Did your cable internet service provider implement DOCSIS 3.1 technology for their network or have you recently upgraded to a gigabit plan? Either ways, to take benefit of high-speeds you’ll need a modem that supports the technology.
Make a search for a DOCSIS 3.1 based modems and you’ll find an endless list of networking equipments that support the tech. You surely wouldn’t want to spend your money on a random product? Would you?
In that case you’re at the right place, because after researching, reviewing, testing, and comparing over 43 different modems & modem/router combos with cable internet providers such as Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, etc. We’ve finally made this list of 8 best models that are future proof.
Below we’ll be talking a bit about this revolutionary technology, but if you already know about it and are in a hurry and want to choose the best-rated model, then feel free to jump to the list.
Contents
- What is DOCSIS 3.1?
- Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modems in 2020
- 1. Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem: ARRIS SURFboard SB8200
- 2. Best For Compatibility: Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1
- 3. Best For Comcast Xfinity: NETGEAR CM1150V Cable Modem
- 4. Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Router Combo: Netgear C7800
- 5. Best Value For Money: Netgear CM1000
- 6. Best For Speeds Upto 2Gbps: Netgear CM1200
- 7. Best With AC2350 Modem Plus Router: ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300
- 8. Only For Comcast/Xfinity: ARRIS Surfboard T25
- The Verdict
What is DOCSIS 3.1?
DOCSIS stands for Data over cable service interface specification. It basically is a technology that allows your cable system to work with a cable modem.
DOCSIS 3.1 is an upgrade to the previous DOCSIS 3.0 technology that allows the coaxial cables to provide gigabit level speeds which was previously possible only via optic fiber cables.
It implements the latest technologies which makes it much faster and have much less latency than the previous generation technologies.
However, you’ll need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem to be able to take the benefit of the technology. Although, you can rent one from your ISP, but like explained in one of our post buying a modem of your own provides much better ROI.
Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modems in 2020
Now that you understand the technology, aren’t you looking forward to buying a DOCSIS 3.1 modem? But confused with which one? Well, don’t worry, we’ve ranked and reviewed the 8 best models that are fast and reliable!
1. Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem: ARRIS SURFboard SB8200
- Compatible Providers: Cox, spectrum, and Xfinity
- Not compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink
- Ethernet Ports: 2
- Speed: Up to 10 Gbps
- Channel bonding: 32×8
- Modem/Router Combo: No
The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is one of the best-rated DOCSIS 3.1 modems for gigabit speeds and is probably the most reliable option for the users. There is no doubt in the fact that Arris is an incredible company and has been producing modems for ages.
With the Arris Surfboard SB8200, you get a channel bonding of 32 downstream and 8 upstream making it highly suitable for gigabit internet speeds. The best thing about this cable modem is, it can support download speeds upto 10 Gbps thereby making it a popular choice among users who want a future-proof modem.
This DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem is one of the newest technology being offered by cable providers. The incredible channels bonding provides increased bandwidth for things like 4K Ultra-HD video streaming and Virtual Reality gaming.
Furthermore, using the 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports one can easily create 2 separate home networks from a single modem.
Using the 2 ethernet ports, you can enjoy high-speed data in your Smart TV for streaming as well for gaming consoles. Well, you will be delighted to know that it is compatible with services like Cox, Spectrum, and Comcast Xfinity. While the ones you will not be able to use our Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink.
The LED light functions on the modem have a very special purpose. The green light indicates that there is a high-speed internet connection through DOCSIS 3.0 while the blue light indicates internet connection through DOCSIS 3.1.
One place where it gets beaten is, It’s not a modem router combo which means that you’ll have to get a separate Wireless router that supports high-speeds which could cost a lot. But if pricing isn’t an issue and performance is your focus, then this cable modem is the best option you shall get.
- Uses the new DOCSIS 3.1 technology
- Very to set up
- Powerful Broadcom BCM3390 chipset
- Affordable and durable
- Heating issues
- Connection drop issues at times
2. Best For Compatibility: Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1
- Compatible Providers: Comcast Xfinity and Xfinity X1, Cox, CableOne, Comcast Gigabit, and Cox Gigablast
- Ethernet Ports: 1
- Speed: Up to 6 Gbps
- Channel bonding: 32×8
- Built-in Wireless Router: No
The Motorola MB8600 is an easy to set up DOCSIS 3.1 modem that’s compatible with major cable internet providers such as Comcast Xfinity, Xfinity X1, Cox Gigablast, CableOne, Comcast Gigabit, etc.
As said it does work with any Wireless router you want to connect with such as Whole Home WiFi or Mesh routers like eero, Google WiFi, and Orbi. But this cable modem does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability. It has a single Ethernet port unlike the Arris having two ethernet ports.
The Modem comes with channel bonding of 32×8 which means it has 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels which is mostly found in the top-rated equipment. However, to make complete use of the specifications it has, you’ll need to be on the fastest gigabit plan your ISP provides.
The design is very classy with easy to understand LED light signals. Moreover, it is very lightweight and can be easily set up anywhere in your home or office. You may experience some issues with the connection but overall it is incredibly reliable.
