8 Best Mediacom Compatible Modems in 2023 [Top Picks]

Renting a cable modem from Mediacom can cost you $11.50 per month (that’s around $138 per year). That’s why it’s best to get your own Mediacom modem. Since you’re here, I’m sure you’re looking for a reliable Mediacom-compatible modem.

Mediacom offers various internet plans ranging from Internet 60, 100, and 300 to 1 Gig. So, for a smooth experience, ensure that the modem you pick can handle the internet speeds you’re subscribed to.

That said, to find the best modem for Mediacom, you’d also need to consider a few more things like DOCSIS technology, channel bonding, hardware capabilities, etc. If these technical terms confuse you, worry not. By the time you reach the end of this article, you’ll surely find a device suitable for your needs.

8 Best Mediacom Compatible Modems in 2023

Before making this list, I browsed the official Mediacom approved modem list and tested 31 devices (including modem-router combos). After spending two months performing various tests, here are the 8 best cable modems to use with Mediacom Xtream internet in 2023.

1. Best Modem for 1 Gig: Arris Surfboard SB8200

Ranked #3 in my best modems list, this is undoubtedly the best pick for the Mediacom 1 Gig plan. If you’re looking for a combo, you should consider getting the Arris SBG8300.

Arris Surfboard SB8200 has to be your go-to modem for almost every Mediacom internet plan. However, I would recommend the same primarily for the Gig internet packages and the multi-gig plan, as other service providers offer.

Despite being a standalone modem, the Arris SB8200 brings glad tidings by boasting excellent router compatibility. Plus, the competitive pricing hardly makes you miss the rentals.

Performance

As far as the internals are concerned, there is a Broadcom processor to look at followed by 128MB of flash memory. Also, you get 3GB RAM that readily complements the processor and allows the modem to cut through the congestion, even during peak hours.

However, the best depiction of high-speed performances is due to the DOCSIS 3.1 technology. If the traffic requests exceed the usual network capabilities, the 2×2 OFDM channels associated with the DOCSIS 3.1 are put to work, ensuring faster internet connections and better traffic prioritization. Also, this is one of the top-rated and most-sold DOCSIS 3.1 modems available.

In a usual circumstances, the DOCSIS 3.0 technology and the 32×8 channel bonding support are more than adequate for doing justice to the Gig internet plans from Mediacom or any other ISP.

Speed

Firstly, this is one of the few modems on the list that can reach maximum download speeds of up to 2Gbps. However, if you are using the Gig internet plan from Mediacom, the modem can only reach speeds nearing 1Gbps.

But then, the actual bottleneck here is the router, provided you are interested in wireless connectivity. If you plan on using a high-speed router, you can reach maximum download speeds of up to 950 Mbps with the Arris SB8200 to rely on.

As tested by me, the upload speeds on a Mediacom internet plan could reach up to 200Mbps. Overall, the actual speeds are good enough for 4K streaming and online gaming.

Ports

The Arris SB8200 features two Ethernet ports, making it one of the better modems for experiencing decent wired speeds. Both these ports showcase Gig speeds and link aggregation technology, allowing you to reach speeds capped at 2Gbps, provided the ISP permits the same.

Besides, you also get a cable port and a power input, seamlessly stacked at the rear end of this otherwise upright and aesthetic modem.

Setup

You can follow the steps mentioned in the user manual for setting up the modem with Mediacom to perfection. However, you must first connect the same with the laptop as the modem is compatible with multiple operating platforms.

Why is it good for Mediacom?

Arris SB8200 is the best modem for Mediacom Gig internet. Starting from the aesthetic layout to the wide range of indicative lights, denoting every networking activity, this modem comes forth as one of the more reliable options to invest in for experiencing high-speed internet.

