FiOS means ultra-fast! But what good is an internet plan if the equipment can’t keep up?
Just so you know, Verizon FiOS and other fiber-optic internet connections don’t work with traditional cable internet modems. Instead, they plug right into an ONT terminal that the ISP gives you as part of the package. The ports from the ONT terminal then feed into a Verizon FiOS-compatible modem router, aka gateway.
Depending on your subscribed service plan, you need to look for a Verizon FiOS gateway with Wi-Fi 5 support, a wide range of Ethernet ports, and phone ports. Also, for additional connectivity, you might even look for a USB 3.0 port to pair a printer or a storage drive.
But then, finding a FiOS-compatible modem or gateway isn’t as easy as you’d expect it to be. You need to know a good deal about a fiber connection’s technologies and other aspects. Worry not, I’ll precisely talk about the modems that work with Verizon FiOS, which also double as routers.
Top 7 Verizon FiOS Compatible Modems of 2023
In the coming sections, I shall review 7 of the best modems for Verizon FiOS that work well with their internet plans. This list comes after detailed testing of 18 FiOS-approved modem router combos for over a two-month period. So, rest assured, the devices featured here will cater to different needs.
Note: Wireless gateways come with limited coverage, security, and throughput capacity, making them less suitable for large homes. If you need more coverage and better control, consider investing in WiFi mesh systems for Verizon FiOS. A mesh WiFi will connect to the gateway, and you can disable the gateway’s WiFi functionality.
1. Best Overall: Verizon Fios G3100
- Technology: Wi-Fi 6
- Downstream/Upstream: 4 x 4
- Max Data Speeds: 2.5Gbps
- Ports: 5 GigE
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Verizon G3100 is one of the best routers or networking devices you can pick for your Verizon FiOS internet plan. However, for this to work, you need a separate ONT terminal feeding into the FiOS router.
Why is it suited for Fios?
The max data speeds of up to 2.5Gbps make the FiOS G3100 good enough for Gigabit Verizon Fiber internet plans. And what sticks even better is the Wi-Fi 6 technology that lets you connect every smart home device to the wireless network without hassles.
Ports & Connectivity
As a router, the FiOS G3100 is replete with ports, including 4 standard Gigabit ethernet slots, one standard WAN slot for connecting another router if needed, and a 2.5G MoCA coaxial cable port for your internet and TV plans.
As far as device connectivity is concerned, there are two 5GHz bands for your more demanding online requirements, followed by one 2.4GHz band. Plus, the MoCA setup ensures faster internet connections compared to the near-band throughput. Regarding spatial streaming support, this 4 x 4 router translates into minimal gaming latency.
Design & Build
This networking device weighs a notch under 4 pounds and measures 9 x 5 x 5 inches. Plus, it assumes a horizontal layout and paves the way for an entire array of LEDs. And to match all that up, you have a pretty well-ventilated design to minimize overheating.
Hardware & Performance
At the core, a reliable SoC works in tandem with 512MB of high-speed RAM and a 1GB storage module. And with the given hardware setup, you can surely forget about any interference or network congestion.
Conclusion
Overall, G3100 is the Verizon FiOS modem router combo to get if you plan on using it for 4K streaming and UHD gaming. Plus, it outpaces other picks in terms of wireless range and network consistency, which can be otherwise controlled using the dedicated app.
To learn more, check out the complete review of Verizon FiOS 3100.
- Triple band
- Out-of-the-world processing setup
- Supports auto-band switching
- MoCA compatible
- One fast USB port
- Not the most portable product
- Pricey
2. Best for Mid-Range Plans: Verizon Fios G1100
- Technology: Wi-Fi 5
- Downstream/Upstream: NA
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 800Mbps
- Ports: 5GigE and 2 USB
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
If you prefer a more effectively priced gateway for your Verizon internet plans, it is better to go with the G1100. And what makes a hell of a difference is the availability of two USB ports, which can light up any corporate setup.
Why is it suited for Fios?
The G1100 is the perfect device for Verizon’s 400 Mbps internet plan. What works in its favor is the maximum speed capping of almost 800 Mbps, followed by Wi-Fi 5 dual-band support. And yes, if you have the ONT set up perfectly, you can even deploy the ethernet ports to get yourself Gig speeds.
