As a WOW! Cable subscriber who has rented the internet equipment, you end up spending $10-15/monthly rental for the lease (around $120-$180 for a year.) On the other hand, you can get a WOW! compatible modem for almost $100-120 and own it for the rest of the life (be rent-free for 2-3 years.) Isn’t it better?
One of the reasons why a lot of users consider ditching the leased equipment is because of the costly monthly rental. Another popular reason for buying instead of continuing the lease is, that many a times they get a dated equipment that doesn’t support the high-speed plans!
Checking the modem’s compatibility with your ISP is one of the most important things to do when buying it. But, why just get the compatible devices when you can get the models that were tested with your ISP & are recommended by networking experts for the same price?
Contents
- Best WOW! Compatible Modems in 2021
- 1. Best Overall: Arris Surfboard SB8200
- 2. Best Runner Up: Motorola MB8600
- 3. Best for Streaming: Netgear CM1000
- 4. Best for Gaming & Torrenting: Arris SB6190
- 5. Best Modem-Router Combo: Netgear C7000
- 6. Best Budget Combo: TP-Link Archer CR700
- 7. Best for Low Speed Plans: Arris SB6183
- 8. Best for Multi-ISP Compatibility: Motorola MB7420
- 9. Cheapest Option: Netgear CM500
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Verdict
Best WOW! Compatible Modems in 2021
Not everyone is a networking expert, choosing the right Wide Open West cable modem could be really difficult (especially when you know nothing about modems & routers.) That’s why to help you find the right one, I tested out dozens of WOW! supported modems and made this list of best ones.
| Plans | Max Download Speed | Deal Price | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet 100 | Up to 100 MBPS | $19.99/mo | $39.99/mo |
| Internet 200 | Up to 200 MBPS | $29.99/mo | $44.99/mo |
| Internet 300 | Up to 300 MBPS | $44.99/mo | $54.99/mo |
| Internet 400 | Up to 400 MBPS | $64.99/mo | $74.99/mo |
1. Best Overall: Arris Surfboard SB8200
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.1
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Data Speeds: Up to 2Gbps
- Modem-Router Combo: No
If you have signed up for WOW’s highest speed plan to experience unhindered surfing, conferencing, HD video streaming, and online gaming, it is best to invest in the Arris SB8200. The best thing about this standalone modem is its ability to cover futuristic requirements, in case WOW considers including multi-Gig plans in its ambit.
Performance
The Arris SB8200 comes equipped with a standard hardware setup, comprising the Broadcom chipset, 3GB RAM, and a 128MB NAND flash memory module. As expected, the processing setup seamlessly cuts through the congestion by ensuring the highest possible transmission speeds even during peak hours.
I was most impressed with the network engineering support, featuring the 32×8 DOCSIS 3.0 technology and the 2×2 DOCSIS 3.1 support. While the former allows you to reach Gig-level internet speeds, the DOCSIS 3.1 technology ensures that the modem gets thicker OFDM and OFDMA channels to move data packets around.
Speed
If you are planning to invest in the said modem, I expect you to enroll for the Gig internet plan from WOW. Provided you have taken care of the internet plan, the Arris SB8200 allows you to reach download speeds close to 950Mbps.
As tested by experts at Approved Modems, the upload speeds are in line with 300Mbps. The theoretical speed of up to 2Gbps still deserves to be talked about as WOW might someday launch multi-gig internet plans for avid gamers and streamers.
Also, if you want to make the best use of the gig speeds, you can always use the wired setup to reach the highest possible throughput.
Ports
Here is one modem featuring two high-speed gig Ethernet ports. Plus, you can also explore the link aggregation rationale, provided you have the requisite internet package to feed into the router. Besides, you also get a dedicated slot for fitting in the coaxial cable followed by standard power output.
Setup
As far as configuration and compatibility go, the Arris SB8200 is an easy modem to make use of. Firstly, you can simply connect the modem to the computer via the Ethernet UTP cable and use the web interface to configure the modem as per the requisite IP address and DHCP compatibility.