Want to learn more? Read my in-depth review of Arris SB8200

2. Best For Gaming: Motorola MB8600

If you have purchased the 1Gig internet plan from Mediacom and are looking to replace your dated modem with a new and improved resource, there cannot be a better option than the Motorola MB8600

Also, I would recommend purchasing the same if you are neck-deep into torrenting and 4K streaming as this modem has the required hardware to precisely manage traffic-based priorities.

Performance

Motorola MB8600 houses an efficient ARM-based SoC, which facilitates AQM technology and allows you to manage traffic better than usual. Therefore, congestion is hardly an issue if you invest in streaming and torrenting.

As far as the online gaming performances are concerned, this is one of the better modems to place your bets on if you want to minimize latency. Plus, the DOCSIS 3.1 technology ensures faster internet speeds and even supports a fallback to DOCSIS 3.0 32 x 8 channels.

Overall, being a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, it manages any gig internet plans without any performance drops and even makes sense as a future-proof networking resource, provided your ISP launches a multi-gig plan in the future.

Speed

There is a theoretical speed of 1Gbps. Coming to the actual wireless potential, the MB8600 can reach download speeds of up to 930Mbps, provided the router is efficient enough to easily handle multiple streams. Also, if you get a Wave 2 router, the Mediacom internet plan can help you reach maximum upload speeds of up to 150Mbps.

Ports

The MB8600 lacks in terms of ports as it features a single ethernet port. However, Motorola has ensured support for link aggregation. Also, this modem has the requisite hardware to set up wired/wireless connection, depending on the capabilities of the ISP.

Setup

Configuring this modem is as easy as it gets. However, you are expected to follow the setup and installation instructions to the letter to make the most of the seamless web interface. Plus, the Motorola MB8600 comes with a wide range of indicative LEDs, making it easier to verify the functioning.

Why is it good for Mediacom?

Overall, Motorola MB8600 is one of the few modems that come with top-shelf wired internet support. Therefore, if you have Smart TVs and gaming consoles at home, this is the perfect Mediacom approved modem to invest in. Read full review to learn more.

3. Best For Streaming: Netgear CM1000

For cable internet service providers like Mediacom, Cox, Spectrum, Comcast Xfinity, and more, the Netgear CM1000 comes forth as one of the better networking resources to purchase.

This modem is perfect for the Gig plans, but the cost-effectiveness makes it a decent bet for mid-range speeds and Mediacom Internet 300 and 500 Mbps plans.

Performance

The Netgear CM1000 doesn’t disappoint when the processing setup is concerned. You get a reliable Broadcom chipset that works in tandem with 256MB of high-speed RAM. While the firepower might not be adequate for latency-free gaming, it can easily avoid network congestion and speed up internet speeds.

Also, a 128MB flash storage module is in place, which can house automatic firmware updates and network insights for simplifying configuration and setup. As expected, the 2×2 DOCSIS 3.1 technology is engineered into the modem to achieve higher internet speeds.

Plus, you can always deploy the DOCSIS 3.0 32×8 channel bonding support for managing standard traffic and data packets.

Speed

The advertised speed is 1Gbps, however, in my testing, the Netgear CM1000 is capable of reaching 820Mbps and 120Mbps as maximum download and upload speeds. However, I used a standard TP-Link router to test the modem throughput and expect better speeds if a WiFi 6 routing device is added into the mix.

The maximum speeds attained by the modem are good enough for the most demanding tasks. However, I experienced minor buffering while streaming 4K videos on Netflix, which makes us question the channel width.

Ports

The Netgear CM1000 only features a solitary Ethernet port with Gigabit capabilities. Therefore, connecting the modem directly to a secured Ethernet-compatible device is recommended if you want to make the best use of the Mediacom gig internet plan.

Setup

The web interface allows you to configure this modem with ease. Also, you can toggle between the advanced and basic setup options to explore a wide range of options concerning DHCP, IP selection, and more.

Why is it good for Mediacom?

