Are you contemplating a fiber connection? There are quite a few service providers that have you covered. Yet, simply connecting with the service provider won’t be sufficient. You need a reliable fiber optic modem, as rental picks might burn holes in your pocket over time. And as per our research, buying your own internet equipment is better than renting.
Do note that purchasing a fiber internet modem isn’t straightforward. A good fiber compatible modem is one that supports multiple networking modes, multi-gig speeds, a handful of Ethernet slots, and an excellent processing setup. However, there are several challenges to finding a fiber optic internet modem, including the lack of choices, involved research, and complex terms.
And that is exactly why I have put together a list of top-rated fiber modems for you to pick from. Each product on the list is handpicked to suit diverse user requirements and complement the offerings of the concerned internet service provider. So let us get the discussion started!
5 Best Fiber Optic Modems of 2022
Before moving any further with this discussion, it is important to note that most fiber optic modems aren’t standard cable modems but fiber-supported gateway devices. Therefore, if you choose well, you can identify and purchase integrated-router combos to cover your throughout.
Also, before proceeding with the reviews, it is important to check for compatibility with specific ISPs. The list, which will start shortly, comprises the top 5 fiber gateway devices, with the more premium ones featured right in the beginning. Overall, the list is created keeping the specs, ISP compatibility, and even plan suitability in consideration.
1. Best Overall: Verizon/Fios G3100
- Modes: FTTP
- Max Data Speed: Up to 2.5Gbps
- Ports: 4 GigE + 1 Gig WAN + 1 MoCA 2.5 + 1 USB 3.0
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 6
Not every fiber optic modem router you find is capable of justifying the ultra-fast speeds offered by the ISP. The Verizon/Fios G3100 is different as it strikes the perfect balance between wired and wireless functionality, allowing you to get speeds of up to 2.5Gbps, with ease. And as compared to the G1100, it promises almost twice the better coverage.
Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?
Firstly, it is upper-speed limits of 2.5Gbps that make a compelling case. Provided Verizon has a modem-like setup put in place, you can use the WAN port associated with the G3100 to get internet access. And the Wireless AX (Wi-Fi 6) standard ensures that the speeds are top-notch and throughput consistent.
Next is FTTP compatibility, allowing you to maximize internet speeds without losing packets along the way. As far as ISP support is concerned, the G3100 is compatible with Verizon and Frontier services, preferably for multi-Gig internet plans of up to 2Gbps.
Ports & Connectivity
As far as on-device ports are concerned, the G3100 is replete with 4 Gig ethernet ones for letting you connect to the more bandwidth-intensive devices like a gaming console, smart TV, and more. Next, there is the MoCA cable, allowing you to make the most of the multimedia plans. Also, there is a standard WAN port for additional wired connectivity instances, if and when needed.
Adding to this is the tri-band routing support, allowing you to switch bands automatically depending on the nature and proximity of the smart device. The 4 x 4 streams, relevant to both near (5GHz) and far (2.4GHz) bands, are great when it comes to the coverage — which in turn is close to 3000 Sq Ft.
Hardware & Performance
There is a multi-core processor at the helm, supported by 512MB of RAM. The featured chipset adds a lot to the performance of this fiber modem router, especially when it comes to guaranteeing the best 4K streaming performances. The gaming latency is appropriately low, courtesy of the interference-immune hardware setup.
Design & Build
The G3100 is a good-looking, dome-shaped modem-router combo with white-colored, hardened plastic. Not to mention the solitary LED indicator in the front, followed by a heat-dissipating matter panel. The rear panel is all about the ports. As far as the aesthetics are concerned, the product measures 9 x 5 x 5 inches and weighs 3.60 pounds, to be exact.
Conclusion
Overall, the Verizon/Fios G3100 is one of the go-to fiber modem routers if you want to prioritize speed, coverage, and throughput over anything else. And the minimum gaming latency makes it a great bet for professional gamers seeking a top-notch internet setup.
- High-speed ports
- MoCA support
- Aesthetic form factor
- No overheating
- Minimal gaming latency
- Dedicated app support
- Thick
- Heavy
2. Best for Office Work: Greenwave C4000XG
- Modes: GPON
- Max Data Speed: Up to 2.5Gbs
- Ports: 5 GigE + USB 2.0
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 6
If G3100 from Verizon was inventive enough, the Greenwave C4000XG would certainly put a smile on your face. Also termed as the Axon C4000XG, this fiber internet modem boasts GPON support and Wi-Fi 6 wireless standard (built-in router), which is quite an upgrade over the likes of C4000LG.
Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?
First of all, it is the 4-stream connectivity that steals the show. Coupled with Wi-Fi 6 standard, MU-MIMO functionality, and 1024-QAM powered throughput for faster downstream and upstream data transfers, the C4000XG hardly leaves a stone unturned to make things better for an office user. As far as raw internet speeds are concerned, you can get 2.5Gbps with ease.
As far as ISP compatibility is concerned, this device is good enough for Gig-level internet plans from CenturyLink. And yes, the 160MHz channel width for the 5GHz band ensures that you get the best speeds, wired or wireless, at all times. Also, the supported GPON mode works better and is faster than any EPON model in play.
Ports & Connectivity
The C4000XG comes equipped with 4 standard Gig Ethernet LAN ports and a customizable WAN/LAN port, depending on requirements. Plus, there is a USB port in play that lets you share data across networks.
Next comes the connectivity, which hinges on 4 x 4 streams, the ability to connect more than 200 devices at once. Plus, OFDMA support for organically bringing Quality of Service prioritization into the mix. As far the range is concerned, this device can easily cover over 2500 Sq Ft of an area with ease.
Hardware & Performance
Powering the C4000XG is a standard dual-core chipset from InterAptiv. And what’s exciting is that it works closely with 512MB of RAM. The hardware setup promises minimal gaming latency, excellent throughput, and lag-free UHD streaming. Also, you get 128MB of NAND flash memory to see you through those firmware updates.
Design & Build
This networking device measures 9.96 x 8.78 x 7.52 inches when it comes to dimensions. It weighs close to 2.90 pounds, assumes a heat-dissipating structure made of white plastic, and aesthetically feels like a bulked-up paperweight.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the CenturyLink C4000XG is the best fiber modem in terms of coverage, speeds, and multi-device connectivity. And while the pricing might look a bit exorbitant, the QoS support and Smart connect band selection more than makes up for it.
Note: You can read my dedicated, detailed review of the Greenwave C4000 modems. I’ve discussed all three variants of the C4000 series.
- 5 Ethernet ports
- QoS support
- Smart automatic band selection
- Wi-Fi 6 standard
- Excellent near band performance
- No MoCA connectivity
- Heavy
3. Best ONT Modem: Arris Windstream NVG343BQ
- Modes: FTTP
- Max Data Speed: Up to 1Gbps
- Ports: 4 GigE + 1 USB 2.0
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 5
Not many fiber gateway devices come with ONT support, a functionality that eliminates the need for a standard garage setup. If you are looking for such a device, the Arris Windstream NVG343BQ is the perfect option to go with. Also, it trumps other dated devices from Arris by bringing in Fiber-to-the-Premise functionality in addition to VDSL support.
Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?
Even though the Arris NVG343BQ lets you experience the best VDSL speeds, it ensures fiber internet compatibility, courtesy of FTTP support. The device lets you experience speeds of up to 1Gbps and exceptional wireless throughput, courtesy of its exciting stead as a fiber gateway and the Wi-Fi 5 standard.
As far as ISP compatibility is concerned, it works well with the 500 Mbps+ fiber plans from Windstream and CenturyLink. However, you can use the wired setup to attain Gigabit speeds.
Ports & Connectivity
Arris lets you enjoy the perks of four high-speed Ethernet ports, which you can use to connect the more demanding devices to the internet. And the OEM even throws in a USB port, an ONT port for the fiber to directly feed into your homes, and even a DSL/Broadband port to help you get the best of both worlds.
The Wireless AC (Wi-Fi 5) standard makes the internet quality feel fast and consistent, helping you with games and streaming. Plus, Beamforming support ensures that coverage of 1500 Sq Ft feels more than that on the paper.
Hardware & Performance
The dual-core chipset makes interfere a thing in the past. Instead, you can stream 1080p videos on multiple devices with relative ease. Plus, there is 128MB of built-in storage to help you handle updates and firmware issues.
