5 Best Cox Cable Modem Routers in 2020 (Reviews and Guide)

Investing in your own cable modem router compatible with Cox will save you monthly rental fees. Below are the best Cox cable modem routers on the market.

If you are looking for the best Cox cable modem router, because you want to save money or you need to have control over your home, this review is exactly what you need.

Cox is one of the leading internet service providers on the market, but as you know, by now, you need to confirm device compatibility before you place your order for that cable modem router. What this means is that there are specific features in these cable modem routers. And these features are the units that make the cable modem routers below some of the best options on the market for you today.

Note that unlike the cable modems compatible with other ISPs, Cox now requires its users to use internet modem with DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1, and if you consider yourself the ultimate Cox subscriber, you will need a modem router combo with a 16×4 channel bonding system modem at the very least.

Keep reading to find the best Cox Cable Modem Router on the market.

Comparison Table for the 5 Best Cox Cable Modem/ Routers

5 Best Cox Cable Modem/ Router	Best For	Modem Features	WiFi Speed	Price
NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C6250- 1AZNAS	Best Overall Modem-Router Combo	DOCSIS 3.0 16X4 Channel Bonding	1600Mbps/ 802.11ac	Check Price
NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo	Best High-Speed Modem-Router Combo	DOCSIS 3.1 32X8 Channel Bonding	3200Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price
MOTOROLA MG7550 16×4 Cable Modem Router	Best Mid-Range Modem/Router Combo	DOCSIS 3.0 16X4 Channel Bonding	1900Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price
NETGEAR NIGHTHAWK C7000	Best Modem for Heavy Streaming	DOCSIS 3.0 24X8 Channel Bonding	1900Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price
ARRIS Surfboard SBG10 3.0 Cable Modem Router	Best Inexpensive Modem/Router	DOCSIS 3.0 16X4 Channel Bonding	1600Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price

 

5 Best Cox Cable Modem/ Router

1. NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C6250- 1AZNAS – Best Overall Modem-Router Combo

Whatever your internet needs, you know that you need a modem-router system that always has your back, which is why this Netgear combo might be exactly what you need. This Netgear C6250 is a high-speed cable modem router, meaning that if you are a heavy gamer or streamer, this modem-combo will meet all your needs allowing you to enjoy the smoothest experiences.

It’s a Cox cable-compatible combo, and it comes with a large variety of configurations that make the router one of the best options on the market today.

The modem runs on the DOCSIS 3.0 standard, and it offers high download speeds of 300Mbps. Besides DOCSIS 3.0 technology, this modem has a 16×4 channel bonding. Thanks to these technological features, this modem offers great performance at all times, and at that price, this combo is a steal!

The router is designed to enhance your experience, and all your connected devices will enjoy speeds of up to 1600Mbps – the router is an AC1600, and it connects to a maximum of 25 devices.

This router has a range of coverage of 1500sq/ft. For wired connections, the router comes with two Gigabit Ethernet ports with auto-sensing technology, and there is one USB 3.0 port for file transfers. Regarding the data transfer rate, this modem-router combo boasts a high rate of 1300Mbps.

Pros

• Ideal for online gaming and streaming
• Compatible with Cox
• DoS Protection and WPS
• Parental controls
• Easy setup

Cons

• Only two Gigabit Ethernet ports
• The download speed is not the highest
• Not ideal for larger homes

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2. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo – Best High-Speed Modem-Router Combo

This Netgear Nighthawk C7800 is all about speed. So, if you are looking for the best ultra-high-speed modem-router combo on the market, this might be your perfect match.

For starters, it has been designed with DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is not only the fastest modem protocols (up to 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0), but also a system that’s backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 modems.

DOCSIS 3.1 makes this a high-speed modem, as is seen from the gigabit speeds up to 3200Mbps, as well as the high-speed, top-performance 32×8 channel bonding system. These two technologies work together, and they allow you access to blazing internet speeds for HD streaming and multiplayer online gaming, as well as VR gaming, among others.

The performance of this modem-router combo is further enhanced by the robust 1.5GHz dual-core processor, which makes for the best wired, wireless, and WAN-to-LAN connections.

Besides the high WiFi speeds of 3.2Gbps from the router, the router features the Beamforming+ technology, which not only boosts the WiFi speeds, it also improves the range and the reliability of the WiFi devices.

There’s also a Gigabit Ethernet port that promises the fastest wired internet speeds once you connect the modem to your router or modem.

