7 Best Sparklight Compatible Modems [Approved by Cable One]

Do you want a modem that works with Sparklight? Whether you’re just looking forward to get rid of the monthly equipment rental or are looking for a modem or modem/router combo suited for your needs, you’ve come to the right place.

81% of the people don’t mind paying the highly expensive monthly equipment rental, but they’re tired of the shitty equipment they get despite paying high lease fees. Also, at times, the equipment you get with the rental isn’t suited for your internet usage needs, that calls for an upgrade too. So basically, it’s not just you who wants to replace a rented modem by purchasing it.

You shall get any of the approved modems listed on the official Sparklight (CableOne) website, but the performance won’t be the same on. Also, some of the listed modems are bad devices. That’s why after testing 31 devices with different Sparklight service packages, I’ve made this list of 7 best options.

Besides being approved by the Sparklight, the cable modem that you are getting must be compatible with your service package too. For instance, if you’re subscribed to a 1000 Mbps plan then a modem capable of handling data speeds of upto only 50 Mbps modem won’t be helpful.

Alternatively, you can stop researching by getting the fastest cable modem that’s certified by Sparklight, but there’s no point in paying the extra for something you wouldn’t actually need. For instance, if you’re on a 50 Mbps plan, a 1000 Mbps modem will work, but you would be underutilizing it.

It’s always suggested to get the option that’s highly suited for your subscribed plan. Unlike other guides that just include the best options, we’ve actually included the options that are best for different speeds.

Best Sparklight Compatible Modems in 2021 [Cable One Approved]

Plans	Max Download Speed	Max Upload Speed	Price
Starter 100 Plus	Up to 100 Mbps	Up to 10 Mbps	$45/mo
Streamer & Gamer 200 Plus	Up to 200 Mbps	Up to 20 Mbps	$65/mo
Turbo 300 Plus	Up to 300 Mbps	Up to 30 Mbps	$80/mo
GigaONE Plus	Up to 1000 Mbps	Up to 50 Mbps	$125/mo

If you’re on the high-speed GigaONE Plus plan, consider choosing the modems that have been ranked between 1 and 4. If your subscribed speed is between 100 Mbps to 300 Mbps, consider choosing from the rest of the 3 options.

In case you want to learn how we choose the modems, you shall check out our beginner’s guide to buying modems which includes the important factors that you should take into consideration when getting one.

1. Best for Sparklight GigaONE: ARRIS SB8200

As Sparklight offers a hybrid-fiber cable internet service, you are better off purchasing a high-end modem for the same. Now that you are looking for some real speeds, nothing works better than the Arris SB8200. Just so you know, it’s one of the best DOCSIS 3.1 modems.

The SB8200 is packed with processing firepower and almost every necessary networking standard. Also, when compared to the CM8200, which is a modem-router combo, the SM8200 is better suited for managing demanding tasks with the lowest possible latency. The reason for this incremental performance has to be the sizeable RAM module.

Note: This is a standalone modem, in case you’re looking for a modem/router combo, consider checking out the Arris SBG8300 (I’ve reviewed it.)

Which Sparklight plan is best managed by this device?

I would personally recommend this modem for the Gigabit internet plan from Sparklight, i.e., the Gigaone Plus, which is best known for excellent download and average upload speeds.

Other compatible ISPs: Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, Midco, Cox, WOW! Internet, and more.

Speed & Channel Bonding

The SB8200 from Arris boasts the DOCSIS 3.0 standard with 32×8 channel bonding support, which translates into overall speeds of up to 2Gbps. While 2Gbps is the maximum limit, you are supposed to get something in the 940Mbps range, while using a Sparklight Gigaone Plus internet plan.

Also, the rated speeds are only possible to reach if you have a high-speed Wi-Fi AX modem by your side. However, the best part about using the SB8200 is its ability to showcase the DOCSIS 3.1 network standard, as an effort to access 2×2 OFDM/OFDMA channels for handling congestion with ease.

Hardware & Performance

The Broadcom chipset, paired with 3GB RAM, is the foremost reason for placing this product atop the list. The processing setup ensures that data packets can access the wide network channels with ease, resulting in faster internet. Also, if you are into gaming, latency shouldn’t be an issue if the SB8200 is a part of your home network.

