Best Modems & Modem/Router Combos For Spectrum in 2023

Most of the Spectrum Internet subscribers don’t buy their own modem as the internet provider doesn’t charge a monthly rental for the modem. While the free-modem is enough for basic tasks, many users experience internet throttling, loss of packets, connection instability, overheating, etc. If you’re experiencing such issues, then should consider getting your own Spectrum compatible modem. But, which one?

Since, ISP compatibility is one of the important factors to look for in a cable modem, you can’t pick a random modem and expect it to work. Instead, get one that best suits your subscribed internet-only plan or internet + voice bundle. But if you’re unsure which one to pick, keep reading as I shall help you find the best modem or modem router combo for your requirements!

6 Best Cable Modems For Spectrum

I went through the official list of modems that work with Spectrum, tested out around 23 different models while reviewing different Spectrum Internet plans, and finally made this list. I’ve ensured that no matter what your use case is, you’ll find a suitable device for your specific needs and budget.

Whether you’ve subscribed or are planning to subscribe to the fastest Internet Gig plan or mid-range Ultra plan, or even the lowest 100 Mbps plan, this list of modems compatible with Spectrum shall surely help you find a device that’s not just approved by the ISP, but are also among the best options for different use-cases.

1. Best Overall: ARRIS Surfboard S33

If you’re looking for the best standalone cable modem that works with Spectrum, then I would recommend the Arris S33 without thinking twice. Since it’s compatible with the fastest Spectrum Internet plan, it’ll work with the low-tier plans too.

Looking to make the most of your Gigabit internet plan? Try out the functional and feature-packed ARRIS S33. As one of the better Spectrum-authorized modems, the S33 has a lot going, especially with the 2.5G LAN Port — a feature that outsmarts the older SB8200 from the same company.

Arris S33 & Spectrum

When it comes to internet speeds, theoretically, the ARRIS S33 ensures maximum throughput of almost 3.5 Gbps. In my test with the Spectrum Gig plan, it could deliver almost 993 Mbps, courtesy of a Wi-Fi 6 router (on the 5 GHz mode). In addition to the wireless connections, you can enjoy the fastest possible wired speeds of almost 1 Gbps.

Note: Since it’s compatible with the fastest Spectrum 1 gig plan, you can use it for lower-tier plans such as Spectrum Ultra

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

As far as networking technology is concerned, this modem strikes the perfect balance between DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 technologies. The 32 x 8 SCQAM standard is more than adequate to reroute moderate traffic, whereas for 4K streaming, you can always rely on the 2 x 2 DOCSIS 3.1 support with OFDMA technology.

The increased bonded channel width moves traffic and data smoothly, even during the congestion-prone peak hours of Spectrum internet. Most importantly, the adequate spread of the downstream and upstream channels also qualifies it for other ISPs, including Comcast Xfinity and Cox.

Ports

As for the ports, there are 2 high-speed slots to account for; one Gig Ethernet slot and one 2.5 Gbps wired slot. Complementing the same is the Link Aggregation support that allows you to combine the wired throughput for assuming maximum speeds of up to 3.5 Gbps, only if the ISP has the requisite hardware for the same.

Design & Build

This is one of the rare white-colored devices on the list, best known for its durable plastic chassis and roundish structure. There are several air vents in play to avoid overheating. Coming to the heft, the modem itself weighs close to 1.5 pounds and measures a standard 5.24 x 1.65 x 5.24 inches.

Also, the rear panel comes replete with the basic cable input, ethernet, and power ports, whereas LEDs bestow the front panel.

Hardware Setup

As mentioned in my ARRIS S33 review, it comes equipped with a standard ARM-based processor, which can manage multiple data and traffic streams without breaking a sweat. Therefore, if you have a Wi-Fi 6 router by your side, this modem is probably the best option to invest in, courtesy of the 1.2GHz processor and the associated bandwidth tuner.

