7 Best Modem Router Combos in 2023 [For All ISPs]

A modem router combo is a networking equipment that combines the functionality of both modem and a router in a single device. Being crammed in a single unit, the performance isn’t as equivalent to a cable modem + separate wireless router setup, but it is relatively cheaper, easy to setup and suffice for basic/intermediate use-case.

Since you’re here, I assume that you already know what a modem/router combo is and are looking for a reliable modem router. It doesn’t matter what your needs are, who your internet provider is or plan is, you’ll find the best option by end of this guide.

7 Best Modem Router Combo Options in 2023 [Fastest]

As per my tests, the Netgear CAX80 is the best modem router combo to consider. However, it’s a little expensive, so if you’re looking for other options for different features such as voice compatibility, ISP compatibility, then check out the other options listed below:

1. Best Modem Router Combo: Netgear CAX80

The Netgear CAX80 comes with DOCSIS 3.1, capable of handling multi-gigabit internet plans, and is compatible with most of the internet providers in the US. That said, the router part of this device comes with WiFi 6, wireless coverage of 3,000 Sq Ft, and can handle 50+ devices at once. Having best of both — cable modem and a router, this is best modem router combo one can get in 2023.

Specs-wise, the device is solid, it has best specifications of both modem and a router. However, how does it perform in the real world? Is it really the fastest modem router combo? I tested the device and based on my experience, the device is highly-efficient and delivers seamless internet connectivity.

Why is it a suitable choice?

Combined with a Wi-Fi 6 router and a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, it is future-proof with high-speed plans. Its maximum speed capacity is 6000 Mbps which is divided as follows:

2.4GHz: 4800 Mbps

5GHz: 1200 Mbps

So, I paired CAX80 with Xfinity Gigabit. With the high-frequency band, download speed scores reached a maximum of 942 Mbps, while the upload speeds were around 36 Mbps. Similarly, the low-frequency band had respective speed outputs of 889 Mbps and 29 Mbps.

I tried connecting my gaming consoles with it, and let me tell you, the ping was pretty impressive. Games like FIFA 23, Valorant, and Far Cry 6 ran at 144 FPS, tagging it as the best combo for gaming.

Wired Speed

The device further comes with Link Aggregation support which means you can double up your speeds, provided you have two IPs. However, with a single plan, plugging your device directly into the Ethernet ports can get you speeds at around 980 Mbps for downloads and 190 Mbps for uploads.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

This device’s coverage is impressive, housing 4 powerful internal antennas. This makes it possible to spread the signals over spaces as big as 3,000 Sq Ft. Thanks to the device, my father’s workspace was full of stable and strong network connections.

Besides, the wireless router lets you connect nearly 40 devices simultaneously and maybe even more, provided you aren’t streaming 4K Netflix.

Suggested Read: Best WiFi for 3,000 Sq Ft

Ease of Setup & Control

Concerning setup, CAX80 is compatible with the Nighthawk app. The detailed instructions and video-based guide should help anyone, irrespective of their skills, to get the device ready to use. Besides using the app, you can remote toggle through the firmware features, parental controls, and connected devices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you want a reliable Netgear modem/router combo, the Nighthawk CAX80 is a viable choice in terms of throughput, range, and speed. Besides, the performance and features justify every penny you pay for it. Read my Full review.

2. Best For Xfinity: Motorola MT8733

MT8733 from Motorola is a solid choice for residential and commercial spaces subscribed to Xfinity internet services. With the latest technologies combined with powerful hardware, it can handle a lot of traffic and multi-gig internet speed. Besides, the device also packs in two phone ports for voice connectivity.

Why is it a suitable choice?

DOCSIS 3.1 support and 32 x 8 channel bonding make it one of the most resourceful options. And, for the router part, MT8733 comes with dual-band Wi-Fi 6 support, and its maximum throughput capability stands at 6000 Mbps, which is further divided as follows:

2.4GHz: 4800 Mbps

5GHz: 1200 Mbps

Motorola claims this device handles internet plans of up to 2500 Mbps, so it’s smart to pair it with the highest internet plan. So, I tested it with a 2000 Mbps plan from Xfinity and got the speeds to their fullest without any latencies or lags.

Testing the device’s wireless capability on my Dell laptop, I received a 1.1 Gbps download and 92 Mbps upload speeds. These speeds were attained on a less-congested 5GHz band. On the other hand, respective download and upload speeds cracked at around 1.8 Gbps and 108 Mbps for the 2.4GHz band.

Wired Speed

If you need even faster speeds, there are three Gigabit LAN ports on the rear side. Connecting to one of them, I got download speeds at around 940 Mbps, qualifying it as the best gigabit modem router combo out there.

