The 5 Best Modems for Xfinity Reviewed
First introduced decades ago, Comcast Xfinity has since become one of the biggest internet service providers (ISPs) for many homes in the United States. Its parent company, Comcast Cable Communications, provides cable and internet services to hundreds of millions of people.
Deciding to use this service provider allows you to choose the type of data plan and speed that work best for you. Keep in mind that your internet’s speed is dependent on what type of subscription plan you settle on.
When you subscribe to Xfinity, you have the option to rent a modem or router costing about $14/month and have it installed for $20. However, many people have disputed these fees and call it unfair. Fortunately, Comcast waives these fees if you decide to purchase your modem or install one yourself.
You are probably visiting this website because you might have heard that it costs significantly less to own your modem for Xfinity than rent one every month, and are most likely searching for the best modem to purchase for your Internet. Do not worry; we have got you sorted out with this list to help you find the most suitable modem.
Best Modems for Xfinity
1. NETGEAR Nighthawk
If you are most concerned about internet speed and whether you can still get that service on a purchased router instead of renting, then the NETGEAR Nighthawk is the best choice for you. It has three in-built antennas meaning dual band connectivity and can provide up to 600 to 1,300 Mbps on both 2.4GHz and 5.0 GHz bands.
The first thing you will notice about this modem is that it has a modern design; its black plastic casing gives it a sleek aesthetic. At the front of the router are a couple of neon lights that show its performance. Behind the modem, it has a USB 2.0 port, the power cord port, a port for a coax cable, and four Gigabit Ethernet ports. It is not the broadest range of ports but, it should be okay for lots of people.
One of the best things about the NETGEAR Nighthawk is that it is easy to set up. Before installing this modem, ensure that you have all the necessary information with you, such as your relevant ISP information. This modem comes with a manual on how to install it successfully.
Unfortunately, the NETGEAR Nighthawk does not have the best software; but it gets the job done, so it is not too much of a problem, and you can work with it without having any issues. Once you have installed your modem and logged in, you can manage your connection and change your satisfaction settings. Even the not so tech-savvy person will be able to navigate effortlessly. However, for the more tech-savvy, there are advanced options that provide in-depth information on your Internet connection.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk is an excellent all-in-one modem, especially when you are looking for speed. However, its price, at $209, might set you back a bit. It is a one-time cost instead of the $14/month or $168/year cost of renting a modem.
- input voltage：100 -240V
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
- Compatible with Xfinity from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, CableONE & more. Not compatible with Cable bundled voice services
- Three-in-one DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem + AC1900 WiFi Router+ 4 Gigabit Wired Switch
- Up to 960Mbps modem speed and Dual-Band AC1900 (2.4GHz & 5GHz) WiFi speed. 24x8 channel bonding/ Approved for plans up to 500 Mbps
2. Motorola MB8600
Design-wise, the Motorola MB8600 has a sophisticated look; its high-quality grey plastic finishing helps to keep the modem in one place. Therefore, it is not likely to fall if shaken on a desk.
Furthermore, its sleek black design accents pair well with the grey outer body. Instead of a series of neon lights found on most modems, this one has an LED panel to provide information on its performance. Behind this router, you will find one Ethernet port, a coax cable port, and the power button.
If the total bandwidth is one of your determining factors when purchasing a modem, prepare to be blown away by MB8600. It is simply too fast! And the best thing about this modem is that it works in urban and rural areas, where typically Internet connection might not be operating at its maximum.
The Motorola MB8600 is also compatible with multiple devices such as Macs, Windows computers, HDTVs, as well as some gaming consoles so long as they have ethernet connectivity. Additionally, this device also works well with other routers that have WAN ports. However, ensure that your router can meet the speed of the MB8600.
When it comes to setting up this modem, you will find that it is an easy task. If you already have an old modem from your Xfinity subscription, all you have to do is remove its coax cable and insert it into the MB8600. Once completed, turn on the router and wait a couple of minutes for it to configure with your connection.
The Motorola MB8600 costs around $170 and is a less expensive option compared to the NETGEAR Nighthawk. Should you buy it? Yes, mainly because it is a one-time payment, and you will get value for your money. It is also powerful enough to provide you with a high-speed Internet connection if you live outside major urban cities.
- Top Internet Speeds for all Multi-gigabit Speed Tiers - Wirecutter recommends this model as the best cable modem for people using Gigabit Internet plans. Built-in DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 3.0 32x8 capabilities give top Internet speeds for all cable Internet services.
- Save Money - Eliminate up to 168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and vary by cable service provider.) Approved by Comcast Xfinity and Xfinity X1, Cox, and CableOne for all speeds including Comcast Gigabit services and Cox Gigablast. Not compatible with RCN. No cable modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services, available from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.)
- Flexible Compatibility - Pair with any Wi-Fi router you’d like, including Whole Home Wi-Fi or Mesh routers like eero, Google Wi-Fi, and Orbi. A 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet port allows connection of any SINGLE device with an Ethernet port including a router, Windows or Mac computer, HDTV, or game station. This cable modem does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability.
- Proactive Network Security - A broadcom chipset provides advanced security from denial-of service attacks.