Design & Build
The black-colored slab of plastic comes with a matte form factor. Also, there are 4 LEDs to help you with the network status. Made of hardened plastic, this device measures 5 x 1.1 x 7 inches and weighs close to 3 pounds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you seek an ONT modem router combo that lets you enjoy xDSL or fiber optic internet, depending on availability, whilst minimizing overall setup grunt, the Arris Windstream NVG343BQ is the device to choose.
- Multiple ports
- Sleek design
- xDSL support
- Over 20 non-overlapping channels
- Not the best design
- Not meant for high-speed Gig-level connections
4. Best for Fiber & DSL Connections: ZyXEL C3000Z
- Modes: FTTP
- Max Data Speed: Up to 1Gbps
- Ports: 5 GigE + 1 USB
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi AC
If you are still searching for a DSL modem that also handles fiber connections, the ZyXEL C3000Z is a perfect choice. Compared to other ZyXel-series devices, the C3000Z offers better speed and comes equipped with a more innovative design.
Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?
I wouldn’t say that the C3000Z is the best fiber optic modem, but it does enough if the service provider has an ONT set up in close premises. With max speed limits of up to 1000 Mbps, mostly wired, and the dual-band wireless AC standard to cover most networking requirements, the C3000Z has almost every base covered.
As far as ISP and plan compatibility is concerned, you can pair this up with standard 200+ Mbps plans from CenturyLink.
Ports & Connectivity
The C3000Z comes equipped with 4 Gig ethernet ports with LAN connectivity. Plus, there is one convertible port that lets you use it as LAN or WAN, depending on the functionality you seek. There is also a standard USB Port for sharing data and media across networks. And yes, there is obviously the DSL/Broadband port in play for plugging in the choice of connection.
Hardware and Performance
Even though the hardware specs aren’t specified, you can expect ZyXEL to offer a dual-core SoC and at least 256MB of RAM. Based on the HD streaming and online gaming performances, the processor looks good enough. It helps the device cut through the congestion and ensures that gaming lag is reduced to a minimum.
Design & Build
The C3000Z assumes a vertical structure, comes in black, and boasts several LED indicators for accurate status reporting. As far as design-specific elements are concerned, this networking gateway device measures 12.13 x 10.47 x 2.64 inches and weighs close to 2.30 pounds, which is a tad on the chunkier side. Regardless, as experienced personally, heat generation is next to nill.
Conclusion
The ZyXEL C3000Z might not be the most affordable fiber-compatible modem, but it does enough in terms of speed and consistency to deserve a place on this list.
- 5 High-speed ports
- Excellent design
- Several LEDs
- Consistent 5GHz speeds
- Doubles as a DSL modem
- Prioritizes DSL over Fiber
- Pricey
5. Best Budget FTTH Modem: Arris NVG468MQ
- Modes: FTTH, ONT
- Max Data Speed: Up to 1Gbps
- Ports: 4 GigE + 1 USB
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 5
Looking for an affordable fiber optic modem router combo that even comes with MoCA functionality? Well, the Arris NVG468MQ is the right option to consider. Plus, it takes the lead over the Srris NVG34BQ when it comes to experiencing add-on MoCA 2.0 services.
Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?
The NVG468MQ is everything you would want an affordable fiber-optic modem to be. Firstly, it boasts a wireless AC standard, making dual-band network access seamless and consistent. And even though the device promises 100Mbps of wireless internet support, you can use Gig speeds over wired connections.
Coming to the compatibility, the NVG468MQ works really well with Frontier and Verizon FiOS plans — mostly the ones that go up to 200 Mbps at most.
Ports & Connectivity
The NVG468MQ features a standard setup of ports, including 4 GigE slots for high-speed wired connections, one USB slot for data transfers and pairing accessories like printers, and the MoCA slot that requires a splitter to connect with the modem and even the Smart TV if needed.
Also, the dual-band Wi-Fi 5 standard makes way for consistent internet connections, good enough for most daily activities.
Hardware & Performance
You get a standard processor on this FTTH modem that cuts through interference and ensures lag-free HD streaming. And if you are into gaming, setting up a wired connection is a better bet.
Design & Build
Despite the pedestrian design, the NVG468MQ doesn’t overheat. It is made of hardened, matte plastic, assumes a vertical structure, and weighs 2.49 pounds. As far as dimensions are concerned, it measures 15.4 x 8 x 2.4 inches, which is sleeker compared to some of the other picks on the list.
