8 Best Modems for Comcast Xfinity in 2021 [Compatible Models]

As a Comcast Xfinity subscriber, you must be spending $14-20/month for internet equipment lease. It looks like a small amount in the beginning, but by the end of the year, you shall end up paying around $168-230, which is more than enough to own a high-end modem and use it for more than 3-4 years (or even more.)

However, you can’t pick a random modem and connect it and if you’ve decided to buy a modem, then you will have to get a Xfinity compatible modem. Not only that, you’ll also need to make sure that the device you’re getting is capable of handling the service package speeds you’ve subscribed to.

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 the 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 Xfinity recommended modems that provide a reliable internet experience, have no latency issues, come with no security vulnerabilities, and are highly suitable with the different service packages.

Note: 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.

8 Best Modems for Comcast Xfinity in 2021

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 of up to 300 Mbps, then even after being subscribed to a gigabit plan, you won’t be able to get high speeds.

I’ve listed down the modems that work with Xfinity along with important specifications such as Download & upload speeds, DOCSIS technologies, Number of Ethernet ports, Channel bonding, and other details. You just have to choose the one that matches your internet plan or is above it to ensure a fast internet experience.

Plans	Maximum Download Speed	Price
Performance Starter+	Up to 50 Mbps	$19.99/mo
Performance Select	Up to 100 Mbps	$34.99/mo
Performance Pro+	Up to 200 Mbps	$49.99/mo
Blast Pro+	Up to 400 Mbps	$64.99/mo
Exreme Pro+	Up to 940 Mbps	$74.99/mo
Gigabit	Up to 1200 Mbps	$84.99/mo

1. Best Overall: Arris Surfboard SB8200

If you are planning to upgrade to a faster Xfinity plan or simply cut out the rentals, the Arris Surfboard SB8200 seems like the perfect DOCSIS 3.1 modem to invest in. However, while reviewing and using it interchangeably with the SB6190, it experienced better speeds and higher speed limits.

As compared to the SB6190 or other Arris modems, the SB8200 boasts better networking standards and higher throughput, especially if you are a loyal Xfinity user.

Performance

I am a skeptic when modem performances and technologies are concerned but the SB8200 puts every speculation to rest with a standard Broadcom chipset. So take a sigh of relief if you are wary of those defective Puma chipsets.

Coming back to the hardware setup, the processor is complemented by 3GB RAM, which is instrumental in keeping the speeds and connections more consistent than usual. Assisting with the exceptional processing setup is the availability of DOCSIS 3.1 technology.

This standard for simultaneous channel usage supports multiplexed data transmission, via the 2×2 OFDM support. However, as a user, you can always rely on the more conventional DOCSIS 3.0 standard with 32×8 channel bonding support for getting hold of exceptional speeds, in usual circumstances.

Speed

I believe that modem speeds are of interest to any standard user and in this regard, the SB8200 certainly deserves the heaping praises. Regardless of the network standard you wish to pursue, the Modem is capable of reaching multi-gig speeds for certain scenarios.

However, if you are using an Xfinity plan in Chicago, I would recommend the modem for the Extreme Pro cable internet plan.

Note: It is important to check for the connection type before proceeding as the SB8200 is only compatible with the cable services and not fiber internet plans from Xfinity or any other service provider.

Certain areas have the Gigabit Pro plans, which in turn allow the modem to reach download speeds of up to 2Gbps, even during peak hours. The upload speeds, however, are restricted to 150Mbps, and in certain cases; I could only churn out close to 50Mbps.

Design and Build

As far as the aesthetics are concerned, I found the SB8200 to be extremely durable and well-constructed. The meshed side panel doesn’t heat up even while streaming and gaming incessantly. However, the four front-facing indicative LEDs followed by the standalone coaxial port at the rear adhere to the conventionalism.

Here is a modem with two Gig Ethernet ports as compared to the likes of SB6190 and even SB6183. This feature allows you to pair two wired connections into a better cumulative throughput, provided the ISP permits the same.

Moreover, the SB8200 comes with link aggregation support, which ensures speeds of up to 2Gbps for the location-specific Xfinity Gigabit and Gig Pro plans.

