7 Best Cox Compatible Modems in 2023 [Approved & Certified]

Cox charges $13/month for the Panoramic WiFi gateway. Although the monthly rental lease might seem lucrative, IT ISN’T. The good news is you can replace it by buying your own Cox-compatible modem. But how do you find a reliable modem or modem router combo that works with different Cox Internet plans?

Also, another question that’ll come across your mind while making a selection is, whether you should get a standalone modem + separate router or a modem/router combo?

If you’re focused more on performance, then you should get a standalone modem compatible with Cox and pair it with a separate wireless router. If you’re looking for an easy-to-set-up, don’t want to use multiple devices, and live in a small-medium household, you should consider getting a modem-router combo. (Read more)

Once you decide on the type of device, you’ll also need to make sure that the modem or modem-router combo you’re buying is suitable for your subscribed internet plan. For instance, you can’t expect a low-end device to support the Gigablast plan. Instead, you’ll need a gigabit-capable modem for that.

7 Best Cox Compatible Modems in 2023

Now that you know the advantages of buying your own internet equipment, you must look for modems that work with Cox. Don’t worry; just like I helped you figure out buying provides a better ROI than renting, I’ll also help you find Cox-approved modems that will meet your internet connectivity needs.

1. Best For Gigablast: Arris Surfboard S33 [DOCSIS 3.1]

Are you subscribed to the faster Gigablast plan? Arris S33 is the best cable modem to pair with it. I know it’s a little expensive, but it is worth the price for a tech nerd like me who spends 7-8 hours/day surfing, downloading, and streaming.

If you are in the market for future-proof gigabit modems that can easily handle every internet plan, the Surfboard S33 from Arris seems like a better bet, courtesy of the DOCSIS 3.1 technology. It even wins over the older SB8200 thanks to the better port arrangement, featuring a 2.5G port for gaming and more demanding tasks.

Hardware & Performance

The 1.2GHz frequency of the SoC ensures that you can cut through any form of interference and manage multiple data streams at once with ease. Plus, the DOCSIS 3.1 standard assists the chipset with 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA support, which supports a fallback to the DOCSIS 3.0 32 x 8 channel bonding support.

As far as performances are concerned, the ARM-based chipset makes the S33 faster than usual by helping you steer clear of network congestion and interference. Also, the Arris S33 supports better channel allocation in the frequency and time domain, making the advanced router perform better in transmitting data packets.

Plus, there is Single-Carrier QAM support to rely on, facilitating seamless transmission and allowing the modem to work with other ISPs, including, Spectrum, Comcast Xfinity, WOW!, and more.

Speeds & Throughput

Arris Surfboard S33 ensures a maximum speed of up to 3.5Gbps, but I am sure you wouldn’t be able to match it with any of the Cox internet plans. Despite getting a Gigablast Cox plan, I could experience download speeds of up to 955 Mbps (which seems pretty decent.) If connected to a Wi-Fi AX router, the upload speeds can go up to 100Mbps.

Port Setup

If you want to make the most of the wired connections or are looking to set up a router as an access point with the modem connected directly to the internet, there are 2 Ethernet ports to work with. While one of the ports supports Gig internet speeds, the second can assume 2.5Gbps, provided the ISP supports the same.

Also, you can enjoy the benefits of link aggregation, which is expected to increase the throughput of a single wired connection that feeds into the router or any other Ethernet-compatible device.

Design & Build

This networking device comes in white (with bluish undertones). The rounded, vertical design is all plastic, but the heat-dissipating vents do not look flimsy. Also, the build quality seems robust considering the 1.52-pound weight and the dimensions reading 5.24 x 5.24 x 1.65 inches. The front and rear LED setup are diverse, with over 5 indicative lights.

Plus, the rear panel has space for one Gig and one 2.5G port, followed by a power slot and a coaxial input for the ISP.

Setup Experience

Setting up this good-looking and aesthetic device doesn’t require effort. You only need to access the web interface, configure the IP and relevant details, and connect to the router if and when necessary. The 128MB of flash storage keeps the configuration files smooth and responsive.

Conclusion

If you want to invest in the best modem for Cox Gigablast, Arris S33 is a perfect contender that minimizes the rental costs, makes provisions for higher speeds in the future, and experiences the two-year warranty that is backed by a responsive customer support team.

For more details about this device, read my detailed ARRIS S33 review.