Such high speeds make the Xfinity-compatible modem router combo suitable for running bandwidth-intensive games, streaming 4K, and voice calls, thanks to two existing phone lines. Playing red dead redemption 2 on my Xbox was a treat with this device.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

Motorola MT8733 boasts 4 high-gain internal antennas that work harmoniously with a 4×4 MU-MIMO to amplify the signal strength a few times. In my test, I received network bars on my device, and there were no dead zones in my 2,500 Sq Ft test center.

The device further has an OFDMA that eliminates any network congestion to transmit consistent signals throughout the large house. Besides, the antennas ingrain beamforming support, leading to reduced latency, frequency reuse, and increased efficiency. So, my 40 connected devices had no issues when connected and multitasking.

Ease of Setup & Control

Setting up Motorola MT8733 isn’t very complicated, even if it’s your first time using such devices. The Motosync app provides step-by-step instructions to get the device configured within minutes. Besides, this app allows you to manage, optimize, and secure your home network and devices from anywhere.

Conclusion

Motorola MT8733 is the best all-around modem router combo that enables high-speed internet and telephone connectivity. It handles many devices without network complications or lags. It is a holy grail for gamers and streamers.

Its only setbacks are the premium price and Comcast-exclusive compatibility, but with the features it presents, it’s way ahead of others. Learn more in its full review.

3. Best Value for Money: ARRIS Surfboard G34

When shopping for the best value modem router combo, you might search for a powerhouse device that doesn’t cost you a fortune. ARRIS G34 is just that, which comes with the latest modem and wireless technologies.

Compared to ARRIS G36 (its successor), it offers similar specs except for the multi-gig port, which is fine for this price.

Why is it a suitable choice?

Compatibility is a strong suit of this device. It pairs with most service providers’ Gig-speed plans making it a worthy Gigabit cable modem router combo. The G34 comes with DOCSIS 3.1 for the modem part and an AX3000 for the routing part. AX stands for Wi-Fi 6 and 3000 for 3000 Mbps of total speed capacity of both bands.

2.4GHz: 600 Mbps

5GHz: 2400 Mbps

Pairing the device with the Cox Gigablast, I extracted download and upload speeds of 910 Mbps and 32 Mbps with the 5GHz band. On the other hand, its low-frequency band yielded respective speeds at 502 Mbps and 27 Mbps.

My wireless speed got a further boost and consistency with MU-MIMO and OFDMA support integration. The primary task of such is to eliminate the potential congestion and make way for faster data transfers.

Wired Speed

There are four Gigabit LAN ports that provided me with the opportunity to achieve true Gigabit speed. Hence, gaming on a console felt like a piece of cake with this device.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

Besides speeds, the device also excels in terms of coverage. Its 4 internally-housed powerful antennas are great enough for any 2,500 Sq Ft establishment. It seamlessly sends signals through any interference and devices kept in nooks of your property, and you can connect up to 20 devices without experiencing hiccups and lags.

Ease of Setup & Control

In terms of setup, Arris G34 got a few extra brownie points. All you need to connect the power cord and coax cable and wait for the LED lights to turn on. It took me just a few minutes to set it up, but it could take a bit longer for you. Once done, connect the gateway to your internet using an Ethernet port or connect your device with WiFi.

Then, depending on your internet service provider, you will need to register by putting the user credentials on the device’s rear side. After activating the device, you can experience gigabits of speeds on your mobile, laptop, or gaming devices.

Conclusion

If you’re willing to pick something inclusive for your residential space or workspace, Surfboard G34 is the best ARRIS modem router combo that resonates perfectly well with your settings. It doesn’t compromise in the routing department, courtesy of features like prioritized throughput, guest access, Wi-Fi 6 support, and more.

For more specific info, read my dedicated G34 review here.

4. Best Mesh Modem-Router Combo: Netgear Orbi CBK752

NETGEAR Orbi CBK752 is a tri-band mesh modem router combo with state-of-the-art features. Netgear has taken leaps from its older model, C7100V, regarding features and overall capabilities. But, irrespective of such an extensive specs sheet, does it delivers? Let’s find out!

Why is it a suitable choice?

If speed is your major concern, then there’s no way you go wrong with NETGEAR Orbi CBK752. With technologies like DOCSIS 3.1 and Wi-Fi 6 support, you are destined to get faster speeds. Besides, the maximum theoretical throughput is 4200 Mbps, which is cut in the following bands:

2.4GHz: 600 Mbps

5GHz (1): 2400 Mbps

5GHz (2): 1400 Mbps

So testing with Spectrum Internet Gig plan at my friend’s house, I could see how effective the mesh router was in congestion management, traffic prioritization, and throughputs.