Setup

I hardly had issues connecting the modem to my existing internet plan. Again, if you are new to modem setup and configuration, you can always trail the documentation and access the web interface for finding more viable options.

Also, you can read into our detailed modem configuration and setup article to get a better idea of the DHCP compatibility, IP assignment, and the best ways to install, set up, and configure cable modems. Finally, there is 128MB of flash storage support that houses the firmware updates and simplifies the setup and configuration, significantly.

Why is it good for Xfinity?

The Arris SB8200 is one of the best modems for Xfinity Gigabit, owing to the optional DOCSIS 3.1 support and two Gig Ethernet ports. Also, as compared to other modems and combos on the list, including the MB8600 from Motorola or the Linksys CM3024, the SB8200 supports better speeds and exceptional 4K streaming.

2. Best Runner Up: Motorola MB8600

The Motorola MB8600 is a reliable cable modem compatible with Xfinity and other ISPs, including Cox, Spectrum, and more. However, for the Xfinity internet plans, I would recommend this modem only if you have a Gig internet package on your mind.

Also, I understand if you are tempted to purchase the slightly older MG7700 from the same company, owing to its added routing capabilities. However, the Motorola MB8600 offers a better channel grouping and the ability to make the most of a high-speed ISP plan.

Performance

Motorola persists with a basic ARM-specific, Broadcom processor, which ensures faster internet and better movement of data packets. The chipset ensures better speeds even during peak hours whereas the network congestion is taken care of by the DOCSIS 3.1 standard.

In the case of basic activities like surfing and video conferencing, the DOCSIS 3.0 fallback is also supported, with 32×8 channel bonding technology on offer. Plus, the AQM enhancement ensures better traffic prioritization. As far as actual, real-time performances are concerned, the MB8600 minimizes latency for online gamers, especially if you are into PUBG, COD, and more.

Speed

I could easily reach speeds of up to 1000Mbps while using the Xfinity Gig plan. The Extreme Pro and Extreme internet plans felt faster at times as I could actually feed 800Mbps and 400Mbps to the router, respectively.

The upload speeds, however, aren’t all that great. While testing the same with the Gigabit plan, I could barely reach 50Mbps during congestion. Also, the modem displays theoretical capabilities of up to 3.8Gbps but the same is only possible if the ISP launches plans to match up to the DOCSIS 3.1 standard.

Design and Build

I was amazed to see that MB8600 comes in two variants— one with a solitary Gig Ethernet port and the other with four ports to rely on. I ended up testing the former and was able to reach speeds of almost 980Mbps on the Gig internet plan.

The 4-port unit, however, supports link aggregation and even comes with individual LEDs to rely on. The aesthetics are pretty standard with the MB8600 featuring quite a few LED indicators for additional insights. Also, the upright design and darker color patterns ensure that the device is in sync with any home décor arrangement.

Setup

If you are privy to the web-based setup and configuration for any standard modem, setting up the MB8600 shouldn’t be a stretch. Plus, the existing chipset offers decent security safeguards to a standard user, which ensures peace of mind while configuring the same.

Why is it good for Xfinity?

I would recommend the Motorola MB8600 for the Gigabit and Extreme Pro plans from Comcast Xfinity. However, as compared to other devices on the list, I feel the gaming latency is a lot less on the MB8600, which definitely makes it worth considering.

3. Best Modem-Router Combo: Arris SBG8300

Regardless of the Comcast Xfinity internet plan, you choose to start with, the Arris SBG8300 comes forth as the most complete networking component to invest in. While it promises excellent speeds and throughput, it even prepares you for the subsequent launches, if and when Comcast comes with high-bandwidth internet plans.

Also, you might find it similar to the SB8200 in terms of speed limits and expectations. The SBG8300 takes productivity to the next level by pairing a built-in router, unlike the immediate predecessor.

Performance

The SBG8300 comes equipped with professional-grade ARM-based processing hardware that is more than capable of accommodating the DOCSIS 3.1 networking standard. Also, for standard usage, it is backward compatible with the DOCSIS 3.0 hardware, with the coverage spanning across 32 x 8 channel bonding support.