Ports & Connectivity
What works even better is the availability of 4 ethernet LAN ports and one WAN slot for connecting to smart devices and mesh networks. Plus, the Coax cable ensures TV connections are fed in, provided you opt for a relevant Verizon plan.
Also, two USB slots help you share files over the wide and local area network. Finally, this Wireless AC device offers theoretical speeds of up to 450Mbps over the 2.4GHz band and 1300Mbps over the 5GHz plan, followed by a cumulative range of almost 200 sqft.
Design & Build
The G1100 measures 2.31 pounds, assumes a vertical layout, measures 13.07 x 5.35 x 2.95 inches, and assumes a plastic-clad form factor. Also, the structure is reasonably well-ventilated, making it one of the better picks on the list.
Hardware & Performance
The dual-core processor does all the heavy lifting, followed by 512MB of usable RAM. And while the hardware setup is pretty pedestrian considering the structure and price point, it ensures that you never end up experiencing latency and network congestion.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the G1100 is one of the better Verizon-compatible modems, especially if you opt for mid-range fiber-optic plans. And what separates it from the rest is the easy setup, advanced security standards, and app support.
- Excellent speeds
- East to install and use
- Multiple ports
- Excellent range
- Costly
- Misses out of Wi-Fi 6
3. Best Near Band Performances: FiOS-G1100-FT
- Technology: Wi-Fi 5
- Downstream/Upstream: NA
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 1Gbps
- Ports: 4 GigE LAN + 2 USB + 1 WAN
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
The G1100-FT is one of the more reliable Verizon FiOS modem routers in the market if you are planning to move to a Fiber optic plan. And while you can always opt for the Verizon-branded version of the G1100, I feel that the FT model is a better bet when universal compatibility is concerned.
Why is it suited for FiOS?
If you want to get a Gigabit internet plan from Verizon or even the 400Mbps fiber optic plan, the FiOS-G1100-FT is the perfect option to look at. As a quantum gateway, this product offers the best wireless throughput, especially for someone looking to set up an office connection of sorts.
Ports & Connectivity
As far as the port arrangement is concerned, the G1100-FT makes room for 4 Gigabit LAN Ethernet ports, one WAN setup, and the LAN-WAN powered Coaxial port to help you get a TV connection straight from the ONT hub. Plus, there are two USB ports to make data sharing easier.
This is a Wi-Fi 5 setup with dual-band support. And it is heartening to see that despite the cumulative wireless throughput of 1750Mbps, the 5GHz or near band speeds are extremely accurate and well above 1Gbps for LAN connections. However, the final speed caps depend on your connection and internet plan.
Design & Build
Despite sporting a plastic-clad form factor, this version of the G1100 is anything but light at 3.06 pounds. It measures 10.5 x 10.2 x 3.8 inches, making it a tad thicker than usual.
Hardware & Performance
While the internal setup isn’t laid out bare, it is safe to assume the presence of a multi-core processor and 512MB of RAM. And the hardware setup translates into exceptional speeds, network consistency, and MoCA 2.0 support over the coaxial port.
Conclusion
The G1100-FT is a great Verizon FiOS modem replacement if you are interested in a wholesome internet service that hinges more on consistency. Plus, the feature sets reveal that it is a better option if you want to set up a more professional networking hub.
- Fast USB ports
- High-speed Ethernet ports
- MoCA 2.0 support
- 5GHz performances are top-shelf
- Pricey
- Dated design
4. Best Functionality: ScreenBeam WCB6200Q
- Technology: Wi-Fi 5
- Downstream/Upstream:4 x 4
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 1Gbps
- Ports: 2 GigE
- Modem-Router Combo: No
If you seek a functional wireless networking device encompassing multiple smart devices within a standard, high-throughput network, the ScreenBeam WCB6200Q is the perfect option. And what makes it useful enough is the MoCA-compatible coaxial backhaul to accommodate even the TV services.
Why is it suited for FiOS?
Verizon FiOS offers a wide range of internet plans, and I feel that the WCB6200Q can work with any Gigabit internet and TV package. What makes it work is the max data speed of up to 1 Gbps, followed by wireless throughput of almost 2 Gbps.
Ports & Connectivity
This router accommodates Gigabit Ethernet ports with one ONT terminal feeding into one. You can use the residual ethernet port to connect to any bandwidth-intensive device, preferably for UHD streaming and gaming.