2. Best Modem Router Combo: Motorola MG8702

It might be surprising to see a premium networking device like the Motorola MG8702 feature this low on the list of Cox-approved modems. Yet, it finally makes an appearance, riding on the powerful features. The MG8702 is a better Cox modem router combo than the older MG7700, owing to the additional downstream channels.

Hardware & Performance

What works for this Cox modem router combo is the multi-core processor and 512MB of RAM. The existing setup lets you cut through every kind of networking congestion. The DOCSIS 3.1 tech stands out, mainly for the 2 x 2 OFDM support for thicker transmission channels, 32 x 8 standard channel bonding, and backward compatibility with all the older DOCSIS versions.

Other relevant specs include port forward support, extensive security safeguards in attack protection and packet inspection, Quality of Service for traffic prioritization, wireless beamforming, and the AQM functionality to make the connections more consistent.

Speeds & Throughput

As far as speeds are concerned, the MG8702 lets you experience Gig levels with ease. Coming to the modem part of the device, you can easily get download and upload speeds of 800Mbps and 100Mbps, respectively. The routing capabilities include AC3200 wireless support, allowing you to reach multi-gig speeds on the 5GHz or the near band.

The coverage stands tall at over 3000sqft. Also, with the MU-MIMO functionality in play, you can connect multiple devices to this modem-router combo without compromising performance.

Port Setup

Here is a networking device replete with ports — 4 Gig ethernet and one USB 3.0 port for sharing media over the network. The ports have automatic MDI/MDIX support to help you with better-wired throughputs.

Design & Build

If you are looking for a Cox internet supported modem-router combo that looks great, the Motorola MG8702 is the one to consider, mainly for its silver accents and a wide range of LEDs in the front standard coaxial cable, and power port setup in the rear.

As far as the physicality is concerned, this product weighs close to 1.8 pounds and measures 9.5 x 8.8 x 2.8 inches, which is a tad beefier than I would have preferred. There are 4 built-in antennas in play, followed by decent ventilation.

Setup Experience

Unlike standalone Cox-supported modems, the MG8702 is relatively easy to install and configure. Motorola offers an intuitive web interface that’s easy to understand and set up.

Conclusion

Overall, if you want to stop looking elsewhere for modems and routers separately, it might just be time to consider the Motorola MG8702, owing to its extensive port setup, excellent near and far band speeds, and excellent security safeguards.

Want to learn more? Read my full review of the Motorola MG8702.

3. Best For Gaming: Netgear CM1100

Are you looking for a Cox-certified modem for high-speed gaming? Look no further and bring Netgear CM1100 your home.

Not every device is as compatible and accommodative towards ISP plans as the Netgear CM1100. This device works better than the older CM1000, thanks to an improved internal setup. Also, the CM1100 works better with every ISP around.

Hardware & Performance

Powering this Cox internet modem is a resourceful Broadcom chipset that ensures the best possible throughput despite interference. The modem also makes room for a 256MB RAM module, which assists the processor in scaling above any form of network congestion. On top of that, Netgear makes room for a 128MB NAND flash memory to keep the firmware details handy.

The DOCSIS 3.1 support with 32 x 8 downstream and upstream and 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA channels are added to the existing capabilities. Adding to the overall performance is the QoS (Quality of Service) functionality, allowing the CM1100 to prioritize tasks and speeds automatically.

Speeds & Throughput

The CM1100 is capable of reaching max speeds of up to 1Gbps. While that remains a theoretical ballpark, I tested the same with Cox’s Gigablast internet plan, only to experience download and upload speeds of 400Mbps and 70Mbps, respectively. However, upon connecting the modem directly to smart devices, I could get wired speeds of up to 900Mbps.

And while I tested the modem with COX as the ISP of choice, it works equally well with all the high throughput internet plans from Xfinity.

Port Setup

This resourceful device comes equipped with two Gig ethernet ports, allowing you to set up high-speed wired connections easily. Also, you get link aggregation support on this device — a feature that allows you to easily pair to Gig internet connections provided your ISP assigns two IP addresses to you. 

Design & Build

The CM1100 features a vertical form factor — entirely plastic-clad and comprising heat-dissipating vents. As far as dimensions are concerned, the device measures 8.8 x 3.4 x 5.9 inches. And it weighs 1 pound, making it one of the lighter products.

The front and rear panels have six LEDs, standard coaxial cable, and power ports as standard inclusions.

Setup Experience

The installation and configuration were pretty easy with the web interface. However, the interface seemed very basic. It needs a revamp. The 128MB of flash storage is adequate for keeping the configuration and upgrades handy. Overall, installation and configuration won’t be an issue on the CM1100.

