6 Best Spectrum Approved Modems in 2022 [High Compatibility]

Are you facing trouble using the bundled Spectrum internet modem or want a no-nonsense modem-router combo to stop paying $5/month for router rental? If yes, it’s the right time to get a Spectrum compatible modem. And if you’re wondering if Spectrum allows using your own modem, I’m happy to inform you that you can pair your equipment!

Although the ISP provides a Spectrum-supported modem without charges, many users face network lags, loss of packets, and other connectivity-related issues. While I don’t know the exact reason behind it, it could be because some of the Spectrum modems feature Intel Puma 6 chipset. This chipset has latency issues and is often found in bad modems.

Whether you’ve subscribed or are planning to subscribe to the fastest Internet Gig plan or mid-range Ultra plan, or even the lowest 100 Mbps plan, this list of modems compatible with Spectrum shall surely help you find a device that’s not just approved by the ISP, but will also cater to your diverse internet needs.

6 Best Spectrum Approved Modems in 2022

I went through the official list of modems that work with Spectrum, tested out around 13 different models with different service packages, and finally made this list. I’ve ensured that no matter what your use case is, you’ll find a suitable device for your specific needs and budget.

And just for your convenience, below are the service packages along with the speeds offered by Spectrum. You can consider them while selecting the right Spectrum cable modem.

Plans	Max Download Speed	Max Upload Speed	Price
Internet	Up to 100 Mbps	Up to 10 Mbps	$49.99/mo
Internet Ultra	Up to 400 Mbps	Up to 20 Mbps	$69.99/mo
Internet Gig	Up to 940 Mbps	Up to 35 Mbps	$109.99/mo

1. Best Overall: ARRIS Surfboard S33

This is the best modem to use with Spectrum Internet Gig plan!

Looking to make the most of your Gigabit internet plan? Try out the functional and feature-packed ARRIS Surfboard S33. As one of the better Spectrum authorized modems, the S33 has a lot going, more so with the 2.5G LAN Port — a feature that outsmarts the older SB8200 from the same company.

Speeds & Service Package Suitability

When it comes to internet speeds, theoretically, the ARRIS Surfboard S33 ensures maximum throughput of almost 3.5Gbps. In my test with the Spectrum gig internet plan, it could deliver almost 850Mbps, courtesy of a Wi-Fi 6 router. In addition to the wireless connections, you can also enjoy the highest possible wired connection of almost 1Gbps.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

As far as networking technology is concerned, this modem strikes the perfect balance between the DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 technologies. The 32 x 8 SCQAM standard is more than adequate to reroute moderate traffic, whereas, for gaming and streaming, you can always rely on the 2 x 2 DOCSIS 3.1 support with OFDMA technology.

The increased bonded channel width moves traffic and data smoothly, even during the congestion-prone peak hours of Spectrum internet. Most importantly, the adequate spread of the downstream and upstream channels also qualifies it for other ISPs, including Comcast Xfinity and Cox.

Ports

As for the ports, there are 2 high-speed slots to account for; one Gig Ethernet slot and one 2.5Gbps wired slot. Complementing the same is the link aggregation support that allows you to combine the wired throughput for assuming maximum speeds of up to 3.5Gbps, only if the ISP has the requisite hardware for the same.

Design & Build

This is one of the rare white-colored devices on the list, best known for its durable plastic chassis and roundish structure. There are several air vents in play to avoid overheating. Coming to the heft, the modem itself weighs close to 1.5 pounds and measures a standard 5.24 x 1.65 x 5.24 inches.

Also, the rear panel comes replete with the basic cable input, ethernet, and power ports, whereas LEDs bestow on the front panel.

Hardware Setup

The ARRIS Surfboard S33 comes equipped with a standard ARM-based processor, which can manage multiple data and traffic streams without breaking a sweat. Therefore, if you have a Wi-Fi 6 router by your side, this modem is probably the best option to invest in, courtesy of the 1.2GHz processor and the associated bandwidth tuner.

Conclusion

While there are several top-shelf Spectrum compatible modems in the market, Arris S33 is the best pick for gigabit internet. The integrated spectrum analyzer makes it a good pick as you can use it to steer clear of network congestion. Plus, the two-year product warranty and exceptional customer support separate it from other options on the list.

Suggested Comparisons:

• Arris Surfboard S33 vs Motorola MB8611
• Arris Surfboard S33 vs Arris SB8200

2. Best Runner Up: Netgear CM1100

Are you looking for a Charter-approved modem with two Gig ethernet slots? Your search for the same should end by purchasing a Netgear CM1100. But is it really powerful? Can you use it for heavy data-centric work? Let’s find out!