The ease of usage and compatibility ensure that you can pair this modem with a wide range of cable-based internet service providers including Spectrum, Cox, and more.
Why is it good for WOW internet?
The Arris SB8200 is one of the best modems for WOW! to invest in, provided you want to shun the hefty rentals associated with the WOW internet plans. Also, the DOCSIS 3.1 support allows you to make the best use of the gig speeds and set up efficient Smart Homes provided you get a compatible router with Beamforming support
2. Best Runner Up: Motorola MB8600
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.1
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Data Speeds: Up to 3.8Gbps
- Modem/Router Combo: No
The Motorola MB8600 is my favorite modem, considering the multi-gig potential it claims. Using this device for any other WOW internet plan but the Gig package seems like a sheer waste of some true potential.
Performance
Here is one modem that allows you to make use of the newest networking standard in DOCSIS 3.1. While this technology ensures the highest possible speeds, it also accommodates fallback to the still useful, DOCSIS 3.0 32×8 channel bonding support.
The choice of the networking standard is influenced by the ARM-based chipset and an otherwise competent hardware selection. However, the best bit of performance is exhibited by the AQM support, a feature that prioritizes traffic for the more demanding activities and minimizes latency.
Other functional attributes pertaining to this modem include advanced digital tuning and enhanced cooling setup.
Speed
Blazing internet speeds are the best aspects of this resourceful modem. While the package claims to support speeds up to 3.8Gbps, we can readily get rid of this exaggerated claim. Instead, if you are using the WOW internet plan, the Motorola MB8600 is good enough for assuming Gig speeds. The upload speeds, however, are restricted to 150Mbps, and that too with a Wi-Fi 6 router to work with.
Most importantly, wired speeds associated with this modem are better as compared to the wireless mode, as and when projected by the router.
Ports
This is one of the few WOW internet compatible modems to feature 4 Ethernet ports. However, it is the link aggregation support for two ports and the requisite hardware for bonding each port for reaching maximum speeds of up to 3.8Gbps that makes a difference.
Each port, however, is accompanied by two LEDs with the green light indicating Gig speeds. Plus, the Ethernet slots also boast auto-sensing support.
Setup
Motorola ensures that the modem can be configured without breaking a sweat. The browser-based interface supports seamless configuration. Also, the internet addressing attribute is amplified further with the IPv6 support to rely on.
Why is it good for WOW internet?
While there are several exciting attributes to purchase the Motorola MB8600 for, it makes a good case of Gig WOW internet plans owing to the futuristic hardware, Overload protection, and advanced security specs to keep cyberattacks at bay.
- Minimal gaming and streaming latency
- Easy to set up
- Compatible with almost every router
- DOCSIS 3.1 support with fallback provisioning
- Several indicative LEDs
- Pricey
- Might feel like overkill for basic WOW plans
3. Best for Streaming: Netgear CM1000
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.1
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Data Speeds: Up to 1Gbps
- Modem-Router Combo: No
The Netgear CM1000 is a fine little modem, best suited for Gig internet plans pertaining to cable internet service providers like Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and more. Despite the top-shelf hardware, the capabilities of the modem are restricted by speed-specific bottlenecks.
Performance
Netgear incorporates a reliable Broadcom chipset, much like the Arris SB8200. The processor gets a significant performance boost owing to the 128MB of storage space and 256MB of RAM. That said, I wouldn’t actually suggest purchasing the modem if you are an avid gamer as a mere 256MB of system memory might not be the answer against network congestion.
Still, you have the DOCSIS 3.1 network standard that supplants other specifications by offering 2×2 OFDM/ OFDMA support for achieving higher speeds and increased throughout. In the usual circumstances, fallback to the DOCSIS 32×8 channel bonding support is also supported.
Speed
Firstly, the Netgear CM1000 is good enough to help you reach 1Gbps of download speeds, provided the router supports the same. The upload speeds, for that matter, are mostly capped at 120Mbps, which is good enough for most peer-to-peer downloads and video conferencing.
Ports
As far as the ports are concerned, the Netgear CM1000 comprises one Gig Ethernet slot, which feeds into a compatible router. However, if you choose to connect the modem directly to any Ethernet-compatible device, you might end up experiencing Gig speeds with minimal latency.
