Introduction
To get the most out of your cable internet, you need the best modem and router combo at home. Not only will it save more the rental fee that normally goes to your Internet Service Provider (ISP), but a modem and router combo will reduce the clutter and simplify your home network.
What is a Modem and Router?
A modem is a device that connects your home network to your internet service provider. It modulates and demodulates the electric signals through a coaxial cable and transforms the analog signals into digital signals and vice versa.
A router lets all your devices connect to the internet through Wi-Fi signals.
Your cable internet service provides you the modem and router, but it charges the monthly rent of these devices, and it only makes sense that you pay the price once and eliminates the monthly cable modem rental fees.
Also, choosing the right modem can maximize the provider plan and enhance the download or uploading speed. You can easily change the cable services while switching to a better plan. Having one router and modem device not only saves space but simplifies your home network.
NETGEAR Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo
- For internet plan with up to 300 Mbps
- 1500 sq ft. wireless coverage
- Features two Ethernet ports
- Supports WEP and WPA
Netgear is a reliable brand that you can trust for modems and routers. The Modem router combo is compatible with all major internet cable providers. It comes with certificates from Xfinity, Comcast, Cox, and Spectrum. However, it is not compatible with DSL, DirectTv, or any bundled voice service.
The Docsis 3.0 cable modem gives a faster download speed. It is best suited with cable provided with up to 300 Mbps ensuring fast and reliable internet.
As it’s a dual-band router, it intelligently selects from the dual bands to minimize interference and maximize performance.
It gives good Wi-Fi performance as well. Thanks to its range boosting amplified antennas, it covers 1500 Sq which is great for a small to medium house. It can support up to 25 devices that cover all your internet devices.
It offers versatile connectivity options. Besides connecting up to 25 devices through Wi-Fi, it also provides 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports and one additional USB port for fast and easy connections. These ports allow super-fast internet connections to multiple devices like printers, scanners, PC, or any storage device. Its 1600 Mbps speed is perfect for nonstop gaming or streaming.
The modem and router combo comes with security features so you can apply parental control. It supports security protocols as well.
Arris SURFboard Cable Modem Plus Wi-Fi Router
- Features dual-band AC1900 Wi-Fi router
- Provides 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels
- Four Ethernet ports
- Suitable for plans up to 400 Mbps
Arris SURFboard presents a three-in design that covers all your internet needs. It combines a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, an 802.11ac Wi-Fi router with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports in one powerful device. The combo design eliminates the need to buy separate devices and save space.
The device features 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels that provide great speed for streaming or gaming.
Its modem provides compatibility to almost all the USA cable internet providers, including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and others. It is best for cable internet plans up to 400 Mbps.
The device features four 1 gigabit Ethernet ports for ultra-fast wired connections. You can easily connect the router with your smart TV or gaming consoles.
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo (C7800)
- Transfer data with a speed of 3200 Mbps
- 3000 square feet range
- Can support up to 45 devices
- It comes with all security options
The C7800 is another router and modem combo from Netgear. This one is a more advanced device, and its Wi-Fi router covers a wider area.
The cable modem is engineered with 32×8 channel bonding technology. Channel bonding combines multiple channels to increase the amount of traffic that a modem can comfortably support. That simply means a lot of data can go in and out seamlessly. It allows 32 channels for downloading while 8 channels remain open for uploading. The DOCSIS 3.0 technology modem provides fast internet.
The modem provides all types of data security and parental control. It supports both WEP and WPA that are encryption tools used to secure your wireless connections.
Its Wi-Fi router can cover a wide range of up to 3000 square feet, making it a good option for offices, organizations, and large households. The device can provide high-speed internet for up to 42 devices.
Besides these Wi-Fi options, it also provides 4 Gigabit Ethernet connections and two high-speed USB 3.0 ports.
Overall, it’s a high-quality modem and router best suited with cable internet provider plan up to 2-gigabit speed. The space-saving unit also saves up to $168 in equipment rental fees.
It is compatible and comes with all major cable internet providers in the USA, and has certifications from Xfinity, Comcast, and COX.
Motorola Cable Modem Plus Dual-Band Wi-Fi Router
- High performing Wi-Fi amplifiers boost signals
- Provide 1Gbps data transfer rate
- Beamforming Technology for enhancing Wireless performance
- Dual-Band channels
This one is another cable modem and router combo from Motorola. The device provides fast and reliable internet, saving the yearly rental fees.