Conclusion

While several top-shelf Spectrum-supported modems are in the market, Arris S33 is the fastest among them. The integrated spectrum analyzer makes it a top pick, as you can use it to steer clear of network congestion. Plus, the two-year warranty and exceptional customer support separate it from other options on the list.

Suggested Comparisons:

• Arris Surfboard S33 vs Motorola MB8611
• Arris Surfboard S33 vs Arris SB8200

2. Best For Gaming: Motorola MB8611

If low-latency gaming is your primary concern, you won’t go wrong with this DOCSIS 3.1-powered modem, Motorola MB8611. Its built-in AQM technology resonates with its powerful processor, multi-gig port, and ample RAM to deliver low-ping gaming. Plus, MB8611 brings ample upgrades over MB8600 in terms of speed capabilities and performance.

Why is it suited for Gaming?

The latest DOCSIS version, 32 x 8 channel bonding, and 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA compatibility make it one of the better modems for gaming. Its raw speed can peak up to 2.5 Gbps, considering you have an apt plan to pair with. Besides, it’s backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0, so pairing any lesser speed plans is also safe.

But it would be fair to pair a multi-gig plan to exploit its true gaming potential. And so, I got the Spectrum 1 Gbps plan to connect with, which yielded a download speed of 946 Mbps and an upload speed valued at 79 Mbps when paired with a WiFi 6E router.

Adding to it, the AQM (Active Queue Management) functionality of MB8611 is built for better traffic prioritization, which comes in handy in minimizing latency and ping to an extent. So trust me when I say that you can play any of your latest games like Call of Duty: Warzone, Titanfall 2, and Fortnite at 103-108 FPS.

Ports & Connectivity

Motorola MB8611 isn’t replete with many ports as in most routers, but its 2.5G Ethernet port does the job of satiating the bandwidth hunger of most of your devices.

The wired speeds raked up to 997 Mbps and 93 Mbps, respectively, for downloads and uploads. A further speed boost resulted in a reduction in ping value and increased frame rates, translating to an improved gameplay experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Motorola MB8611 is a dependable Spectrum-approved modem built for lower latency gaming and multi-gig internet plans. Besides, its cutting hardware and software setup makes it the best option for gamers.

Check out its comprehensive review for more details on hardware, design, etc.

3. Best Value For Money: Netgear CM1100

If you need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem that doesn’t cut performance-specific corners, Netgear’s CM1100 is a great choice. It even beats the CM1000 when it comes to overall performance and speed. Learn more differences between CM1000 and CM1100.

Why is it a suitable choice?

I tested the CM1100 with Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan, only to see it manage to download and upload speeds of up to 939 Mbps and 48 Mbps, respectively. However, I could get the speeds with a direct connection and not upon connecting the same to a high-end Spectrum router.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

Performance-wise, the CM1100 is also top-notch due to the DOCSIS 3.1 technology, 2 x 2 OFDM support to go with it, and the usual 32 x 8 channel bonding compatibility that lets you experience insane speeds, provided you have the right internet plan to go with.

Ports

Here is a device that features two Gig ethernet ports for setting up wired connections. Plus, there is link aggregation support to help you achieve multi-gig speeds if required.

Design & Build

Design-wise, this modem assumes a rugged structure, primarily relying on the perfect placement of vents for heat dissipation. The basal stand reappears to lend stability to the device. Dimensions read 8.80 x 3.40 x 5.90, making it a slimmer variant to get. And finally, the device weighs close to one pound, which is yet another feather in its cap.

Hardware Setup

Finding its way into the modem is the BCM3390 processor, which is great at managing latency and gaming ping. Other processing components include the 256MB of built-in RAM for complementing the chipset. A 128MB storage unit is in place to store the updates and modem details.

Conclusion

With just the right number of LEDs on the front and link aggregation support to help you achieve speeds higher than 1 Gbps, the Netgear CM1100 is something that every standard home or office setup can consider purchasing. You may also read a dedicated review of the Netgear CM1100.

