full advantage of its features.