Setup
Setting up this modem via the web interface is a walk in the park. However, you need to have the basic expertise surrounding modem configuration to ensure seamless installation, as per the ISP-specific guidelines.
This is one of the few modems to offer the Basic and advanced setup sections but the extensive documentation, offered out of the box, takes care of the same.
Why is it good for WOW internet?
As tested by experts at Approved Modems, the Netgear CM1000 is one of the few modems to support stable WOW internet connections. However, I would vouch for the same purely for the aesthetics as the polyhedron layout and the meshed chassis ensure better ventilation and enhanced portability.
- Future-proof modem
- Easy to use and set up
- Elegant form factor
- DOCSS 3.1 OFDM support
- Only one Ethernet port
- Pricey
4. Best for Gaming & Torrenting: Arris SB6190
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Data Speeds: Up to 1.4Gbps
- Modem-Router Combo: No
If you want a mid-range modem for the 400Mbps WOW internet plan, the Arris SB6190 comes across as an exceptional buying decision. While the maximum speed limit goes up to 1.4Gbps, I took the router-specific bottlenecks into account before reviewing the device.
Performance
Coming to the router performances, the Arris SB6190 exhibits the DOCSIS 3.0 networking standard. The existing networking support works in tandem with the 32×8 channel bonding technology. Also, the extended scope of the downstream and upstream channels ensures better network coverage and allows you to play online games and stream videos with minimal latency.
The excellent performances make it the best possible modem for diverse cable internet service providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, WOW, and Cox.
Speed
The Arris SB6190 claims to provide up to 1.4Gbps speeds and is good enough for most WOW internet plans. However, I would recommend the same for the 400Mbps plan, owing to the tested lab speeds, reaching up to 350Mbps. As far as upload speeds are concerned, I could churn out close to 100Mbps. The existing speeds are good enough for online streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.
Ports
There is one Ethernet port in play, which allows you to connect the modem to a compatible router or any other Ethernet-compatible device. While the internet speeds are usually restricted to 400Mbps, you can reach gig speeds with a wired setup.
Setup
If you are into ease of usage and installation, the Arris SB6190 is a pretty handy modem to invest in. Plus, the extensive documentation on offer allows you to set up IP addresses and configure the modem to perfection.
Why is it good for WOW internet?
If you are only looking for a mid-range modem that doesn’t burn a hole in the pocket and can still manage speeds capped at 400Mbps, the Arris SB6190 is a pretty handy networking resource to consider. Plus, the 2-year warranty also helps in making informed decisions.
- 32×8 channel bonding support
- Excellent set of indicative LEDs
- Compatible with major service providers
- Good enough for online gaming
- Only one Ethernet port
- Doesn’t offer voice support
5. Best Modem-Router Combo: Netgear C7000
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 24 x 8
- Data Speeds: Up to 1.9Gbps
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
The Netgear C7000 should be your go-to networking device if you are interested in a modem-router, intertwined as one. The best thing about purchasing this combo is how it puts your mind at ease by cutting out the excessive clutter associated with purchasing a standalone router.
Performance
This modem-router combo houses a standard processor, capable of clocking at 1.6GHz. The featured chipset is good enough for managing multiple network streams, as projected by the 24×8 channel bonding technology.
The DOCSIS 3.0 standard ensures faster internet speeds and minimal latency. The routing segment of this device is also functional enough with the Beamforming+ offering a massive boost in the overall range and speed of connections. Plus, there are dedicated radio amplifiers in play that allow you to transmit traffic across the 2.4GHz and 5GHz with relative ease.
Other performance-enhancing specs include Simultaneous router access for lowering signal attenuation and interference followed by high-end security safeguards and the ability to set up guest networks.
Speed
Data transfer speeds become all the more important for a modem-router combo like the Netgear C7000. As far as the modem-specific speed capping is concerned, this combo is good enough for churning out speeds limited to 400Mbps.