The respective download and upload speeds for the 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands were 879 Mbps and 35 Mbps, along with 515 Mbps and 27 Mbps. And wired speeds were recorded at 960 Mbps, signifying minimum attenuation.

Other than that, Orbi CBK752 is better known for its traffic prioritization functionality. So, besides downloading big files within seconds, there were no visible lags or inconsistencies while gaming or streaming.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

In terms of coverage, Orbi CBK752 should remain at the top of my list. The internal antennas and separate units combine to form a mesh network to offer a top coverage of around 4,000 Sq Ft. Not exaggerating, the network bars were persistent even at the outskirts of my friend’s 3,600 Sq Ft mansion-style home. So, you never run out of network with this mesh modem router installed.

Besides, the latest generation Wi-Fi support delivers 4 times more capability than its older version, thereby you get faster speeds to nearly 35 devices at once.

Ease of Setup & Control

Setting up this mesh modem router system feels like a breeze. And despite adding a few improvements compared to my previous recommendation, the setup process is exactly the same. The only thing is keeping the second unit in another room and waiting for both to pair, and you are ready to experience faster speeds in the entirety of your space.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Orbi CBK752 is a powerful device with added mesh capabilities that dissipate signals through thick walls. Besides, faster speeds and a simple setup process are added benefits of this system. The only thing that threw it down the list is the lesser speed output and premium price than my previous recommendations.

5. Best with DOCSIS 3.1 + Wi-Fi 5: Motorola MG8702

Motorola MG8702 boasts a futuristic DOCSIS 3.1, exceptional wireless capabilities, and compatibility with major ISPs. And if you are a loyal user of Motorola MT7711, you know what upgrades this device brings to the table.

Why is it a suitable choice?

Boasting DOCSIS 3.1 technology, this future-proof modem-router combo by Motorola is compatible with most existing as well as high-speed plans of the future. Besides, the integration of Wi-Fi 5 adds to the overall capabilities of the device, taking the max speed of 3200 Mbps, which is further divided as:

2.4GHz: 1000 Mbps

5GHz: 2167 Mbps

I tested this model with the available Cox’s 500 Mbps plan, i.e., Blast, which worked exceedingly well. At 5GHz, download speeds clocked at 487 Mbps, while upload speeds were kept around 19 Mbps. On the other hand, the respective speeds on the 2.4GHz band were 454 Mbps and 15 Mbps.

So, it’s safe to say the device performed with the paired-up plan and should also be with the higher Gigabit plan.

Wired Speed

There are four Gig ethernet ports on its rear using which I connected my gaming console and experienced 900+ Mbps of throughput. Besides the speeds, the best thing about the device is AQM (active queue management) which allows you to eliminate streaming lags or latency, making it a reliable Wi-Fi modem router combo.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

The speed limit of MG8702 is further backed by an excellent range of around 2,500 Sq Ft. So install this device and forget any dead spots in any corners of your average-sized space. Aside from that, features like QoS and MU-MIMO lets you connect 40 devices simultaneously, including laptops, mobile devices, gaming consoles, and others.

Ease of Setup & Control

With the MotoManage application, installing this device shouldn’t be much of a task. With the interactive and user-friendly UI of the application, you can optimize the network for your kids and guest users alike. Along with that, the app lets you toggle the QoS settings according to your requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, very few modem router combos in the retail space provide as much value as this Motorola MG8702. While it brings many innovative features on board, the integration of inferior Wi-Fi standard has pushed the device down this far.

You may also read my dedicated review of the Motorola MG8702.

6. Best for Home Use: Motorola MG7700

Not many DOCSIS 3.0 modems are worth your attention. But the MG7700, with some quality attributes and aesthetics, certainly caught my eye, and you should take a look if you need a budget yet reliable modem/router combo. Some viable upgrades it brings over its older model are dynamic DNS, auto DHCP, and support for wireless bridging.

Why is it a suitable choice?

The DOCSIS 3.0 with 24 x 8 channel bonding makes it reliable for internet plans of up to 650 Mbps. You can pair other high-end plans, but I wouldn’t recommend so. The built-in Wi-Fi 5 router has a total speed capacity of 1900 Mbps.

2.4GHz: 600 Mbps

5GHz: 1300 Mbps

I tested this modem-router combo with WOW internet’s 500 Mbps plan, and the throughput for both downloads and uploads was impressive. There was a maximum of 445 Mbps and 26 Mbps respective download and upload speeds.

