Arris Surfboard SB6190 Vs SB8200 – which modem is better for 4K streaming?
If you’re looking for a high performance cable modem, you should definitely consider the Arris SB6190 and SB8200. Being some of the best modems in the market today, we’ll look at how they compare and review them to find out which is the better for high resolution streaming.
For many years now, Arris has been one of the leading manufacturers of high quality modems. Among their best releases, the Arris Surfboard SB6190 and 8200 sit at the top of the list. The Arris SB6190 came first is late 2017 and boasted high bandwidth and an excellent design. On the other side, the Arris SB8200 came a year later with some great boosts in performance. But when it comes to design, there are very little differences. The following table highlights their major differences and top features.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the arris Surfboard DB6190 and SB8200?
Model |
Arris Surfboard SB6190 |
Arris Surfboard SB8200 (Winner) |
Download speed |
Up to 1400 Mbps |
Up to 2000 Mbps |
Upload speed |
Up to 262 Mbps |
Up to 400 Mbps |
Number of channels |
8 up channels
32 down channels |
8 up channels
32 down channels |
Ethernet ports |
1 |
2 |
Cable approved |
Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, SuddenLink, Mediacom |
Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, SuddenLink, Mediacom |
DOCSIS |
3.0 |
3.1 |
Processor chipset |
Intel Puma |
Broadcom |
Availability |
Arris Surfboard SB6190 vs Arris Surfboard SB8200 – How do they compare?
Performance and speed
Perhaps the most important factors to consider when buying a cable modem is the speed and rate of data transfer. In this category, the SB8200 is much ahead of the SB6190, and there are a number of reasons for this. First, it is equipped with the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology. And although few internet service providers have adopted this standard, the feature enables the modem to reach its maximum speeds with ease.
The SB8200 features download and upload speeds of 2000 Mbps and 400 Mbps respectively. On the other hand, the SB6190 features speeds of up to 1400 Mbps for the download speed and 262 Mbps for the upload speed. For both, the bandwidths are high enough for high resolution streaming in full 4K as well as live pro gaming. All in all, the Surfboard SB8200 is much better as it also supports multiple devices easily
Design
Being from the same manufacturer, there are very minor differences in the exterior design of these modems. Both come in white or black plastic coverings that are matte material to prevent dirt and other fingerprints from sticking on the surface. On top of this, the modems are both small for easier positioning in the house.
The small size also ensures that the modem does not intrude on your home interior décor. The SB6190 is slightly smaller however. Also, they both feature tough casing that ensures durability of the modems. When it comes to LEDs, the modems have five icon lit LED status indicator lights located at the front. The glowing lights add a lovely ambience to the general look of the modem especially at night.
Ports
In modems, the number of ports is usually not as high as in other networking devices such as routers. However, the more the ports, the better the modem is considered. Here, the SB8200 has a great advantage over the SB6190. While the SB6190 has a single gigabit Ethernet port, the SB8200 has two ports. For many, this is the deciding factor between these modems and we’ll see why. With one port, the speed is limited to 1 Gbps meaning you get even lower transfer speeds. Two ports offer a theoretical throughput speed of 2 Gbps. This is made possible by a feature known as link aggregation that is only available for modems with more than one port. Always go for a modem with more gigabit Ethernet ports, and for our case the SB8200 does it.
Compatibility with other internet service providers
There are lots of internet service providers that offer cable internet. When choosing the modem of your choice, look for one that is compatible with your ISP. Once again, the SB8200 takes the win as it is compatible with more cable internet provider such as Xfinity by Comcast, Cox, Charter, Brighthouse and more. To check for compatibility, check the manual in the package of the full list of ISP in the US.
Arris Surfboard SB6190 VS SB8200 – A comparison review
Arris Surfboard SB6190
- Tom's guide #1 cable Modem choice 2 years in a row. Compatible with major U.S. Cable Internet Providers...
- DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem best for cable internet speed plans up to 400 Mbps
In this age of the internet, you need a modem that will provide seamless connectivity consistently. The SB6190 is such a device. It is a performance model by the Arris group that provides amazing bandwidth of about 1400 Mbps. This excellent speeds are meant for intensive users such as gamers. It is more than enough to stream in high 4K resolution without stuttering. To achieve this fete, the modem is fitted with DOCSIS 3.0 that works perfectly with all internet service providers. It is also a 32 x 8 channel modem which also adds to the overall performance by allowing many streaming channels.
Another reason we love the SB6190 is its compatibility with major internet service providers in the United States. These include Cox and Xfinity among others. With this, you need not switch you ISP when you upgrade to this modem. In addition, the modem feature one gigabit Ethernet port that goes directly to the router for wireless connectivity for your devices. it can also be connected to an device of your choice. Lastly, the unit comes with a two year warranty
Pros
- It is the ideal choice for large homes and small businesses
- It provides great stability and consistency in performance
- The modem features a small design for easy placement in the house
- It is strong and compact for durability
Cons
- Users have complained that it gets too hot and overheats
Arris Surfboard SB8200
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 1Gbps. Currently certified...
- Save monthly rental fees: Model CM1000 replaces your cable modem saving you up to dollar 168/year in...
It is difficult to mention performance model modems without mentioning the Arris SB8200. This modem was built with one priority in mind: raw power and speed. It is a modern cable modem that boasts speeds of up to 500 Mbps. But this speed needs more than one component to achieve. Among the performance boosters, the DOCSIS 3.1 may be the most important. It is the latest DOCSIS standard and allows speeds of up to 10 Gbps on a theoretical basis. Like the previous modem, this one is also compatible with all major internet providers. However, it does not support fiber or DSL internet provider since it is a coaxial modem.
At the back, the unit comes with two gigabit Ethernet ports and this allows for link aggregation, LAG. LAG does an excellent job in allowing modem to reach the high transfer rates with ease.
Pros
- The SB8200 is compatible with all major cable internet providers in the US
- It is fast and the ideal choice for pro gamers
- Two Ethernet ports allow for an additional device to be connected
- Solid build ensures durability
Cons
- The LEDs are too bright
Conclusion
In conclusion, always select a modem that best suits your needs. If you wat to connect multiple devices while still maintain high speed, the SB8200 has got your back. Otherwise, go for the SB6190 as it is cheaper and offers almost similar performance
Final Verdict -So which is better, Arris SB8200 or Arris SB6190?
All in all, the SB8200 offering is a much better purchase than the SB6190. This is mainly because it has two gigabit Ethernet ports and offers excellent extra features such as Link aggregation.
FAQs
-
Does the Arris SB8200 tend to overheat?
Yes. Some users have complained that it gets quite warm over extended usage
-
Is link aggregation available for the SB6190?
No. The feature is only available for modems with more than one Ethernet port.
