Whether you’re on the fastest Optimum 1 Gig plan or mid-tier 500 Mbps or the slowest 300 Mbps plan, if you’re in search of a modem to get rid of the rented gateway, this article shall help you find the best compatible options in 2023.
The official list includes underpowered bad modems. And the worst part is, you can’t actually find a list of devices supported by them anywhere. However, to experience higher speeds and throughput, you need a highly efficient device.
Many of my readers have contacted me that they went through some unverified lists and ended up getting a modem that does not work with Optimum. To confirm that my list actually includes devices that work, I’m adding a screenshot of my conversation with Optimum chat support.
As for the features, it should feature the latest DOCSIS technology i.e DOCSIS 3.1 or 3.0 (as DOCSIS 4.0 modems are not out yet), higher speed limits, and stability. Also, it should suit the internet plan you’ve subscribed to. There’s no point in buying a gigabit modem if you’ve subscribed to an Optimum 300 or vice versa.
Contents
5 Best Modems for Optimum in 2023 [Expert Recommendations]
Image | Name | Features | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 |
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Netgear CM1100 |
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Motorola MG8702 |
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Netgear CM700 |
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ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 |
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While getting a cable modem for Optimum, it is advisable to align your requirements beforehand and pick the device based on your needs and budget. Also, if you’re getting a standalone cable modem and not a combo, then you’ll need to get a reliable wireless router for your Optimum connection.
The market is flooded with many options, yet finding the best modem for Optimum can be a stretch if you do not know where to look. In the following discussion, I shall review the top 5 Optimum-approved modems to use in 2023.
I would also like to add that each device has been tested thoroughly for at least 4 weeks across speeds, throughput, consistency, usability, and other parameters. That said, I’ve tried to cover models that serve different purposes. Let’s go!
1. Best Optimum 1 Gig Modem: Arris Surfboard SB8200
Arris SB8200 is the best all-around modem for Optimum 1 Gig Internet. Read on to know how it secured the 1st position on my list.
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.1
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Ports: 2 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Optimum 1 Gig
- Modem-Router Combo: No
If you’d like to invest in a reliable, reliable, top-of-the-line modem that works without frequent restarts and lasts longer than usual, I recommend the Arris SB8200. While the future-proof DOCSIS tech makes it a standout performer, it fits right into the list due to its aesthetic layout.
And if you compare SB8200 with the older SB6190, you would love to know how faster (200 Mbps at least) and, more importantly, consistent it is.
Why is it suited for Optimum?
What gets this modem in is the DOCSIS 3.1 networking technology — a feature that renders the device future-proof. In case Optimum comes with multi-gig internet plans, you can rely on this modem to get the job done, courtesy of the 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA channels that also stand for additional transmission width.
Despite being a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, the SB8200 is more than capable of working with DOCSIS 3.0 devices, known as backward compatible in networking terms. And while the DOCSIS 3.1 is relatively futuristic, the 32 x 8 channel bonding makes the SB8200 good enough for a high-speed 1Gig internet connection from Optimum.
There are 2 Gig ethernet ports in play, allowing you to connect the modem to at least two bandwidth-intensive devices directly. I tested the device with Optimum’s 1Gig plan, only to see it reach max wired download speeds of up to 900Mbps, and upload speeds of 60Mbps. The mentioned speed thresholds are good enough for high-speed gaming and 4K streaming.
Design & Build
Trust me, if you are in it for the aesthetics, the SB8200 won’t disappoint. It assumes a vertical layout primed in black and features four LEDs for a better status indication. The side-adhering heat vents work well, allowing standard heat dissipation. Made of plastic, the device weighs close to 2 pounds and measures 5 x 2 x 5 inches, to be exact.
Hardware & Other Features
The SB8200 has a competent processing setup, led by a multi-core ARM-powered chipset and 512MB of RAM. This arrangement allows the device to cut through any form of congestion. Link aggregation is missing, though. Still, Arris makes up for the same by including OAM support for better diagnostics and a full spectrum bandwidth tuner for better network prioritization.
Conclusion
Finally, if you are looking for a reliable Optimum 1 Gig modem, the Arris SB8200 is the one you should pick, owing to its advanced DOCSIS setup. Also, if you compare it with every other product on the list, Ethernet ports’ processing setup and quality stand out.