- Active Queue Management (AQM) - AQM significantly reduces Internet latency on both DOCSIS 3.1 and 3.0 services, resulting in faster page loads for all Web traffic and enhanced interactive applications like online gaming and video conferencing. The MB8600 also includes a full-band capture digital tuner to enhance speed and save energy.
3. Linksys CG7500
The Linksys CG7500 has a simple yet stylish design, and since it is both a router and modem, it has more units or components over other modems. This device comes with an ethernet cable, a power adapter, and an installation guide.
It is perhaps one of the easiest modems to install. That is because Linksys designed this device to be as simplistic and less complicated as possible for all users. Everything has been pre-configured to help you get started; for Xfinity subscribers, all you have to do is connect your coax cable and turn on the device. Relevant information, such as your Wi-Fi name and password, is attached to the back of your modem. It takes about a minute or two for your Linksys CG7500 to be up and running.
This device has a filtering system that uses Intel’s Puma 6 Chipset to clear up your internet signal and attempts to improve your network connection.
The Linksys CG7500 can support speeds up to 300 Mbps, as well as any speed subscriptions that are 300Mbps and below. If you max out your speed, that might reduce your bandwidth. Therefore, this modem is an excellent choice for smaller homes and apartments.
There are two significant reasons why you should consider purchasing the Linksys CG7500: its affordability ($150) and its filtering system, which would be excellent for boosting speeds for homes with old wiring or those in rural locations.
- Combines a AC1900 Wi Fi Router with DOCSIS 3.0 24x8 modem into a 2 in 1 space saving, high performance device
- Eliminate monthly rental fees
- Experience high speed Wi Fi speeds from your existing ISP plans up to 300 Mbps. Ample bandwidth for HD video streaming, online gaming, and other Wi Fi data heavy activities
- Simple plug and play setup: Get started right out of the box with no CD setup
- Compatible with Comcast, Spectrum and Xfinity
4. NETGEAR CM500-1AZNAS
If you are looking for a high-performing modem at the lowest cost available, then the NETGEAR CM500 is the best choice for you! It has a polished body and is usually placed upright, so it does not take a lot of space in your home. Like other NETGEAR modems, it has green neon lights on its front panel, as well as one Gigabit Ethernet port.
This device offers a self-activation service when pairing it with your Xfinity plan. That means you no longer have to call your ISP to start your activation. Therefore, it can take up to five minutes to set up this modem for use. However, it does not have Wi-Fi compatibility, so you will need a separate router to do that job. Despite this, one of its excellent features is that it can catch weak signals and make them stronger.
One of the minor problems is that this device tends to heat up quickly; it would therefore be best to place it in a cool environment. Additionally, ensure that you keep other devices away from this device. But, again, this is a minor issue.
The NETGEAR CM500-1AZNAS is averagely priced around $63, and it is a perfect choice if you want high-speed Internet, excellent performance, and value for your money.
- "The best cable Modem" - the wire cutter
- Support Cable internet service plans up to 200 Mbps. Separate router required for Wi-Fi 16x4 channel bonding
- Docsis 3. 0 up to 16x faster download speeds than DOCSIS 2. 0. Number of Ethernet ports: one (1) Gigabit Ethernet port with auto-sensing technology
- Eliminate monthly cable Modem rental fees - up to 156 USD per year. System Requirements- Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 10, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, or other operating systems running a TCP/IP network. Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0, Firefox 2.0, Safari 1.4, or Google Chrome 11.0 browsers or higher
- Not compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink. Not compatible with bundled voice services
5. ARRIS Surfboard
The ARRIS Surfboard is one of the most popular choices among consumers looking for high-quality speed and performance. With a maximum internet speed of 686Mbps, you can stream HD videos and, if you are a gamer, take your online gaming to another level. One of its unique features is its LED indicator lights, which blink either blue or green depending on how well your network connection performs.
When it comes to installing this device, it is straightforward and does not require much effort. There are three ports for power connection, your coax cable, and ethernet connection. However, one of its design issues is with the port setup. The coax and power ports are too close to each other, making it almost impossible to access one without the other interfering.
Nonetheless, at $79.99, the Arris Surfboard is a reliable modem that will save you money instead of renting a modem from your ISP.
- This product may come white or black in color
- Approved for Cox, Spectrum and Xfinity internet along with other US cable internet providers. Is NOT compatible with ATT, CenturyLink, Verizon, Frontier or other Fiber Optic, DSL or Satellite internet service providers.
- Does NOT include Wi-Fi and Does NOT support cable digital voice service.
- Modem Technology/Simple Set-Up: DOCSIS 3.0 is a reliable, broadly available & affordable technology that delivers high speed internet to your home devices. Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App & follow the instructions to activate.
- Compatibility: Compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity and others. It's approved for cable internet speed plans up to 400 Mbps. Check your Internet Service Provider website to confirm compatibility.
Xfinity Modem Setup
For instructions on how to set up an Xfinity modem, watch this video:
Conclusion
Many modems are compatible with your Comcast Xfinity subscription plan. While this list does not mention all modems, these are some of the best that are affordable, have high-speed, and excellent performance. Plus, they are all easy to set up and get working.
Hopefully, this list will help you decide on the best type of modem that suits you and your household’s needs. Let us know your thoughts and comments if you choose to use any of these modems on our list.