4. Best For Spectrum Ultra: ARRIS SB8200

The SB8200 from ARRIS is the best value modem to use with the Spectrum Gigabit internet plan. It’s best known for its high performance at an affordable price. In case you are worried about signal interference or anything else, the Surfboard SB8200 comes across as a reliable Charter Spectrum modem, loaded with a more efficient processing setup as compared to the ARRIS SB6190.

Why is it suited for Gigabit Internet?

Firstly, the SB8200 is compatible with Spectrum’s all-internet packages. I tried using the same with a gig internet plan and could churn out 931 Mbps of download speed and over 36 Mbps of upload speed. Since it worked out quite well with the gigabit plan but not as well as the above-recommended modems, I’d recommend this device to Spectrum Ultra users.

However, the gig Ethernet ports ensure the device can reach speeds capped at 1Gbps on each of the two ports, which can be further amplified with link aggregation support. But that’s a technology for higher-speed plans; at present, Spectrum doesn’t have the requisite hardware for the same.

DOCSIS Tech & Channel Bonding

There are 32 upstream and 8 downstream channels. The processing consortium can also incorporate 2 x 2 upstream & downstream channels, courtesy of the DOCSIS 3.1 support. However, DOCSIS 3.1 is invoked only if you start experiencing network congestion and need a more-priority network to handle gaming and streaming with precision.

It also comes with a dedicated Spectrum Analyzer feature, which manages and changes diverse modem parameters like frequency, bandwidth, and more.

Ports

At the back, you have two Gig Ethernet ports, capable of taking your wired setup and the associated throughput to the next level. Plus, link aggregation furthers the capabilities of this resourceful cable modem. However, as the link aggregation support seems unavailable for a standard user, invested in a mid-range internet plan from Spectrum.

Design & Build

Coming to the design, this Arris-branded modem looks more like a vertical and rectangular slab of hardened plastic. There are 4 front-facing LEDs on this 2.2-pound modem, with dimensions fixed at 5.24 x 4.24 x 1.65 inches.

Hardware Setup

The ARRIS SB8200 comes equipped with the famed Broadcom BCM3390 processor, a much-needed upgrade over the Intel Puma 6 chipset. Plus, the 3GB of system memory takes good care of the performance. Also, the modem stacks 128MB of NAND storage space, which is good enough for handling firmware updates.

Conclusion

Overall, the ARRIS SB8200 is one of the more reliable Spectrum-recommended modems to use with the Gigabit plan. Plus, the IPv4 and IPv6 compatibility further amplifies the functionality of this modem by improving the throughput associated with wired connections.

For more details, check out the complete Arris SB8200 review.

5. Best For 400 Mbps: Netgear CM500

Are you low on budget and looking for a good modem to pair with the Spectrum Ultra plan? Bring Netgear CM500 your home, and you’re sorted!

Now, you need not look elsewhere for your budget musings when it comes to getting a Spectrum 400 Mbps modem. You can easily pick the Netgear CM500, which offers networking prioritization support over the dated Spectrum modem provided by the ISP.

Why is it suited for Spectrum Ultra (400 Mbps) plan?

Upon testing it with the Internet Ultra plan, I could easily get hold of almost 387 Mbps of download speed. The upload speed was capped at 20 Mbps, which is more than acceptable with DOCSIS 3.0, 16 downstream, and 4 upstream channels.

Ports

This no-frills modem comes equipped with one Gig ethernet port, allowing you to reach Gig-level speeds if required. However, you can only achieve close to 400Mbps, even over wired connections with the Internet Ultra plan.

Design & Build

The CM500 looks like every standard Netgear modem around, featuring a base-adhering stand and several air vents for heat dissipation. The device is one of the lightest at 0.62 pounds, whereas the dimensions read ‎4.88 x 7.28 x 2.36 inches, to be exact. As far as the build quality is concerned, the CM500 feels robust and non-flimsy despite having plastic as the underlying material.

