8 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2021 [Approved & Certified]

Are you in search of a cable modem that’s compatible with Optimum in 2021? Perhaps, you’re tired of paying the overpriced equipment rental and think that purchasing internet equipment is better than renting. However, you can’t just pick any random modem and pair it, you need to get the one that’s certified/approved by Optimum.

Just like Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox Internet, and majority of the internet service providers, even Optimum has its own list of compatible modems. But their official list also includes a lot of bad modems, that can cause issues such as high-latency, throttled internet connectivity, packet loss, etc.

You can make a search and you’ll find an endless list of Optimum compatible modems or modem/router combos, but if you end up picking the wrong device, you’ll go through endless connectivity issues. One of my readers have gone through this, that’s why after spending 11 weeks testing various modems with different service packs from Optimum, I’ve made this list of 8 best options.

While you need to get a modem that’s compatible with Optimum, you’ll also need to make sure that it’s also suited for the service pack or internet plan you’ve subscribed to. For instance, you can’t expect a low-end modem to handle gigabit speeds of the Optimum 1 Gig plan.

It doesn’t matter what Optimum package you are on, whether you are on Optimum’s 1 Gig (Gigabit plan) or the medium-end Optimum 500 (download speeds up to 500 Mbps) or even on the slowest Optimum 300 (300 Mbps), you’ll be able to find a modem in this list for your internet needs.

Best Modems For Optimum in 2021

Since you’ve decided to purchase a modem or a modem/router combo that works with Optimum, my job is to help you find a modem that’s not just compatible but is also suited for different internet packages on Optimum.

For a smoother internet browsing experience, make sure that the modem you’re getting has a few extra capabilities than your internet package. For instance, if you’re on Optimum 300, consider getting a modem with download speeds above 300 Mbps (300-400 Mbps.)

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

1. Best for Optimum 1 Gig: Motorola MB8600

If you are in the market for a reliable modem that can manage torrenting, 4K streaming, and online gaming like a pro, it is best advised to invest in Motorola MB8600. This modem takes the top position on the list due to the excellent networking standards, minimal latency, and a wide array of indicative LEDs.

I even tested the modem against the dated MB7220 but was blown away by the 32×8 channels as compared to the 8×4 channel bonding support exhibited by the MB7220. Even the older MG7700, which is a modem-router combo, is outpaced in terms of downstream channels.

Which Optimum plan is best managed by this device?

I would recommend the MB8600 for the 1Gbps internet plan from Optimum. This way, you would be able to make the most of the higher bandwidth, and the Wi-Fi 6 smart benefits, provided there is a Wi-Fi AX router to connect with.

In case you plan on changing the ISP someday, the MB8600 is compatible with the likes of Cox, Spectrum, Comcast, and other cable service providers.

Speed & Channel Bonding

This modem supports DOCSIS 3.1 support, which is good enough for the futuristic internet packages. Also, it supports fallback to the DOCSIS 3.0 standard with 32×8 channel bonding support ensuring better speeds even during peak hours.

As far as the speeds are concerned, the MB8600 feeds 1Gbps right into the router, thereby translating into maximum download speeds of up to 930Mbps, as tested by my team.

Hardware & Performance

What stands out is the ARM-specific chipset that paves the way for AQM and minimal traffic congestion. The performances are therefore top-shelf as AQM technology and Broadcom chipset work in cohesion for minimizing gaming latency.

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

The black-colored MB8600 is not the most aesthetic model in the market. At 1.15 pounds, the heft is close to manageable whereas the dimensions at 9.65 x 8.8 x 2.55 inches exceed our expectations. The build quality is top-notch as Motorola makes way for a meshed plastic layout and 10 LEDs for monitoring network parameters with precision.

Also, I reviewed the variant with one Gig Ethernet port but Motorola has also launched one version of the MB8600 with 4 gig Ethernet ports and link aggregation support. In addition to the port, you also get a coax input followed by the power slot.

Why is it good for Optimum?

The Motorola MB8600 isn’t just good for Optimum internet plans but is perfect for the highest bandwidth package. Also, as compared to other gadgets on the list, the MB8600 is better suited for gaming and torrenting, owing to the Active queue management support.

Want to learn more about the Motorola MB8600? Read my review.