Despite the solitary Ethernet port, the Netgear CM1000 is one of the best modems for Mediacom, courtesy of the high fidelity connections, excellent processing firepower, and ease of installation. Read review.

Also Read: CM1000 vs CM1100

4. Best for : Netgear CM700

Finding the perfect modem that works with Mediacom mid-level internet plans (Internet 100, 300, 500) can be overwhelming, owing to the wide range of choices. However, when confused, you can opt for the Netgear CM700, best known for internet consistency and reliable processing hardware.

Performance

As far as the performances are concerned, this modem comes equipped with a standard CPU, capable of clocking at 1.6GHz. The processor is powerful enough to manage excessive traffic load, projected by gaming and streaming requirements.

Working in tandem is the 128MB RAM that can minimize speed throttling even during peak hours. Also, there is an 8MB flash memory in play that allows you to manage firmware updates with perfection.

Coming to the engineered networking standard, the Netgear CM700 features the DOCSIS 3.0 technology and that too with 32×8 channel bonding support. The existing technology also makes room for advanced quality of service and associated traffic prioritization.

Plus, the network standard is backward compatible with DOCSIS 2.0 hardware and even paves the way for IPv6 compatibility.

Speed

As far as the theoretical speeds are concerned, the 32×8 channel bonding support assumes a maximum limit of up to 1.4Gbps. However, as tested by me, the Netgear CM700 could reach maximum download speeds of up to 500Mbps, making it good enough for mid-level internet plans.

Not to mention the maximum upload speeds of up to 100Mbps that can be a handy asset for establishing P2P connections.

Ports

The Netgear CM700 features a solitary Ethernet port, bolstered further by Gig support and auto-sensing technology. Therefore, if you want to reach speeds higher than 500Mbps, I would advise you to make use of the wired connection, provided you have an Ethernet-compatible and secured device to work with.

Setup

You can easily configure this modem, provided you know your way around the web interface. Also, you need to keep a close eye on the pre-existing documentation and the ISP parameters before setting up and installing the modem.

Why is it good for Mediacom?

The Netgear CM700 is arguably the best modem for the 500Mbps internet plan from Mediacom. While it is quite an affordable device, the DOCSIS 3.0 support with 32×8 channel bonding support makes it future-proof, in case the ISP considers upgrading the hardware.

Also, this modem is compatible with several other ISPs, including Cox, Spectrum, and more, which allow you to make transitions without having to think twice about the trade-offs.

5. Best Modem-Router Combo: Arris SBG7400AC2

Need a Mediacom compatible modem router combo? You cannot go wrong with the Arris SBG7400AC2.

The Arris SBG7400AC2 is one of the more resourceful modem-router combos in the retail arena, boasting advanced capabilities and a pretty extensive specs sheet. Most importantly, you can deploy the same for any low-end and mid-range Mediacom internet plan without having to worry about network congestion.

Performance

At the core, Arris SBG7400AC2 houses an Intel Atom SoC, which can manage the modem and router-specific capabilities. As the coaxial cable feeds into the device, the 24×8 channel bonding support ensures excellent channel spread, allowing the integrated router to wireless transmit a decent volume of data packets.

The Arris SBG7400AC2, as a router, features the Wave 2 networking technology, which allows you to make use of wider network tunnels for wirelessly transmitting data packets better, even with network congestion to deal with.

The DOCSIS 3.0 support, followed by the simultaneous dual-band transmission, makes it one of the better combos for Mediacom internet plans.

Speed

The extensive collection of Ethernet ports and the AC2350 wireless standard translates into theoretical speeds of over 2.3Gbps. However, I tested the same with a Gig internet plan from Mediacom 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.

The restricted speeds are due to the limiting 5GHz and 2.4GHz throughput and the lack of Wi-Fi AX technology. However, the speeds are more than acceptable for a basic to mid-level internet plan.

