FiOS does mean ultra-fast! But what good is an internet plan if there isn’t a worthy, powerful, and capable modem to complement it? Well, if you have finally made up your mind to get the high-speed internet plan from Verizon, you must first check out the compatible modems.
Verizon FiOS or fibre-optic connections don’t work with traditional cable internet modems. Instead, you need to know that Verizon FiOS plugs right into an ONT terminal that comes with the service provider as part of the internet package. The ports from the ONT terminal then feed into Verizon FiOS compatible modems, which I will enlist in the subsequent sections.
Depending on the FiOS package that you choose to go with, you need to look for a device with Wi-Fi 5 support, a wide range of Ethernet ports, and phone ports. Also, if you prefer setting the device in an office, you might even look for a USB 3.0 port.
But then, finding a FiOS-compatible modem, router, or gateway isn’t as easy as you’d expect it to be. You need to know a good deal about the technology, cable setup, and other aspects of setting up a network connection. And that is exactly why I am here, precisely to talk about the modems that work with Verizon Fios, which can even double down as routers.
7 Best Modems for Verizon FiOS in 2022
In the subsequent sections, I shall talk about 7 of the Verizon FiOS approved modems that work swimmingly with all of their internet plans. And while you might find some attributes that wouldn’t agree with your understanding of modems, I will make sure to clear out the issues, along the way.
Note: Wireless gateways come with limited coverage, security, and throughput capacity which make them less suitable for large homes. If you need extensive coverage and better control, you may consider investing in WiFi mesh systems for Verizon FiOS. A mesh will connect to the gateway and you can disable the gateway’s Wi-Fi 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
The Verizon Fios G3100 is one of the best routers or rather networking devices that 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 Verizon 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
Well, 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, even when compared with the near band throughput. When it comes to spatial streaming support, this is a 4 x 4 router that translates into minimal gaming latency.
I purchased this device for Verizon FiOS self-installation, and it was a super smooth experience to make the connection up and running.
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, there is a reliable SoC that 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 kind of interference or network congestion.
Conclusion
The Verizon Fios G3100 is the best device 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 Fios 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 Verizon Fios?
The G1100 is the perfect device to pick for a 400Mbps Fios internet plan from Verizon. What works in its favor is the maximum speed capping of almost 800Mbps 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, there are two USB slots to 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 Verizon Fios G1100 is one of the best Verizon Fios modems in the retail space, especially if you plan on opting 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
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The Fios-G1100-FT for Verizon is one of the more reliable routing setups 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 Verizon 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 the connection and internet plan you are using.
Design & Build
Despite sporting a plastic-clad form factor, this version of the G1100 is anything but light at 3.06 pounds. Plus, it measures 10.5 x 10.2 x 3.8 inches, thereby 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 Fios-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 that can encompass multiple smart devices within a standard, high-throughput network, the ScreenBeam WCB6200Q is the perfect option to pick. And what makes it useful enough is the MoCA-compatible coaxial backhaul to accommodate even the TV services.
Why is it suited for Verizon 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 1Gbps followed by wireless throughput of almost 2Gbps.
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 of choice, preferably the one used for UHD streaming and even 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 2500sqft and exceptional near and far band speed limits. Also, if you want to use it as a part of a mesh setup, do be mindful of the fact 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 for the same. Or if you want to set up a connection where the WCB6200Q works as an extender, you would then 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 whole 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 for you. 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 Fios?
Well, for the P660HN-51R to work with Verizon Fios, you must consider using it as an extender. Also, if you have a FiOS-compatible router with an additional Ethernet port, you can use it to 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
When it comes to 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 that 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 on the list, 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 Verizon Fios?
The dedicated ONT port makes it work as a modem and router, bundled as one. Therefore, if you plan on getting a Gigabit internet plan from Verizon, along with VoIP services, this is the product to look at. What stands out is the peak 1Gbps speed cap followed by dual-band wireless support.
Ports & Connectivity
As highlighted in my dedicated Arris NVG443B review, the device excels if you prioritize ports over anything else. There are 4 Gig Ethernet slots in play followed by a phone jack to accommodate VoIP if needed. You can even make use of 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 in play 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 along the way for improving coverage and consistency.
Conclusion
Arris NVG443B is a multi-purpose networking device that excels when it comes to 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 for ensuring that the TV services are covered as well.
Why is it suited for Verizon Fios?
This wireless gateway can be used with any Verizon Fios internet plan, more so with the Gig ones. And while it can only support 100Mbps DSL plans, the 1Gbps capping ensures that it is a rather perfect modem for fiber internet services.
Ports & Connectivity
Arris brings in 4 Ethernet ports to help you connect with smart devices and additional routing devices. Plus, there is a DSL and an ONT port to 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 of sorts.
Hardware & Performance
There is a dual-core chipset 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 both 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, just to make product selection easier, I have prepared a more targeted list with three use cases in mind.
- Pick the Verizon Fios G3100 if you really want to experience Wi-Fi 6 along with the path-breaking Fiber optic internet speeds
- If versatility is something you seek, the Arris NVG443B is the perfect device to get, courtesy of the phone jack and DSL compatibility
- And if you just want to concentrate on affordability without cutting performance corners, 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 in the pros and cons of each device, and take a pick, accordingly.
Other DSL/Fiber Optic ISPs & Compatible Modems:
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