In case you plan on checking out the best spectrum-approved modems that come at an affordable clip yet do not cut performance-specific corners, the Netgear CM1100 comes across as a good enough choice. It even beats the Netgear CM1000, when it comes to overall performances and speeds. Learn differences between CM1000 and CM1100.

Speeds & Service Package Suitability

I tested the CM1100 with Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan, only to see it manage to download and upload speeds of up to 940Mbps and 40Mbps, respectively. However, I could get the speeds with a direct connection and not upon connecting the same to a router.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

Performance-wise, the CM1100 is also top-notch, more so due to the DOCSIS 3.1 technology, 2 x 2 OFDM support to go with it, and the usual 32 x 8 channel bonding compatibility that lets you experience insane speeds, provided you have the right internet plan to go with.

Ports

Here is a device that features two Gig ethernet ports for setting up wired connections. Plus, there is link aggregation support to help you achieve multi-gig speeds if required.

Design & Build

Design-wise, this modem assumes a rugged structure, primarily relying on the perfect placement of vents for heat dissipation. The basal stand reappears to lend stability to the device. Dimensions read 8.80 x 3.40 x 5.90, making it a slimmer variant to get. And finally, the device weighs close to one pound, which is yet another feather in its cap.

Hardware Setup

Finding its way into the modem is the BCM3390 processor, which is great at managing latency and gaming ping. Other processing components in play include the 256MB of built-in RAM for complementing the chipset. There is a 128MB storage unit in place to store the updates and modem details.

Conclusion

With just the right number of LEDs on the front and link aggregation support to help you achieve speeds higher than 1 Gbps, the Netgear CM1100 is something that every standard home or office setup can consider purchasing. You may also read a dedicated review of the Netgear CM1100.

3. Best for Corporate Spaces: ARRIS Surfboard SB8200

The SB8200 from ARRIS is one of the most popular Docsis 3.1 powered modems, best known for the Ethernet-based link aggregation support. However, for Spectrum, this might still offer exceptional wireless speeds, provided you can get hold of a functional, dual-band router.

In case you are worried about signal interference over anything else, the ARRIS Surfboard SB8200 comes across as a reliable Charter Spectrum modem, loaded with a more efficient processing setup as compared to the older SB6190.

Speeds & Service Package Suitability

Firstly, the SB8200 is compatible with Spectrum’s all internet packages. I tried using the same with a gig internet plan and could churn out close to 950Mbps, as the given download speed.

However, the gig Ethernet ports ensure the device can reach speeds capped at 1Gbps on each of the two ports, which can be further amplified with link aggregation support. But, that’s a technology for higher speed plans, and at present, Spectrum doesn’t have the requisite hardware for the same.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

There are 32 upstream and 8 downstream channels. The processing consortium can also incorporate 2 x 2 upstream & downstream channels, courtesy of the DOCSIS 3.1 support. However, the DOCSIS 3.1 is invoked only if you start experiencing network congestion and you need a more prioritized network for handling gaming and streaming with precision.

It also comes with a dedicated feature termed the Spectrum Analyzer, which is good at managing and changing diverse modem parameters like frequency, bandwidth, and more.

Ports

At the back, you have two Gig Ethernet ports, capable of taking your wired setup and the associated throughput to the next level. Plus, the link aggregation furthers the capabilities of this resourceful cable modem. However, as the link aggregation support seems unavailable for a standard user, invested in a mid-range internet plan from Spectrum.

Design & Build

Coming to the design, this Arris-branded modem looks more like a vertical and rectangular slab of hardened plastic. There are 4 front-facing LEDs on this 2.2-pound modem, with dimensions fixed at 5.24 x 4.24 x 1.65 inches.

Hardware Setup

The ARRIS SB8200 comes equipped with the famed Broadcom BCM3390 processor, a much-needed upgrade over the Intel Puma 6 chipset. Plus, the 3GB of system memory takes good care of the performance. Also, the modem stacks in 128MB of NAND storage space, which is good enough for handling firmware updates.

Conclusion

Overall, the ARRIS Surfboard SB8200 is one of the more reliable Spectrum recommended modems to use with high-speed internet plans. Plus, the IPv4 and IPv6 compatibility further amplifies the functionality of this modem by improving the throughput associated with wired connections.

