13 Best Comcast Xfinity Approved Modems [Highly Compatible in 2020]

Comcast Xfinity is one of the most subscribed cable internet service provider across the United States. As a subscriber, you must be spending $14-20/month for leasing the internet equipment. It looks like a small amount but by end of the year, you might end up paying around $168-230 (which is equal to a modem’s cost.) Why spend on overpriced equipment rental, when you can own one?

However, you can’t pick a random modem and connect, if you’ve decided to buy a modem, then you will have to get a modem that’s compatible with Xfinity. Also, it’s not just Comcast, almost all the providers such as Spectrum, Sparklight, WOW!, Mediacom, Optimum, etc don’t allow you to use a modem that’s not certified.

You could go through their official list which has all the compatible modems that they’ve approved. However, it includes many bad quality modems which can create serious internet usage issues. That’s why being a networking professional, I decided to use popular modems suited for different service package.

After weeks of testing over 37 modems from different brands including Arris, Motorola, Netgear, etc, I’m here with the list of devices that provide a reliable internet experience, have no latency issues, come with no security vulnerabilities, and are highly suitable with different Xfinity service package.

The 14 Best Comcast Xfinity Approved & Compatible Modems in 2020

Compatibility with Comcast (Xfinity) is very important, but it is equally important to pick a device that’s capable of handling the internet speeds of the service pack you’ve subscribed to. For instance, if your modem has a download speed capability upto 300 Mbps, then even after being subscribed to a gigabit plan, you won’t be able to get high-speeds.

I could’ve picked 5-7 high-speed modems and would be done with the list, but I wanted it to best the best resource for all Xfinity subscribers, that’s why I’ve divided the list into 3 parts:

• Models between 1 to 5 are suited for high-speed Xfinity Gigabit service pack.
• Pick a 300 Mbps modem for Xfinity Performance Starter, Select, Pro+.
• Pick a 700 Mbps for Xfinity Blast and Extreme Pro+.

1. Best Overall: ARRIS SurfBoard SBG8300

Note: This is a modem/router combo. In case you’re looking for a standalone modem with similar specs then consider getting the ARRIS Surfboard SB8200.

The ARRIS SurfBoard SBG8300 is yet another incredible device that runs on the DOCSIS 3.1 technology which is a lot faster than all of its previous versions. It is 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 device not only serves as a cable modem but also an excellent WiFi router with built-in AC Wave 2 Wi-Fi making it a perfect solution for gigabit-speed service package.

It is compatible with all the major cable providers i.e. Comcast Xfinity and Cox Cable. Although you may not be able to run a few of them on this device which are Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink.

There is no doubt that this cable modem has an excellent design and provides speed up to 1 Gbps for all the cable providers. So, if you have already taken up any such high-speed plan, it will work for the best. Furthermore, on the back panel, it has four ethernet ports with the speed of 1-Gigabyte on each of them. Connect your wired devices like Gaming units, Smart TVs, Computers, Laptops, and other devices that need the internet.

Also, you can enjoy high-speed 4K and Ultra-HD Streaming videos with the least buffering and no lags. In fact, if you are a gamer, you can take up your favorite games and play online without any errors or bugs. Moreover, it is super easy to set-up and only takes a few minutes to get a lightning-fast home-network.

2. Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem: Motorola MB8600

The Motorola MB8600 is an exceptionally powerful cable modem that provides a maximum speed of around 1Gbps. Most of the devices we have mentioned above and a lot you will find on the web may not have the same speed. Every user who has Gigabit internet plans can largely benefit from the range of speed of this Modem.

This DOCSIS 3.1 modem comes with backward compatibility thereby allowing it to work with the previous generation DOCSIS protocols such as DOCSIS 3.0 and 2.0. If the technology has been adopted by Comcast in your area, then you should know that this modem would be 26 times faster than DOCSIS 2.0 modems.

The AQM (Active Queue Management) reduces the latency rate of the above technology. Furthermore, it helps to manage website traffic and manage multiple pages efficiently. The MB8600 also includes a full-band capture digital tuner to enhance speed and save energy.

Moreover, it has only a single ethernet port that can connect one device only. Well, it surely isn’t a lot to offer at this price, but overall works great for the users. You can eliminate the idea of renting modems for 100’s of dollars a year and it was not worth the money. So now, eliminate the rental subscription and get your cable modem.

Similar to other modems we have come across, this too has a similar setup and very easy to carry out. It is compatible with multiple popular cable providers such as Comcast Xfinity and Xfinity X1, Cox, and CableOne. On the other hand, there are still very common ones that are possibly not compatible with these i.e. Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.

3. Best For Extreme Pro+: Asus CM32

Asus CM32 is an all-in-one modem-router combination that consists of a DOCSIS 3.0 32 x 8 cable modem + ac2600 wifi router. It provides full bandwidth internet access and expansive wireless coverage all across your home network with no connections drops or lags on any of the devices connected to it.