Design & Build

As far as the aesthetics are concerned, this top-shelf modem comes in white and weighs 2.2 pounds. The dimensions are limited at 5.24 x 4.24 x 1.65 inches, which is pretty standard for a modem. When it comes to the structural attributes, the SB8200 from Arris comes equipped with 2 dedicated Ethernet slots, each with Gig capabilities.

But then, unlike most products on the list, Arris offers link aggregation support on this one, allowing you to reach maximum data rates of up to 2Gbps. However, for this concept to work, you need to enroll for another IP from Sparklight.

Why is it good for Sparklight?

For Sparklight users, the Arris SB8200 is the topmost modem on the list, courtesy of the excellent hardware setup. Plus, every other product on the list fades in comparison as the modem features link aggregation support and handles torrenting better than most.

2. Best Runner Up: Netgear CM1200

The Netgear CM1200 comes at a price, but the top-shelf features certainly justify my willingness to pair it with the Gigaone Plus internet plan. Also, I extensively compared it with the ever-reliable CM1000 and readily identified the Nighthawk CM1200 as a better choice, owing to the availability of four Ethernet ports instead of two ports on the former.

Which Sparklight plan is best managed by this device?

If you are planning to persist with Sparklight as the ISP of choice, the Gigaone Plus internet plan is the best choice to consider. However, I still feel it is good enough for being used as a future-proof modem in case the cable-fiber hybrid models start offering multi-gig speeds.

But then, if you want to shift to any other service provider, the Nighthawk CM1200 can be used for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and more.

Speed & Channel Bonding

As a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, the Nighthawk CM1200 is capable of moving data faster across congested networks. However, in usual cases, the DOCSIS 3.0 support is active with 32×8 channel bonding support to rely on.

This technology allows the modem to reach maximum speeds of up to 2Gbps. However, as I used it with a Wi-Fi AC router, the maximum speeds were close to 900Mbps, with the Sparklight Gigaone Plus internet plan.

Also, regardless of the router you choose, the upload speeds by Sparklight are capped at 50Mbps, which is still pretty good considering the 8 upstream channels in play.

Hardware & Performance

The Nighthawk CM1200 houses a standard dual-core processor, which is good enough for minimizing gaming latency and streaming lags. The impact on performance is massive with IPv6 support as the chipset works closely with the DOCSIS 3.1 standard and allows you to pair almost 30 devices, with a compatible router to work with.

Design & Build

As far as the design elements are concerned, the CM1200 assumes a rectangular form factor with dimensions reading 6.1 x 3.4 x 10.3 inches. At 1.22 pounds, the weight is close to manageable. However, I was most impressed with the ventilated, mesh-like layout that keeps overheating to a minimum.

The port management is forward moving with Netgear making way for 4 Ethernet slots, with link aggregation support allowing you to reach maximum speeds of up to 2Gbps, albeit with two IPs in play.

Why is it good for Sparklight?

The Netgear Nighthawk CM1200 is one of the best modems to purchase if you are planning to get the most valued internet plan from Sparklight i.e. Gigaone Plus. Also, as compared to some of the other modems of the list, the availability of 4 Ethernet ports makes the CM1200 a justified runner-up.

3. Best Modem/Router Combo: ARRIS SBG8300

If you are into wireless combos, the ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300 is an excellent investment to make, specifically if you are willing to persist with the top-tier internet plan from Sparklight.

What’s insightful is that I even compared it with the MG8702 from Motorola, only to discover that the former is better in terms of compatibility with Sparklight. In addition to that, it has integrated power-boosting amplifiers to extend the wireless range and associated speeds.

Also, unlike the standard modem-router combos available in the market, the ARRIS SBG8300 supports simultaneous signal focusing for both 2GHz and 5GHz bands.

Which Sparklight plan is best managed by this device?

Considering the insanely stacked specs sheet and nascent projections, I would recommend using the SBG8300 for a Gigaone Plus internet plan from Sparklight. Also, if you prefer other service providers like Cox, Xfinity, or even Spectrum, this device can be worth considering.