I also tested the same for 4K streaming during the peak hours and the throughput and speeds were nothing but consistent. Most importantly, the two, 196MHz OFDM and two 96MHz OFDMA channels ensure that online gaming, twitch streaming, and high-speed ISP packages are easy to manage.

As the SBG8300 comes with routing capabilities, the MU-MIMO wireless support also deserves a special mention.

Speed

Although the SBG8300 promises speeds of up to 4Gbps, I tested the same with the Gigablast Xfinity plan. As the integrated router comes with dual-band support and the AC2350 standard, you can expect maximum 5GHz speeds of up to 1900Mbps.

While this is more of a theoretical limit, I could easily churn out 850Mbps download speeds for the near band, followed by the 153Mbps of maximum upload speed. Also, with Wave 2 radio amplification, you can even send across several data packets during peak hours.

The 3×3 spatial streams, pertaining to the 2.4GHz band, ensure maximum download and upload speeds of up to 140Mbps and 65Mbps, respectively.

Design and Build

Coming to the design and form factor, the SBG8300 from Arris comes in a black and vertical, plastic-clad chassis. The combo is perfectly ventilated and ensures zero overheating.

Also, if you are into purchasing devices as per the home décor, the 1.94-pound exhibits standard measurements that read 9.33 x 2.87 x 8 inches. The SBG8300 also comes equipped with 4 gig Ethernet ports, thereby allowing you to reach multi-gig speeds even via a wired setup.

The setup also features color-coded ports at the rear, followed by two bright and indicative LEDs.

Setup

Getting the SBG8300 ready is as easy as it can get as you simply need to connect the same to a computer via a UTP cable and configure the device upon access to the web interface. The subsequent network requirements, Alexa management, and controls can be handled via the Surfboard manager application.

Why is it good for Xfinity?

The Arris SBG8300 qualifies as one of the best combos for Comcast Xfinity plans owing to its advanced and future-ready specs sheet. Plus, as compared to other modems and combos on the list, this product offers the Wave 2 wireless support, which translates into higher bandwidth and improved throughput.

4. Best Cable Modem with Voice: Netgear CM1150V

The Netgear Nighthawk CM1150V is one of the few voice-equipped modems on the list, boasting a competitive price point and exceptional hardware, capable of driving speeds of up to 2Gbps.

I even compared this top-shelf modem with the mid-range C7100V, only to discover that the former promises multi-gig speeds, regardless of the Xfinity plan you plan on investing in. Also, when compared to the non-voice CM1000, I was most impressed with the 4 gig ports as opposed to one on the CM1000.

Performance

The Netgear Nighthawk CM1150V comes equipped with a standard Broadcom chipset, best known for the excellent consistency and zero bugs. However, it is the DOCSIS 3.1 OFDM/OFDMA support that makes the most sense for a premium user, courtesy of its ability to send across several data packets at once.

Also, the DOCSIS support paves the way for QoS enhancement, allowing the modem to prioritize certain tasks at hand.

Speed

Despite being a voice-compatible modem, the CM1150V doesn’t cut corners when speeds are concerned. Also, even though Netgear promises speeds of up to 2Gbps, I could get theoretical limits of up to 900Mbps for the gig Xfinity plans.

I even connected it to a Wireless AC modem with decent coverage and was impressed with the 5GHz download speeds that reached up to 930Mbps. However, the 32×8 channel bonding support over the DOCSIS 3.0 technology and the DOCSIS 3.1 support with QoS enhancement make it a better modem for 4K streaming and gaming.

Design and Build

When it comes to the structural footprint, the CM1150V exhibits a rugged, plastic-clad chassis with dimensions limited to 6.1 x 3.4 x 10.3 inches. This VoIP modem comes in black and weighs 1.33 pounds. Plus, the inventive stand at the bottom makes it one of the more stable devices to purchase.

Not just that, CM1150V also comes equipped with four Gig Ethernet ports and that too with port aggregation support. You also get a power input, coaxial port, and path-breaking dual telephone ports for connecting internet phones to the modem.