Its cable modem comes with all cable internet providers though it does not support other fiber optics, satellite, or DSL services.
Its modem can support up to 600 Mbps download speed that means multiple users can play games or stream online.
The built-in router combined with the modem provides high-speed shared internet access to smartphones, computers, tablets, and HDTVs.
Motorola MG7700 Power Boost technology amplified the wireless signals to the limit set by the FCC to deliver high-speed internet. It also extends the Wi-Fi range of the router as well.
The device features Beamforming technology that focuses on wireless transmission to your devices to enhance performance. The dual-band router sends data at two different radio frequencies, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz that ensures a longer range and better signal strength. The dual-band router is more suitable for high-resolution gaming and video streaming.
MOTOROLA Cable Modem Plus Single Band Wi-Fi Gigabit Router
- Single Band Wi-Fi
- 343 Mbps data transfer rate
- Power boost amplifiers
- Vertical design save space
This one is another modem router combo from Motorola. This one is an affordable option from Motorola.
The DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with 8×4 channel bonding is recommended for 2.0 cable and more. The modem provides an actual speed of up to 145 Mbps.
The Broadcom cable modem provides you full protection from security breaches. It offers a firewall that denies security attacks.
Both modem and router reduce unnecessary wiring and power clutter. Its slim and compact design is easy to accommodate on any shelf or corner of your room.
A majority approves Motorola modem of USA cable internet providers like Comcast, Xfinity x1, Cox, Charter spectrum, time Warner Cable, Brighthouse, WOW!, Cable one, RCN, Mediacom, and other cable service providers.
The modem comes with a built-in high-speed Wi-Fi router. The N450 Wi-Fi provides internet to all your devices, including smartphones, tablets, notebooks, gaming stations, HDTVs, Amazon Echo, Google Home, or Apple TV.
It features a single-band Wi-Fi router that uses 2.4 GHz and is limited to one wireless signal. A Single-band router is affordable compared to a dual band router, but it is limited in the router’s internet speed and Wi-Fi speed.
The wireless power boost of its Wi-Fi router amplifies the wireless signal to the legal limit that enhances the speed and performance. Also, its beamforming technology focuses the wireless signals to your devices.
The device also provides four Ethernet LAN ports for connecting your game stations or TV devices.
Asus AC2600 Modem Router Combo
- 2534 data transfer rate
- 32×8 channel bonding technology
- Dual-band frequency
- Four Ethernet and two USB ports
Ditch the monthly cable modem rental fee with this Asus modem router Router Combo. The Asus CM-32 combines a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with an AC2600 router. The modem features 32×8 channel bonding that supports any cable internet within 1.3 Gbps. The modem is ideal for homes with multiple internet devices.
Its AC2600 router has four fixed 5 dBi high gain antennas that improve the transmission range and sensitivity. It features AiRadar Beamforming technology that strengthens the wireless coverage.
The Wi-Fi router features MIMO technology for multi-devices. The Dual-Band connectivity delivers up to 1734 Mbps data rate for smooth 4K video streaming.
The Wi-Fi signals are protected with a unique network name and password. You can find the password at the bottom of the modem. You can also change the password as well. You can also set up time restrictions or website filtering for parental control.
Besides Wi-Fi connectivity, the modem also provides an Ethernet connection. It features 4×Gigabit Ethernet ports along with 2 USB 2.0 ports.
ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300
- Suitable for internet plan up to 4 Gbps
- Features DOCSIS 3.1 technology
- 32 downstream and 8 upstreaming channels
We already have discussed an affordable Arris SURFboard modem and router combo, but this is a premium option.
All other options in our list provide DOCSIS 3.0 modems that offer great speed, no doubt, but this one comes with DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that is the latest standard offered by cable internet providers. The modem provides 32 downstream and 8 upstream bonding channels with increased bandwidth and true speed capability.
It provides wireless speed up to 2350 Mbps, making it one of the most powerful modem routers combo in the market. The modem suits cable internet plans up to 4Gbps.
The device features an AC2350 Wi-Fi router. The dual-band router allows you to connect wireless devices to 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz, depending on your need.
