8 Best Modems For Cox in 2021 [Highly Compatible & Approved]

If you’ve just come to know that Cox is charging you $10/month for equipment rental or already know about it and are looking forward to getting your own cable modem, then it’s important to get a compatible device.

While you might want to get rid of the monthly lease, but many of them end up purchasing their own modem or modem/router combo is because they experience network issues with the rented equipment.

Many users on reddit and some people I know have said,

Cox provides underpowered and outdated internet equipment. That’s why despite being on the fastest internet plan, I end up facing connectivity & speed issues. Experiencing it already? Well, unless there’s an outage in your area, it’s suggested to get rid of the equipment lease and replace it with your modem that works with Cox.

For subscriber retention purpose, Cox also provides free speed upgrades once in a while, But in my research I found out that a good modem lasts for 4-5 years, so once you purchase one, you’re set for 4-5 years. So if you’re thinking that the free modem upgrade is why you should stick to the equipment lease then, please don’t.

8 Best Cox Compatible Modems in 2021

Now that you know the advantages of buying a modem/router over renting, you surely must be looking for a Cox compatible model. Don’t worry, just like I helped you figure out buying provides a better return on investment than renting, I’ll also help you find the best modem for Cox to meet your internet connectivity needs.

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

1. Best Gigabit Modem: Arris Surfboard S33

I’ve been using this for the Gigablast internet service package and I must say that it’s a little expensive, but for an Internet ninja like me who spends 7-8 hours/day surfing, downloading, and streaming, this device is totally worth it.

I have been a big fan of the Cox internet plans and do feel that the Arris Surfboard S33 is one of the better modems to purchase for accommodating the famed, Gigablast internet plan. Also, if Cox plans on upgrading their internet service hardware and introduces multi-gig plans, this networking device has you covered as a part of the future-proof setup.

Performance

As far as modem performances are concerned, Surfboard S33 houses an ARM-based chipset. Needless to say, this attribute makes the modem faster than usual by helping you steer clear of network congestion and interference.

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

Also, the Arris SBS33 supports better channel allocation both in the frequency and time domain, thereby making the advanced router perform better in terms of transmitting data packets. Plus, there is Single-Carrier QAM support to rely on, facilitating seamless transmission and allowing the modem to work with multiple ISPs like Spectrum, Comcast Xfinity, WOW! Cable, and more.

Speed

The 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 a Cox internet plan. Despite getting a Gigablast Cox plan, I was able to experience download speeds of up to 1Gbps. If connected to a Wi-Fi AX router, the upload speeds can go up to 100Mbps.

Ports

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 being connected directly to the internet, there are 2 Ethernet ports to work with. While one of the ports supports Gig internet speeds, the second one is capable of assuming 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.

Setup

Setting up this good-looking and aesthetic modem doesn’t require a lot of effort. You only need to access the web interface, configure the IP and relevant details, and connect the same to the router, if and when necessary.

Why is it good for Cox?

Needless to say, Cox’s internet plans are faster as compared to some of the other cable service providers in the market. This is why it is advisable to invest in a Cox Gigablast modem like Arris Surfboard S33 to minimize the rental costs, make provisions for higher speeds in the future, and experience the two-year warranty that is backed by a responsive customer support system.

2. Easy For Setup: Motorola MB8600

If you are on a high-speed Ultimate 500 service package, precisely for P2P downloads and online gaming, the Motorola MB8600 is one of the more cost-effective options to invest in. However, unless you have highly demanding internet-specific requirements, there are other low-cost modems to consider.

Performance

At the core, you have the ARM-powered processor, which helps the Motorola MB8600 manage congested and overcrowded networks. Even during peak hours, you can expect consistent internet speeds, provided the complementing router is properly configured.

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

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

Speed

I tested the Motorola MB8600 on the Gigablast internet plan from Cox, only to churn out download speeds capped at 1Gbps. The streaming quality over Netflix and even P2P download speeds were enviably fast, despite using the platforms during the peak hours. Since it was able to handle the Gigablast without any issues, I think this can handle the Cox Ultimate 500 service package (500 Mbps) easily.

The maximum upload speeds, as experienced, are limited to 110Mbps, which is still good enough if you are a leecher. Keeping torrenting aside, this modem works best with a Wi-Fi 6 router or even a tri-band mesh like the one from Orbi.