Pros

• Ultimate speed up to 3.2Gbps for extreme gaming and HD/ UHD streaming.
• Fast access to media thanks to the ReadySHARE USB
• Great savings in the long-term
• Modem built for 2Gbps speeds
• Great WiFi performance
• Versatile
• 4 Ethernet ports for wired connections
• Two hi-speed USB 3.0 ports
• Range coverage up to 3000 square feet
• DOCSIS 3.1 modem technology
• Four antennas
• Easy setup
• 32×8 channel bonding
• Secure system

Cons

• Expensive
• 1Gbps download speeds not supported

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3. MOTOROLA MG7550 16×4 Cable Modem Router– Best Mid-Range Modem/Router Combo

A 16×4 channel bonding DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with an AC1900, this combo promises the best wireless speeds and performance. It works well with ISP speeds of 375Mbps, and with features like Power Boost and DFS, this modem/ router combo might be one of the best investments you make today.

The modem features a 16×4 channel bonding. DOCSIS 3.0 standard enhances the modem’s performance, and it’s the reason for the combo’s compatibility with Cox.

The wireless Power Boost functions amplify the WiFi performance of the router by boosting wireless signals to the maximum limit, boosting the WiFi range speed. And since it works with WiFi DFS frequencies, your wireless network becomes less susceptible to WiFi interference from the neighbors.

The router’s performance further gets a boost from AnyBeam Beamforming technology, which focuses the wireless signals from the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies to all connected wireless clients, hence range, and performance enhancement. The four Ethernet ports allow for high-speed wired connections to gaming consoles, TV, computers, etc.

If you are tired of the wiring clutter from individual modems and routers, this duo’s integration will give you a more reliable connection and a clutter-free space.

Network security is enhanced by the modem chipset, which is designed to curb Denial of Service attacks, as well as the FirewallDFS.

Pros

• Max WiFi speed of 1900Mbps
• 375Mbps, approximate maximum download speeds
• Great WiFi performance
• Easy setup
• Dual-band
• Firewall DFS
• Less clutter
• Good network security features
• 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
• AnyBeam Beamforming
• Excellent range

Cons

• No USB ports
• Actual download speeds might be too low

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4. NETGEAR NIGHTHAWK C7000 – Best Modem for Heavy Streaming

With a DOCSIS 3.0 modem and an AC1900 router, this Netgear modem/router combo could be exactly what you need for all your HD streaming needs.

The modem is compatible with Cox, and it’s built for speed, supporting ISP speeds up to 400Mbps. It’s engineered with the advanced and high-performance 24×8 channel bonding, and since it runs on the DOCSIS 3.0 protocol, it means that you get to enjoy the highest internet speeds at all times.

The router bit of this equipment has everything going for it, from the 1.9Gbps high WiFi speeds, a large range coverage up to 1800sq/ft., and multi-device connectivity for a maximum of 30 devices. The amplified internal antennas, as well as the range-boosting Beamforming+ technology, enhance the speed and performance of the router’s WiFi system. The latter allows for focused wireless signals to connected devices. All these features, including the dual-band design that reduces interference and congestion, make this the perfect streaming solution.

Pros

• Easy setup
• Amplified internal antennas
• High cable speeds of 400Mbps and 1900Mbps WiFi speed
• Four Gigabit Ethernet ports
• Reliable modem performance
• LAN, WLAN, and USB connections

Cons

• No support for 1Gbps download speeds
• No battery backup

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5. ARRISSurfboard SBG10 3.0 Cable Modem Router – Best Inexpensive Modem/Router

If you are shopping for the best modem/router combo on a budget, you will be happy to know that ARRIS’ has you covered with this Cox-compatible Surfboard SBG10 equipment.

Working with Cox plans up to 300Mbps, this DOCSIS 3.0 modem has a 16×4 channel bonding system that allows for fast simultaneous downloads and uploads.

The router is an AC1600 system that boasts high-speeds and reliable performance for the price. Its dual-band setup allows for concurrent WiFi use with no fear of congestion or hogging. And for uninterrupted wired connections, there are two gigabit Ethernet ports for you.

The setup and network management of this modem/router system is easy, thanks to the SURFboard Manager App.

Pros

• Good wireless performance
• 300Mbps maximum ISP plan speeds
• Easy to set up, use and manage
• Cox-compatible
• Affordable
• Reliable WiFi system
• 16 download channels and four upload channel on the modem
• Beamforming WiFi technology for enhanced signal transmission
• Dual-band router
• Great value for money
• Great savings

Cons

• Only 2 gigabit Ethernet ports

View Price on Amazon

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Ultimate Buying Guide for the Best Cox Cable Modem Router

Cox cable could easily be regarded as one of the largest ISPs on the US market today. Over the years, its subscriber base has grown, and Cox offers the best high-speed internet service to at least 7 million households throughout the country. What this means is that if you are looking for an internet service provider that promises the highest possible internet speeds, Cox is a company that’s right up your ally.

Now that you know why Cox would make a good internet service partner, let’s take a look at the most important component of this ISP service, the cable modem router that you should buy.

While there are numerous options on the market for you today, the truth is that no two cable modem routers are made the same way, which means that you must be careful about the features of the mesh system you are buying.