The SURFboard manage app lets you connect the modem with your Alexa network to voice your Wi-Fi system’s voice management.
TP-Link Archer CR700 Cable Modem Router Combo
- Data transfer rate up to 1750 Mbps
- 6 internal antennas
- 16×4 channel bonding
- Hassle-free setup
TP-Link is a reliable brand and well-known for its Wi-Fi networking products. Archer CR700 is a cable modem and router combo that allow you to enjoy high-speed internet at home. The modem is compatible with major cable internet providers in the USA.
The modem uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology and provides 16×4 channel bonding for fast downloading and uploading. Its dual-band Wi-Fi handles demanding activities like streaming 4K videos and online gaming without slowing down.
It uses six internal antennas that provide strong Wi-Fi signals for lag-free online gaming or streaming. It uses high-powered amplifiers that boost signal strength and reduce interference. The modem provides a down streaming rate of up to 680 Mbps.
The modem also uses Beamforming technology for delivering targeted and highly efficient wireless connections.
Connecting this CR700 modem is very easy; simply connect the modem to your computer using a coaxial cable and you are ready to go.
The device also features two USB ports to make your connectivity options more versatile. You can also connect your demanding devices with its four Gigabit Ethernet ports.
The device also provides parental, and access protection enables you to safeguard your network from unauthorized use. It also provides you the control to restrict who can join or the content user can access.
Buying Guide of Modem Router Combo
Here are a few things you should consider while selecting a modem router combo.
Separate Devices or a Combo
Both modem and Wi-Fi routers are available as separate devices, but a combo replaces buying separate devices. It is space-saving and saves some bucks as well.
Speed
Speed is the foremost concern for many of us. It is important to understand that a modem or router cannot enhance what you are receiving from your cable internet providers, but it can limit your speed depending on its specs.
For example, if you are receiving 100 Mbps speed from your internet provider but if your modem is only capable of handling 50 Mbps, your connected devices won’t get the speed you are paying for.
The maximum bandwidth is indicated in gigabits per second and is usually prominently displayed on the modem/router combo.
Range
Always check the range of Wi-Fi signals to see if it suits your needs or not. This refers to if your Wi-Fi router can emit wireless signals throughout your home.
Normally routers can cover somewhere between 1000 to 2000 square feet, but there are exceptions to it as well. There are some devices on our list that can cover up to 3000 square feet easily.
However, the strength of signals does not only depend on their range. Some other factors like walls, furniture, or other devices can decrease the strength of signals. It is important to choose a modem router with beamforming technology that sends the signals directly towards a specific device.
Dual-Band or Single Band Routers
A Dual-band router uses two bands for signal transmission. It uses both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands to provide better performance.
A single band router sends signals to only the 2.4 GHz band and is limited to one wireless signal.
Dual-band is obviously more expensive but provides better speed and performance.
It can transfer large files at a closer range with speed and suits gamers and high-resolution video streaming.
Single-band can penetrate walls or other obstructions and has a longer range but is slower than 5 GHz and suitable for browsing the internet or checking emails.
Ports
You may need Ethernet connectivity options for some devices at home like printers, gaming consoles, or computers. Make sure the combo device you choose comes with plenty of Ethernet and USB ports to cover all your needs.
Security
Security of your data transmission, as well as your wireless signals, is important. Make sure the modem router combo comes with all the protection. If your modem has DOCSIS 3.0, then make sure your connection is safe.
Design and Durability
A modem and router device is something you will be handling every day. Make sure it is designed for durability. It should be sturdy enough to take a few bumps now and then. A smaller and compact design is easy to store. Make sure you look for a design that is backed by some warranty from the manufacturers.
Final Words
Buying a modem and router combo saves money and simplifies your home network. Make sure you check the specs before selecting a device. Also, ask your cable service provider if a specific model is compatible with their cable internet system. Invest in a device that offers good range, strong signals, and can handle the speed of your cable internet.
Jeremy has been running several online businesses behind his laptop for the past 5 years and he has worked as a freelance web developer previously. A trained marketer by profession, he also has Ruby on Rails and web development knowledge. His forte lies in eCommerce, SEO and content marketing. He’s been featured on Vice, Thrive Global, YFS Magazine, Forbes and several other publications. He prefers to connect with people on LinkedIn.
