Best Cable Modem Router Combo – These days, makers of home networking gear seem to favor modem-router combinations over standalone cable modems. It may be tempting to buy one of these hybrid networking devices instead of a separate modem and router, as you can take care of two tasks with one device. We’d advise against modem-router combos, though.
First, some background: as our modem-vs.-router comparison explains, the two devices serve very different purposes. A cable modem brings internet connectivity into your home while the best routers distribute that internet connection wirelessly, so that all your devices — laptops, phones, and smart-home gadgets — can hop on the internet. If you’re dissatisfied with the reach of your network, it’s a router, not a modem, that you should be in the market for
ROUND UP
1.Motorola MG7700
If it’s time to upgrade your modem and your router, the Motorola MG7700 is likely the right one for you if you’re a customer of Comcast Xfinity, Cox or Spectrum and don’t pay extra for a superfast plan. Your cable company (or even your bill from them) will be able to tell you what speed connection you have, but as a rough guide if you’re on a basic plan, it almost certainly won’t be a what’s known as a 1 gigabit connection, (and if it is, we’ve got picks for you below).
One of the best features of the Motorola MG7700 we like most has nothing to do with its technical prowess: It’s not terribly ugly. In order to get the best range from its wireless signal, you don’t want to hide the modem/router behind furniture or in a closet. But this unit is just inoffensive enough that you can put it on a side table in the living room and not be embarrassed.
2.ARRIS SURFboard SBG7600AC2
This ARRIS SURFboard doesn’t have fancy DOCSIS 3.1 technology like the NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800, but it will still support most cable internet speed—and at half the cost. ARRIS sweetens the deal with McAfee Secure Whole Home Internet so you don’t have to stress about viruses.
Just because you’re shelling out for fast internet doesn’t mean you have to empty your pockets for a cable modem with Wi-Fi too. Think of this modem/router as a cheaper gig solution that might not be relevant forever but will certainly last long enough to save you from leasing a device from your ISP.
3.NETGEAR Nighthawk
Like most NETGEAR Nighthawks, the C7000 is a slick piece of machinery. Thanks to its 24 download channels, it runs smooth and fast for all your streaming and gaming needs. And that textured grate on the exterior adds an extra bit of panache.
Grab this combo box to get up to 400 Mbps of unhindered internet access—and look cool while doing it.
4.Motorola MT7711
If you want to get some incredible savings on the best cable modem and router combos versus your provider’s lease option, the MOTOROLA MG7711 is the way to go. It supports only lower cable speeds and the technology is a little behind the times, but it’s still kicking.
This device is the best choice for someone who wants to save, doesn’t have many devices, and has an internet plan with download speeds lower than 145 Mbps. And since this baby pays for itself in less than a year, it’s a good option when you’re just trying out owning your own modem/router.
5.NETGEAR Nighthawk
If you consider yourself a power user and you’re an Xfinity, Spectrum or Cox user, the Netgear Nighthawk C7000 might check all the boxes. Let’s see. Capable of a pretty fast connection? Check! Four ports for lots of additional devices? Check! Good range for big homes (2,500 square feet): Check! Not ugly: Check (mostly)!
These capabilities are reflected in the higher price tag, and our reviewer said in fact, it is ‘overkill for the average user’s internet needs’, so it really comes down to whether your a gamer, or stream to a lot of different TVs in the house at the same time.
6.TP-Link 16×4 AC1750
The sacrifice? You lose a USB 3.0 port which has questionable advantage on a router, and you get slower 2.4GHz at close range. 802.11n 5GHz and 802.11ac performance remains comparable. But rest assured: amongst top-tier AC1750 and AC1900 routers, the D7 easily takes the prize as the most budget-friendly.
The piano-black Archer D7 is separated down the middle by a silver, painted bit of plastic that also helps the router to sit flat. Above this separator are the status lights — power, line sync, Internet connection, wireless, LAN and USB. Sadly there’s just the one light to accommodate the four gigabit Ethernet ports, making troubleshooting a little harder than it needs to be.
7.ARRIS SURFboard SBG10
The ARRIS SURFboard SBG7600AC2 is a powerhouse modem/router, with blazing speeds and excellent bandwidth. For those willing to part with a bit more cash, this router provides unparalleled performance.
This product can handle Wi-Fi speeds of up to 2350 Mbps, which blows the other routers on this list out of the water. These speeds should effectively future-proof it, and prevent you from having to buy a new router for a long time.
WRAP UP
Best Cable Modem Router Combo – The best cable modem probably isn’t something you think about, but it should be at the front of your mind the next time you get your internet bill.
If you buy your own cable modem instead of using whatever your internet service provider dropped off, you can probably save money on your internet service by eliminating a needless equipment rental fee.
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