4. Best from Motorola: Motorola MB8600

Here is one of the top purchases for any Spectrum internet plan. However, I would recommend the same for the 1 Gig internet, owing to the top-shelf hardware and the intuitive networking technologies. The Motorola MB8600 is also a significant upgrade over the older model, MB7220, which only features the DOCSIS 3.0 standard.

Speeds & Service Package Suitability

In my test of using it with the Spectrum Gig Internet, it could barely reach 900Mbps for a top-tier package. Also, when connected to the router, the maximum upload speeds were close to 350Mbps for the 5GHz band.

The best thing about this Spectrum gigabit modem is the 6Gbps worth the maximum speed limit, but the end output depends on the routing device. You should refrain from connecting the modem directly to the computing device in any given circumstance.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

Coupled with the DOCSIS 3.1 networking technology, the MB8600 best uses the 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels. What sets it apart from the rest is support for AQM or Active Queue Management. The AQM technology ensures minimal latency by redirecting traffic via wider channels, making it one of the best cable modems for gaming and streaming.

Ports

As a cable modem, the Motorola MB8600 comes with a pretty restricted set of ports. However, the variant I reviewed featured a 1Gbps Ethernet port for feeding into the router, if and when necessary. Also, I checked for the speeds on my laptop upon directly connecting the modem to the same, and it could easily reach 1Gbps during the standard hours.

Design & Build

As far as the structure is concerned, this modem looks great, featuring the black-silver undertones. The plastic feels hard and can sustain a few drops. The front panel is replete with LEDs for a status indication, whereas the rear panel is all ports and power input. If you are into specifics, this product weighs a massive 2.1 pounds and measures 9.65 x 2.25 x 8.80 inches, making it thicker than usual.

Hardware Setup

For starters, there is an ARM-based chipset at the core, which allows the modem to cut through network congestions like a pro. Also, the Broadcom chipset takes good care of the networking security and proper coverage against DDoS attacks. For speed lovers, especially gamers and late-night streamers, the Motorola MB8600 comes across as a handy choice.

Conclusion

With the advent of 5G technologies, service providers like Spectrum, Comcast, and Cox might want to upgrade their internet packages beyond the Gig and Gig blast plans. Considering the perspective and fruitful scenario, it is advisable to invest in the future-proof Motorola MB8600 as the cable modem of choice.

5. Best Modem Router Combo: ARRIS Surfboard G34

Don’t want the hassle of keeping two separate networking devices? In search of a reliable yet minimal modem router combo for Spectrum internet? In that case, nothing beats the likes of Arris G34!

Not every Charter internet modem is as functional as the ARRIS Surfboard G34 — a networking device that even beats the likes of SBG8300, owing to the better internet standard and better data transmission speeds, both wired and wireless.

Speeds & Service Package Suitability

As mentioned, this combo works well with Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan, helping you experience download and upload speeds of almost 900Mbps and 40Mbps, respectively. However, the cumulative speed caps are based on wired connections directed toward gaming and streaming consoles.

As far as true wireless speeds are concerned, you can get true internet speeds of up to 600Mbps over the 5GHz band and close to 100Mbps over the far band (2.4GHz). Other performance-enhancing traits include Quality of Service for better traffic prioritization.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

Powering the same is the future-proof DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is backward compatible with other DOCSIS versions. As far as channel bonding is concerned, there are 32 x 8 channels to rely on, followed by 2 x 2 OFDM support for better data transmission.

Coming to the routing part, this device makes room for the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, with a cumulative throughput of 3000Mbps (on paper).

Ports

There are 4 high-speed Gig ethernet ports on offer. Each port allows you to achieve 100Mbps’ worth of throughput for bandwidth-intensive devices. You also get link aggregation support in case you plan on getting two IPs from the ISP and experience multi-gig wired or wireless speeds.

Design & Build

As far as aesthetics are concerned, this plastic-clad modem-router combo assumes a vertical structure with rounded edges and heat-dissipating vents. The device itself measures 11.02 x 9.88 x 3.2 inches and weighs 3.1 pounds, making it one of the beefier products in existence.

Hardware Setup

At the core, you have Broadcom’s multi-core chipset, working hand-in-hand with 512MB RAM. The existing processing setup allows you to handle most games and streaming options without lags or latency.

Conclusion

The Arris G34 makes network device identification quick work by coming across as a reliable combo. And while it is an excellent resource for gamers and streamers, its link aggregation support and Wi-Fi 6 standard sets it apart from other Charter compliant modems on the list.