Want to learn more? Read my detailed review of Arris SB8200
- Future-proof
- Powerful processor
- Robust form factor
- Built-in spectrum analyzer
- Bulky and thick
- No link aggregation
2. Best for Gaming & Streaming: Netgear CM1100
Need a modem that doesn’t heat up while gaming or streaming? Here it is!
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.1
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Ports: 2 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Optimum 1 Gig
- Modem-Router Combo: No
There aren’t many good-looking standard modems that support Optimum. Well, that changes today with the Netgear CM1100 in play, as it comes as a market leader in terms of the well-ventilated design. And guess what, it is an excellent upgrade to the older CM1000, owing to the better DOCSIS technology that focuses on the future.
Why is it suited for Optimum?
The DOCSIS 3.1 technology makes it special, allowing you to take advantage of the 32 x 8 channel bonding support (associated initially with DOCSIS 3.0). And just so you know, the channel bonding support allows you to get the best possible speeds even during peak hours. The device is backward compatible and can even work with the legacy DOCSIS 2.0 products that you might have around.
There are 2 ethernet ports, allowing you to reach 1Gbps speed on each. What makes it worthwhile is that you can deploy the link aggregation (provided two IPs are assigned) to achieve multi-gig speeds over each port. And that makes it an excellent choice for connecting to 4K streaming and gaming consoles.
Anything less than Optimum 1Gig wouldn’t justify the price you’d shell out for this Optimum internet modem. Also, the practical download and upload speeds of 850Mbps and 55Mbps make a compelling case for data-intensive needs.
And as seen in my review of the Netgear CM1100, it doesn’t lag or throttle while gaming or streaming.
Design & Build
The CM1100 is one of the better-looking devices, boasting a plastic-clad chassis in grey, a 10-LED rose gold stripe in the front, a robust base stand, and a vertical layout. The heat-dissipating vents on the sides are pronounced enough to keep the device cool and throttle-free. The device feels sleek as it measures 8.8 x 3.4 x 5.9 inches and weighs 1-pound.
Hardware & Other Features
There is a multi-core chipset at the helm, coupled with 256MB of RAM, making it easier for the device to cut through any interference. The 128MB flash memory is worth the splurge, allowing you to store the firmware details without breaking a sweat.
On top of that, it offers several user-ready features like IPv6 support for better configuration, OFDM/OFDMA support for future-proofing the modem-specific offerings, and not to forget easy installation.
Conclusion
If you want to replace the Optimum modem with your own, Netgear CM1100 is arguably one of the best options. And this product makes perfect sense to someone whose work may heat up the device. And if you want to compare it with other products, consider the ultra-fast processing setup and congestion-cutting abilities to take center stage.
Suggested Read: Netgear CM1100 vs. CM1200: Should You Upgrade?
- Powerful processor
- DOCSIS 3.1 tech
- IPv6 support
- Link aggregation support
- Portability
- Pricey
3. Best Modem-Router Combo for Optimum: Motorola MG8702
Are you like me, who prefers a minimal setup? Want to get rid of two separate networking devices? If yes, you should consider this combo device!
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.1
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Ports: 4 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Optimum 1 gig
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Yes, I love modem-router combos, especially ones that work with high-speed plans. The Motorola MG8702 is one such device with a USB port and app support that make management more effortless. And if you have been eying the older Motorola MG7700, the MG8702 is a better bet, owing to the better networking technology, which is both futuristic and faster.
Why is it suited for Optimum?
The DOCSIS 3.1 technology takes center stage, owing to the ultra-fast data transmission speeds. There are 32 x 8 channels, enabling much usable bandwidth for multiple devices. This DOCSIS 3.1 modem for Optimum is duly backward compatible and works with DOCSIS 3.0 and legacy devices.
As it is also a wireless router compatible with Optimum, 4 Gig ethernet ports are in action. Using each, you can connect to dependable, smart devices. And while Motorola doesn’t declare link aggregation support, each port can help you reach max data speeds of 950Mbps and 70Mbps (download and upload) over a wired connection. This means it is more than enough for streaming, gaming, and conferencing.
I tested the MG8702 with Optimum’s 1Gig plan, only to find it achieves wireless speeds of 700Mbps and 45Mbps, respectively, over the 5GHz band. For the far band, 100Mbps and 15Mbps speed limits were reached, which is more than acceptable. Adding to the same is the overall LAN wireless throughput of up to 3.7Gbps, independent of the internet plan you seek.