In case you want to explore the routing abilities of this combo, the AC1900 wireless standard ensures 5GHz speeds of up to 1.3Gbps and 2.4GHz throughput of up to 600Mbps. The limiting download and upload speeds, however, are restricted to 400Mbps and 90Mbps for the near band and 200Mbps and 50Mbps for the far band.
We tested the same with a certain Spectrum plan and could chalk out 400Mbps of download and 200Mbps of upload speeds, whilst feeding into an 802.11 AC router.
Ports
As far as ports are concerned, there are 4 Gig Ethernet slots to work with. Therefore, in addition to connecting multiple wireless devices via the MU-MIMO setup, the Netgear C7000 can also feed high-speed internet into Ethernet-compatible devices like Smart TVs and gaming consoles.
This feature also allows you to use the same as a bridge or an access point, precisely to extend the network coverage. In addition to the Gig slots, you also get access to the USB ports for pairing storage devices and media hubs, if and when necessary.
Setup
While you still need to rely on the web interface for configuring this modem-router combo, the Nighthawk app offers better control over the existing wireless network. With the app in play, you can control the internet access, manage guest networks, manage and prioritize signals, and even track internet usage to the letter.
Plus, this is one of the few devices to support one-push connections, courtesy of WPS compatibility.
Why is it good for WOW internet?
The multi-faceted networking capabilities of the Netgear C7000 make it one of the best resources for diverse WOW internet plans.
- 24×8 channel bonding support for churning out higher speeds
- Exceptional wireless range with three internal antennas
- Beamforming+ support for maximizing signal strength
- Supports one-push WPS connections
- Not meat for Gig wireless plans
- Doesn’t come with Voice support
6. Best Budget Combo: TP-Link Archer CR700
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 16 x 4
- Data Speeds: Up to 1.75Gbps
- Modem/Router Combo: Yes
Looking to upgrade your home-based networking setup for a newly purchased WOW internet plan! Fret not and get hold of the TP-Link Archer CR700 as the combo of choice, courtesy of the exceptional modem-specific capabilities and the widest possible routing range.
Performance
The TP-Link Archer CR700 comes equipped with a dual-core chipset, which is more than capable of managing the networking standards and wireless routing technologies. As far as the gadget performances are concerned, it is the DOCSIS 3.0 support that does a majority of heavy lifting, courtesy of the 16×4 channel bonding support.
The routing capabilities are amplified by the internal antennas and the availability of high-power radio amplifiers.
Speed
The 16×4 channel bonding support translates into an overall speed limit of up to 680Mbps. However, for a standard WOW internet plan, this modem-router combo allows you to reach maximum download speeds of up to 200Mbps. In case you are interested in the upload speeds, the 100Mbps limit is more than adequate and depends on how the routing standards perform.
The TP-Link Archer CR700 also features the AC1750 wireless standard, which translates into 5GHz and 2.4GHz speed limitations of 1300Mbps and 450Mbps, respectively. However, it is the channel bonding technology that limits the speed but you can still expect an extended coverage of almost 2000sqft.
This attribute allows you to use this device as a standard gateway, provided you want to connect two networks for amplified speeds and throughput.
Ports
This modem-router combo comes equipped with four high-speed Ethernet ports for making the best use of minimal signal interference. Also, the Gig Ethernet ports allow you to use this device as an access point, precisely for extending the range of a home network.
There are two USB ports to work with that support data-centric usage and even media sharing over the WAN or LAN network.
Setup
Once you connect the coaxial cable to the combo, setting up the same is more of a cakewalk, via the web interface. However, I would advise you to check the documentation for managing the steps better.
Why is it good for WOW internet plans?
A typical home network comprises a powerful modem and a compatible router. However, TP-Link Archer CR700 cuts the clutter and offers 3-in-1 capabilities to a standard WOW internet user, by pairing a modem, router, and an Ethernet hub, together.
- Affordable combo
- Excellent coverage
- 4 Gig ports
- Consistent speeds
- Not meant for high-speed plans
- Lacks voice support
7. Best for Low Speed Plans: Arris SB6183
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 16 x 4
- Data Speeds: Up to 686Mbps
- Modem/Router Combo: No
The Arris SB6183 is one of the better standalone modems on the list, provided you have selected a low-speed WOW internet plan to pair this with.