6. Best Spectrum 400 Mbps Modem: Netgear CM500

Are you low on budget? In search of a good modem for Spectrum Ultra plan? Well, bring Netgear CM500 your home, and you’re sorted!

Now, you need not look elsewhere for your budget musings when it comes to getting a Spectrum 400 Mbps modem. You can easily pick the Netgear CM500, which offers networking prioritization support over the dated CM600 from the same OEM.

Speeds & Service Package Suitability

Upon testing it with the Internet Ultra plan or the 400Mbps plan from Spectrum, I could get hold of almost 380Mbps of download speeds easily, and that too over a wired connection. The upload speeds were capped at 20Mbps, which is more than acceptable with DOCSIS 3.0 in play.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

Leading the way here is the DOCSIS 3.0 technology and 32 x 8 channel bonding support — features that feel adequate for the given price point and the non-gig internet plans.

Ports

This no-frills modem comes equipped with one Gig ethernet port, allowing you to reach Gig-level speeds if required. However, you can only achieve close to 400Mbps, even over wired connections with the Internet Ultra plan.

Design & Build

The CM500 looks like every standard Netgear modem around, featuring a base-adhering stand and several air vents for heat dissipation. The device is one of the lightest at 0.62 pounds, whereas the dimensions read ‎4.88 x 7.28 x 2.36 inches, to be exact. As far as the build quality is concerned, the CM500 feels robust and non-flimsy despite having plastic as the underlying material.

Hardware Setup

What works is the Broadcom BCM33843 chipset and 8MB flash storage, and 128MB of functional RAM. Next, you have the performance-specific evaluations, which require no validation as I personally loved the gaming and streaming speeds on display.

Conclusion

Overall, the Netgear CM500 seems more like a budget pick for standard households. Also, it is the best modem for Spectrum 400 Mbps. It offers an excellent value for money, which separates the CM500 from other products on the list.

Spectrum Modem Buying Guide

Each of the Spectrum-supported modems caters to a specific user base and internet plan. Yet, if you want to choose better, here are the factors to keep in mind:

User Requirements

Before you proceed further, you must take a closer look at your requirements. For instance, getting a combo makes sense if you want to ditch a separate router. Or, if you have multiple bandwidth-hogging devices at home, purchasing a modem with several ethernet ports makes sense.

Consequently, a combo will be priced higher, whereas a standard DOCSIS 3.0 modem will be way more affordable. Therefore, once you fix the budget and then the requirements, you can zero in on all the appropriate choices in the given bracket.

Compatibility

It goes without saying that you need to check the compatibility quotient with Spectrum’s internet plans before proceeding with a buy. For instance, if you are a gamer and interested in the Internet Gig plan, a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with even a multi-Gig ethernet port makes sense.

However, if you only want to go with the Ultra or standard Internet Plan with 400Mbps and 200Mbps, respectively, a mid-range modem with DOCSIS 3.0 might also fit in well.

Docsis Tech & Channel Bonding

In case you have eyes on a future-proof device for accommodating multi-gig internet plans, if and when they arrive, DOCSIS 3.1 is the way to go. That way, you can get access to thicker transmission channels via 2 x 2 OFDM and 32 x 8 channel bonding. This is the ideal DOCSIS version for high-speed connections. DOCSIS 3.0 with at least 24 x 8 channels makes sense for anything mid-range.

Regardless of the DOCSIS version you pick, getting something with backward compatibility is advisable.

Ports & Connectivity

If you prefer wired connections over wireless, getting a modem with at least two Gig ethernet ports makes sense. And if you seek wireless support as well, look for a combo that can offer cumulative wireless throughput of almost 3000Mbps and coverage of over 2000 Sq Ft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verdict

Each of the mentioned devices is good enough for managing Charter internet in a given capacity. But if you are still confused, here is a more specific and curated Spectrum modem list:

• For professionals seeking high-speed internet with support for unhindered streaming, video conferencing, and even gaming, Motorola MB8600 is among the best option to invest in.
• If you are into modem-router combos and looking for a capable device that is fast, efficient, and future-proof, I recommend the ARRIS Surfboard G34.
• Finally, if you want to save time by investing in a low-cost device, you cannot go wrong with the Netgear CM500.

In addition to the mentioned options, you can also consider investing in any other gadgets, as per preferences, budget, speed, aesthetics, and other advanced features. Each of the curated suggestions might vary in specifications, and real-time networking capabilities as modem-specific capabilities largely depend on the internet plan.

Suggested Read:

• Spectrum vs. Comcast Xfinity
• How To Hook Up Spectrum Cable Box?