Netgear CM2000 Review: Is it Worth the Premium Price?

There is no alternative to a powerful modem. A device that lets you reach Multi-Gig internet speeds, provided the ISP has provisions for the same. But is every modem cut out for the job? Not exactly. If speed, throughput, and multi-router compatibility are the features you seek, it might just be the right time to invest in the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000.

As a modem, the CM2000-100NAS is nothing short of excellent. Being one of the most powerful DOCSIS 3.1 modems, it lets you work with almost every cable ISP on the market. And that’s just scratching the surface. It is packed with top-of-the-line features, and I shall discuss each throughout the review of Netgear CM2000 in the subsequent sections.

Netgear CM2000 Review [After 30 Days Usage]

Just so you know, I used the Gig internet plan from Comcast Xfinity to test this Netgear Nighthawk multi-gig cable modem, i.e., CM2000. Starting from the heat-dissipating capabilities to the backward compatibility, I used it extensively for a period of 30 days to check every aspect of it before I decided to review the CM2000 in detail.

But don’t lose sleep over getting through all the specs in a hurry. In the following CM2000 review, I will discuss every aspect in detail to help you make informed calls.

1. Design & Build

Just like other DOCSIS 3.1 modems that I reviewed earlier, including Netgear’s own CM1000 and CM1100, the CM2000 also assumes a vertical form factor, made of hardened & glossy plastic. Despite the hefty outlook, the CM2000 modem manages to stay light at 1.02 pounds.

I tested this Netgear Nighthawk 2.5Gbps cable modem during the sultry summers and never for once had issues related to overheating. The heat-dissipating capabilities, as inferred, are top-notch.

As far as the dimensions are concerned, the product measures 6.8 x 3.7 x 8.2 inches. And despite feeling a tad chunkier than usual, it is the basal stand that more than makes up for this minor hiccup.

2. Ports & Connectivity

Well, the Nighthawk CM2000 keeps it clean when it comes to the port arrangement. For starters, there is one coaxial port to work with, followed by a power port. However, it is the 2.5G ethernet port that hogs all the limelight, allowing you to make the best use of the multi-Gig speeds.

As far as the connectivity of the Netgear CM2000 is concerned, the multi-gig port allows you to establish high-speed wired connections with any smart device of choice. However, for effective wireless capabilities, you are advised to connect this modem to any router of choice, preferably a Wi-Fi 6 based router, to render the networking setup future-proof.

3. Compatibility with ISPs

The CM2000 modem works rather perfectly with high-speed, Gig internet plans from Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, and a host of diverse cable internet service providers that I’ve listed below. To make the modem worth the effort and value, it is advisable to pair the same with high-speed internet plans and not the typical mid-range packages you have at your disposal.

Other Cable ISPs it’s compatible to work with:

• RCN
• Optimum
• Suddenlink
• Mediacom
• Sparklight
• WOW Internet!

4. Hardware & Technology

The multi-core processor nesting within the Netgear CM2000 works in tandem with DOCSIS 3.1 networking technology, allowing you to reach consistent speeds and throughput. There are 32 x 8 downstream and upstream channels to work with, allowing you to minimize gaming lags and achieve consistent speeds at all times.

The Broadcom BCM3390 work as a Netgear CM2000 chipset, which keeps the performance optimal while also keeping the modem device cool.

Adding to these specs are the OFDM/OFDMA support, capable of moving across sizable data packets even during peak hours.

Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 Speeds

The Netgear Nighthawk 2.5Gbps cable modem lets you connect and work seamlessly with any of the preferred routers. However, you are better off pairing the modem with a router supporting max cumulative wireless speeds of at least 2900 Mbps.

Other relevant specs include IPv6 compatibility, allowing you to achieve the built-in quality of service. This way, it becomes possible to redirect traffic to a more bandwidth-intensive device when connected to a standard router.

Pros & Cons of Netgear Nighthawk CM2000

The in-depth analysis of the Netgear Nighthawk multi-gig cable modem, CM2000 reveals every aspect of it, without any bars hold. However, here is a quick go-over, enlisting the hits and misses associated with this modem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

The CM2000 isn’t a regular Netgear Nighthawk 32 x 8 DOCSIS 3.1 modem for regular internet plans. Instead, it is something you might want to consider if your cable ISP has plans of upgrading to a high-speed internet plan. And most importantly, it is one of the more aesthetic products around, replete with standard physical traits, several indicative lights, and a stand that allows you to place it almost anywhere.