Ports

Speed limitations can be avoided if you use the four Gigabit Ethernet ports. As most Ethernet-compatible devices like play stations and Smart televisions require additional bandwidth, it is advisable to connect them to the combo using a UTP cable.

Also, the device features link aggregation support, allowing you to reach higher internet speeds, despite the wireless restrictions.

Setup

Installing and configuring the Arris SBG7400AC2 is more of a cakewalk, provided you know how to connect and set up the combo using a laptop. Also, if you are privy to the Surfboard manager, it becomes easier to easily control the wireless settings and manage a wide range of connected devices.

Why is it good for Mediacom?

Overall, Arris SBG7400AC2 is the best modem router combo for Mediacom to invest in, courtesy of the cost-effectiveness on display. Also, this is the perfect option to consider if you have several Ethernet-compatible devices at home or are interested in setting up access points or wireless bridges.

6. Best For Mediacom 300: Motorola MB7621

There aren’t many standalone modems as good as the Motorola MB7621 that are capable of reaching exceptional internet speeds, provided you are willing to use wired connections. Despite the high-end wired potential, this modem is also an effective resource for wireless compatibility.

Performance

This modem from Motorola houses a Broadcom chipset under the hood. The featured processor allows the device to work closely with the full spectrum digital tuner, IPv4 and IPv6 functionality, and DOCSIS 3.0 networking support.

Regarding channel segregation, the Motorola features 24×8 channel bonding support, making it at least 8 times faster than a similarly loaded DOCSIS 2.0 hardware setup.

Speed

I tested the same with a 500Mbps internet plan from Mediacom and even connected a Wi-Fi 5 router to check for wireless speeds. I could churn out maximum download speeds of up to 400Mbps, with the router working primarily in the near band.

For the far band or the 2.4GHz band, I could experience download and upload speeds of up to 200Mbps and 80Mbps, respectively.

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

If you want to configure the modem, you must connect the same to a computer, access the web interface, and follow the documentation to the letter. However, you might have to check for added settings depending on the type of router that is being connected to the modem.

Why is it good for Mediacom?

Purchasing the Motorola MB7621 for the mid-range Mediacom internet plans makes sense owing to the integrated surge protection and the advanced 24×8 channel bonding support that ensures consistent internet speeds and zero connection drops.

To learn more about it in detail, check out the full review of MB7621.

7. Best Budget Router Modem Combo: TP-Link Archer CR700

The TP-Link Archer CR700 from TP-Link is a budget-friendly combo that doesn’t disappoint you when speed, throughput, and connection stability are concerned. Also, if you are looking for the perfect modem-router combo for low-end Mediacom, Spectrum, and Cox internet plans, you cannot go wrong with this device.

Performance

At the core, TP-Link features a dual-core processor that works in cohesion with 256GB RAM. The processing setup keeps streaming lags and traffic congestion at bay and ensures faster connections.

Firmware updates are precisely stored in the 16MB flash module, which helps you perfectly manage diverse network settings. Other performance-specific features include network access control, dual-stack involving IPv6/IPv4 network addressing support, and the DOCSIS 3.0 technology that leads to 16×4 channel bonding support.

As far as the routing capabilities of this modem are concerned, the AC1750 standard is good enough for most entry-level internet plans. Also, if you have two ISPs supplying internet to your home, the TP-Link Archer CR700 can also be deployed as a standard gateway.

Speed

As far as the internet speeds are concerned, the Archer CR700 claims to provide 450Mbps in 2GHz and 1300Mbps in the 5GHz band. However, in my tests, I found it reaching over 300Mbps as the maximum download throughput for the 5GHz band. The upload speeds in this scenario are capped at 100Mbps.

However, I was most impressed with the inclusion of 6 internal, high-gain antennas. This enhancement ensures an extended coverage of up to 1900 sq ft, making it one of the more impactful routing devices on the list.

Also, the near-band speeds can be boosted by turning on the integrated radio amplifiers.

