ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 Review

Modem models are increasingly becoming more powerful and stable, and the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 has not been left behind in this regard. It proves efficient for home use and saves you good money while at it. Below is an in-depth review.

Did you know you can purchase your own modem for home use? Imagine my shock and delight when I found out that it is actually possible to buy my own modem and stop renting one altogether. As expected, I went on to tell everyone this great news, but I was not prepared for the question that always followed. ‘What modem would you recommend?’. I had not settled on one yet, and therefore, decided to research on a practical and efficient one. As fate would have it, I stumbled upon the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190, and it is speed and reliability in a box. 

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 Breakdown and Review

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem, Approved for Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity & others (White)
  • Compatible with major U.S. Cable Internet Providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity & others. Not...
  • DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem best for cable internet speed plans up to 600 Mbps

The first thing you need to know about this modem is that it was the first ever Gigabit + device to have ever been developed. It boasts exceptionally fast download and upload speeds, a characteristic that is largely credited to its DOCSIS 3.0 technology. With this standard, the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 gains the capacity to transmit at speeds that are at least 8 times faster than those of a regular DOCSIS 2.0 modem. For this reason, it delivers sufficient speeds for people with data plans that are 400Mbps and below.

When it comes to performance, this modem boasts download speeds that peak at 1,400Mbps and upload speeds that reach 262Mbps. It offers 32 x 8 channel bonding which translates to 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels. This type of channel bonding results in incredible speeds. Additionally, this modem is able to support all PC systems like the Windows 8 and Windows 10. It is also compatible with recent technologies such as IPv4 and IPv6.

The ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 is not just fast, it is also quite versatile. It is compatible with most Internet Service Providers such as Cox, Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Xfinity, Charter Spectrum and many others. Additionally, it works with all router models, and it makes a great paring with those that operate in the 802.11ac standard. Bear in mind, however, that the ARRIS SURFboard only acts as a cable modem and it does not support voice bundle service providers such as AT&T and Verizon.

Even though this router promises to deliver lightning fast speeds and reliability, have in mind that the actual speeds you are going to experience are determined by your service provider and your chosen data plan.

What we liked;

  • Delivers lightning speed download speeds
  • Has great upload speeds
  • Supports the DOCSIS 3.0 technology
  • Compatible with all Internet Service Providers
  • Compatible with all router models

What we did not like;

  • Comes with just one WAN/LAN port
  • Does not have an in-built router -You have to purchase one separately

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ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 Specifications

Model
Motorola MB7420
Type
Cable modem
Bonded Channels
32 x 8 DOCSIS 3.0
Internet download speeds
Up to 1,400Mbps
Internet upload speeds
Up to 262Mbps
Router throughput speeds
400Mbps
Router frequency bands
2.4GHz and 5GHz
Ethernet ports
1 WAN/LAN
Key features
Meets DOCSIS 3.0 specifications, High internet speeds, works with all router brands, quick set up
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ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 Features

Design and Build

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 Features

Even though this modem comes with a shape and design that is quite common with many modem brands, it stands out with its white color and subtle sophistication. It measures 5.0 inches high x 2.0 inches wide x 2.0 inches deep, making it significantly smaller than most devices of its caliber. It comes with an incredibly trim fit that allows you to slip it through tiny spaces such as in between books in a shelf. Additionally, it has a flat base and wide footprint that gives it stability when set up on flat surfaces.

On close inspection, you will notice that the ARRIS SURFboard boasts an impressive level of minimalism. For instance, a good number of modems come with 5 to 8 LED indicator lights. On this device, there are only 4 LED lights that indicate Power ON/ OFF, upstream, downstream and internet connectivity. These lights are located on the front panel, and only the modem logo and model number are indicated on the same panel.