Setup

You can easily connect the modem to a computer and configure the same as per expectations. Also, once you end up configuring the modem, it becomes easier to use the same for prioritizing voice calls, forwarding, and conferencing over internet transmission, precisely to enhance voice clarity.

Why is it good for Xfinity?

As Comcast Xfinity comes with productive voice-specific internet packages, this is probably the best modem to invest in, if you want to experience multi-gig speeds and that too with support for IP telephony.

However, as opposed to other modems and combos on the list, it is the QoS support that makes Netgear CM1150V worth investing in.

5. Best with USB Support: Netgear C7100V

The Netgear C7100V is yet another modem-router combo that allows you to make the most of the bundled Xfinity plans, including the VoIP support. However, I believe most of you still confuse it for the C7000, which is an older variant of the same.

Even the C7000 comes across as a modem-router combo but the C7100V fixes the lack of VoIP support by throwing in a couple of telephone lines with the same.

Performance

The C7100V houses a reliable quad-core chipset that can clock at 1.6GHz. The existing processor allows the combo to cut through any level of congestion. Plus, you get access to 256MB of RAM, which removes any channel-specific bottleneck, associated with the device.

As far as the modem-specific capabilities of this device are concerned, there is the DOCSIS 3.0 support with 24×8 channel bonding enhancement to rely on. Also, the modem-router combo is backward compatible with the DOCSIS 2.0 hardware and standards.

Routing abilities are above-par with Netgear making for simultaneous dual-band coverage and that too with 256 QAM technology, which ensures higher throughput and better speeds.

Speed

When it comes to theoretical speeds, the C7100V promises 1.9Gbps! However, I tested the same with the Xfinity Blast and Extreme internet plans, only to experience maximum download speeds of up to 400Mbps. The AC1900 router ensures decent upload speeds of up to 32Mbps, as tested by me and my team.

Also, if you are interested in the coverage, the modem covers 1800sqft and even showcases proprietary Beamforming support for extending the wireless network, further.

Design and Build

The C7100V from Netgear basically resembles a block and weighs close to 2.80 pounds. As it is a heavy modem-router combo, it isn’t the most portable option in the retail space. Plus, the matte layering ensures zero fingerprint smudges.

The port arrangement is pretty diversified with Netgear making room for four gig Ethernet slots, one port for pairing the coaxial cable with the TV box, two RJ11 telephone lines for setting up VoIP support, and two USB slots for connecting data hubs and sharing resources over WAN and LAN networks.

Plus, there are 10 indicative lights to rely on. However, our only gripe has to be overheating, which is quite common when streaming and online gaming activities are concerned.

Setup

The C7100V is easy to configure and use, provided you know your way around the web interface. Once configured, you can always look up to the 128MB flash storage for firmware updates. Most importantly, the setup also makes room for efficient usage of the Nighthawk app that can be used to activate double firewall, guest network, and even the DoS safeguards.

Why is it good for Xfinity?

The Netgear C7100V allows you to make the most of a Comcast Xfinity digital internet plan by helping you access the internet and voice calling, all at once. That’s not it as you can easily explore other calling-specific features including forwarding, caller ID, and conference calling upon using the same.

Also, as compared to the MT7711 from Motorola, the C7100V is a better bet if you are also interested in USB support and data sharing over networks.

6. Best Combo Under $200: Motorola MT7711

Looking to make the most of the internet and VoIP phone benefits pertaining to the Comcast Xfinity! Fret not, as I have extensively tested the Motorola MT7711 and it readily qualifies as one of the better bets in the retail arena, owing to the multi-faceted usage patterns.

The MT7711 is often compared to the MG7700 owing to the comparable standards and port allocation. However, the former comes ahead by offering VoIP support; an elusive feature in modem-router combos.

Performance

Here is one modem-router combo that relies extensively on a Broadcom chipset. As the MT7711 even exhibits routing capabilities, the featured processor makes more sense to users who prefer deploying the device during peak hours.