Design & Build
The MG8702 comes in grey, has the right alignment of heat-dissipating vents (just like the Netgear model) to keep the device cool, features a steady base, and makes room for 9 indicative front-facing LEDs and 8 rear-facing LEDs for reporting the status. The combo feels slightly beefy at 9.5 x 2.8 x 9.75 inches and 2.15 pounds.
And to make things more exciting and support LAN-based media transfers, there is a standard USB 3.0 port, sitting pretty with the Ethernet ports.
Hardware & Other Features
The ARM-based chipset doesn’t let you down and offers the best possible signals, day in and day out. With 512MB RAM to assist, expect zero connection drops. A full-band tuner in play prioritizes traffic, yet not at the expense of energy. Also, there is MU-MIMO technology in place, allowing you to connect over 30 devices on the network.
You also get access to smart wireless network management using the app. These include a slew of parental controls, a speed testing option, power boost technology, a range boosting feature that allows you to cover more than the assigned 2500 Sq Ft, and the beamforming prowess for adding to the power of each wireless connection.
Conclusion
If your eyes are set on a powerful combo device, look no further than the Motorola MG8702. This device ensures you can save money, have minimal setup, and get an aggregated speed of AC3200, which is as good as an individual router. If you still want to pit it against other products on the list, the 2-in-1 functionality and inclusion of a USB port separate it apart from the rest.
Want to learn more? Read my Motorola MG8702 review.
- Reliable processor
- Doubles down as an excellent router
- 4 Ethernet ports
- Unexpected USB port
- Reliable app support
- Overkill for less powerful internet plans
4. Best For Optimum 500: Netgear CM700
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Ports: 1 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Internet 300
- Modem-Router Combo: No
A high-end budget modem isn’t a contradictory statement. Instead, you can get premium services for a steal with the Netgear CM700. An Optimum-approved modem that doesn’t allow overheating to come into the picture. And if you compare it with the CM500, the CM700 seems a good upgrade, courtesy of the improved channel bonding support and faster transmission.
Why is it suited for Optimum?
The DOCSIS 3.0 standard makes it an excellent pick for $99, allowing you to get steady internet even during the most demanding hours. What makes this possible is the 32 x 8 channel bonding. Also, the product here is backward compatible, something you would have understood by now.
There is only one Gig ethernet port that theoretically supports a Gig connection. However, based on the hardware and price point, an Internet 300 plan from Optimum plan is the perfect fit. Coming to the download and upload speeds, I tested the same up to 230Mbps and 15Mbps, respectively, which I believe is more than enough for gaming, 4K streaming, or even standard office work.
Design & Build
This device looks a lot like the CM1100 that I reviewed above. And while it is compatible with every major cable service provider, I was more intrigued by the sturdy base and the well-proportioned heat-dissipating vents. The plastic-clad form factor feels good to hold and hardly overheats. Plus, there are 5 LEDs for you to refer to the network status in case of an outage.
If you prefer the specifics, the CM700 weighs a mere 0.55 pounds and measures 6.6 x 5.2 x 1.7 inches, putting it in the premium league in terms of aesthetics.
Hardware & Other Features
The standard multi-core processor is good enough to help you with office work and leisure activities. The SoC is handled with 256MB of RAM. As for other features, it is IPv6 compatible, making the setup and configuration a cakewalk. And to make things better, there is the auto-sensing technology that prioritizes usage better.
Conclusion
Budget seekers, attention! Netgear CM700, owing to the DOCSIS 3.0 technology, makes quite a compelling case to be one of the go-to modems for Optimum. And as compared to other products, its value-infused price tag is undoubtedly a standout attribute.
Want to learn more? Read my full Netgear CM700 review
- 32 x 8 channel bonding support
- Integrated auto-sensing support
- QoS functionality is organically infused
- IPv6 compatible
- Intel Puma chipset
5. Best For Optimum 300: Arris Surfboard SB6190
If you are low on budget and don’t do gaming then you may consider the SB6190. Since it comes with an underwhelming Intel Puma 6 chipset, it may perform slower at times. Caution: It’s featured in the bad modems list.
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Ports: 1 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Optimum 1 Gig and Internet 300
- Modem-Router Combo: No
If you want to replace the Optimum modem for something affordable, the Arris Surfboard SB6190 is your guy. The ability to take care of basic internet requirements makes it an ideal fit at this price. And SB6190 has the edge over the dated SB6183, which only involves 16 x 4 channels.