For starters, you need to know that unlike other service providers, Cox doesn’t use just any modem router. You must look for a Cox-supported modem. These modem/routers feature DOCSIS 3.0 or DOCSIS 3.1, and they are the only ones compatible with Cox. But that is not all – all Cox WiFi hardware must meet specific requirements; for example, the equipment must be run on the 802.11ac standard. And if you choose the Ultimate or Gigablast service bundles, which are advanced Cox plans, the equipment you buy can only have a minimum of DOCSIS 3.1 standard.

Below, we’ll take a deeper dive into the factors that you must keep under consideration for the best modem router for Cox. But first, a look at the reasons why you must invest in a Cox-compatible modem router.

Reasons for Cox-Compatible Modem Routers

• Prevention of Latency – incompatible Cox hardware cause poor-quality network coverage, less than optimum routing, low modem memory, and it also reduced the distance between the receiver device and the transmitting device. So, low network latency, get a modem router that’s Cox-compatible.
• Speed issues – Internet speeds will drop real quick if you don’t have Cox-compatible equipment. To enjoy high internet speeds of at least 100Mbps, the modem selected must be a DOCSIS 3.0 or higher.
• You also need a compatible modem for advanced connectivity if you need extra ports, points, and lines. Finally, it’s getting the right modem is cost-effective in the long run.

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Choosing a Cox Cable Modem Router

DOCSIS Standards

Wondering what determines the maximum speed of your modem? Well, the answer is DOCSIS.

DOCSIS refers to Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification, and each DOCSIS standard increases the speed at which information travels from your ISP to your home network and back.

The most common DOCSIS standard is DOCSIS 3.0, and it is designed such that it allows a maximum of 32 download channels all running at once (32×8 channels). The download speeds on this DOCSIS 3.0 standard is over IGb at 1216Mbps, also called Gigabit internet/

The next DOCSIS standard is DOCSIS 3.1, which is the latest standard. DOCSIS 3.1 is recommended for high speeds up to 10Gbps on download speeds and 1Gbps for the upload speeds.

So, if you are looking for the highest internet speeds, this could be a good option for you – depending on where you live. DOCSIS 3.1 modems are future-proof, but they are expensive. DOCSIS 3.1 is backward compatible with the DOCSIS 3.0 modems.

In as much as DOCSIS 3.1 modems offer the highest speeds, you need to keep in the plan you’ve subscribed to. If you are on a slow internet plan, stick to a DOCSIS 3.0 modem with more downstream and downstream channels.

The DOCSIS 3.0 modems allow modems to combine multiple channels for data streaming, hence high download and upload speeds.

Channel Bonding

This is the other feature that you need to look out for when looking for the best Cox cable modem.

When it comes to modems, data flows between your ISP and your network system on channels and channel bonding is the technology that makes this possible. Channel bonding will combine multiple channels, allowing more information to pass through all at once.

Note that the channels refer to the number of channels for downloads vs. the ones for uploads. A 32×8 channel system, for example, has 32 download channels and eight upload streams. The download channels are always more than the upload channels because we download more information than we upload.

If you are looking for a Cox modem, keep in mind the maximum internet speeds offered on your plan. The 24×8 channel system will have high speeds of 300Mbps, while 32×8 channels correspond to 1Gbps max speeds.

When To Rent and When to Buy a Cox Modem

If you’ve rented the modem you are currently using; you need to check your monthly bill to determine how much you pay in rental fees. Cox, like other ISPs, will charge different fees, although bundling their services by buying a plan for TV, digital phone, and the internet gives you a free modem.

If there is a rental charge on the bill, buying a modem would save you some bucks at the end of the year. In the long run, buying your own modem is cheaper than renting.

Regarding the router in the modem/router combo, you need to make sure that it has the following features:

• High WiFi speeds
• Ethernet ports
• Beamforming and other wireless technologies
• Dual-band frequency setup

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FAQs

Which is the best modem for me?

To buy the right modem, first, confirm compatibility with Cox. In addition to compatibility, the best modem will maximize the download speeds on your internet plan. Such a modem is from a reliable brand.

What affects a modem/ router combo’s real-life speeds?

You know that the advertised internet speeds of a modem/combo will seem higher, but those numbers are theoretical, and you need to determine the speeds offers in real life. The actual speed of the modem/router combo will depend on the number of neighbors relying on the ISP, packaged you’ve subscribed to, and the performance of the router.

Are there Cox-Certified Modems?

Yes. Cox understands that its customers need the best modems, but they might make mistakes when choosing the right fit. To curb incompatibility issues, the company offers recommendations for its best Cox-Certified modems.

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Conclusion

The best Cox cable modem router combo for you is the one that is compatible with your ISP and one whose plans give you all the elegant features you want. The devices reviewed above are some of the best options on the market today, and they offer the best features. Also, there is something for everyone, meaning that your budget wouldn’t be a constraining factor.