Ports

The availability of one Gig Ethernet port on a standalone modem is a rarity. However, the Motorola MB8600 impresses me the most with each port but without the link aggregation support.

This is the reason why the Motorola MB8600 promises speeds of up to 3.8Gbps, right out of the box. Plus, the port has two LEDs by its side, allowing you to monitor the quality of transmission. From a more performance-specific purview, the auto-sensing support pertaining to the ports is also a handy feature, allowing you to prioritize traffic over wired connections.

However, there are two variants of this high-end modem with one offering access to four Ethernet ports. If you end up purchasing the latter, you might be able to access link aggregation support, depending on the maximum speeds offered by the ISP.

Setup

Configuring the Motorola MB8600 is easy, courtesy of the web interface and the availability of IPv6 support. This feature ensures simplified and efficient routing whilst offering better control over the modem, when auto-configuration support, multicast routing, and zero address collisions are concerned.

Why is it good for Cox?

The Motorola MB8600 is a top-shelf Cox approved modem, manufactured for those who are mostly on Gig and multi-gig internet plans. Plus, if you want a more secure setup with advanced flow labeling and integrated authentication for managing high-speed wired connections better, this is also one of the best Docsis 3.1 modems.

3. Best with 2 Gigabit Ports: Arris SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1

While this is a standalone modem, you can consider getting the Arris SBG8300 if you’re looking forward to getting a modem/router combo with similar specs.

It is difficult to find powerful DOCSIS 3.1 modems that offer more than one Gig Ethernet port. However, the Arris SB8200 is one such resource that allows you to reach exceptional wired speeds, by feeding easily to the router.

However, I wouldn’t recommend the same for Gig wireless connections as there are several other choices to consider.

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 that allows you to manage multiple data streams even when the network is overcrowded.

The DOCSIS 3.0 network standard comes equipped with 32×8 downstream and upstream channels, allowing you to take the advantage of prioritized traffic allocation. But the modem can automatically upgrade to the DOCSIS 3.1 standard, with 2×2 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 are possible to deploy.

Speed

As a cable modem, the Arris SB8200 is compatible with multiple cable ISPs, including Mediacom, Suddenlink, RCN, etc., allowing you to reach speeds of up to 2Gbps 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 800Mbps throughput was intact for the 5GHz band and appropriately dropped to 250Mbps for the far band, upon connecting the modem to the router.

Ports

However, the two Gig Ethernet ports impressed me the most, making the Arris SB8200 one of the few modems to feature more than one port. While one port readily feeds into the router, you can even make use of the link aggregation support to double up the throughput for making the router faster and more functional.

Setup

The Arris SB8200 supports automatic firmware updates and allows you to store the 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 address collisions.

Why is it good for Cox internet plans?

Overall, if you need a modem for Cox Gigablast internet plan, there aren’t many better options than the Arris SB8200. This modem allows you to make use of faster-wired connections whilst facilitating intelligent routing and improved privacy support.

4. Best with Auto-Configuration: Netgear CM1000

The Netgear CM1000 is one of the more reliable Cox approved modems on the list, provided you want to use the same for different cable ISPs like Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, and more. Moreover, this is a future-proof modem with optional support for DOCSIS 3.1 standard, which allows you to reach maximum speeds of up to 6Gbps, sometime in the future.

Performance

Powering this future-proof modem is a Broadcom chipset that also powers the top-shelf Arris Surfboard SB8200 that I mentioned above. Coupled with the processor is 256MB of system memory that can take multi-stream performances to the next level.

This means, a powerful processing setup like the one housed by the Netgear CM1000 ensures minimal signal latency and even works in favor of speeding up the data packets, despite the congestion.

Having said that, the DOCSIS 3.0 support is also available as a fall-back provision, allowing you to reach the best possible signal throughput and lag-free transmission speeds courtesy of the 32×8 channels. But, the router can always shift to the DOCSIS 3.1 standard with 2×2 channel support for the more demanding internet usage.

Speed

As far as the speeds are concerned, the Netgear CM1000 is more than capable of assuming 1Gbps, with ease. Therefore, you can easily use the same for the Gigablast internet plan from Cox. Despite the higher download speeds, as exhibited in the wired and wireless format with a router in place, the maximum upload speeds could reach up to 80Mbps.

However, the throughput shouldn’t be an issue if you are interested in 4K streaming, downloading, twitch streaming, and even torrenting.