Why is it suited for Optimum?
Arris SB6190 takes functionality to a new level by being a good fit for basic and mid-range internet plans courtesy of the DOCSIS 3.0 support and 32 x 8 channel bonding technology. And just so you know, the wider channels are backward compatible, meaning the device can work with older DOCSIS models.
One Gig ethernet port allows you to connect the modem to the router or any bandwidth-intensive smart device. As for the throughput, you can easily pull close to 800Mbps (download speeds) when tested with Gig internet and almost 250Mbps/12Mbps (Download/Upload) with the Internet 300 Plan. Regardless of what you browse, the performance is good.
Design & Build
The SB6190 looks more like a plastic-clad rectangular box. As far as the dimensions go, this slab measures 5 x 5 x 2.1 inches, to be exact. At 1.13 pounds, this is also one of the more portable modems in sight. You can even access four front-facing LEDs followed by the side-adhering heat-dissipating vents.
Hardware & other Features
A dual-core chipset is in place, working hand-in-hand with the 256MB of RAM. The mentioned processing setup ensures minimal connection drops. In addition, this device comes with a built-in tuner, providing better energy management. And the app-based setup and control are also super convenient and useful.
Conclusion
If you want to go with one of the most affordable yet compatible modems for Optimum, I suggest the Arris SB6190 over everything else. And while the processing setup is a bit underwhelming, providing decent specs at this price makes it a value-for-money product. Read the full review…
- Pocket-friendly
- Can work with Gig connections as well
- Doesn’t heat up
- Reliable processing unit
- Bad chipset
Optimum Approved Modems [Official List]
Model Name | DOCSIS Technology | Channel Bonding | Suitable Plan | Router Modem Combo | Voice Compatibility | Bad Chipset |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ARRIS G34 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ✅ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS G36 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ✅ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS S33 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ❌ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS T25 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ❌ | ✅ | Yes |
ARRIS CM8200A | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ❌ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SB6141 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SB6180 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SB6182 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SB6183 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SB6190 | 3. 0 | 32 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | Yes |
ARRIS SB8200 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ❌ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SBG10 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
ARRIS SBG6400 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SBG6580 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SBG6700-AC | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SBG6782-AC | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SBG6900-AC | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
ARRIS SBG6950AC2 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
ARRIS SBG7400AC2 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
ARRIS SBG7580-AC | 3. 0 | 32 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
ARRIS SBG7600AC2 | 3. 0 | 32 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
ARRIS SBG8300 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
ARRIS TM1602G | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ✅ | No |
ARRIS TM3402 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ❌ | ✅ | Yes |
ASUS CM-16 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
ASUS CM-32 | 3. 0 | 32 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
Hitron CODA | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ❌ | ❌ | No |
Hitron-Zyxel CDA-30360 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 100 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
Linksys CG7500 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 1 Gig | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
Linksys CM3008 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
Linksys CM3016 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | Yes |
Linksys CM3024 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | Yes |
Motorola MB7220 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MB7420 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MB7621 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MB8600 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ❌ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MB8611 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ❌ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MG7310 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MG7315 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MG7540 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MG7550 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MG7700 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MG8702 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ✅ | ❌ | No |
Motorola MG8725 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C3000-100NAS | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C3000v2 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C3700-100NAS | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C3700v2 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C6220 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C6230 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C6250 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C6300 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
NETGEAR C6300v2 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
NETGEAR C6300BD | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
NETGEAR C6900 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C7000 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C7000v2 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C7500 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR C7800 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gig | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CG3000D | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CG3000Dv2 N450 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CG4500BD | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM400 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM500 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM600 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM700 | 3. 0 | 32 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | Yes |
NETGEAR CM1000 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM1000v2 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM1100 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM1200 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 2 Gbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM2000 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 5 Gbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM2500 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CM3000 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CAX30S | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 2 Gbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CAX80 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 6 Gbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
NETGEAR CBR40 | 3. 0 | 32 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | Yes |
NETGEAR CBR750 | 3.1 | 32 x 8 | 1 Gbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
TP-Link ARCHER CR500 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
TP-Link ARCHER CR700 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
TP-Link CR1900 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
TP-Link TC-7610 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
TP-Link TC-7620 | 3. 0 | 16 x 4 | 300 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
TP-Link TC7650 | 3. 0 | 24 x 8 | 500 Mbps | ❌ | ❌ | No |
TP-Link TC-W7960 | 3. 0 | 8 x 4 | 500 Mbps | ✅ | ❌ | No |
A Beginner’s Guide To Buying a Modem
After you have gone through the Optimum compatible modem list, selecting one might not get any easier. Right now, you should be hitting the drawing board and getting a feel of the preferences, features, and other factors that might affect your choice.