As far as the modem-specific capabilities of the MT7711 are concerned, the DOCSIS 3.0 technology with 24×8 channel bonding support is a handy inclusion. Therefore, you can readily use the same for the Extreme Pro and Ultimate plans from Xfinity and other service providers.

The 24 upstream channels support simultaneous streaming and advanced online gaming whereas the AC1900 wireless standard offers dual-band internet support.

Not to mention the AnyBeam Beamforming support that ensures a faster and more reliable internet connection, regardless of the coverage area. However, if you are interested in specifics, this device promises internet coverage for up to 1800sqft.

Speed

As mentioned, the MT7711 is a good choice for the Extreme and Extreme Pro plans. While the theoretical speeds go up to 1Gbps, the routing support pertaining to this device offers 800Mbps of download and 50Mbps of upload speeds for the 5GHz band. As it is a dual-band option, the 2.4GHz or far band download and upload speeds are capped at 230Mbps and 20Mbps, respectively.

Design and Build

From an aesthetic perspective, the 1.5-pound MT7711 features a vertical layout. The meshed structure keeps the overheating out of question. Plus, this is one of the few devices to come equipped with 10 indicator lights, thereby offering reliable insights into the network and status of connections.

This combo comprises three internal antennas and integrated radio amplifiers for accentuating the Beamforming support. As far as the ports are concerned, you get access to 4 Ethernet slots with Gig support on each and two RJ11 ports for the VoIP functionality.

Therefore, you can easily connect telephones to this device whilst pairing Smart TVs and gaming consoles directly via the UTP cables, precisely for allocating higher and non-attenuated bandwidth for satiating demands. Lastly, there is a dedicated power slot and the Coaxial cable connector for feeding into the set-top module, if and when necessary.

Setup

The MT7711 is easy to install and configure. However, you would still need to go through the documentation with attention and log into the web interface for configuring this device to perfection. Once the setup is taken care of, you can manage multiple devices, network monitoring, and other features via the browser platform.

Why is it good for Xfinity?

If you are in the market for the elusive and feature-packed Xfinity bundle with internet and voice support, the Motorola MT7711 is the best modem/router combo for Comcast to invest in, preferably for the Extreme and Pro plans.

Also, as compared to some of the other comparable units in the market, especially the Netgear C7100V, the MT7711 offers steadier internet and voice connections.

7. Best for P2P: Arris Surfboard SB6183

• Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
• Downstream/Upstream: 16 x 4
• Data Speeds: Up to 686Mbps
• Modem-Router Combo: No

Not every Xfinity plan requires you to invest in a top-shelf modem. Instead, for the Xfinity Blast, Performance, and Performance starter plans, it is advisable to invest in the Arris SB6183.

Moreover, if you are planning to upgrade your Xfinity internet setup, the SB6183 comes forth as a nice upgrade to the dated SB6141. As compared to the latter with 8×4 DOCSIS 3.0 support, the SB6183 comes with double the number of upstream channels, which enhance the speed and throughput.

Performance

At the core, SB6183 houses a standard chipset with two threads to process data streams. While the chipset enhances the processing capabilities of this modem, the device also makes good use of the 16×4 channel bonding support, as projected by the DOCSIS 3.0 technology.

The extensive collection of Ethernet ports and the AC2350 wireless standard translate into theoretical speeds of over 2Gbps. However, I tested the same with a Gig internet plan from Xfinity and could only experience close 300Mbps, as the capped download speed. As far as the upload speeds are concerned, 100Mbps seems to be the limit.

Speed

The SB6183 from Arris doesn’t promise the highest speeds but it is still good enough to see you through a 500Mbps plan. I tested the same with the Extreme internet plan that promises 400Mbps of maximum speed capping.

When connected to a decent AC1750 or AC1900 router, the SB6183 ensures that 400Mbps on the 5GHz band can be easily attained.

Design and Build

When it comes to the structural footprint, the SB6183 comes equipped with a mesh-like design, for enhancing heat dissipation. Besides, the vertical layout with 4 LEDs comes forth as a conventional yet reliable feature.