Conclusion

If you are interested in the best modem to buy for Cox that values compatibility over everything else, the Netgear CM1100 is the perfect option. Its QoS feature makes it quite a steal for the given price. Read the full review.

Also Read: Comparison between CM1100 and CM1000

4. Best with AQM: Motorola MB8600

Good-looking yet powerful networking devices are rare. However, you can always stop brainstorming and pick the Motorola MB8600 — one of the most popular DOCSIS 3.1 modems that work with Cox, courtesy of 8 additional downstream channels and future-proof technology.

Hardware & Performance

You have the ARM-powered processor at the core, which helps the MB8600 manage congested and overcrowded networks. You can expect consistent internet speeds during peak hours, provided the complementing router is configured correctly.

As far as the network standards are concerned, the DOCSIS 3.0 support is good enough for standard transmissions. The 32 x 8 channel bonding spread is 8 times faster than a DOCSIS 2.0-specific internet setup.

But then, during peak hours when network congestion is prevalent, the MB8600 can always rely on the DOCSIS 3.1 setup and the AQM technology to prioritize gaming and streaming traffic efficiently. Also, if you are invested in torrenting, this modem offers digital tuning support for effectively increasing speeds.

Speeds & Throughput

I tested the Motorola MB8600 on the Gigablast internet plan from Cox, only to churn out download speeds capped at 940Mbps. The streaming quality over Netflix and even P2P download speeds were enviably fast, despite using the platforms during peak hours.

The maximum upload speeds, as experienced, are 110Mbps, which is great. Keeping torrenting aside, MB8600 works best with a Wi-Fi 6 router or a tri-band mesh like the one from Orbi.

Port Setup

This department has nothing extraordinary as the MB8600 features a standard Gig Ethernet port. However, the auto-sensing support favors MB8600, allowing you to prioritize traffic over wired connections.

Design & Build

This model assumes a vertical structure and a premium-looking black form factor as far as aesthetics are concerned. There are quite a few circulation vents made of hardened plastic, helping you keep throttling at bay. There are five indicative LEDs in front, followed by a reset button, coaxial cable input, a power jack, and a power button in the rear.

Also, this Cox modem weighs close to 1.2 pounds and measures 7. 87 x 7.25 x 2.25 inches when dimensions are concerned. Overall, it is one of the sleekest products around.

Setup Experience

Configuring the MB8600 is easy, courtesy of the web interface and the availability of IPv6 support. Plus, 128MB of flash storage ensures simplified and efficient routing while offering better control over the modem when auto-configuration support, multicast routing, and zero address collisions are concerned.

Conclusion

Motorola MB8600 is the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem for Cox with high-end features. You get a more secure setup with advanced flow labeling and integrated authentication for managing high-speed wired connections in the best possible manner.

Also Read: MB8600 vs MB8611

5. Best for Cox Ultimate: Arris Surfboard SB8200

Although the Arris SB8200 has enough power and capabilities to work with the Gigablast plan, if you’re on the Ultimate 500 and want to connect multiple devices (10-20 devices) and do 4K streaming, play multiplayer games, attend online meetings or virtual learning, then I’d suggest this device!

If you are interested in a reliable Arris modem for Cox with adequate options for setting up wired connections, the Surfboard SB8200 makes perfect sense. And it is a much better option than the older SB6190, owing to the 200 Mbps bump in the max speed limit.

Hardware & Performance

The Surfboard SB8200 doesn’t let you down in terms of processing power. Instead, it on-boards a Broadcom chipset and 3GB of RAM, allowing you to manage multiple data streams even when the network is overcrowded.

The DOCSIS 3.0 comes equipped with 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels, allowing you to take advantage of prioritized traffic allocation. But the Surfboard SB8200 can automatically upgrade to DOCSIS 3.1, with 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA channels, during peak hours.

Overall, the processing setup and the network standards with Fall-back support ensure that latency-free gaming and buffering-free streaming can be deployed.

Speeds & Throughput

As a cable modem, the Arris SB8200 is compatible with multiple cable ISPs, including Xfinity, Spectrum, Mediacom, Suddenlink, RCN, etc., allowing you to reach speeds up to 2 Gbps for select services. However, for Cox internet, I could only experience download speeds capped at 800Mbps, even with a Wi-Fi 6 router in play.

The 800 Mbps throughput was intact for the 5GHz band and appropriately dropped to 250 Mbps for the far band upon connecting the modem to the router.

