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Modems Comparison - December 2025
| 1 Best Choice  9.7Exceptional | 2  9.4Excellent | 3 Best Value  9.3Excellent | 4  9.2Excellent | 5  9.1Excellent | 6  9.0Excellent |
| View DealOn Amazon | View DealOn Amazon | View DealOn Amazon | View DealOn Amazon | View DealOn Amazon | View DealOn Amazon |
ModelNETGEAR Cable Modem DOCSIS 3.0 (CM500) Compatible with Major Cable Providers Including Xfinity, Cox, for Plans Up to 400 Mbps | Model ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2 -1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Works with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | For Cable Internet Plans up to 2Gbps | Modem Only, Router Required | Model NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 - Compatible with All Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox | for Cable Plans Up to 2 Gigabits | 4 x 1G Ethernet Ports | DOCSIS 3.1, Black | Model NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router - AX2700 2.7 Gbps - Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and More - Gigabit Wireless Internet | Model ARRIS (S34) - Cable Modem - Fast DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem, for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum & More, 2.5 Gbps Max Internet Speeds, 1 Year Warranty - (No Built-in WiFi) | Model NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000-1AZNAS) – Approved for Today’s Fastest Speeds - Works With all Cable Providers, Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps |
BrandNETGEAR | Brand ARRIS | Brand NETGEAR | Brand NETGEAR | Brand ARRIS | Brand NETGEAR |
Reviews | Reviews  | Reviews | Reviews | Reviews | Reviews - |
Features | |||||
Easy installation 9.1 | Easy installation 9.1 | Easy installation 8.9 | Easy installation 8.6 | Easy installation 8.4 | Easy installation 8.1 |
Tech support 8.1 | Tech support 7.6 | Tech support 7.6 | Tech support 7.2 | Tech support 7.0 | Tech support 7.0 |
WiFi signal 8.6 | WiFi signal 8.4 | WiFi signal 8.4 | WiFi signal 7.9 | WiFi signal 7.7 | WiFi signal 7.6 |
Tech Specs | |||||
item weight 1.46 pounds | item weight - | item weight 1.95 pounds | item weight 3.9 pounds | item weight 1.39 pounds | item weight - |
product dimensions 4.88 x 7.28 x 2.36 inches | product dimensions - | product dimensions 6.1 x 3.4 x 10.3 inches | product dimensions - | product dimensions 10.55 x 6.75 x 2.46 inches | product dimensions - |
item dimensions lxwxh 4.88 x 7.28 x 2.36 inches | item dimensions lxwxh - | item dimensions lxwxh 6.1 x 3.4 x 10.3 inches | item dimensions lxwxh - | item dimensions lxwxh 10.55 x 6.75 x 2.46 inches | item dimensions lxwxh - |
Review- | Review - | Review | Review - | Review - | Review - |
Available On  | Available On  | Available On | Available On | Available On | Available On |
Our Top 3 Picks
Here are the top 3 recommended products with more information to help you find the right product for you
9.7
1NETGEAR18% OffNETGEAR Cable Modem DOCSIS 3.0 (CM500) Compatible with Major Cable Providers Including Xfinity, Cox, for Plans Up to 400 Mbps
9.1 Easy installation8.6 WiFi signal8.1 Tech SupportWhy we love it
Saves on rental fees.
Compatible with major ISPs.
Simple to set up.
-
9.4
2ARRIS
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2 -1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Works with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | For Cable Internet Plans up to 2Gbps | Modem Only, Router Required
9.1 Easy installation8.4 WiFi signal7.6 Tech SupportWhy we love it
Fast internet speeds up to 1 Gbps.
Compatible with major U.S. providers.
Easy setup with app guidance.
-
9.3
3NETGEAR29% Off
NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 - Compatible with All Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox | for Cable Plans Up to 2 Gigabits | 4 x 1G Ethernet Ports | DOCSIS 3.1, Black
8.9 Easy installation8.4 WiFi signal7.6 Tech SupportWhy we love it
Compatible with major cable providers.
Saves on rental fees.
Supports high-speed internet.
Modems Buyer's Guide
Written by Jim WilliamsIntroduction to Modems
A modem is a device that connects your computer or home network to the internet. It is the most important piece of hardware in your home network and can be the difference between fast and slow internet speeds. There are many different types of modems available on the market, each with its own set of features and benefits. This buying guide will help you make an informed decision when selecting the right modem for your home network.
Types of Modems
Modems come in a variety of types, including DOCSIS, DSL, and Cable. DOCSIS modems are the most widely used and are compatible with most cable providers. DSL modems are used with DSL internet services and are compatible with most major DSL providers. Cable modems are used with cable internet services and are also compatible with most major cable providers. All three types of modems offer different speeds and features, so it is important to know which type of modem you need before making a purchase.
Speed
Speed is the most important factor to consider when buying a modem. The speed of the modem should match the speed of your internet service. Most internet service providers offer different levels of speeds, so it is important to check with your provider to ensure you are getting the right modem for your service. It is also important to note that some modems can only support a certain maximum speed, so make sure the modem you choose can support the speed of your internet service.
Wireless Capabilities
Many modern modems come with wireless capabilities, allowing you to connect to the internet wirelessly. This is especially useful if you don’t want to run cables throughout your home or if you want to connect multiple devices to the internet without having to run cables between them. Wireless modems can also be used to create a home network, allowing you to share files, stream media, and more.
Security Features
Security is an important factor to consider when buying a modem. Many modems come with built-in security features such as firewalls and encryption. This can help protect your network from malicious attacks and keep your data safe. It is important to make sure the modem you select comes with the security features you need to keep your network safe.
Price
Price is always an important factor to consider when buying a modem. Modems can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars, depending on the features and speed of the modem. It is important to understand what features you need and what speed you need before making a purchase. This will help you narrow down the modems that are available and find the best one for your budget.
Our ranking system
At bestchoice.com, our team curates a selection of top products from a vast array available online, using a sophisticated ranking system based on carefully defined criteria.While traditional hands-on testing has its merits, our use of AI technology offers distinct advantages. AI allows us to process and analyze vast amounts of data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive view that goes beyond what manual testing can achieve. This approach enables us to deliver insights that are aligned with current trends and consumer preferences, ensuring our reviews are both relevant and up-to-date.
Features
Our AI-driven analysis examines key attributes, capabilities, and other critical factors tailored to each product category. This method allows us to assess effectiveness from various perspectives, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation.
Consumer Reviews
We aggregate and evaluate consumer feedback from across the internet, giving weight to ratings and reviews that reflect the most reliable insights. AI enhances this process by filtering and prioritizing data, offering a balanced view without the need for direct personal endorsements.
Popularity
Our system also considers the popularity of products, analyzing factors such as market presence, reputation, and user satisfaction. By leveraging AI, we capture a comprehensive picture of a product's standing in the market, which may not always be evident through traditional testing.
Value for money
AI allows us to compare products based on attributes like price, specifications, and user feedback, helping to determine their value for money. This data-driven approach offers an efficient and reliable way to assess how products stack up against one another in terms of cost-effectiveness.