2. Best with Phone Jack: Arris TM1602A

In case you plan on setting up a home or office network with adequate internet coverage and access to telephone ports, the Arris Touchstone TM1602A is the perfect modem to invest in. Rest assured the lack of brilliant aesthetics wouldn’t be having any negative impact on the networking performances.

As far as comparisons are concerned, the TM1602A is quite an upgrade over the Arris TM822G, courtesy of additional downstream and upstream channels, which readily adds to the achievable internet speeds.

Which Optimum plan is best managed by this device?

According to the multi-faceted capabilities of this modem, I would recommend you to pair it with Optimum’s Triple-Play, bundled, internet + phone, cable plan. However, if you someday plan on reshuffling priorities, this device lends support to other compatible service providers like Cablevision, Charter, Spectrum, and more. 

Speed & Channel Bonding

Coming to the speed and throughput, you would first need to know about the channel bonding support in play, as exhibited by the Touchstone TM1602A. This modem offers DOCSIS 3.0 16 x 4 channels out of the box, but you can always upgrade the downstream channels to 24, with an additional downstream license and as per the plan you would want to upgrade to.

Without an upgrade, this modem allows you to reach theoretical speeds of up to 640Mbps. With 24 downstream channels in play, 960Mbps is achievable under ideal circumstances. However, I tested it with the triple play plan and could muster real-time speeds of almost 500Mbps, without upgrading the bonded channels. 

Hardware & Performance

Under the hood, Arris stacks in a basic dual-core processor and 128MB of RAM to cut through congestion and networking interference. Based on the processing setup, I wouldn’t actually recommend this for gaming but for everything else, including 1080p streaming and video conferencing, this modem should suffice.

Other performance-enhancing features include full band tuning support for managing throughput more efficiently and VoIP support courtesy of the telephone ports. 

Design & Build

The Touchstone TM1602A exhibits a standard layout with zero frills about it. The rectangular block of hardened plastic weighs close to 1.11 pounds and measures 7.1 x 1.8 x 7.1 inches. Despite the underwhelming design, the modem consciously tries to keep heating to a minimum.

The port setup, however, paints a more convincing picture with support for one Gig Ethernet port for establishing high-speed internet connections. However, the availability of Embedded Multimedia Terminal Adaptor support, translating into two telephone ports, seems to be the highlight of this device. 

Besides the two RJ-11 jacks working as telephone interfaces, you also get the usual input port for accommodating the coaxial cable. 

Why is it good for Optimum?

The Arris Touchstone TM1602A qualifies as a decent enough choice for Optimum as it allows you to make the most of the more rewarding, bundled plans. Therefore, it makes sense to use it for connecting office setups where VoIP calling is one of the primary requirements.

3. Best Runner Up for Optimum 1 Gig: Netgear CM1000

If multi-ISP compatibility is on your mind followed by ease of setup, I would recommend the Netgear CM1000 over any other modem on the list. In comparison, the smaller CM600 feels way out of place as the CM1000 comes equipped with a more toned chassis and 8 additional downstream channels for better speeds.

Which Optimum plan is best managed by this device?

I would still rate the CM1000 highly for the Gig internet plan from Optimum while some individuals can even try it for the 500Mbps package. However, it is the DOCSIS 3.1 standard that makes it a good fit for all future-proof internet plans.

You can even pair the same with every other reputed cable service provider like Cox, Xfinity, and more, depending on preferences.

Speed & Channel Bonding

The DOCSIS 3.0 network standard, clubbed with 32×8 channel bonding support results in a maximum speed limit of up to 1Gbps. Also, this modem supports the DOCSIS 3.1 2×2 OFDM/OFDMA technology for covering you when network congestion, faster traffic movement, and futuristic speeds are concerned.

When connected to a top-shelf router, the CM1000 ensures that you can reach maximum download speeds of up to 880Mbps.

Hardware & Performance

The CM1000 comes integrated with a standard Broadcom chipset and 256MB of RAM. The existing hardware support allows the modem to cut through any kind of network congestion, even during peak hours.

The performances, therefore, are way better, allowing you to use the modem for gaming, multiple 1080p streams, and other demanding tasks.

Design & Build

As far as the dimensions are concerned, the CM1000 measures 8.8 x 5.4 x 5.9 inches. Also, this modem weighs a manageable 0.84 pounds and features a mesh-like, plastic-based form factor.