Optimum Internet Plans
Plans | Max Download Speed | Max Upload Speed | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Optimum 300 | Up to 300 Mbps | Up to 35 Mbps | $40/mo |
Optimum 500 | Up to 500 Mbps | Up to 35 Mbps | $60/mo |
Optimum 1 Gig | Up to 940 Mbps | Up to 50 Mbps | $80/mo |
Keeping the plans restricted to cable internet connections, you can opt for Optimum 300 as a standard gaming and internet pack or the 1 Gig internet plan for office connections.
Your Requirements
It all comes down to the why. Like why do you even need the modem for Optimum in the first place? For instance, a powerhouse is preferred if you plan to set up a multi-device home or office setup. Something that lets you reach multi-gig speeds, with more than one Gig port and link aggregation support. Remember the CM1100 from Netgear?
Yet, if you are a value buyer who wouldn’t want to spend time shopping for a new router, a combo like the MG8702 might be a better option. And while you are at it, you might want to weigh your voice-over-IP requirements or bundled TV plan requirements, if any. And depending on the choice, you might want to pick a suitable modem.
Speeds & Channel Bonding
Regarding the speeds, you might want to choose the right internet plan and then look for the Optimum online modem. If you are a typical gamer with a few devices at home, the Internet 300 plan might make sense.
However, if you have multiple devices at home and prefer the best-in-class Gig internet plan with 940Mbps as the peak offering, your choice of Optimum internet modem might need to get a bit more premium. Depending on the speed needs, you can either go for a DOCSIS 3.0 or a DOCSIS 3.1 modem. (Check the differences)
You can even double down on the port arrangement here. If there aren’t many bandwidth-intensive devices at home and you do not want to connect to a WiFi router, as yet, one Gig ethernet port might be enough. If you stick to a combo, there might be more than two ports in play, making it easier for you to set up high-gain wired connections.
For gaming and streaming, anything adobe 200Mbps works, and therefore, every Optimum connection might be good enough.
Hardware & Design
You might not give much thought to a modem’s processing setup but trust me, it surely plays an important role. First, a multi-core processor followed by 256MB of RAM is a must, as only then will you be able to wade through interference and congestion.
Also, the design matters because you would not want the device too bulky. It is advisable to pick something light, comes with functional heat vents, has a steady base or stand for stability, and is loaded with at least four LEDs to indicate any network status or glitch beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can. In fact, buying an Optimum-compliant modem is far more economical than renting one. On average, you will save around 120 USD within the first year of your purchase, which is a cost you’ll pay for a decent modem. So, without a doubt, I would recommend you to buy one.
The answer to this question lies inside this article. After testing dozens of modems with Optimum ISP, I finally came up with a list of the 5 best options. They are compatible with the ISP and feature excellent wireless connectivity at a great price.
If you do not have a gaming console or a PC right now, I recommend getting a modem with at least 2 Ethernet ports because you never know what the future holds. Therefore, it is smart to buy a future-proof product.
Verdict
All Optimum-certified modems listed here are suitable, as I’ve already filtered out many bad options. Feel free to choose any of them; it will get the job done.
If you’re still confused about which one to get, here is what I’d opt for based on a different budget, service package, and specific requirements:
- If you want the best overall modem that comes with the latest features like DOCSIS 3.1, nothing beats the Arris Surfboard SB8200. You can use it with any service package from Optimum, including the Gig Internet plan, and it should work flawlessly.
- If you prefer easy to configure modem/router combo over a powerful stand-alone modem, then Motorola MG8702 is a good choice for you. According to my tests, it works best with the Gig internet plan.
- If you’re a student or a professional who doesn’t indulge in data-intensive activities, the affordable Netgear CM700 is a great buy for you. It can be paired with the 300Mbps internet plan and should give you consistent speeds without any issues.
What is the best modem with voice for Optimum that doesn’t have Puma 6 issues?
Hey AL,
Honestly speaking, there is no reliable telephony modem available for Optimum. The one available has an inferior chipset.
To use voice services, I suggest you switch the ISP to Comcast Xfinity as it has better compatibility with third-party voice modems.