Ports

The Netgear CM1000 isn’t brimming with ports and only offers one Gig slot for the wired enthusiasts to work with. However, the quality of the Gig connection is literally interference-free, which allows the router to make the most of the ISP-provided internet.

Setup

If you want to configure this modem, you are in luck as the web interface offered by Netgear is intuitive and self-explanatory. Plus, the auto-configuration support with intelligent IP detection is worth investing in.

However, avoid getting a refurbished unit, as this device doesn’t come with mac-cloning capabilities.

Why is it good for Cox internet plans?

Overall, this aesthetic modem boasts excellent ventilation, which in turn eliminates any form of overheating. Plus, I tested the same extensively with several other ISP-provided internet plans and found the speeds to be exceedingly consistent.

5. Best For Avoiding Equipment Rental: Arris SB6190

Not every individual opts for Cox’s Gigablast plan and the Arris SB6190 is a modem that pairs beautifully with some of the lower-bandwidth plans. Although the manufacturer still believes in rendering this future-proof with a theoretical speed limit of up to 1.4Gbps, it is the perfect modem to buy for the Internet ultimate plan from the same service provider.

Performance

The Arris SB6190 features the DOCSIS 3.0 network technology with 32×8 channel bonding support. When it comes to speed-based comparisons, the modem 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 as compared to downstream transmission, 8 channels are more than adequate.

Speed

As mentioned, 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, in this case, were closer to the 600Mbps mark. The connected home mesh also allows me to reach upload speeds amounting to 80Mbps. However, the theoretical limit is almost 150Mbps but I could hardly cross 80Mbps for the 5GHz band.

Ports

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.

Setup

The Arris SB6190 is easy to configure. However, you need to follow the documentation to the letter for making the best use of the web interface.

Why is it good for Cox internet plans?

The Arris SB6190 is an affordable mid-range modem that is compatible with Cox, provided you want to get hold of the ultimate internet plan. Plus, the security safeguards and ease of usage make it one of the more promising options.

6. Best Under Budget: Netgear CM700

If you are actively looking for a competent mid-range modem for Cox internet plans, there aren’t many options as good as the Netgear CM700. What works in favor of this modem is the advanced Quality of Service that helps prioritize select traffic requests, specifically for speeding up certain processes.

Performance

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

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

Speed

The 32×8 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.

The upload speeds, on the other hand, 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.

Ports

Despite featuring a solitary Gigabit Ethernet port, the Motorola MB7621 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.

Setup

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

Why is it good for Cox internet plans?

As per the cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and QoS support, the Netgear CM700 is one of the better modem choices for a wide range of Cox internet plans, barring the Gigablast one,

7. Cheap Modem-Router Combo: TP-Link CR700

I have had enough standalone modems on this list and it’s time to make room for an affordable yet reliable modem router combo for Cox low-speed internet plans. As a matter of fact, I would recommend the TP-Link CR700 for the Essential, Preferred, and the Ultimate internet plan from Cox, owing to the mid-range capabilities.

Performance

The TP-Link CR700 fits in a dual-core processor that works together with 256GB of RAM. The feature processing setup allows the router to maintain steady internet speeds and scale beyond lags and congestion.

As far as the modem-specific capabilities of this device are concerned, the DOCSIS 3.0 setup allows you to make the most of the ISP’s internet plan. Also, the 16×4 channel bonding support allows you to assume 4 times better speeds as compared to a DOCSIS 2.0 device.

Coming to the routing capabilities of the TP-Link CR700, you get hold of several performance-enhancing specs, including the availability of 6 high-gain, internal antennas. Plus, the Beamforming support allows the device to cover close to 2000sqft of spread-out area, without having to make peace with signal interference and congestion.

Speed

As far as speeds are concerned, you need to ascertain the device, not as a modem but as a functional combo. This means you can experience download speeds of up to 400Mbps for the 5GHz band and almost 150Mbps for the 2.4GHz. However, the upload speeds are restricted to 120Mbps, and that too for the near band.

Despite this being considered an AC1750 modem-router combo, the speeds are capped owing to the ISP-specific restrictions. I even tried testing it with the Gigablast plan but the speeds were capped at 600Mbps. 

However, you can experience higher speeds in case you choose to use it as a gateway device, connecting two separate networks to increase the overall throughput.

Ports

The TP-Link CR700 is pretty generous when the port arrangement is concerned. You get access to four Ethernet ports with each offering Gig support. Plus, this combo allows you to share media and data over a select LAN or WAN network.