This modem comes in black and comes equipped with 1 high-speed Gig port. The solitary Ethernet port is clubbed with indicative LEDs, a power port, and the coaxial cable input. The reason why I’ve ranked it #2 is because the CM1000 only comes with a single gigabit port, while the MB8600 comes with 4 gigabit ethernet ports.

Why is it good for Optimum?

The Netgear CM1000 is one of the best modems for Optimum Gig 1 and other high-bandwidth ISP packs. Also, as compared to other modems on the list, this device takes the second position, owing to the advanced auto-configuration support for simplifying setup and usage.

4. Best Modem/Router Combo: Netgear Nighthawk C7000

The Netgear Nighthawk C7000 isn’t your regular cable modem but a combo with integrated routing capabilities. Also, I had the opportunity to test it alongside the older variant, i.e. the C6900.

As per inferences gathered upon using mid-range Optimum internet plans, the C7000 is moderately faster and even brings in the added USB port for sharing data over WAN and LAN networks.

Which Optimum plan is best managed by this device?

If you are planning to go with Optimum as your service provider of choice, I would recommend this modem-router combo, precisely for the 500 Mbps plan. However, you can even consider this device for low-end internet plans from the same service provider.

In terms of compatibility, this combo also supports Cox, Spectrum, and Comcast Xfinity internet packages but not the ones with voice support.

Speed & Channel Bonding

Firstly, this is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem-router combo, which supports 24×8 channel bonding technology. However, despite lacking 32 downstream channels, the speeds are more than consistent as the device features an integrated router.

Therefore, the modem-to-router speed attenuation is taken care of and you can actually experience the maximum rated speeds of up to 400Mbps for the 5GHz band. The upload speeds for the same band are restricted to 35Mbps.  

As it comes with an integrated router, 2.4GHz band speeds are limited to 120Mbps and 15Mbps, for downloading and uploading, respectively.

Hardware & Performance

At the core, the C7000 houses a standard quad-core processor, capable of clocking at 1.6GHz.The existing chipset helps you manage network congestion like a pro and even gets rid of any kind of latency, which is often encountered in the case of low-speed plans.

The 256MB RAM perfectly supports the chipset and allows you to achieve consistent speeds and throughput. Plus, you can even experience high-end Beamforming+ support followed by a decent enough coverage of 1800sqft.

Most importantly, the advanced chipset, coupled with 128MB flash memory takes care of the firmware updates and even ensures automatic network addressing and top-shelf security safeguards.

Design & Build

This modem-router combo comes in black and measures 9.66 x 8.31 x 1.7 inches. The dimensions are anything but minimal but the 1.6-pound heft is still on the manageable side. Plus, the C7000 comes equipped with a flat stand for managing stability and even exhibits a durable, mesh-like layout.

As far as the ports are concerned, there are 4 Ethernet units to rely on followed by one USB 2.0 slot, coaxial cable input, and the power port. Also, there are quite a few indicative lights that adhere to the front panel.

Why is it good for Optimum?

It is the dual-faceted functionality that makes the Netgear Nighthawk C7000 good enough for mid-range internet plans from Optimum or any other cable service provider. Also, when pitted against other modems and combos on the list, it is the advanced wireless capabilities like the MU-MIMO support and Beamforming+ technology that make it appear this early on the list.

5. Best For Optimum 500: Motorola MB7621

The Motorola MB7621 is one of the few modems on the list that allows you to get the most of the Optimum 500Mbps or even the Gig internet plans. While some might recommend this only for the mid-range plans, Motorola ensures that the wired potential and the throughput are in line with some of the top-shelf modems.

In the meanwhile, I conducted a comparative study with the older, Motorola MB7420 to test the MB7621 against. However, the reviewed variant readily outpaced the MB7420 with 8 additional downstream channels to rely on followed by a more pronounced structure.

Which Optimum plan is best managed by this device?

Despite the maximum data rate capped at 1Gbps, the MB7621 is best suited for 500Mbps and other lower bandwidth plans, in case you are more into wireless networking.

However, the speeds might vary depending on the type of ISP you choose to go with. For the sake of simplicity, this modem is compatible with Optimum and almost every other reputed cable ISP, including Cox, Time Warner, and more

Speed & Channel Bonding

The MB7621 supports the DOCSIS 3.0 24×8 channel bonding technology, which offers 24 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels for sending data through, even during peak hours.