Hardware Setup

What works is the Broadcom BCM33843 chipset and 8MB flash storage, and 128MB of functional RAM. Next, you have the performance-specific evaluations, which require no validation as I personally loved the gaming and streaming speeds on display.

Conclusion

Overall, the Netgear CM500 seems more like a budget pick for standard households. Also, it is the best modem for Spectrum 400 Mbps. It offers excellent value for money, which separates it from other products on the list.

To learn more, read the full review of the Netgear CM500.

6. Best For Spectrum Voice: Spectrum E31U2V1

Important Note: Spectrum Voice service doesn’t work with third-party cable modems with telephone ports.

• DOCSIS Version: 3.1
• Downstream Upstream Channels: 32 x 8
• Ports: 1 x Gig Ethernet + 2 x Telephone
• Suitable Internet Plan: Spectrum Ultra
• Processor: N/A
• RAM & NAND Memory: N/A

Next on my list is the best Spectrum voice modem that ISP supplies to the Internet + Voice bundle subscribers for a monthly rental fee. You can expect good enough performance, thanks to the inclusion of the latest DOCSIS 3.1 protocol and 32 x 8 channel bonding.

Why is it suited for Spectrum Voice?

The aspect that makes this modem for Spectrum unique is its dual Telephone ports. With a relevant voice plan paired, you can expect features much more advanced than your landlines. These include multiple phone lines, blocked calling, caller ID, three-way calling, call waiting, and readable voicemail.

Boasting a DOCSIS 3.1 protocol alongside 32 x 8 bonding channels means you have a future-ready modem that supports most Spectrum plans above 400 Mbps. And similar to my previous recommendation, 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA compatibility underpins stable and consistent signals.

Pairing a 400 Mbps Spectrum plan, the download speeds on my PS 5 were recorded at 367 Mbps, while the upload speed was valued at 19 Mbps. It might not be the fastest experience, but the received speeds were powerful enough to run any bandwidth-intensive tasks easily.

Ports and Connectivity

Spectrum E31U2V1 significantly lags in this department with a single Ethernet port and, therefore, limited connectivity options. Nevertheless, you can pair any bandwidth-intensive devices and get your downloads and uploads done at 410 Mbps and 145 Mbps, respectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spectrum E31U2V1 is a dependable modem for Spectrum Voice subscribers. It offers good speeds and stability. But, it lacks majorly with respect to the number of Ethernet ports, which doesn’t let you experience high-speed wired connections over multiple devices at once.

3 Best Modem Router Combos for Spectrum

1. Best Overall: ARRIS Surfboard G34

Don’t want the hassle of keeping two separate networking devices? In search of the best router modem combo for Spectrum? Check out the ARRIS G34!

Not every Charter internet modem is as functional as the ARRIS G34 — a networking device that even beats the likes of SBG8300, owing to the better internet standard and better data transmission speeds, both wired and wireless. With this setup in place, you won’t face Spectrum’s slow internet issues.

Why is it a suitable choice?

As mentioned, this combo works well with Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan, helping you experience download and upload speeds of almost 900 Mbps and 40 Mbps, respectively. However, the cumulative speed caps are based on wired connections directed toward gaming and streaming consoles.

As far as true wireless speeds are concerned, you can get true internet speeds of up to 600Mbps over the 5GHz band and close to 100Mbps over the far band (2.4GHz). Other performance-enhancing traits include Quality of Service for better traffic prioritization.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

Powering the same is the future-proof DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is backward compatible with other DOCSIS versions. As far as channel bonding is concerned, there are 32 x 8 channels to rely on, followed by 2 x 2 OFDM support for better data transmission.

Coming to the routing part, this device makes room for the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, with a cumulative throughput of 3000Mbps (on paper).

Ports

There are 4 high-speed Gig ethernet ports on offer. Each port allows you to achieve 100Mbps’ worth of throughput for bandwidth-intensive devices. You also get link aggregation support if you get two IPs from the ISP and experience multi-gig wired or wireless speeds.