Read this: https://approvedmodems.org/xfinity-internet-review/
Thanks for the list. Much appreciated. I have spent a ton of time trying to find a certified list of modems for Optimum. When I contacted Optimum support, I was given only a list of 4 modems, are of which included telephony, which I do not want, and also seemed fairly old.
I see you list the Arris SB6183, which was not included on the list sent my Optimum support (well, none of your list was included on theirs). That’s actually a modem I currently have and am using successfully for the moment. For varying reasons, I’m thinking of getting a new one. Had you looked at the Arris SB6190? I thinking this just as an upgrade to the 6183 in case I go from 300 to 500 service down the road.
Thanks for any thoughts and again for the list.
I believe you’ll face some provision issues with the Arris SB6190. In my opinion, you should consider getting the Arris SB8200. Many Optimum customers I know use it and it works smoothly for them.
https://approvedmodems.org/optimum/#1_Best_Overall_Arris_Surfboard_SB8200
Much appreciate the response. After submitting my question I found the Arris 6190 on your list of not recommended modems and so returned it unopened. I ended up going with the Motorola MG8702 (high-end combo) as I am not looking to upgrade my setup any time soon.
Thanks again for your time and effort and for making this information available.
Warren Smith, Glad I could help! 🙂
Can you recommend a 3.1 modem for optimum with a phone port?
Lew Bly,
I’m sorry for not getting back to you on time. But I did read your comment, did some research, checked out some modems with phone jack, while most of them weren’t compatible, I found the Arris TM1602A (It’s one of the bad modems available), but for Voice supports, that’s your best bet!
I actually purchased the Optimum version of the 1602 voice modem directly from Arris and, I don’t know if it was the 4 port built-in switch, or the bad Puma chipset, but after provisioning, the speeds on each port were 20Mbps down, 6 up. And that’s with the Gigabit plan. So back it went. There’s also the Arris T25 voice modem, but also has the bad Puma chip. You’re better off using 2 modems.
I went with the Arris 8200 strictly for internet use, and one of the older Docsis 3.0 modems, Arris 822, for Voice only, no internet. Optimum can set up 2 modems for you, with 1 doing only internet and the other doing only voice. I am a former technician of 7 years and used to do that setup all the time. If it’s Optimum’s modems, they don’t like doing that. But you’re own modems isn’t a problem. You just need the right person on the phone that knows how to do it. You can also locate the modems in separate parts of the house if it’ll benefit you to have one modem in the basement and another on the main floor.
Hi.
I have 100 Mbps Speed with Optimum.
I picked up an Arris Motorola SB6180 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem.
Is the SB6180 compatible with Optimum ?
Will the SB6180 work well with Optimum ?
Hey Dave,
It seems like Arris SB6180 doesn’t support Optimum. Even if it is compatible, I would suggest you skip it and get the Motorola MB7621 or Netgear CM500. These two are excellent budget options and are definitely better than SB6180.
I hope this helps.
Hi Kurt.
We have the Optimum 500Mb plan and the VoIp. I bought my own Arris TM3402A. I’ve already returned the first one under warranty and now after a couple of weeks with the second one the same problem started to appear. The modem reboots randomly. It loses connection and my entire system goes down. I did some investigation and I found out that this modem is on the list of Intel Puma 6 modems. I am furious about it. I will return it to Arris for my money back. The one good thing with Arris is their Customer Support. Today I purchased the Arris SB8200 following your recommendation. It should be here tomorrow. We’ll lose the VoIp feature, but I guess that’s the price to pay for the stability of our internet service, with a DOCSIS 3.1 compatible modem.
You don’t have to lose voice service. Use the Arris 3.1 8200 for internet only, and Best Buy sells the Voice Arris 822 3.0 modem for cheap. Optimum can setup the 8200 for Internet only and the Arris 822 for Voice only. You can even locate them at separate parts of the house, or have them on the same splitter next to each other. You’re able to put the phone modem near where your main phone base is if you like. I was a tech for 7 years and this was a common occurrence.
Hey Pete,
I think what ‘Tech’ has replied here is a great idea to keep your internet connection strong while not losing on phone service.
I appreciate your input, Tech.
Are there any 3 phone jack modems?
2 main lines and one fax line.
Hey James,
No, I haven’t encountered any 3 Phone Jack modem so far. If you do, let me know 🙂