As far as the speeds are concerned, I could get close to 450Mbps, feeding into the Wi-Fi 5 router. But then, the wired speeds were better and I could churn out 500Mbps for the similarly rated, Optimum internet plan.

Hardware & Performance

This is one of the few modems to feature a reliable Broadcom chipset that is way better than the defective Intel Puma 6 chipsets. Plus, the latency is on the lower side and allows you to manage online games and HD streaming like a pro.

The chipset, clubbed with a decent chunk of RAM, also ensures dual-stack IPv6/IPv4 compatibility followed by backward adherence to the DOCSIS 2.0 hardware.

Design & Build

When it comes to the form factor, the MB7621 measures 7.25×7.88 x 2.25 inches; thereby paving the way for a rectangular layout! In addition to the plastic-clad chassis, this modem comes in black and even offers a wide range of LED lights, simply for indicative purposes.

The modem weighs close to 1.2 pounds and offers a dedicated Gig Ethernet port, alongside the power input and a slot for the coaxial cable.

Why is it good for Optimum?

If you are using any internet plan from Optimum, the Motorola MB7621 should be your modem of choice for getting the most bandwidth into the modem. Also, I place this fourth on this list as it strikes a pretty good balance between the price and productivity when compared to some of the other standalone devices on the list.

6. Best Looking Cable Modem: Arris SB6183

• Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
• Downstream/Upstream: 16 x 4
• Max Data Rates: Up to 686Mbps
• Modem-Router Combo: No

Hardly do I come across good-looking modems in white that offers the speeds and data rates expected by a standard user. The Arris SB6183 is one such device that you can best purchase for the 300Mbps internet plan from Optimum.

Also, when I compared it with the less impactful SB6141, I realized the SB6183 is a better choice when it comes to managing plans equal to or slightly higher than the 300Mbps throughput, owing to lower latency and minimal response to congestion.

Which Optimum plan is best managed by this device?

The SB6183 works best with the 300Mbps internet plan from Optimum or any other low-key cable-based internet plan, amounting to 200Mbps or less. Regardless, you can use it with Wow, Cox, Xfinity, Mediacom, and other reputed service providers.

Speed & Channel Bonding

The 16×8 channel bonding support is good enough for most mid-range internet plans. Plus, the DOCSIS 3.0 support also accounts for backward compatibility, provided you have a DOCSIS 20 device at home.

Also, the 400Mbps speed capping is pretty realistic, considering the network standard but as tested, I could only feed close to 250Mbps to the router, when on the 300Mbps Optimum internet plan.

Hardware & Performance

There is a single-core processor on-board, which is not the most efficient but can hold its own during peak hours. However, you should not stretch it out for streaming multiple HD consoles and should respect the 16 downstream channels on offer.

The network drops are next to zilch, provided you use the same for managing online chats and surfing requirements, especially during peak hours.

Design & Build

The SB6183 features a ventilated chassis that accommodates 4 indicative LEDs at the front, one power input, and one port for the coaxial cable. Plus, this modem comes in white, which would force you to clean and maintain the same, intermittently.

The dimensions at 5.25 x 5 x 2.17 inches are respectable and ensure that the modem only weighs close to 1.52 pounds.

Also, there is one Gig Ethernet port to rely on, especially for establishing direct connections with the router.

Why is it good for Optimum?

The Arris SB6183 is good for low-end Optimum internet plans as it is durable, light, and doesn’t heat up despite relentless usage. Also, if you are looking for a device that can be kept turned on for days at once without requiring a break; the SB6183 exceeds other modems and combos on the list.

7. Best For Optimum 300: TP-Link Archer CR700

I know you wouldn’t say no to a mid-range Modem-Router combo like the Archer CR700 from TP-Link, especially if you are planning to get on a 300Mbps internet plan from Optimum.

Also, as compared to the CR500, the TP-Link CR700 promises better coverage and advanced routing capabilities despite sharing similar modem-specific hardware.

Which Optimum plan is best managed by this device?

The CR700 is perfect for the 500Mbps internet plan from Optimum as I could get speeds in excess of 400Mbps for every other cable internet service plan. Also, if you someday want to change the service provider, the CR700 would allow you to pair with Cox, Spectrum, and other reputed ISPs.