Design & Build

As far as aesthetics are concerned, this plastic-clad modem-router combo assumes a vertical structure with rounded edges and heat-dissipating vents. The device measures 11.02 x 9.88 x 3.2 inches and weighs 3.1 pounds, making it one of the beefier products.

Hardware Setup

At the core, you have Broadcom’s multi-core chipset, working hand-in-hand with 512MB RAM. The existing processing setup allows you to handle most games and streaming options without lags or latency.

Conclusion

Arris G34 makes network device identification quick work by coming across as a reliable combo. And while it is an excellent resource for gamers and streamers, its link aggregation support and Wi-Fi 6 standard sets it apart from other Charter-compliant modems on the list.

It might interest you:

• ARRIS G34 Review
• ARRIS G34 vs ARRIS G36: Which One?

2. Best for Large Homes: Netgear Nighthawk CAX80

If you’re in awe of high-speed modem-router combos, then you’d probably love this Netgear CAX80 with a whooping throughput capacity of 6 Gbps. Aside from speeds, this Netgear device is equally resourceful, with ample ethernet ports to satiate the hunger for bandwidth, multi-ISP compatibility, and excellent coverage.

Besides, compared to CAX30S, its predecessor, you’ll find some potential upgrades that ultimately translate to the device’s outstanding performance.

Why is it suited for Spectrum?

Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 boasts excellent capabilities with DOCSIS 3.1 and dual-band WiFi 6 protocol and promises a maximum theoretical speed cap of 6000 Mbps. its band-wise speed distribution is as follows:

5 GHz: 4804 Mbps

2.4 GHz: 1174 Mbps

Having a Gigabit Spectrum connection in place, the Netgear modem router combo should help you churn near band (5GHz) speeds to almost 914 Mbps for downloads and 425 Mbps for uploads.

At the same time, the respective speeds with the far band were around 387 Mbps and 165 Mbps. The best thing about it is its stability; all credits go to DOCSIS 3.1 and 2 x 2 OFDMA support.

Such procured speeds mean data between router and client devices don’t face congestion or obstructions while traveling. In other words, running any internet-bound tasks should feel like a walk in the park.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

Coverage-wise, the maximum CAX80 can spread out is about 3,000 Sq Ft, on par with many long-range routers out there. You can place this device in any setting, residential or commercial, and leave the worries of weak or dead network spots behind. Furthermore, courtesy of OFDMA and MU-MIMO, you can connect up to 40 smart devices simultaneously without breaking down the network.

Ports & Connectivity

Netgear Nighthawk features a diverse arrangement of ports, with a 2.5G port making room for multi-gig speeds when and if available. There’re four GigE ports with Link aggregation support, allowing you to ramp up your speeds by bonding two separate IPs.

So anyway, connecting your client devices through these slots can get you maximum speeds of 1014 Mbps and 515 Mbps for downloads and uploads. Other than that, a USB 3.0 makes for faster file-transfer performance, as my 1.5GB folder transfer took a few minutes.

Security Features

Security-wise, Netgear has enough to keep your network ecosystem safe from unauthorized attacks with its range of basic and premium features. Out of the box, Netgear CAX80 offers features like guest access, access control, WPA3, VPN, and auto-firmware updates. These offer a basic layer of security to your client devices and connected network.

Netgear also has a few upgrades at its disposal with the Netgear armor feature, which comes at a $6.99 monthly subscription. Some of its notable features include malware protection, intrusion blocking, malicious website identification, and blocking. Besides, it inculcates smart parental controls like an age-based filter, scheduled access, and tracking online status.

Conclusion

Netgear CAX80 is a one-time investment option that almost guarantees a stable and fast speed and throughput for many years. Although its pricing might be steep, its design and performance in terms of coverage and security features justify each penny spend. Read the Nighthawk CAX80 review for more details.