Wired Speed

As far as wired speed is concerned, there are four Gig LAN ports present on MG7700’s back that would allow you to experience the fastest possible speed. Besides, traffic prioritization allows you to boost your speeds further by dissipating your signals through less congested channels.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

Motorola MG7700 integrates a power boost technology which takes its overall coverage up by a notch. The device can cover anything up to 2,000 Sq Ft, and the beamforming antennas let it focus the signals on specific bandwidth-hungry devices. So, despite the speed outputs, your online games or 4K videos won’t lag a tad despite you sending emails concurrently.

Aside from that, theoretically, the device can handle 25+ devices simultaneously, so it can connect to a multitude of devices without dropping the speeds. But in my tests, I could connect only 40 devices to the network, and trying to add a few more resulted in noticeable drops in consistency and speeds.

Ease of Setup & Control

Now concerning setup, it couldn’t have gotten any easier with this combo device. Start by plugging in the device with the power source and wait for the lights to turn on. Then, connect the system to your device, either using an Ethernet cable or connecting wirelessly, and register it to your ISP using the credentials imprinted on its rear side.

Conclusion

Motorola MG7700 might is not your best DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combo, but it strikes a perfect balance between affordability and resourcefulness. Integrating DOCSIS 3.0 and Wi-Fi 5 delivers good speeds for standard households.

Want to learn more? Check out my detailed MG7700 Review!

7. Best Budget Combo: Netgear C7000

Last but not least, I have an affordable yet value-added router modem combo by Netgear. Despite missing out on the latest technologies, it delivers decent speeds, throughput, and coverage. I used this device as my primary networking device and used it for 4K streaming and gaming, so here are detailed impressions.

Why is it a suitable choice?

In terms of modem tech, the device has got DOCSIS 3.0, and for the routing part, it is backed by Wi-Fi 5, with a maximum speed throughput of 1900 Mbps. The speed is further distributed in dual bands as follows:

2.4GHz: 600 Mbps

5GHz: 1300 Mbps

According to the manufacturer, an internet plan this device can work best with is up to 800 Mbps. Since it’s a budget device, I connected it to a 200 Mbps internet plan from Mediacom. With it, the 5GHz speed was recorded at 180 Mbps and 16 Mbps.

Wired Speed

As far as Ethernet ports are concerned, there are 4 of them, which should be fine for people in residential settings with a few devices. I connected my Xbox 360, and speeds clocked at 205 Mbps for downloads and 27 Mbps for uploads.

However, the potential drawback of Netgear C7000 is the lack of functionalities like QoS and MU-MIMO. So, you might not get the stablest of connections, but the device surely is capable of handling bandwidth-intensive tasks.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

Priced under $200, this modem integrates a router, so I quite expected its wireless capabilities to suffer. However, the test results surprised me. I tested this device in a 1,500 Sq Ft home office; most parts of the workspace had got reliable connections, only running into slowdowns in one or two corners. Even then, the speeds dropped from 195 to 115 Mbps, which is still serviceable.

In terms of device capacity, the powerful antennas could dissipate strong signals on 10-12 devices at a stretch. Any residential setting would therefore love to have this installed in their space.

Ease of Setup & Control

Right out of the box, many modems aren’t as easily set up as your average router. But that’s not the case with Netgear C7000, and you can follow similar steps I’ve mentioned in my previous recommendation. Although there’s no compatible app available with this device, controlling it manually or through a webpage wouldn’t be much of a task.

Conclusion

The features and resulting performance pay for themselves. If you’re looking for a cheaper yet reliable device to save up on your monthly rentals, Netgear C7000 is a no-brainer. However, inferior technology and occasional inconsistent throughputs have pushed it into the last position.

For more details, check out my Netgear C7000 review.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

2-in-1 gateways are versatile and reliable devices that offer powerful performance, and you get the power of two devices by paying the price of one. I hope this guide acts as a compass to allow you to find the best modem and router combo for your ISP.

If you’re still confused, here are my suggestions:

• If you are a loyal Xfinity subscriber and need a device that pairs well with its Internet + Voice services, go for Motorola MT8733. It boasts DOCSIS 3.1, Wi-Fi 6, multiple ports, and more.
• However, if you are on any other ISP and need a similar device without phone lines, Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 should be ideal.
• If you have little budget and need a reliable and high-performance combo, go for ARRIS Surfboard G34.
• And finally, for an affordable modem router combo with decent features and attributes, Motorola MG7700 is your best bet.

With that, I’d end up my guide. Tell me in the comments below which model you have gone for.