Port Setup

The availability of two Gig Ethernet ports on a standalone modem is a rarity. While one port readily feeds into the router, you can even use the link aggregation feature to double up the throughput making the router faster and more functional.

Design & Build

The SB8200 comes in white and features four front-facing LEDs. Making sense of the plastic structure are the heat-dissipating vents. And what works well for this device is the rear-positioned power, cable, and Ethernet ports. The device measures 5.0 x 2.0 x 5.0 inches, assuming a rectangular form. And it’s adequately light as well at 1.52 pounds.

Setup Experience

The Arris SB8200 supports automatic firmware updates and allows you to store insights in the 128MB flash storage. This feature makes auto-configuration and seamless setup possible. Plus, this modem features a spectrum analyzer that makes the configured network even more productive.

Needless to say, the dual-stack IPv4/IPv6 support makes modem configuration easier than ever, with a focus on eliminating NAT standards and addressing collisions.

Conclusion

Overall, this is the one if you need a compatible modem for Cox Ultimate internet. It allows you to use faster-wired connections while facilitating intelligent routing and improved privacy support.

6. Best For Basic Home Use: Arris Surfboard SB6190

Not every individual needs high performance, and Arris SB6190 is an Intel Puma-powered modem. I don’t recommend it often, however, you may consider it only for basic home internet use.

If you want a modem for a basic home automation setup, Surfboard SB6190 makes quite a compelling case. And it is quite a sizable upgrade over the older predecessor, which only comes with 16 x 4 channels as opposed to the dual downstream and upstream channels offered by the Arris SB6190.

Hardware & Performance

Arris SB6190 features DOCSIS 3.0 network technology with 32 x 8 channel bonding support. Regarding speed-based comparisons, the SB6190 can transmit data at least 8 times faster than a DOCSIS 2.0 setup.

The 32 downstream channels, however, are great when it comes to scaling beyond network congestion. Also, as upstream requests are lesser than downstream transmission, 8 channels are more than adequate.

Speeds & Throughput

I tested the same with an Ultimate internet package and could reach speeds of up to 470Mbps upon directly connecting the modem to the laptop.

Only for a short while, though!

I also tested the same with the Gigablast plan, and the maximum speeds were closer to the 600Mbps mark. The connected home mesh also allows me to reach upload speeds of 80Mbps. However, the theoretical limit is almost 150Mbps, but I could hardly cross 80Mbps for the 5GHz band.

Port Setup

Next in line is the solitary Ethernet port that can reach maximum speeds of up to 1Gbps when connected to the router. Also, the router comprises indicative LEDs that can help you monitor the state and consistency of transmissions.

Design & Build

The black-colored networking device features a vertical layout with vents placed strategically. The overheating is never overboard, following which are the four front-adhering LED lights for status reporting. Dimension-wise, it measures 7.15 x 4.5 x 6.11 inches. And it also weighs close to 1 pound, which is incredibly light considering the rectangular form.

Setup Experience

The SB6190 is easy to configure. However, you need to follow the documentation to the letter to make the best use of the web interface. And for updates and configuration files, a 128MB of inbuilt flash storage works just fine.

Conclusion

The Arris SB6190 is an affordable modem for Cox WiFi, provided you want to get hold of the Ultimate/Preferred internet plan. Plus, the security safeguards and ease of installation and usage make it one of the more promising options.

7. Best For Preferred 150: Netgear CM700

Finding the best modem for Cox preferred 150 on a budget is hard unless you come across Netgear CM700. Powered by DOCSIS 3.0 at the core, the CM700 from Netgear works better than CM600 by offering higher download and upload speeds, courtesy of the increased number of equivalent channels.

What works in favor of CM700 is the advanced QoS suppory that helps prioritize select traffic requests, specifically for speeding up certain processes.

Hardware & Performance

At the core, Netgear CM700 houses a reliable quad-core processor that can clock at speeds up to 1.6GHz. This enhancement cuts through congestion and helps with the additional workload experienced through peak hours.

If you are an active gamer worried about latency, the 128MB RAM coupled with the DOCSIS 3.0 standard ensures high-grade performance. The DOCSIS technology thrives on the availability of the 32 x 8 downstream/upstream channels, which leads the way with QoS support.

Speeds & Throughput

The 32 x 8 bonded channel support translates into an overall speed capping of up to 1.4Gbps. However, the modem architecture only allows you to reach 500Mbps, which is best characterized by the Ultimate internet plan from Cox.

On the other hand, the upload speeds are restricted to 80Mbps, and that too if you are using a Wi-Fi 5 router with at least 400Mbps speed capping for the 2.4GHz band.