While there are several internet packages that you can use it with, I would prefer the same for a 200Mbps plan, owing to the competitive pricing and efficient channel bonding support!
Performance
The Arris SB6183 houses a competent dual-threaded chipset under the hood. For those who aren’t sure as to how a processor can make sense, it actually ensures that the modem can transmit data packets even during peak hours.
Coming to the network standard, this device is engineered with the DOCSIS 3.0 technology in mind. However, the 16×4 channel bonding support makes it an entry-level modem, boasting resilient performances and zero network drops.
Speed
As far as modem speeds are concerned, the 16×4 channel bonding support makes it good enough for assuming theoretical download speeds of up to 686Mbps. However, for a 200Mbps WOW internet plan, you can easily churn out close to 190Mbps for downloads and almost 90Mbps for uploading content.
Therefore, the Arris SB6183 is a good enough resource for surfing, HD streaming, and other less demanding requirements.
Ports
This modem features one standard Ethernet port with Gig capabilities. The UTP cable readily feeds into a compatible router and influences the speed and throughput of the connection. Also, if you are interested to know more about the design, the vertical layout also houses a port for the coaxial cable, power inlet, and a wide range of indicative LEDs.
Setup
The Arris SB6183 is compatible with most cable internet service providers. However, it is the ease of setup and configuration that stand out, allowing you to manage the technical work seamlessly over the web interface.
Why is it good for WOW internet plans?
Overall, the Arris SB6183 is the best modem that you can invest in for mid-range internet speeds, irrespective of the service provider. However, for WOW internet plans, the extended 2-year warranty on this modem makes a strong case.
- Multi-router compatibility
- DOCSIS 3.0 standard
- Cost-justified internet speed
- Easy to install and use
- We experienced minor connection drops
- Only one Ethernet port
8. Best for Multi-ISP Compatibility: Motorola MB7420
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 16 x 4
- Data Speeds: Up to 686Mbps
- Modem/Router Combo: No
The Motorola MB7420 might be an entry-level, standalone modem but it has adequate features to ensure compatibility with a wide range of ISPs, including Sparklight, Spectrum, Xfinity, WOW, and more.
Performance
Here is one modem that comes equipped with a Broadcom processor. In addition to that, the Motorola MB7420 is engineered with the DOCSIS 3.0 network standard and 16×4 channel bonding support in mind. The performance-specific attributes also make room for advanced network protocols, enhanced security support, and availability of a fill band digital tuner for maintaining speed and throughput consistency.
Speed
As far as modem speeds are concerned, you can reach maximum theoretical speeds of up to 686Mbps. However, the Motorola MB7420 is a good fit for low-speed connections, and you can expect maximum download and upload speeds of up to 300Mbps and 60Mbps. I also tested the same with the 200Mbps plan, only to end up with speeds capped at 156Mbps.
Ports
As a basic modem, the solitary, Gig Ethernet port makes complete sense to the users. However, you can just skip the router and connect the modem directly to any Ethernet-compatible device, provided security isn’t a cause for concern. In addition to the Ethernet port, the aesthetic layout is further bolstered by the wide array of indicative lights.
Setup
If you follow the documentation to the letter, you can configure the Motorola MB7420 with ease. However, the exact steps might depend on the concerned ISP.
Why is it good for WOW internet?
The Motorola MB7420 comes with a pretty extensive warranty and surge protection support for keeping sudden power outages out of the list of detriments. However, for any given WOW internet plan, it is the cost-effectiveness that makes it one of the better choices.
- Consistent speeds
- Surge protection
- Enhanced security measures
- Quick start guide
- Solitary Ethernet slot
- Not good enough for high-speed plans
9. Cheapest Option: Netgear CM500
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 16 x 4
- Data Speeds: Up to 680Mbps
- Modem/Router Combo: No
For low-speed internet plans from WOW, the Netgear CM500 comes forth as one of the more dependable modems. While there are a lot of good things about this networking device, I was most impressed with the DOCSIS channel spread and the maximum download speeds.