There is also a MoCA 2.0-supporting coaxial port to help you with TV services. Connectivity-wise, it is a wireless AC device with a range of almost 2,500 Sq Ft and exceptional near and far band speed limits. Also, if you want to use it as part of a mesh setup, be mindful that the WCB6200Q can be used with any gateway, depending on availability.
However, if the router you end up using with this isn’t MoCA compatible, you might have to throw in an additional network adapter. Or, if you want to set up a connection where the WCB6200Q works as an extender, you would not need an ONT setup.
Design & Build
This black-colored networking device is quite aesthetic and sleek, with dimensions set at 9.1 x 5.8 x 1.6 inches. Plus, there are 4 internal antennas to account for. The WCB6200Q weighs 1.15 pounds, making it light work for the users.
Hardware & Performance
The multi-core setup, led by at least 256MB of RAM, takes productivity to a new level. And the processing setup translates into exceptional streaming throughput followed by minimal gaming latency.
Conclusion
The ScreenBeam WCB6200Q sports a nifty wireless security safeguard followed by an interactive interface and a reliable port arrangement that makes it one of the better picks for homes with cameras, smart TVs, and a barrage of other bandwidth-hungry devices.
- MoCA backhaul is supported
- Excellent near band throughput
- Two high-speed Gig ports
- 4 internal antennas
- No dedicated WAN port
- No USB port
5. Best Verizon DSL Modem: ZyXEL P660HN-51R
- Technology: ADSL, ADSL2+, and Wi-Fi N
- Downstream/Upstream: NA
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 150Mbps
- Ports: 4 GigE
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Surprised to see an incompatible ADSL modem on the list! Well, worry not as you can even use the ZyXEL P660HN-51R as a reliable routing device, provided you already have an ONT terminal getting the FiOS traffic. While you won’t be able to use it as a modem per se for Verizon FiOS, this device can double down as an access point or even a router of sorts.
Why is it suited for Verizon?
To work with Verizon FiOS, you must consider using it as an extender for the P660HN-51R. Also, if you have a FiOS-compatible router with an additional Ethernet port, you can connect with this ZyXEL modem-router combo.
Also, if you have an older DSL connection at home, the P660HN-51R offers a relevant DSL/Broadband port to work with.
Ports & Connectivity
There are 4 Ethernet ports in play with Gig support, helping you extend an existing FiOS internet plan, if you will. Plus, the Wi-Fi AC router lets you get the most out of the 2.4GHz throughput, thereby adding to the extender-like and access point-like capabilities.
Design & Build
Regarding aesthetics, this product weighs 1.6 pounds and measures a solid 1.57 x 5.2 x 3.46 inches. Plus. the well-ventilated setup always helps.
Hardware & Performance
There is a dual-core SoC powering this device to work efficiently as a router and a FiOS extender. Plus, the built-in security standards are at par with any premium gateway.
Conclusion
Overall, if you want a cost-effective extender for your Verizon FiOS internet plan and setup, the ZyXEL P660HN-51 is one of the best DSL modems you might want to consider.
- Fast 2.4GHz performance
- Multiple ports
- Light and portable
- Cost-effective
- Doesn’t support FiOS directly
- Not the best wireless speeds for the near band
6. Best with VoIP Support: Arris NVG443B
- Technology: xDSL, Wi-Fi 5, and VoIP
- Downstream/Upstream: NA
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 1Gbps
- Ports: 4 GigE + 1 DSL + 1 ONT
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
The Arris NVG443B is one of the more versatile combos, provided you want to grab something for your FiOS internet plans. And while it makes a good case for fiber optic connections, it ensures that you can use the device even with DSL service if needed.
Why is it suited for FiOS?
The dedicated ONT port makes it work as a modem and router bundled. Therefore, this is the product to look at if you get a Gigabit internet plan from Verizon, along with VoIP services. What stands out is the peak 1Gbps speed cap followed by dual-band wireless support.
Ports & Connectivity
As my dedicated Arris NVG443B review highlighted, the device excels if you prioritize ports over anything else. There are 4 Gig Ethernet slots, followed by a phone jack to accommodate VoIP if needed. You can even use the USB port to transfer data across networks if needed.