Setup

Setting up and configuring this 2-in-1 device cannot be any easier as you only need to log into the web interface for the initial configuration and access the TP-Link app later for setting guest control and parental controls.

Plus, the 16MB flash storage support deserves additional mention as it stores the firmware and network details. Also, the application allows you to make use of the IPv6 network addressing technology and even manage device access control.

Why is it good for Cox internet plans?

Overall, the TP-Link CR700 is a trendsetting 2-in-1 device that lets you save a lot of money on modem and router rentals. Plus, the all-inclusive device comes with advanced security safeguards to keep cyber threats at bay.

8. Best for Starter, Essential, and Preferred Cox Plans: Netgear CM500

Finally, I am going to talk about my favorite low-end modem by reviewing Netgear CM500 in detail. While the modem promises theoretical speeds of up to 686Mbps, I tested the same with the Starter Cox internet plans with bandwidth going as low as 50Mbps.

Performance

The Netgear CM500 takes pride in accommodating a standard SoC and 128MB of RAM to cut through the overcrowding. This means the processing setup offers enough firepower for your traffic requests to pass the allocated 16×4 channels.

The DOCSIS 3.1 standard is a handy resource that also makes way for the Ipv6 network addressing autonomy and advanced quality of service. This way, it becomes easier for the modem to allocate most channels to the prior networking activities like streaming and gaming.

Yes, you can play and stream certain games in 1080p even with a low-end internet plan from Cox.  Having said that, this modem is more of a better choice if you are more invested in normal internet usage and occasional HD streaming over Netflix and other platforms.

Speed

The Netgear CM500, as a modem, boasts reliable connections and steady internet speeds that can reach up to 680Mbps. I tested the same with a preferred internet plan and could reach speeds of up to 140Mbps even during peak hours.

In case you want to use the same with the ultimate internet plan, speeds of up to 400Mbps can be expected.

Ports

The only Ethernet port associated with the Netgear CM500 is a powerful resource in itself. While its main purpose is to feed into the router, it comes with auto-sensing support for helping with network prioritization.

Setup

The Netgear CM500 is easy to install and configure, provided you know your way around the web interface and the usage of the UTP cable for connecting the setup with the laptop.

Why is it good for Cox?

If you are only interested in getting a low-cost modem for the basic Cox internet plans, the Netgear CM500 is the best possible choice, owing to the inclusivity and ease of installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buying vs Renting

Spoiler Alert: Always consider buying over renting!

Even the best internet service providers don’t provide the latest modems/routers or internet equipment. A few of them deliberately provide slow modems to control the network bandwidth, and when you call their support, all they say is, “Our systems are working fine.“

A few reasons why buying is better than renting the equipment:

1. You get to OWN the modem/router at the cost of half-years rental.
2. Buy it once and save rent for 2-3 years (even more in some cases) which is almost $100-140/year.
3. No more using outdated equipment (Higher speed, better security.)
4. If you shift to a different ISP, you could still use the equipment if it’s compatible with them.
5. Better speeds & coverage.

Can buying a modem have any disadvantages? (Yes, but not major)

1. You’ll have to pay 6-8 months of rental at ONCE.
2. If you’re not buying a modem/router combo, you’ll also have to buy a Wireless Router (which could cost $100-200 extra for good quality.)
3. If you shift to a different ISP in future and the modem isn’t compatible with them, then you’ll need to rent one or buy a new one (You can sell the current equipment for a good price, though.)

Buying a modem/router not only saves you a huge amount in the long term but also provides you peace of mind by having better speeds, coverage, and security. Also, since you’ll be buying the approved models, you can also take the help of customer support (if you face any issues.)

Verdict

Every device as a part of this Cox modems list can be used for diverse internet plans from the ISP. However, if you are still unsure as to which device is the perfect fit, depending on the budget, internet speeds, and usage preferences, you can consider the following selections, based on my personal opinion:

• The likes of Arris Surfboard S33 and Motorola MB8600 are the two best modems compatible with Cox for its 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 who prefer working within a budget, the TP-Link CR700 happens to be the most frugal selection.

In addition to the mentioned selections, you can always take a look at the other devices that I have reviewed after testing extensively for over a month. Regardless of the options, you plan on adding to the wishlist, the final decision eventually boils down to the Cox internet plan and the nature of the internet usage.