Performance
The Netgear CM500 houses a reliable processor but a majority of the networking workload is being shouldered by the 128MB RAM. The existing chunk of RAM ensures consistent internet speeds even during peak hours. Plus, there is an 8MB flash module to work with, precisely for storing the network details and firmware updates.
As far as the network standard is concerned, the DOCSIS 3.0 and the 16×4 channel bonding support are some of the standout features. Most importantly, the existing spread of downstream and upstream channels transmits data at least 8 times faster than the DOCSIS 2.0 standard.
Other relevant specs include the IPv6 support followed by advanced Quality of Service, which prioritizes traffic based on the preferences and demands.
Speed
Coming to the speeds, the Netgear CM500 claims to reach up to 680Mbps making it suitable for the Internet 400 package from WOW!. However, I could churn out decent download speeds of up to 300Mbps for select internet plans, upon connecting the modem to a compatible router.
Ports
Here is a standalone modem that comes equipped with a solitary Gig Ethernet port. However, the Gig port features the elusive auto-sensing technology, which prioritizes wired traffic depending on the tasks at hand.
Setup
The CD-less setup and configuration are some of the better features pertaining to this modem. Also, the web interface is pretty intuitive and allows you to install the modem with precision, provided you are willing to follow the documentation to the letter.
Why is it good for WOW internet?
The Netgear CM500 is one of the better modems for running WOW internet plans owing to the cost-effectiveness and ease of installation.
- Ultra-fast Ethernet support
- 16×4 channel bonding support
- Refreshing form factor
- Functional LEDs
- Meant for basic internet plans
Frequently Asked Questions
The very first product that I discussed on this list, the Arris SB8200, would be the best cable modem. It is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with high compatibility with WOW! Internet 400 service plan.
There are many modem/router combos available in the market. However, If you want the best consider getting the Netgear C7000.
DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest generation of cable transmission technology. It is 10 times faster than the DOCSIS 3.0 technology. However, you should only get it if your cable provider has upgraded its infrastructure to DOCSIS 3.1.
Difference-wise, DOCSIS 3.1 is 10 times faster than the existing DOCSIS 3.0, which means you can touch a download speed up to 10 Gbps. However, it is significantly higher than the current upper limit of modems, which is 1Gbps.
200 Mbps is quite a decent speed for playing online games. You will get around 100 Mbps of upload and 200 Mbps of download speed, which should be sufficient for all kinds of games, including heavy ones such as COD Warfare and PUBG.
What’s more important than speed is the distance of your home from the game’s server. You could be using Gigablast plans and still be getting 150ms ping if you live far away from the server.
The experience shall remain similar on WOW! Internet 200 or above plans unless you’re having a lot of devices sharing the internet.
Cable Amplifiers are not needed as long your home is not bigger than 4000 sq feet. Houses and apartments under this area will get full WiFi coverage from these modem cum router devices. If your home is more prominent than this, only then order an Amplifier.
Verdict
In conclusion, every modem or modem-router combo mentioned in the aforementioned sections is capable of accommodating a wide range of WOW internet plans, as per speed and throughput preferences. But then, if you want to go modem hunting in a more targeted fashion, here are the best choices to consider:
- If you want a high-speed standalone modem for WOW internet plans, the Arris SB8200 is the best option to invest in.
- For 4K gamers and streamers, the Netgear CM1000 is a much better choice as compared to any other product on the list.
- Also, if you are actively seeking a budget-friendly modem-router combo with excellent routing capabilities, the Netgear C7000 is the most impactful networking component to invest in.
- Lastly, if you have a low-speed WOW internet plan to manage, I would suggest the TP-Link Archer CR700. It’s one of the best modem router combo choices for WOW! internet.
Each of the mentioned products claims the best possible speeds and technologies as enlisted by the manufacturer. However, at Approved Modems, I prefer testing each device as per the speeds and resources offered by the ISP. Therefore, you can skim through each review and make informed decisions as per your requirement, budget, and preferences.
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