This modem router combo is certified by Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox that are some of the major cable service providers providing high-speed up-to 1.3Gpbps. Well, if you have already taken up a Gigabyte plan you can get the most out of this ASUS device. The AC2600 wifi connection is ideal for all your gaming activities, streaming 4k HD videos, and downloading movies from the internet. Everything works seamlessly covering a large range all-around your home.

Furthermore, this device has four Wifi transmits which improves its transmission range and sensitivity. The amazing AiRadar beamforming technology gives the good wifi connectivity that other routers may not be able to provide you with. The multi-user MIMO technology improves Wifi speed in a multiple-device environment.

The overall design itself makes it a stunning choice for everyone. In terms of budget, it could go a little too further, but considering everything it provides, you may love to buy this Asus Modem router. On the back panel, the device has 4 x Gigabit LAN port and one Ethernet WAN Port. For all your non-wifi devices, you can make use of 2 x USB 2.0 ports.

4. Best Value For Money: ARRIS SURFboard SB6190

The ARRIS Surfboard SB6190 is another excellent option in the Surfboard series approved for the use with Cox spectrum Xfinity and most other US Cable internet Providers.

There are multiple such providers that would not work such as Verizon, AT&T, and CenturyLink. This cable modem is capable of providing bonding up to 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels. It is perfect for an internet speed up to 400Mbps.

It has always been a crazy thing to rent a modem and pay 100’s of dollars yearly. But, if you purchase this modem, you need to pay a very small amount only once for long term benefits. Furthermore, it has only one ethernet port that gives 1 Gbps speed to the device it is connected to. Enjoy high-speed data transfer to your Smart TV or gaming consoles.

All you need to do is simply subscribe to your cable provider, plug in the coaxial cable, connect to the wifi router, setup the network, and that’s all. This is how easy it is to set up the entire thing. Moreover, the device is extremely lightweight and only weighs about 1.12 pounds. Even the hardware does not lag behind and updates itself directly from the server by the company.

Since it is certified for Comcast Xfinity, it probably works for the best for everyone who has been looking for the Best Modems for Comcast Xfinity. This Arris modem is provided with 2 years of warranty for every user.

5. Best 24×8 Cable Modem: MOTOROLA MT7711 Modem/Router

Motorola MT7711 is an exclusive device that has been certified and used only for Comcast Xfinity cable provider. It is an all-in-one device consisting of a cable modem, high-speed wifi router, and phone ports. Considering the price range, this may be the best option for you in terms of multiple functionalities and especially if looking for the best modems for Comcast Xfinity.

As said, this particular device will not work for any other cable service provider but Xfinity by Comcast. You can save 100’s of dollars every year on rental fees and save loads of space on your desk since this is a combo pack and you may not need to spend any money in buying a router. Among all the products we have mentioned, there aren’t any providing phones for cable providers. Well, this is the one serving three purposes.

In the back panel, you will find four ethernet ports of 1 Gigabyte each along with two phone ports. One of the port is to make phone calls for any Xfinity Voice service while the second one works only if you have another Xfinity Voice 2-line service, which is an enhanced Xfinity Voice service.

Unlike any ordinary router, this modem router has the power boost technology that amplifies the wifi signal to its limit set by the FCC. Moreover, you need not worry about the setup at all since everything is a piece of cake, super easy and simple. The minimum speed that you will get on your devices for download is about 600Mbps while you can get as high as 1.9Gbps which is exceptionally great.

6. Best For Xfinity Performance & Blast Subscribers: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000

If you are looking for the best 2-in-1 Modems for Comcast Xfinity, well this is the one you can choose for yourself. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000 is an excellent multi-purpose device that not only serves as a modem but also has an ultra-fast router with a speed of 1.9Gbps. It is designed to meet the Docsis 3.0 specs which are about 8 times faster than the previous versions.

Unlike any other routers, it supports 24×8 channel bonding with a speed plan up-to 400Mbps. This Netgear modem is compatible and certified with Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. While you cannot connect some cable services such as Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service.

With the incredible wifi speed, that supports around 30 devices to its wireless connection allows you to seamlessly stream HD videos, download high-quality movies, play online games without interruption, etc. Moreover, this device intelligently selects between dual bands to minimize interference and maximize speed for your many smart wireless devices.

Also, the wifi range covers up to 1800 sq. ft which is massive and covers your entire home with no decrease in speed. It is made possible with the help of amplified antennas, and range-boosting Beamforming+ technology. The system requirements for this modem is as follows: Microsoft Windows 7, 8, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, or Linux, Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0, Firefox 2.0, Safari 1.4, or Google Chrome 11.0 browsers or higher.