While it is made very clear that mostly none of such modems support Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier service along with some others.
You can also connect a single device to this along with router, Windows or Mac computer, HDTV, or game station.
- Low latency Active Queue Management
- Easy to set up
- Reasonably priced
- Smaller and lighter in structure
- Connection issues
- Only a single ethernet port
3. Best For Comcast Xfinity: NETGEAR CM1150V Cable Modem
- Compatible providers: Comcast Xfinity
- Not compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and non-Xfinity voice services.
- Ethernet Ports: 4
- Speed: Up to 2 Gigabits speed and 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Channel bonding: 32×8
The Netgear CM1150V is Certified by Comcast for Xfinity. It means it is compatible with Xfinity internet and voice services. On the other hand, all the other services that are Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and non-Xfinity voice services are not compatible with this Netgear Modem.
This cable modem shall help you save over $168/yr in equipment rental fees. Moreover, you can choose any router service for your WiFi connection at home. It has 2 integrated telephone lines that support 3-way conference calling, caller ID, call forwarding, and other enhanced calling features.
Speaking of the speed, it supports internet plans that have to speed up-to 2 Gbps for streaming 4K HD streaming, multi-player gaming and more. The 4 Ethernet ports provide ultra-high-speed of 1 Gbps internet speed each to your computer, gaming unit, etc. Also, if you would use the two-Ethernet ports it shall provide speeds upto 2 Gbps each.
The best part about this modem is that it is super easy to use and set up. With certain instructions, you can set it up in your home or office. Also, the design looks very convincing and promising. Surely, it could go a little out of budget but totally worth it.
- LED display is convenient
- Set-up and use very easy
- Service speeds up to 300 Mb/sec or faster
- Consists of 4 Ethernet ports
- Poor customer service
- Overheating issues
4. Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Router Combo: Netgear C7800
- Compatible Providers: Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum
- Ethernet Ports: 4
- Speed: Up to 2 Gigabits speed
- Channel bonding: 32×8
- Modem/Router Combo: Yes
The Netgear C7800 is known to be the most reliable and veteran cable modem since it was the first to be launched after the release of Docsis 3.1 technology.
It does support a large variety of major cable providers but is certified by the Comcast, Spectrum, and COX. On the other hand, it is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and other bundled voice services.
With this Netgear modem, you shall get speeds up to 2 Gbps provided that you are subscribed to a gigabit speed plan. It’s ability to handle such speeds shall provide you with 4K HD streaming, multi-player gaming and more. The 4 antennas will gives you a wide WiFi coverage across your home up to 3000 Sq. Ft.
Due to the availability of the 4 ethernet ports, you can also connect your computer system, gaming consoles, smart TVs, etc at the same time. It also provides lighting speed internet service to all the devices. Along with this, you also get 2 3.0 USB cable for connection for some other devices as needed.
It modem guarantees fast download and upload speeds; 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels. However, it isn’t equipped to be able to handle speeds above 2 Gbps, but currently not a lot of ISPs provide a speed greater than it.
The best part about this device is that it saves you from buying two devices separately i.e. a router and a modem. You are able to save money and also a lot of space through this. Surely, the overall cost can be a little too much for a modem, but this is a combo device and gives a lot more than you have asked for.
Some other features that the Netgear modem has included the Netgear Genie App that allows you to access the network remotely while away from home. Another one we have ReadySHARE Vault app for backing up data from your PC to your USB network drive for free.
- Pretty easy to set up
- Streaming multiple HD-quality videos to multiple devices
- Works perfect for large houses
- Excellent Internet speed
- Connection issues
- Overheating problems
5. Best Value For Money: Netgear CM1000
- Compatible Providers: Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum
- Not Compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH
- Ethernet Ports: 4
- Speed: Up to 1 Gigabits speed
- Channel bonding: 32×8
The Netgear CM1000 is somewhat another milestone product created by the company for the Docsis 3.1 technology. The idea behind this was not only to provide an excellent Internet speed to the user but a reliable device with affordable price. The price is surely one thing to consider while purchasing a modem.
Also, the features are somewhat similar to what we have discussed a while ago on the C7800 model. This is compatible and certified by the Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum service. Also, there are a lot more than these three. On the other hand, the services that are not compatible with are Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service.
This modem provides a stable internet connection with cable operators providing plans up to 1 Gigabit speed. It can go a little higher if the proper router is connected to it. On the front panel, the LED lights work brilliantly for better understanding. The five LEDs are for power, downstream, upstream, internet, and ethernet. You can also connect to any Wifi router for excellent speed.
This modem is also within budget and you can save a lot of money rather than renting it fro your home. Moreover, Netgear has great customer support if you face any connection issue on the device.
- Stream 4K HD content
- Compatible with multiple services
- Affordable and durable device.
- Saves a lot of money
- Speed only up-to 1Gbps
- Heating issues
6. Best For Speeds Upto 2Gbps: Netgear CM1200
- Compatible Providers: Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum
- Not compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH
- Ethernet Ports: 4
- Speed: Up to 2 Gigabits speed
- Channel bonding: 32×8
The Netgear CM1200 is another addition to its CM series with Docsis 3.1 technology that provides 10 times faster speed than the earlier version. If you do not have this at your home, well you may want to get it as soon as possible.