Port Setup

Despite featuring a solitary Gigabit Ethernet port, the CM700 promises the highest possible wired speeds, provided the ISP permits the same. Also, the speed, coverage, and connection strength can be identified by looking at the widest possible array of indicative LEDs.

Design & Build

Coming to the aesthetics, the product features a standard rugged structure with 5 LEDs in the front and standard power and coaxial cable port in the rear part. The sides are well-ventilated, and a flat base keeps the modem steady throughout. The product weighs 1.41 pounds and measures 1.7 x 6.6 x 5.2 inches, making it one of the slimmest options.

Setup Experience

The Netgear CM700 offers only 8MB of flash storage space for storing the configuration and firmware details. This attribute, along with the documentation, allows you to use the web interface and set up the device in the best possible manner.

Conclusion

As per the cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and QoS support, the Netgear CM700 is the best modem to replace Cox panoramic gateway. For more details, read my CM700 review.

Cox Approved Modem List [Official]

A Beginner’s Guide To Buy The Right Cox Compatible Modem

Now that you have access to the list of modems & modem-router combos compatible with Cox, it’s time to look at the primary factors that might help you make better decisions.

Understanding Requirements

To pick the right networking device, you must consider and ascertain the requirements beforehand. For instance, if you want something for connecting a handful of devices in a small home, Netgear CM700 can be a great pick.

Also, if you want a device that can cover an entire household without purchasing an additional router, the MG8702 combo device comes across as a reliable pick. And finally, if you prefer a high-end modem that can handle gigabit internet speeds, the S33 from Arris can be considered.

Therefore, if you want to buy a networking device, weigh in on your requirements and take a call accordingly. Also, you can self-install Cox internet and save $100 on professional installation charges.

Speeds and Throughput

Plans	Max Download Speed	Max Upload Speed	Price
Starter 25	Up to 25 Mbps	Up to 3 Mbps	$29.99/mo
Essential 50	Up to 50 Mbps	Up to 3 Mbps	$39.99/mo
Preferred 150	Up to 150 Mbps	Up to 10 Mbps	$59.99/mo
Ultimate 500	Up to 500 Mbps	Up to 10 Mbps	$79.99/mo
Gigablast	Up to 940 Mbps	Up to 35 Mbps	$99.99/mo

Now that your requirements are figured out, you must check for speed-based preferences. And yes, the speed and throughput part also depends on your requirements and the Cox internet plan you choose to go with.

To subscribe to a 200 Mbps plan from Cox, you need a basic DOCSIS 3.0 modem with 24 x 8 channels. If you want to go with Cox’s Gigablast internet plan, you might want to consider a DOCSIS 3.1 device with 32 x 8 and 2 x 2 channel bonding prowess.

Also, if you are into gaming or 4K streaming and eventually opt for a gig-level internet plan, it is necessary to check for an adequate number of Gig ethernet ports to save wireless attenuation. To build upon this, check for modems with multiple ethernet ports and link aggregation support to help you achieve multi-gig speeds.

Hardware and Design

Not many individuals consider the internal hardware while picking up a Cox cable modem or combo device. However, if you want to go down that road, look for a multi-core Broadcom processor as the bare minimum, followed by 256MB RAM and 128MB of flash storage support.

Design-wise, anything light and with several heat-dissipating vents works, keeping the portability intact and throttling out of the equation. Plus, if you frequently face internet outages, you might want to opt for a product with an adequate number of LED ports.

Other Features

If you want to pick a modem for your Cox internet plans, you might want to consider the wireless throughput for 5GHz and 2.4GHz in case of a combo. Plus, checking for QoS support, link aggregation support, and MU-MIMO functionality can make sense if you have specific requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

As part of this Cox modems list, every device can be used for various internet plans from the concerned ISP. However, check out my final picks if you are still unsure about which one to get. Depending on the budget, internet speeds, and usage preferences, you can consider the following recommendations:

• Arris Surfboard S33 and Motorola MB8600 are the best modems compatible with Cox for their Gigablast plans and advanced QoS support.
• If you are only looking for a device that is in sync with the Cox ultimate internet plan, nothing beats the Arris SB6190.
• For 2-in-1 modem-router combo fanatics seeking seamless connectivity with minimal design, the Motorola MG8702 is the most frugal selection.

In addition to the mentioned models, you can always look at the other devices I reviewed after testing extensively for over two months. Regardless of the device you like, the final decision eventually boils down to the subscribed internet plan and the nature of the internet usage.