3. Best Budget Combo: Motorola MG7700

Last but not least, presenting you Motorola MG7700, which might not be the fastest device out there, but with some balanced features and performance becomes a popular option for small and medium houses and workspaces. Some of its notable feature sets include a decently powerful Broadcom processor, 24×8 channel bonding, DOCSIS 3.0 protocol, and ample storage space.

Why is it suited for Spectrum?

With dual-band WiFi 5 support, Motorola MG7700 boasts a maximum throughput capacity of 1900 Mbps, with speed distribution as follows:

5 GHz: 1300 Mbps

2.4 GHz: 600 Mbps

I paired the Spectrum 500 Mbps plan to test out its practical speeds, and the results were impressive. Over the 5GHz band, downloads and uploads clocked at around 457 Mbps and 127 Mbps, respectively. At the same time, respective speeds over the 2.4GHz band were 215 Mbps and 67 Mbps.

Despite its lower throughput capacity than my previous recommendation, online games ran fine at 85fps, courtesy of its power boost technology.

WiFi Coverage & Devices Capacity

The powerful Motorola MG7700 antennas work harmoniously well with the power boost technology to deliver an extended range of 1800 Sq Ft. With the support of AnyBeam beamforming, the device can send concentrated signals toward a single direction rather than spreading them around. It, in turn, translates to maximum coverage and faster data transfer.

Aside from that, Motorola promises support for over 250 devices, which is far away from reality, as in my tests, only 40 devices could be connected. Any more devices resulted in its slowdown or drops. But the number was still decent enough for residential setups and small workspaces.

Ports & Connectivity

MG7700 achieved a decent score in this department with four Gigabit Ethernet ports on its rear panel. Although it doesn’t support Link aggregation, plugging in four devices simultaneously could yield speeds of around 510 Mbps and 167 Mbps for downloads and uploads, respectively. An improved speed means the capability to take over much heavier internet-bound tasks.

Security Features

Security isn’t where this router shines, as there aren’t many advanced security features available besides some basic ones. These include guest access, WPA2 security standard, access control, and auto-firmware update, which delivers basic protection to your home network.

Conclusion

Motorola MG7700 might not be one of your regular DOCSIS 3.1 kids on the block, but it perfectly balances affordability and resourcefulness. Its DOCSIS 3.0 support and decent hardware can attain good throughput speeds for standard households and even casual gaming and HD streaming. Read the full review.

Spectrum Approved Modems & Modem/Router Combos [The Official List]

How to Setup & Activate Your Spectrum Modem?

1. Steps to set up a modem

Since you’ve got your modem for Spectrum internet, it’s time to install it yourself. Self-installing a modem might save you a couple of dollars and a long wait for the agent to come in and do it for you.

The process isn’t very arduous and requires you to follow a few easy steps, which are as follows:

• Connect one end of the coax cable to the modem and another end to the power outlet, and turn on the switch.
• Wait for the indicator light on your modem to remain stable. It takes around four to six minutes, but the time can lengthen if the device undergoes a firmware update.
• Then connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the modem and the other to the computer or back of the router. That’s it, you have successfully set up your modem.

2. Activating your Modem

Setting up the modem means half of your job is done. Now, all that is left is its activation. Here are a few easy steps for you to follow:

• Open the browser on your computer, launch the official Spectrum website and log in to the admin portal using the credentials imprinted on the rear side of the modem.
• Once logged in, an indicator light on the modem turns on. It isn’t there in many routers, so in that case, try using the internet after some time.

3. How To Hook Up Spectrum Cable Box and Modem?

Before you hook up the cable box and modem, ensure a standard connection is established on both devices. Besides, ensure you have coaxial cable splitters, a network pack, and coaxial cables. As you have these with you, follow a few simple steps to complete the process:

• Start with placing all your devices in an optimal position, i.e., near a power outlet.
• Connect one end of the cable that comes out of the wall socket to one end of the coaxial splitter.
• Plug one end of a coaxial cable into the splitter and the other into the cable box.
• Use the other output of the splitter to connect with the modem or modem-router combo.
• Then, if you have a separate router, use the Ethernet cable to connect with the modem.