Ports

The Archer CR700 from TP-Link features four Ethernet ports, precisely connecting Smart TVs and gaming consoles with high bandwidth internet. In addition to the Ethernet slots, you also get access to two USB 2.0 ports, precisely for connecting data modules and NAT storage modules over LAN and WAN networks.

Setup

Setting up this combo is pretty easy, and you need to follow the guidelines to the letter upon logging into the web interface. As the modem and routing hardware come integrated as one, the configuration would depend on the hardware and devices that you are looking to connect.

Also, you can configure the setup better to access and control the guest networks by partially restricting access.

Why is it good for Mediacom?

The Archer CR700 is a reliable modem-router combo with an excellent specs sheet, including Beamforming support for extended coverage and advanced security safeguards,

8. Best for Internet 600: Motorola MB7420

Here is an affordable, entry-level modem that can perfectly work with low-end Mediacom internet plans. However, the Motorola MB7420 is good enough for other ISPs with affordable internet packages like Xfinity, Sparklight, and more.

Performance

As shared in the Motorola MB7420 review, it features a basic Broadcom chipset, which isn’t much but can help you achieve consistent speeds. Plus, the DOCSIS 3.0 support ensures better speeds and signal strength even during peak hours, courtesy of the 16×4 channel bonding spectrum.

Other functional specs include advanced security and safety protocols, a digital tuner, and network protocols that ensure a seamless setup.

Speed

As per theoretical claims made by Motorola, this modem is capable of reaching maximum download speeds of up to 686Mbps, provided the router is powerful enough. At Approved Modems, I tried connecting a Wi-Fi AX router to the same and could only achieve speeds of up to 250Mbps for a standard, low-bandwidth plan. The upload speeds are capped at 50Mbps.

Ports

There is a standalone Ethernet port for the Ethernet-compatible devices to fall back on.

However, the Gig speeds pertaining to wired setup are good enough for tasks and processes seeking higher bandwidth.

Setup

Installing and configuring the Motorola MB7420 depends on the web interface and the router you plan to connect it. Regardless, the process is pretty seamless and eventually depends on the instructions offered by the ISP.

Why is it good for Mediacom?

If you only require an internet plan that is good enough for managing 1080p streaming, surfing, and video conferencing, the 300Mbps plan from Mediacom is a reliable option to go with. In that case, there cannot be a better modem as compared to the Motorola MB7420.

Mediacom Approved Modems [The Official List]

Model Name	DOCSIS Technology	Channel Bonding	Suitable Plan	Router Modem Combo	Voice Compatibility	Bad Chipset
ARRIS CM8200A	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	❌	❌	No
ARRIS SB8200	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	❌	❌	No
Motorola MB8600	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	❌	❌	No
NETGEAR CM1000	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	❌	❌	No
NETGEAR CM1100	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	❌	❌	No
NETGEAR CM2000	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	❌	❌	No
NETGEAR CAX30S	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	✅	❌	No
NETGEAR CAX80	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	✅	❌	No
Zoom (Motorola) MB8600	3.1	32 x 8	1 Gig	❌	❌	No

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

Investing in reliable and efficient network components, including a modem or a modem-router combo, is necessary. However, not every modem is created alike, and you need to take the maximum speed, the number of Ethernet ports, and aesthetics into account before selecting one.

But then, if you are still confused about picking up the best Mediacom cable modem, here are the handpicked selections to consider:

• For experiencing zero gaming latency and buffering-free 4K streaming, purchasing the Arris SB8200, featuring DOCSIS 3.1, is advisable.
• If you want to minimize hassles and opt for a high-speed modem-router combo, you can hardly go wrong with the Arris SBG7400AC2.
• Also, if you are into low-speed Mediacom internet plans, the Archer CR700 from TP-Link is a good enough combo to invest in.

Apart from these curated options, you can also consider the rest of the list for selecting the perfect device per your requirements, aesthetic preferences, and, obviously the budget.