All the versions of this Netgear model have a very minor difference in terms of features and costs. So according to users’ preferences and additional features you can choose accordingly. This device is able to use 2 OFDM and 2 OFDMA channels up to 32×8 QAM channels in DOCSIS 3.0 mode. By enabling link aggregation you can combine two 1G ports into one 2G port for faster-wired ethernet speed.
With this device, you are given four Ethernet ports through which you can connect your computers and gaming system with excellent speed. It supports internet plans with speed up-to 2Gbps that allows you to stream 4K HD videos. Along with this, you can even play multiplayer games tirelessly for hours.
In fact, if you have liked the Docsis 3.0 technology and have devices only made up for that you can use it since this modem provides backward compatibility. Also, it has 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels.
Lastly, if you are facing any issues you can either google it or simply contact customer support since they have been quite useful every time. Overall, the cost isn’t the best for this model, but then there are other options for you as well.
- Support backward compatibility for Docsis 3.0
- Enable link aggregation for faster-wired ethernet speed.
- Four Ethernet ports
- Wide network coverage
- Little Expensive
- Does not have an in-built router
7. Best With AC2350 Modem Plus Router: ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300
- Compatible Services: Comcast Xfinity and Cox
- Not Compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink
- Ethernet Ports: 4
- Speed: Up to 1 Gigabits speed
- Channel bonding: 32×8
The ARRIS SBG8300 is one of the best Docsis 3.1 Modems for Gigabit ISPs. This model is another addition to the 8200 model as we had discussed above. This modem is compatible with Comcast Xfinity and Cox while Spectrum is yet to be confirmed. On the other hand, Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink are not compatible.
This cable modem runs on the Docsis 3.1 technology which is known to be about 10 times faster than the Docsis 3.0 technology now provided by most cable operators. It’s capable of bonding up to 32 downstream and 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 channels or 2 x 2 OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels, providing increased bandwidth for true gigabit-speed capability.
The best part about this modem making it expensive is because it has 3 products in a single device. That is it has DOCSIS 3. 1 Cable Modem, AC2350 Dual-band Wi-Fi, and 4 port Gigabit Router all-in-one single device as you see. Not only will it save money on renting devices but also save money on buying a router separately to connect to the internet.
As more and more cable operators will be updating their service to be compatible with Docsis technology, your network or modem will be ready to receive it. It supports a combo of 802.11ac WiFi router equipped with 4 1-gigabit Ethernet ports.
It has an excellent internet speed for all the devices connected to the Ethernet ports and also the USB cable. Such as computers, printers, gaming consoles, etc. The design is unique indeed and the set-up can be done within minutes before you can start using it.
- Super easy to set-up
- 3-in-1 product to save money
- Great Internet speed
- Dual-band Wifi
- Connection drop issue
8. Only For Comcast/Xfinity: ARRIS Surfboard T25
- Compatible Providers: Comcast Xfinity
- Not Compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service.
- Ethernet Ports: 2
- Speed: 1Gbps
- Channel bonding: 32×8
The ARRIS Surfboard T25 is an excellent option for everyone looking to set-up a modem perfect in Docsis 3.1 technology. The Internet speed is about 10 times faster than its previous version and only compatible with Xfinity internet & voice service. Also, works perfectly well for gigabit-speed internet plans.
It is compatible with any Wifi router which you may have to purchase separately. Unlike others, it supports voice service as well for which it has been equipped with two telephony ports. It’s capable of bonding up to 32 downstream and 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 channels or 2 x 2 OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels, providing increased bandwidth for true gigabit-speed capability.
This modem has two Ethernet port that gives out perfect Internet speed to the devices connected to it such as printers, computer, or gaming consoles. There is no USB port provided with this, so you will have to make use of only the Ethernet ports. The LED indicator is also easy to read, the top one is for power option, next we have is for Internet connection, the third one is whether the Internet service is online or not, and the last two are for the telephone lines.
Moving on, the design is pretty simple and small in size. It won’t be taking much space and also very easy to set-up in your home or office. The range is pretty average so if you have a small home it could be the best option for you can install another. You may not like the price section since it could be a little expensive considering the features as well.
- Easy to set-up
- Includes telephonic ports for voice service
- Certified for Comcast Xfinity
- Good customer support
- Not compatible with most of the cable service
- Expensive product
The Verdict
The list finally comes to an end. There are plenty of DOCSIS 3.1 modems available in the market, before you buy make sure that it supports the speeds according to your internet plan. Also, make sure that modem is approved by your service provider (It won’t work if it isn’t compatible with your ISP.)
Also, if you’re someone who would upgrade to a faster internet speed in future, then consider getting the modem that has high channel bonding, the ones in our list come a channel bonding around 32 x 8 (Higher the numbers, better is the capabilities.)
There are a lot of other factors that could change the best modem for you, doesn’t matter what requirements/factors change, our list will have at least 1 modem that’ll satisfy your needs.
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