For detailed step-by-step information with pictures, check my complete guide on hooking up the Spectrum cable box and modem.

4. Returning the Existing Spectrum Modem

Since you’ve got your Spectrum modem up and running, you need to return the Spectrum-provided modem to avoid any charges. It isn’t a headache as it feels to be, and here are the steps you should follow:

• Place an equipment return request on the Spectrum official website, citing an appropriate reason.
• Once approved, the networking company sends a cardboard box with bubble wrap and a return label.
• After properly packing the equipment, return the box to a dropoff box or a FedEx store.

Things To Consider When Buying

Each of the Spectrum-supported modems caters to a specific user base and internet plan. Yet, if you want to choose better, here are the factors to keep in mind:

Your requirements

Before you proceed further, you must take a closer look at your requirements. For instance, getting a combo makes sense if you want to ditch a separate router. Or, if you have multiple bandwidth-hogging devices at home, purchasing a modem with several ethernet ports makes sense.

Consequently, a combo will be priced higher, whereas a standard DOCSIS 3.0 modem will be way more affordable. Therefore, once you fix the budget and then the requirements, you can zero in on all the appropriate choices in the given bracket.

Make sure that the modem is compatible with your Internet Plan

Plans	Max Download Speed	Max Upload Speed	Price
Internet	Up to 100 Mbps	Up to 10 Mbps	$49.99/mo
Internet Ultra	Up to 400 Mbps	Up to 20 Mbps	$69.99/mo
Internet Gig	Up to 940 Mbps	Up to 35 Mbps	$109.99/mo

It goes without saying that you need to check the compatibility quotient with Spectrum’s internet plans before proceeding with a buy. For instance, if you are a gamer interested in the Internet Gig plan, a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with even a multi-Gig ethernet port makes sense.

However, if you only want to go with the Ultra or standard Internet Plan with 400 Mbps and 200 Mbps, a mid-range modem with DOCSIS 3.0 might also fit in well.

DOCSIS Tech & Channel Bonding

If you have eyes on a future-proof device for accommodating multi-gig internet plans, DOCSIS 3.1 is the way to go if and when they arrive. That way, you can access thicker transmission channels via 2 x 2 OFDM and 32 x 8 channel bonding. This is the ideal DOCSIS version for high-speed connections. DOCSIS 3.0 with at least 24 x 8 channels makes sense for anything mid-range.

Regardless of the DOCSIS version, getting something backward compatibility is advisable.

Ports & Connectivity

Getting a modem with at least two Gig ethernet ports makes sense if you prefer wired connections over wireless. And if you seek wireless support, look for a combo that can offer cumulative wireless throughput of almost 3000 Mbps and coverage of over 2000 Sq Ft.

And just like using your own modem, you can use your own Spectrum-compatible router or mesh WiFi with Spectrum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

There’s a long list of Spectrum modems on its official website, and after much consideration and testing, I’ve included the best models. Reading through the detailed reviews, most of you have made your choice, but for those who haven’t, here’s a more curated and specific list of the best modems to buy for Spectrum:

• For working professionals needing high-speed internet for unhindered video conferencing, streaming, and even gaming, Arris S33 is the best pick.
• If you’re a fan of modem-router combos and are in a quest for a fast, efficient, and future-proof device, go for Arris Surfboard G34.
• Lastly, if you want to invest in a budget device, you won’t go wrong with Netgear CM500. Or, if you are subscribed to the voice plans, Spectrum E31U2V1 is the best pick.

Aside from the above-mentioned options, you can invest in other devices as per budget, preferences, aesthetics, speed, security, and other features. Each recommendation might vary in real-time network capabilities and specifications, depending on your internet plan and the kind of devices it works on.

Suggested Read: Spectrum vs. Comcast Xfinity