7. Best For 300 Mbps Service Packs: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V

The Netgear Nighthawk C7100V is another device similar to the Motorola MT7711. It serves three very important features i.e. a cable modem, wifi router, and also phone ports. Now there are some extra features that set this apart from the other one. It is only compatible and certified by Comcast Xfinity and does not support Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and non-Xfinity voice services.

Well, to begin with, the design looks very classy and since it is vertical in shape, it surely is going to save a lot of space on your desk. No issues of wires since there is only a single device doing the job for all. The two integrated phone lines support multiple features such as 3-way conference calling, call forwarding, caller ID, and a lot more of such advantages.

The router has a wifi coverage of about 1800 sq.ft and can connect around 30 devices in a go giving excellent speed in all of the. The internet plans that it works best with is up-to 400 Mbps but is capable of speed up-to 1.9Gbps. So, if you already have Gigabyte plans, well you are in luck. As we discussed in the other version of Motorola Nighthawk, this too has similar features such as that.

It is easy to set up since the company gives out proper instructions and can be done by anyone. Simultaneously it has dual-band wifi i.e. Tx/Rx 3×3 (2.4GHz) Plus 3×3 (5GHz) for boosting wifi speed. The front panel has stunning LED indications making the entire design look rich and hi-tech.

8. Best Under Budget: Linksys High-Speed CG7500

The Linksys CG7500 is a combination of a high-speed router and the best in the class cable modem, which saves a lot of space and money as well. The total cost of this device may seem a lot, but completely worth every penny since you do not need to buy a separate router for your wifi connection. You do not need any rental fee as well now since everything is covered once you buy the device.

The modem has a unique design that is compatible with some of the major cable service providers i.e. Comcast, Spectrum, and Xfinity. Furthermore, the wireless-AC provides speed up-to 1.9Gbps outperforming typical gateway modems with speeds up to 4.3x faster than Wireless-N. It supports online gaming, 4K video streaming, and other high-bandwidth activities.

To experience lag-free wired connections, four ethernet ports are provided in the back panel. Each port gives out 1 Gigabyte speed which you can use to connect your gaming units, Smart TV, PCs, Laptops, Printer, and other external hardware. In fact, it gives out 10 times faster speed than any average ethernet connection of other modem routers.

Speaking of the ultra-fast speed, this modem is equipped with a powerful Intel Puma 6 chipset. It facilitates cutting-edge data service offerings as broadband speeds continue to advance. For other wireless connections, the back panel also has a separate USB port for connecting other devices as needed. Now, the setup is also super easy and quicker for a fast wifi connection. You can easily connect multiple devices and each one of them works with ease.

9. Best For Basic Use: NETGEAR Cable Modem CM600

The Netgear CM600 is rated to be the best Modems for Comcast Xfinity for its excellent performance and also being highly affordable. Some of the major cables that are compatible with are Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. While there are some you may not be able to use it with i.e. Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service.

Using the modem you can save a lot of money i.e. around $168/yr in equipment rental fees. Also, you can use any kind of wifi router used for best for cable provider plans up to 400 Mbps speed.

The best speed that you will receive is due to the fact that it runs on DOCSIS 3.0 specifications which is a lot faster than DOCSIS 2.0.

Furthermore, on the back panel of CM600, you get one ethernet port, a reset button, on/off switch, cable port. Using the ethernet port you can connect any of your devices for excellent speed. Such as gaming stations, PC, laptop, printer, and anyone that is your priority. It surely is the best one but the lack of multiple ports is a huge disadvantage if you have multiple devices to connect.

The installation is super easy, it does not even take more than five minutes to settle up the connection and get started. Also, you can connect multiple devices to the router and all of them receive great speed on each of them. Users have been loving this device and we too have had a great experience all throughout.

10. Best For Extreme Pro+: MOTOROLA MG7550

The Motorola MG7550 is the Best Comcast Xfinity Approved Modem that comes with a built-in AC1900 Dual Band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) WiFi Gigabit Router.

Well, you heard it right, you are getting a router and a modem in a single device which is totally worth every penny. The cost may seem a little too much than the other modems, but you are getting double benefits and do not need to spend a penny on the router.

DFS and power boost are the keys that keep your Wifi signal at par even during high traffic or weak signals. You can connect multiple devices as a wireless connection and each of them gets incredible speed without any lags. Moreover, it has four ethernet ports and each LAN ports provide wired connections to Windows and Mac computers, HDTVs, game stations, streaming TV devices, and other Ethernet-capable devices.

Another aspect of having a 2-in-1 modem is that it will give you enough space and a lesser number of wires. The vertical design is excellent since it can save a good amount of desk space and have the least interference with other devices. Furthermore, AnyBeam beamforming at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies focuses the signal on wireless devices to further enhance performance and range.

Speaking of its LED light indicators on the front panel. Those are for power, upstream, downstream signal, Wireless connection, WPS, etc. Also, you can easily set up the device within minutes having a warranty of 2-years from the company. If anything goes wrong or you have lost signal, you simply press the reset button on the back panel to restart the device.