Speed & Channel Bonding

The DOCSIS 3.0 technology ensures 16×4 channel bonding support, which is good enough for the 300Mbps and 500Mbps plans. But then, as the CR700 comes with an integrated router it becomes easier to manage a high-speed internet plan as the signal loss and attenuation can be limited.

As tested, I could experience maximum download speeds of up to 430Mbps on the 5GHz band and close to 120Mbps on the far, 2.4GHz band.

Hardware & Performance

The CR700 makes room for a basic dual-core SoC that works in tandem with 256MB of RAM. The processing setup allows you to get better throughput and excellent routing coverage of almost 2000sqft. Plus, the AC1750 router standard is perfectly whetted with the concerned hardware support that even makes way for Beamforming technology and minimal congestion.

Design & Build

The CR700 addresses the structural challenges with a minimal footprint that measures 9.0 x 6.3 x 1.5 inches. Also, the device weighs close to 2.1 pounds and can even be used as a gateway, if and when necessary.

Not just that, the structure is completely rugged and doesn’t have issues related to restrictive ventilation. When it comes to the resources there are four Ethernet ports on offer and that too with link aggregation support.

Also, you get access to two USB 2.0 ports, which allow you to share data over select networks.

Why is it good for Optimum?

The TP-Link CR700 is one of the better modem-router combos for Optimum, owing to the versatility of usage and a pretty aesthetic black-colored layout. However, this beats other devices on the list in terms of the port arrangement.

8. Cheap Optimum Approved Modem: Netgear CM500

The last product on this Optimum modems list seems like an entry-level modem from Netgear but it comes with a lot of processing firepower, especially if you want to run through the low-end internet plans from Optimum. Also, I chose to compare the Netgear CM500 with the CM400, which is an older modem, pertaining to the same series. 

However, the CM500 offers 8 additional downstream channels, thereby resulting in better throughput for similar price points.

Which Optimum plan is best managed by this device?

I would personally recommend the Netgear CM500 for the 300Mbps internet plan from Optimum, owing to the decent throughput and the ability to manage congested networks with precision.

However, you can even consider using this modem for the low-end Cox internet plans and other basic service packages from Spectrum and Comcast.

Speed & Channel Bonding

Here is one modem featuring the standard 16×4 channel bonding support. The DOCSIS 3.0 technology is still ahead of its time and allows you to make the best use of the extended channel spread for achieving speeds of up to 280Mbps for the 300Mbps plan.

When connected to a router, you can get 250Mbps as the 5GHz download speed followed by an upload speed limit of up to 32Mbps. I tested the same with a basic Orbi Mesh router-satellite package and speeds could vary slightly, depending on the choice of the hardware.

Hardware & Performance

When it comes to the processing power and the aligned hardware, TP-Link incorporates a standard chipset that goes hand-in-hand with 128MB of RAM. The existing chunk of RAM ensures that you can reach decent speeds despite the network being congested during peak hours.

As far as the performances are concerned, the standout features include IPv6 support followed by the advanced ability to manage multiple HD streams at once.

Design & Build

The CM500 comes in black and measures 7.28 x 4.88 x 2.26 inches. Also, at 0.6 pounds, this is one of the lightest modems on the list. Other structural specs include the steady plastic base followed by the rugged and well-ventilated chassis.

There is one Ethernet port to work with, in case you need Gig speeds fed right into the router. Plus, there are 5 LEDs to monitor the network state.

Why is it good for Optimum?

The Netgear CM500 is a rare modem as it offers auto-sensing support with the solitary Ethernet port, precisely for prioritizing tasks even over the wired setup. Also, when pitted against other gadgets on the list, the CM500 holds its own in terms of aesthetics and ease of configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

All of the modems on this list are equally good, as I’ve already filtered out all the bad options. So you can choose any one of them, and it will get the job done. First, however, make sure that the one you’ve chosen is capable of handling the internet package you’ve subscribed to.

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 Motorola MB8600. 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 Netgear Nighthawk C7000 is a good choice for you. According to my testings, it works best with the 500Mbps plan.
• If you’re a student or a professional who doesn’t indulge in data-intensive activities, the affordable Netgear CM500 is a great buy for you. It can be paired with the 300Mbps internet plan and should give you consistent speeds without any issues.