Conclusion
If cost-to-ownership takes the front seat for you, I would seriously recommend getting the Arris NVG468MQ, as it doesn’t just come cheap but lets you play around with bundled packs from Frontier and Verizon FiOS.
- Affordable
- Several ports
- Fast USB for pairing a printer
- MoCA 2.0 support
- Basic design
- Not meant for multi-gig plans
Buying Guide for Beginners
Now that you know which fiber optic modem router to pick, here is a detailed guide to analyzing the attributes better.
User Requirements
The first question that comes to mind while picking a fiber-ready modem is the need for it. For instance, are you planning to pick one for your standard home use or for intensive loads like gaming? Or, are you looking to get one for the office or to establish a network in any commercial space? Depending on user requirements, you purchase the networking device.
Like if you want something for your small home, the Arris NVG468MQ might be a good bet. However, the C4000XG from Greenwave is one of the top-rated modems for hardcore gamers, courtesy of the QoS support.
Compatibility with ISP
ISP compatibility is the most important aspect to look at before spending your hard-earned money on modems that work with fiber connections. Most gateway devices aren’t compatible with every ISP in the market. For instance, the powerful C4000XG works with CenturyLink, whereas the Arris NVG468MQ complements both Frontier and Verizon FiOS internet plans.
Therefore, before you plan on investing, check out the ISP compatibility and pick only the one that makes sense to the area-specific service provider. And it is always better to pick one that covers most of the ISPs so you can move around and the device still stays relevant.
Ports & Connectivity
If you have multiple bandwidth-hungry devices at home or office, including the Smart TV, PS4, and more, I would recommend considering a device like the C4000XG, which offers multiple Ethernet ports, 5 to be exact. However, if you just want to pair an extender to the modem-router combo or standardize the usage, it is better to go for a device with one to two ports. That way you can save some money as well.
Hardware & Design
A multi-core processor is a nice addition to any networking setup. Yet, you must keep your eyes open for the likes of at least 256MB of RAM. Networking devices as powerful as those used for large offices might even have a multi-core processor in play with 512MB of RAM.
Next, you have the design, which might be an important parameter to look at while investing in a new fiber-supported modem. If you often change your workplace, it is advisable to get something light. However, if you plan on keeping the device fixed at the home or office, you might need to prioritize heat dissipation and durable aesthetics over anything else.
Special Features
If you are into additional features and more detailed evaluations, check for QoS functionality, USB ports for sharing data over the network, antennas relevant to the modem-router setup, etc. Depending on the availability of these specifications or lack thereof, the final price of the fiber optic gateway device is determined.
Frequntly Asked Questions
Yes, you do need a different kind of modem for fiber-based internet services; different means, unlike the standard cable modems. In most cases, it is advisable to look for modem-router combos while searching for fiber modems as the PON-ports act as modems, and the rest of the device is used for relaying the internet service across the room, wired and wireless.
Every fiber connection setup runs down to your home or the nearest hub, right into the ONT or Optical Network Terminal. The optical fiber from the hub is then fed into the PON port of the concerned modem, which is usually color-coded as blue or green.
There are many contenders for the tag of the best fiber optic modem in the retail space. However, a good way to identify one is to look for price-to-value balance, ease of setting up, app-based support, and a higher number of ethernet ports.
A fiber modem lets you enjoy the fast possible version of the internet while saving you from hunting for multiple devices. A fiber modem usually isn’t just a modem, but a modem-router combo that works is great at helping you establish a wireless and even a wired network, as per requirements.
Verdict
Each of these five fiber optic modems lets you cater to a specific set of user requirements. And despite this being a short list, if you are still confused, here are the use-case-specific segregation to help you choose:
- If speed and number of ports are your primary concern, along with QoS functionality, the Greenwave C4000XG for CenturyLink is a perfect choice.
- In case you also want to keep doors open to DSL, the Arris Windstream NVG343BQ is the one to choose.
- Finally, if you want something budget-friendly but without compromising on features, the Arris NVG468MQ seems like the device to go for.
Yet, you can always look at some of the other picks and get the suitable modem or modem-router combo that aligns with your requirements, professional needs, and budget.
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