11. Best For 700 Mbps Service Package: ARRIS SurfBoard SB6183 Docsis 3.0

• Download Speed: 686 Mbps
• Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
• Ethernet Ports: 1
• Channel Bonding: 16 x 4
• Modem/Router Combo: No

The ARRIS Surfboard SB6183 modem is one of the best among the many in this series introduced by the company. It is rather smaller than the Netgear model but powerful enough to provide maximum download speed up to 686Mbps.

With the availability of Internet speeds up to 686 Mbps on 16 Download Channels and 131 Mbps on 4 Upload Channels, you can stream high-definition videos, movies, music, play online games, download files from the web at an ultra-fast speed. This modem approved internet plan up-to 300Mbps which is exceptional. It is loved by every user and critics as well due to its low price and amazing features.

Also, it is compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. If you have a different cable operator than these, simply reach out to them and know if the router is compatible with you. Also, there are certain exceptions that are not compatible with this modem i.e. Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink. This modem has the least price range stuffed with loads of features.

Similar to the Netgear modem, this also has one Ethernet port with 1 Gigabyte speed and only a single device can be connected to it. Either your Playstation, printer, PC, laptop, etc. There aren’t any heating issues reported as such but it is advisable to keep on a level plane. Also, it does not have any power button to switch it on or off. You will have to unplug the device to switch it off.

12. Cheapest Modem: NETGEAR Cable Modem CM500

The Netgear CM500 is known to be the best Modems for Comcast Xfinity as awarded by the wirecutter. The design and build quality are great with an indeed very sleek look. Since it is a modem and you will need a separate router to connect to the internet. Moreover, it is known to convert weak signals into strong ones and give excellent performance.

We tested out the modem along with a router and the speed was incredible in all the devices we had connected to. This is a Docsis 3.0 compatible modem which is considered to be around 16 times faster than the earlier 2.0 version. With 16×4 channel bonding giving a maximum speed of 686Mbps you can enjoy all major activities as needed.

From watching movies to playing online games, everything can be done with ease and seamless performance throughout. For connection, it has only a single ethernet port that you can use to connect your gaming station, smartTV, PC, or any other hardware you would need. Furthermore, you can set everything up super easily within minutes.

Also, there are certain issues that you may encounter. It sure does heat up at times if not placed properly on the level. So, the modem needs to be kept in a proper place so that things do not go the wrong way. The best part of this modem apart from the speed is that it is affordable and the cost is very low.

13. Cheap 300 Mbps Modem: TP-Link TC-7610 Cable Modem

The TP-Link TC-7610 is one of the most popular products by the company and has been known to be the best Modems for Comcast Xfinity. Though the channel bonding for this device is 8×4 which isn’t the best depending on the other devices we have mentioned, but overall it is amazing. It provides data rates up to 343Mbps for download and 143Mbps for upload.

For faster speed, the modem is built with DOCSIS 3.0 specification that provides 8X faster download speed than DOCSIS 2.0. It is also great for speed plans up-to 150 Mbps and compatible with Comcast Xfinity Internet Extreme 150, TWC 100M, Cox Cable Premier, and Brighthouse 100. Some of the other major cable providers that it works well with are, Charter, Cablevision, WoW and more.

The design of this TP-Link modem looks classy and vertically placed that saves a lot of space to place your router as well besides it. Also, it is smaller in size and super easy to set up in the long run. CableLabs certified DOCSIS 3.0 backwards compatible to DOCSIS 1.0, 1.1 and 2.0 provides users comprehensive network compatibility.

Now, speaking of the connections, it has been given only one ethernet port for your devices that will transfer 1 Gigabyte of speed all way along. You can enjoy the lag-free connection to your gaming consoles, Smart TV, and HD streaming. The total cost seems affordable and budget-friendly. Get rid of all your monthly rental fees on modems and grab the best one that will save you tons of money over the years.

Should You Buy a Modem/Router Combo or Separate?

If your aim is to save money on the rental and get good quality performance without spending a huge amount on the equipment, then you shall get a combo.

However, if you’re on a high-speed plan and want the one that performs really well, then you shall consider getting a standalone modem and router. It’s going to increase your cost (it’d still be around 1 year of rental money) but could provide great coverage, less latency and work with highest speed plans.

Now that you’ve decided to buy and also know if you should buy a combo or standalone devices, it’s time to check out the best-rated models for your internet needs. Shall we get started?

Verdict

Like you can see this list doesn’t just includes the approved modems, but we’ve tested for compatibility, performance and after testing over 64 different models, we’ve listed and reviewed the 14 best models that work with Comcast Xfinity.

We’re working closely with other ISPs and will soon have the list of compatible modems for other cable internet providers soon!