Speed & Channel Bonding

There are a lot of technical aspects, including the optional DOCSIS 3.1 support, that are driving the best speeds on this product. Firstly, I was most impressed with the usual 32×8 channel bonding support, courtesy of the DOCSIS 3.0 technology, which is more than capable of keeping the connection speeds intact, even during peak hours.

Therefore, you can expect 5GHz download speeds of up to 980Mbps with the Gigaone Plus connection. The upload speeds, however, are restricted to 50Mbps. However, what impressed me the most is the 2GHz speed capping of 150Mbps, courtesy of the simultaneous Beamforming support.

Hardware & Performance

ARRIS SBG8300 is powered by a multi-processor technology based on ARM and ATOM that paves the way for faster responses and transmissions. Also, the processor ensures that the combo is loaded with several network-intensive specs, including the intelligent traffic management courtesy of the MU-MIMO support.

The 4×4 streams ensure excellent routing capabilities, whereas the Full-band digital tuner ensures that the traffic and data packets are sent through with minimal energy consumption. Also, OFDMA is available, which allows simultaneous transmissions to multiple devices on the network.

Design & Build

The SBG8300 from ARRIS comes in black and weighs close to 1.94 pounds. When it comes to the measurements, the device exhibits 9.33 x 2.87 x 8 inches, which is pretty nominal considering the capabilities. Not to mention the black color chassis that even shelters four High-speed Ethernet ports and indicative LEDs for better monitoring.

Why is it good for Sparklight?

Overall, the highest possible 4Gbps download speed limits followed by the future-proof technologies qualify the ARRIS SBG8300 as the best combo on the list. Also, the availability of 4 high-gain internal antennas followed by excellent security safeguards makes it a better choice as compared to other products on the list.

4. Best Combo with Wi-Fi 6 Router: Netgear Orbi

Ever considered a good-looking router for your home that also comes with an integrated modem!

Yes, you heard that right and it’s actually possible to purchase such a networking device, provided you consider the Netgear Orbi CBR750 as the product of choice. But then, what about the CAX80 from the same company!

As tested extensively, both CBR750 and CAX80 are exceptional combos with impactful networking capabilities. However, I noticed that the Orbi combo is a much better bet for blanketing entire homes, whilst making the setup, repeater friendly. As compared to the CAX80 that comes with Nighthawk branding, the Netgear Orbi CBR750 is easier to install and configure.

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 Sparklight plan is best managed by this device?

I would still recommend you to pair this with a standard Gigaone Plus internet plan from Sparklight. As a Wi-Fi 6 router, you will be able to make the most of the Gigabit internet plan. Also, if you are interested in moving to any other service provider, the Orbi CBR750 is good enough for Xfinity, Spectrum, and even Cox internet plans.

Speed & Channel Bonding

Firstly, this is one DOCSIS 3.1 ready modem, which allows the combo to use the 2×2 channels, if and when the ISP has the requisite multi-gig plans for the same. For the existing plan though, the built-in DOCSIS 3.0 is good enough with 32×8 channel bonding support.

I tested the same in the office premises and could get download speeds of up to 880Mbps on the 5GHz band. Also, the router promises an overall speed capping of 4.2Gbps with both the bands combined but it is impossible to reach the same in real-time.

However, you can still aim for 1Gbps of overall speed capping as the Wi-Fi AX router can reach download speeds of up to 150Mbps even on the 2.4GHz band.

Hardware & Performance

The Orbi CBR750 comes equipped with a reasonable quad-core chipset. As far as the clock speeds are concerned, the 1.4GHz limit ensures minimal latency and faster responses. However, the chipset ensures that you can make the most of the tri-band routing technology with Orbi accommodating one 2.4GHz band and two 5GHz bands with one dedicated to establishing a mesh-like architecture.

Other performance-boosting specs include the MU-MIMO support for managing multiple devices with ease and simultaneous Beamforming support.

Design & Build

The Orbi CBR750 weighs 3.1 pounds and measures 9.6 x 7.7 x 3.5 inches.  When looked closely, the device feels like a rectangular plastic slab with white and bluish accents. Not to mention the availability of four Gig Ethernet ports at the back that allows you to set up wired connections, if and when necessary.

