ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 Review
The ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 makes for an excellent device for connecting homes to high speed internet transmission. Aside from being extremely practical, it boasts a beautiful trim build that makes it easy to install even in tight spaces.
For a long time, I had been looking for a permanent solution to the slow internet I had been experiencing in my home. After complaining a good deal to my cable company, I realized that I would never quite enjoy the speeds I anticipated, even after changing the data plan I was using. A little research led to the realization that I could replace my rented modem with my own, and after a reliable recommendation, I got the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183. My speeds have never been better.
Table of Contents
The ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 Review and Breakdown
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Even though this device is quite small, it manages to rise above expectations to deliver exceptional speeds for homes that have multiple devices that depend on high speed internet. This is mainly as a result of its up to date technology which allows for versatility and great speeds.
The ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 operates on the DOCSIS 3.0 technology. This standard gives modems the capability to be 8 to 16 times faster than those that use the DOCSIS 2.0 technology. With this kind of speed, home owners with a data plan of 400Mbps and below would be home and dry with the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183.
What stands out the most about this device is its versatility and high compatibility. The ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 has the capacity to connect to most Internet Service Providers such as Cox, Comcast, Xfinity, Spectrum and others. On top of this, you will be able to use your preferred router since it is able to work with all router models.
Aside from using the DOCSIS technology, the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 boasts 16 x 8 channel bonding which translates to 16 downward streams and 8 upstream streams. Additionally, this modem supports a maximum of 686Mbps download speeds and 131Mbps download throughput. With these speeds, you can experience high speed gaming on multiple consoles and stream 4K videos on several devices at the same time and other high intensity activity. However, modems that have a better channel bonding of 24 x 8 and higher deliver more reliable speeds.
What we liked;
- Small and easy to install
- Supports high speed transmission
- Operates on DOCSIS 3.0 technology
- Compatible with most Internet Service Providers
- Works with all router brands
What we did not like;
- Channel bonding may be a little insufficient for high speed transmission
ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 Specifications
Model |
ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 |
Type |
Cable modem |
Bonded Channels |
16 x 8 DOCSIS 3.0 |
Internet download speeds |
Up to 686Mbps |
Internet upload speeds |
Up to 131Mbps |
Router throughput speeds |
400Mbps |
Router frequency bands |
2.4GHz and 5GHz |
Ethernet ports |
1 WAN/ LAN |
Key features |
Meets DOCSIS 3.0 specifications, 16 x 8 channel bonding, high internet speeds, and works with all routers. |
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ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 Features
Design and Build
Most ARRIS SURFboard modems bear a simplistic look, and the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 is no different. It features a trim build, measuring 5.25 inches high by 5.25 inches wide by 2.17 inches deep. With these measurements, you can be able to fit the modem in very tight spaces and even hide it behind books. As with most other ARRIS SURFboard modems, this particular model assumes a vertical orientation. Notable, this device bears a large and flat footprint that allows it good stability when it is set down. This way, it will not easily topple even when set on a high surface.
The front panel is lined with only 4 indicator LED lights which show Power ON/OFF, Upstream, Downstream and Internet connectivity.On close inspection, you will notice that this device bears a high degree of minimalism. Aside from the LED indicator lights, the front panel only has the modem’s logo and model number. The side panels are wide and perforated, a characteristic that adds to the modem’s ability to cool itself. This prevents the device from sustaining damage from overheating.
The ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 receives internet through a coaxial cable on the back panel. On top of this, there is a WAN/LAN port that is responsible for transmitting internet to other devices. You can connect such gadgets as your laptop and desktop computers, gaming consoles, smart TV and others.
Speed and Performance
The ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 was developed for incredible speeds in homes. It makes a great replacement for modems rented from service providers. Aside from saving you a good deal of money on an annual basis, this modem delivers great speeds to your home for a great surfing experience.
This modem receives its ability to transmit at high speeds from its DOCSIS 3.0 technology which was a major upgrade from the DOCSIS 2.0 standard. It is no wonder that modems which use this technology deliver speeds that are 8 times faster. With the ARRISS SURFboard SB6183, you will experience speeds that peak at 686Mbps download speed and 131Mbps upload speeds. It makes an excellent modem in homes that have a 400Mbps data plan. For excellent download and upload speeds, this modem comes with a 16 x 8 channel bonding. This way, you get 16 download channels and 8 upload channels.
The ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 stands out for its ability to connect to most Internet Service Providers. You can connect it to Cox, Xfinity, Time Warner Cable, Comcast and others. Notably, each service provider delivers a separate speed through this modem. Cox supports speeds of up to 300Mbps while Xfinity delivers a similar speed. Spectrum outdoes them both to deliver 400Mbps speeds. These speeds rise above what most rented modems offer, and you will be able to experience high intensity activity such as professional gaming and 4K video streaming on multiple devices.
Even though this device connects to most Internet Service Providers, it remains incapable of supporting voice bundle service providers such as AT&T and Verizon. Keep in mind, also, that the ARRIS SURFboard only works as a cable modem and does not have an internal router.
Ports and Connectivity
On the back of the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 bears a coaxial cable on its back panel. This is the medium through which it receives internet. To connect to other devices, a LAN port is available on the same panel. It allows for connection to devices that require high speed internet transmissions such as smart TVs and gaming consoles. Once set up, you will be able to manage the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 with ease. It comes with a mobile app called the ARRIS SURFboard Manager which has an easy to navigate user interface that ensures you can operate and even change settings and other such activity from the convenience of your mobile phone.
Who is it best suited for?
Being that this device is made for high speed internet transmission in homes, it is made for people who would want to increase internet speeds their houses. It makes for an ideal acquisition for high intensity activity such as professional gaming and heavy video streaming. Also, this device is great for people who would like to save on regular bills. When you purchase your own modem, you will eliminate the cost of renting a modem every month. While the initial cost may seem prohibitive, but buying yourself this modem saves you close to $120 every year.
Are there other alternatives to the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183?
While this modem is considered quite good, there are many devices that operate on the same technology and within the same speeds. There are modems that deliver the same performance and even better. In place of the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183, you can use the Netgear CM500, the Netgear CM600 and the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190. They deliver great speeds and stability, especially where there is high intensity activity.
Features of alternative cable modems
Model |
Netgear CM500 |
ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 |
Netgear CM600 |
Type |
Cable modem |
Cable Modem |
Cable modem |
Bonded Channels |
16 x 4 channel bonding |
32 x 8 DOCSIS 3.1 |
24 x 8 DOCSIS 3.0 |
Internet download speeds |
686Mbps |
600Mbps |
500Mbps |
Internet upload speeds |
132Mbps |
132Mbps |
100Mbps |
Router throughput speeds |
300Mbps |
400Mbps |
1,000Mbps |
Router frequency bands |
2.4GHz, 5GHz |
2.4GHz, 5GHz |
2.GHz, 5GHz |
Ethernet ports |
1 WAN/ LAN |
1 LAN |
1 WAN |
Key features |
High compatibility, DOCSIS 3.0 technology. Works with all router types |
High compatibility with ISPs, works with all routers, DOCSIS 3.0 |
High compatibility, great for gaming, supports multiple devices, works with all routers |
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So, should you buy the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183?
Absolutely! While there are more powerful and efficient modems in the market currently, the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 does a great job for homes that use a 400Mbps data plan and below. It also goes a long way in helping to save a substantial amount of money annually.
FAQs
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Does the Netgear CM500 have an inbuilt router?
No, it only works as a cable modem.
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Does the Netgear CM600 come with multiple Ethernet ports?
No, it only comes with one WAN/LAN port.