As far as the port arrangement is concerned, there is only one Ethernet slot to work with. The gig support is more on the expected lines and covers you for the high-speed plans by feeding into the router without any attenuation. Plus, there is a coaxial cable slot at the rear followed by the standard power input.

Setup

The SB6183 is easy to configure and operate, more so with the intuitive web interface. However, you need to be able to read the existing documentation for easing through the setup. Once the modem is configured, it becomes easier to pair the router and assign IP addresses to other connected devices.

Why is it good for Xfinity?

If you are looking for a low-speed or a mid-range Xfinity internet plan, you cannot go wrong with this affordable and efficient modem. The Arris SB6183 ensures zero connection drops and doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Plus, as compared to some of the other top-shelf devices on the list, the SB6183 features a gig port that translates into high-speed wired connections. Finally, the 2-year modem warranty also sweetens the pot for prospective buyers.

8. Best for Performance Internet plans: Netgear CM400

The Netgear CM400 is one of the more affordable modems on the list, suggested only if you are planning to purchase low-speed monthly subscriptions from Xfinity. In addition to the Comcast compatibility, this modem is also good enough for most other cable internet services, including Cox, Spectrum, and more.

Performance

The CM400 from Netgear is a performance-oriented modem, boasting a standard processor and 64MB of integrated system memory. While the processing setup might not look like much, it is good enough for maintaining consistent internet speeds.

Plus, the DOCSIS 3.0 technology with 8×4 channel bonding support is also a reliable addition, which renders the CM400 at least 4 times faster than the comparable DOCSIS 2.0 hardware. The 8 downstream channels move data packets faster and guarantee exceptional throughput, even during peak hours.

Other functional specs include advanced QoS support for better traffic prioritization and the availability of IPv6 protocol for automatic network addressing and better routing.

Speed

As far as maximum speed capping is concerned, the CM400 promises 340Mbps. However, you must take the attenuation and signal loss into account and consider purchasing this modem for the Performance and Performance Starter internet plans.

I even tested the same with Blast and the speeds were close to 120Mbps. The upload speeds, however, were capped at 10Mbps, especially when the network is congested. One thing that you must understand is that this modem from Netgear requires a basic yet coverage-specific router to reach its true potential.

Design and Build

The Netgear CM400 is a durable modem and not exactly known for the structural highs. However, I was quite impressed with the holding panels, lending solidarity to the overall structure. Also, the side panels are properly vented, which ensures proper heat dissipation.

As far as ports and slots are concerned, the CM400 comes equipped with one Gig Ethernet module followed by a coaxial input and a power slot. Overall, the standard layout ensures extended compatibility when cable internet service providers are concerned.

Setup

When it comes to configuring the CM400, you only need to follow the instructions listed as a part of the modem documentation. Also, there is an 8MB flash memory in play for storing the firmware details and configuration insights, which come in handy if you plan on using the modem with a different network.

Why is it good for Xfinity?

For basic Xfinity internet plans, you would want a modem that doesn’t cost a lot. This is where the CM400 from Netgear comes in handy. Also, as compared to some of the other devices on the list, the CM400 features auto-sensing support for the Gig port, allowing you to prioritize wired traffic better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

Finding the best Xfinity modem isn’t easy as you need competitive solutions that come across as better bets than the rentals. Plus, you need modems and combos that are in sync with the existing internet plan, as overachieving isn’t always advisable unless you plan on upgrading.

Considering these factors, here are some curated and handpicked solutions, as per specific use cases:

• Invest in the Motorola MB8600 if you are invested in 4K streaming, torrenting, and Twitch streaming. It’s one of the fastest modems available to use with Comcast Xfinity.
• If you are only looking for a reliable modem for the Xfinity Gigabit plan, I would recommend the Arris SB8200.
• For internet and VoIP plans, the Netgear C7100V is a better bet.
• Lastly, the Arris SB6183 should be the go-to solution if you are interested in mid-range plans and affordability.

Apart from these selections, the other networking resources are also capable of handling multiple internet and voice plans with ease. The final decision, however, depends on the preferences, tasks, and the internet plan you are willing to get.