I was also impressed with the availability of 6 high-gain internal antennas. This attribute, along with the additional 5GHz band, allows the combo to make use of the 8 spatial streams and the power amplifiers for boosting the range to 2500 Sq Ft or even more.

Why is it good for Sparklight?

The Orbi CBR750 from Netgear is more like a router-modem combo as the routing features are exceedingly empowering and allow the product to reach Gig-level speeds with ease. 

However, when it comes to Sparklight alone, the ability of the device to connect 40+ units, excellent security safeguards, and the app-based Smart connect mode to manage and control the features make it a better choice as opposed to other products on the list.

5. Best for Turbo 300 Plus Plan: Motorola MB7420

If you are on a mid-range Sparklight internet plan, the Motorola MB7420 seems like a safe bet to consider. Also, when pitted against the older MB7220, this modem seems better equipped in handling high-speed plans, owing to double the number of downstream channels.

Which Sparklight plan is best managed by this device?

I would consider using the MB7420 for the Turbo 300 Plus internet plan from Sparklight. While you can even consider it for the Gigaone Plus internet plan, the speeds will be capped at 686Mbps, regardless of the modem you choose.

Also, this modem is compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Suddenlink, Spectrum, and other cable or hybrid service providers feeding in via the coaxial cable.

Speed & Channel Bonding

As mentioned, the MB7420 from Motorola caps the speed at 686Mbps. However, if you choose the recommended 300Mbps internet plan, you can easily get the promised speeds and throughput, provided you consider getting a resourceful router.

The DOCSIS 3.0 internet standard is a good enough resource, which empowers the modem via the 16×4 channel bonding support. Therefore, even if you connect it with the Gigaone Plus plan, the speeds will be limited to the 600-650Mbps range.

Hardware & Performance

The Broadcom BCM33843D is a reliable performer, considering the quicker response time of the modem and its ability to maintain consistent speeds. Also, the MB7420 houses a digital tuner with full-band capabilities, which enhances the speeds and overall performances associated with the modem.

Other resourceful attributes that add to the functionality include dual-stack IPv4/IPv6 networking addressing features and decent security safeguards.

Design & Build

The MB7420 comes in black and features a rugged yet well-ventilated structure. Also, the modem weighs a tad above the 0.6-pound mark and measures 6.1 x 4.9 x 2 inches.

Besides, you also get access to five indicative LEDs followed by a solitary Ethernet port with MDI support.

Why is it good for Sparklight?

For the given price, the Motorola MB7420 is the best modem to purchase for the Turbo 300 Plus internet plan from Sparklight. Also, when compared to other products on the list, the MB7420 holds a special position owing to the surge protection support for scaling through areas where outages are common.

6. Best Under Budget: Arris SBG10

Not every modem-router combo you come across is as affordable and resourceful as the Arris SBG10. As an efficient Wi-Fi AC modem, the SBG10 allows you to reach maximum wireless speeds of up to 1.6Gbps, over a particular network.

However, this speed capping doesn’t signify the ISP-based speed, which depends on which Sparklight plan you are currently on. Also, I compared the SBG10 with the ever-reliable SB6141. However, I discovered that the former comes with amplified abilities and better channel segregation as compared to the modem-only SB6141, loaded with 8 downstream channels.

Which Sparklight plan is best managed by this device?

As per reviews, extensive tests, and detailed network analysis, I feel the SBG10 is best suited for the Streamer and Gamer 200 Plus plan from Sparklight. But then, you can still consider pairing it with the Turbo 300 Plus package, as the maximum modem throughput is capped at 300Mbps.

Also, this combo is capable of managing internet plans from other service providers like Spectrum and Cox.

Speed & Channel Bonding

As it is a modem-router combo, you might get confused by seeing the AC1600 standard. However, this is more of a band-specific speed capping for moving data wirelessly between networks and not necessarily the internet speeds.

The 16×4 channel bonding support ensures that the SBG10 is good enough for managing internet speeds of over 600Mbps. However, certain hardware-specific limitations have throttled the maximum speed limit to up to 300Mbps.

On the 5GHz band though, I was able to get download speeds of up to 220Mbps and upload speeds of up to 25Mbps, for the Turbo 300 Plus plan.