Connectivity doesn’t take a backseat as the Wireless AC support ensures decent coverage across 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
Design & Build
This combo assumes a vertical structure that measures 6.8 x 1.6 x 8.1 inches. Plus, it weighs 2.32 pounds, which is a tad on the heavier side.
Hardware & Performance
And while the company hasn’t given insights regarding the core components, it is obvious that there is a multi-core chipset followed by 256MB of RAM. The existing hardware setup allows you to use the device for xDSL internet plans, FTTH connections, and IPTV whilst accommodating VoIP and MIMO functionality for improving coverage and consistency.
Conclusion
Arris NVG443B is a multi-purpose networking device that excels in versatility. And most importantly, it is as good for xDSL internet plans as it is for Verison FiOS.
- Supports data, video, and voice
- Ultra-fast 2.4GHz speeds
- MU-MIMO support
- Gig Ethernet ports
- Not the best near-band performance
- Chunky
7. Best Budget Option: Arris NVG468MQ
- Technology: Wi-Fi 5 and MoCA 2.0
- Downstream/Upstream: NA
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 1000 Mbps
- Ports: 4 Ethernet + 1 USB
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
The latest product on the list, i.e., the Arris NVG468MQ, isn’t your standard, low-cost FiOS modem but a gateway device that can be used for both fiber and DSL internet packages. And to make it useful, you might have to pair a MoCA to Ethernet Bridget to ensure that the TV services are also covered.
Why is it suited for FiOS?
This wireless gateway can be used with any Verizon FiOS internet plan, especially with the Gig ones. And while it can only support 100 Mbps DSL plans, the 1Gbps capping ensures that it is a perfect modem for fiber internet services.
Ports & Connectivity
Arris brings 4 Ethernet ports to help you connect with smart devices and additional routing devices. Plus, a DSL and an ONT port cover multiple aspects for you. And on top of that, this device also throws in a USB port to help with data sharing.
Coming to wireless support, this gateway offers excellent 2.4GHz and 5GHz throughputs followed by a coverage range of almost 2000 sqft.
Design & Build
The NVG468MQ assumes a vertical structure, weighs close to 2.5 pounds, and measures a manageable 15.4 x 8 x 2.4 inches. Also, the heat management is more than acceptable, and you hardly notice any overheating.
Hardware & Performance
A dual-core chipset is calling the shots, allowing you to get hold of consistent internet speeds and minimal network drops. Plus, there is 256MB of RAM to help you smother congestion.
Conclusion
Arris NVG468MQ is one of the best budget modem/router combos for Verizon FiOS that can certainly help you get the most out of any FiOS internet plan at a pocket-friendly price.
- Features anONT port
- 4 LAN Ethernet ports
- MoCA compatible
- A USB port is in place
- MoCA to Ethernet Bridge is needed to improve functionality
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use your own modem with Verizon FiOS, provided the device has a built-in ONT setup, coaxial input, and Ethernet ports to accommodate fiber connections. However, I would urge you to read through the reviews with attention to get a better understanding of the concepts.
Neither, Verizon FiOS is a fiber optic internet service that isn’t compatible with cable modems or DSL-only devices. Instead, they need an ONT setup to even work with FiOS-compatible gateways.
While you cannot usually pair a standard cable modem with Verizon FiOS, you might consider the ScreenBeam WCB6200Q due to its coaxial cable input and excellent wireless throughput.
Ethernet and Coax ports running from ONT setups to routers help bring data, voice, and multimedia to your homes. Therefore, top Verizon FiOS routers have ethernet and MoCA 2.0 coaxial ports as structural components.
Verdict
Each of these 7 modems is compatible with FiOS and can be picked up, depending on the budget you are willing to allocate. However, I have prepared a more targeted list with three use cases to make product selection easier.
- Pick the Verizon FiOS G3100 if you really want to experience Wi-Fi 6 along with the path-breaking Fiber optic internet speeds.
- If you seek versatility, the Arris NVG443B is the perfect device, courtesy of the phone jack and DSL compatibility.
- And if you want to concentrate on affordability without cutting performance, the ScreenBeam WCB6200Q is the perfect networking device to invest in.
But these are only some curated picks, and I would still suggest you go through each review in detail, weigh the pros and cons of each device, and take a pick accordingly.
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