On the side panels, you will notice miniature holes that work to keep the device cool even in extreme temperatures. On the back panel, there is only one WAN/LAN port, a coaxial port and a power input. To power it on, all you have to do is connect it to a power source. To facilitate fast and seamless connection, the LANport allows you to connect your router in one easy step for a great surfing experience. Through this port, you can also connect such devices as your smart TV, laptop and desktop computers, gaming consoles and other devices that are ethernet cable compatible.

Speed and Performance

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190

The ARRIS SURFboard SB6190’s ability to deliver exceptional speeds remains irrefutable. Thanks to its DOCSIS 3.0 compatibility, it is able to deliver speeds that are more than 8 times faster than previous models that used older technology. That said, it is no wonder that users can experience download speeds that peak at 1,400Mbps and upload speeds that clock 262Mbps. These speeds are made possible by the 32downward streams and 8 upward streams. With these speeds, users that have a data plan that supports speeds of up to 400Mbps can comfortably use thisdevice.

Notably, different service providers offer different speeds over this modem, and the speeds you experience may be lower or higher depending on your service provider. For instance, Cox supports speeds of up to 300Mbps while Spectrum supports 400Mbps speeds. Xfinity outdoes both of them to provide a data plan that reaches 600Mbps internet speeds.

With this kind of speed, users can comfortably experience high intensity activity such as high speed gaming on multiple consoles and even 4K video streaming across a number of devices at the same time. Additionally, this modem works quite well with Wi-Fi 5 routers that use the 802.11ac standard.

Setup and User friendliness

You will notice that the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 comes without a Power On/ Off button. To switch it on, all you have to do is plug it into the power outlet. Once plugged into the power source, proceed to your Internet Service Provider’s activation page. Also, you can call the service provider for guidance through the few steps you need to make. Once set up, you are going to find that managing the modem is an easy task since it comes with a downloadable mobile app. The ARRIS SURFboard Manager App has an easy to use interface that lets you manage and update your modem’s settings from the convenience of your mobile phone. With its easy and direct navigation, even the least tech savvy will have a breeze using the app.

Who is it best suited for?

The ARRIS SURFboard SF6190 makes an excellent modem for persons who have a data plan that supports speeds of 400Mbps. It proves especially efficient where high intensity activity such as gaming and heavy streaming is done on a regular. Also, if you want to save money by eliminating modem renting fees, you should consider acquiring this modem.

Are there alternatives to the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190?

Yes, there are. You can use the Netgear CM1200, Netgear CM600 and Motorola MB7420 in place of the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190. They are also compatible withal Internet Service Providers and router models, and they also promise good speeds and reliability for regular home use.

Features of alternative cable modems

Model
Netgear CM1200
Motorola MB7420
Netgear CM600
Type
Cable modem
Cable modem
Cable modem
Bonded Channels
38 x2 DOCSIS 3.1
16 x4 DOCSIS 3.0
24 x 8 DOCSIS 3.0
Internet download speeds
Up to 10Gbps
Up to 123Mbps
500Mbps
Internet upload speeds
Up to 1Gbps
Up to 686Mbps
100Mbps
Router throughput speeds
6000Mbps
300Mbps
1,000Mbps
Router frequency bands
2.4GHz and 5GHz
2.4GHz and 5GHz
2.GHz, 5GHz
Ethernet ports
1 WAN, 4 LAN
1 WAN/LAN
1 WAN
Key features
Multi-IP address support, meets DOCSIS 3.1 specifications, Multi-Gig internet speeds, Supports IPv6, works with all routers.
Meets DOCSIS 3.0 specifications, High internet speeds, works with all router brands, quick set up
High compatibility, great for gaming, supports multiple devices, works with all routers
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Verdict: So, should you buy the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190?

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190

Absolutely. If your goal is to achieve high speed internet and uninterrupted activity during gaming and high definition streaming, the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 will make a great investment. You will enjoy being on the internet and saving your money while at it.

FAQs

  1. Is the Netgear CM1200 faster than the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190?

Yes, it supports speeds that reach 2Gbps.

  1. Does the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 come with warranty?

Yes, it comes with a 2 year warranty.

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