Hardware & Performance

The existing 1.2GHz processor ensures decent throughput and minimal buffering. Plus, the DOCSIS 3.0 support allows the modem-router combo to manage connections with ease, even during network congestion.

As far as the routing capabilities are concerned, dual-band and concurrent wireless coverage make it one of the better combos to invest in. When it comes to coverage, the concurrent wireless support allows you to cover close to 2000 sq ft of area.

Design & Build

This modem comes in black and measures 6.77 x 1.97 x 6.58 inches. Plus, the rugged layout and an amassing heft of up to 1.96 pounds make it one of the more durable products on the list.

The SBG10 also comes equipped with two Ethernet ports with each offering 1000Mbps for wired bandwidth. Plus, there are 5 LEDs on offer that help you monitor the network conditions and metrics.

Why is it good for Sparklight?

The Arris SBG10 is the perfect fit for users who are looking to ditch Sparklight rentals and get an affordable combo with decent throughput. Also, despite me reviewing other modems and combos, the SBG10 makes it to the list owing to the easy-to-manage interface and seamless configuration, courtesy of the inventive Surfboard Manager application.

7. Cheapest Modem for Sparklight: Netgear CM500

For low-speed Sparklight internet plans like the Starter 100 Plus, Streamer and Gamer 200 Plus, and even the Turbo 300 Plus, there isn’t a more affordable modem in the market than the Netgear CM500. I even tried comparing it with the CM400 but the performances exhibited by the reviewed modem were far better owing to the availability of 16 downstream channels as opposed to 8.

Which Sparklight plan is best managed by this device?

The CM500 has speeds capped at 300Mbps, which makes it a decent enough choice for the 100 Plus, 200 Plus, and Turbo Plus internet plans from Sparklight. But then, Netgear wouldn’t mind if you end up using the same with Spectrum, Cox, or Comcast internet packages.

Speed & Channel Bonding

The 16×4 channel bonding support is what standardizes this efficient modem. Also, when it comes to real-time speeds, I could get up to 165Mbps when on the Streamer and Gamer 200 Plus plan from Sparklight. 

However, you might find the resultant speeds to be different depending on the router you have at home or office.

Hardware & Performance

When it comes to the processing setup, the Netgear CM500 makes room for 128MB RAM and a standard chipset. While the resultant speeds are better with this processing setup, I was most impressed by the ability of this modem to handle 1080p streaming on multiple devices at once.

Design & Build

The CM500 is one rugged piece of hardware and that too with an integrated bottom stand for additional support. As far as the dimensions are concerned, the product measures 7.28 x 4.88 x 2.26 inches.

Also, the weight at 0.6 pounds is quite manageable, provided you are seeking light and portable devices while expecting a location change. The CM500 comes equipped with 5 accurate LEDs and a solitary Ethernet port that can feed into the router.

The featured port comes with Gig support and also showcases auto-sensing capabilities for helping to prioritize certain tasks over others.

Why is it good for Sparklight?

The Netgear CM500 is an excellent choice for low-bandwidth Sparklight plans owing to the affordability. Also, this modem is one of the few products on the list to showcase QoS functionality, in an effort to speed up the more demanding processes like online gaming and 1080p streaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

Sparklight is compatible with plenty of modem makers, so you have a vast array of devices to choose from. However, we would recommend you to stick to the major companies that we mentioned on this list, as others may not be reliable. They might offer you cheap devices, but they will never be long-lasting and dependable. You don’t want to be wasting your time every 6 months looking for a new modem.

Now, if you’re still confused about choosing one for your home/office, let us help you right away:

• If you need the absolute best modem that comes with the most advanced specifications, then get the Arris Surfboard SB8200.
• If you are in search of a modem router combo that takes less hurdle in setting up, the ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300 is my go-to recommendation.
• If you’re on low-speed plans like Starter 100 Plus or Streamer & Gamer 200 Plus, the Netgear CM500 is an efficient yet highly affordable option.

So, choose an internet modem ideal for your internet package, and then place the order. You must consider your future needs because these devices last for a long time, and it would be smart to choose a future-proof device.