3 of the Best Modems for Spectrum Internet in 2021
For the best compatible modems to use with Spectrum internet in 2021, the three top picks should be Motorola MB8600, Netgear Nighthawk CM1200, and Arris SBG8200. They offer fast, reliable, and stable connections given their design and performance. However, Spectrum still has a vast list of different modem models and brands to pick from.
Spectrum, as a subsidiary of Charter, is considered one of the bestand largest Internet Service Providers in the USA, providing one of the fastest cable internet services. As a spectrum subscriber, you normally have the option of renting a modem from them at an extra cost of $5 a month. You’ve probably realized, however, that owning a modem is a fraction less than the total of $60 extra you end up paying to rent one. Having your modem means you have more control over it, it’s more secure and you have the freedom to select one that fits your needs.
It is also important to ensure the modem is compatible with Spectrum your ISP. Luckily, Spectrum provides a long list of preapproved modems, from which you can choose your best. We have taken the liberty to narrow down this list to three of the best choices for your convenience.
Table of Contents
Best Modems Spectrum Can Use
We picked three of the best models based on the most important features in a modem; compatibility, design, speed, channels, and Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications (DOCSIS). The selections are Motorola MB8600, Netgear Nighthawk CM1200, and Arris SBG8200. These three are renowned and reliable brands in the industry. All three check the compatibility box, as you will find they are part of the preapproved list of modems by Spectrum.
1. Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 Modem
- Top Internet Speeds for all Multi-gigabit Speed Tiers - Wirecutter recommends this model as the best...
- Save Money - Eliminate up to 168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings are shown for...
Motorola is a top performer in the industry, producing even better products than the previous ones. Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS3.1 is the vision of the future of the home network. It has a sleek design, uses the latest technology, and is easy to set up.
The modem is one of the few to join the DOCSIS 3.1 group, however, it supports both DOCSIS 3.0, making it future proof. This means while the DOCSIS 3.1 is not widely used yet, you can still use the modem and be one of the first people to enjoy the benefits of DOCSIS 3.1 once it’s widespread.
With a bandwidth of up to 6Gbps, you can enjoy consistent bandwidth from anywhere. By using Gigabit Ethernet, reduces ping and minimizes packet loss. Also, it has 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels. While your ISP may limit the number of channels you can use depending on your data plan, it does not dictate which channels to use. This makes the modem suitable in areas with poor signal.
Newer versions of Motorola MB8600 has one WAN port for coaxial cable and one LAN (Ethernet) port to connect devices. It also has Active Queue Management which reduces lagging by ensuring priority packets get delivered first.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Ultra-fast speed
- Stable connectivity
Cons
- Limited by ISP speed
- Only has one Ethernet port
- No router
2. Netgear Nighthawk CM1200 Cable Modem
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 2Gbps. Currently certified...
- Works with any WiFi router: Connect any WiFi router to this modem’s Ethernet port to support all your...
Netgear Nighthawk CM1200 modem is the perfect DOCSIS 3.1 modem for Spectrum, built to accommodate more than one user at a time. It has a sleek tower build, ensuring it does not overheat or breakdown easily, but still needs ventilation.
It gives you the fastest wired internet speed possible, with two 1Gigabit ports and one 2Gigabit port, and a channel bonding of 32×8, i.e., 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels.
It may not come with a Wi-Fi router but is compatible with other routers or can connect directly to devices through the Ethernet ports. It can offer up to 2Gbps, however, Spectrum offers data plans up to 940Mbps. Still, the modem helps you maximize the speed you get.
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Is durable
- Ultra-fast internet speed
- Does not overheat easily
Cons
- Limited by ISP speed
- Priced on the higher side
- No router
3. Arris SBG8200
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Better connectivity, better speed. The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS...
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem...
The Arris SMG8200 Modem is the most advanced modem under Arris. It supports DOCSIS 3.1 as well as DOCSIS 3.0 and is compatible with Spectrum. Offers a fast internet speed of up to 2Gbps and features 32×8 channel bonding and can support Spectrum Internet speed from even as little as 400Mbps to 940Mbps.
It comes with two Ethernet ports 1Gigabit each that can be used to create two home networks from the modem. This means it supports link aggregation even though most ISP haven’t advanced beyond the 1Gbps speed limit.
Pros
- Easy installation and use
- Ultra-fast internet speed
- Durable
- Supports IPv6
Cons
- Tend to warm up
- No inbuilt Wi-Fi Router
| Modems | Specs | ||||
| Compatible | DOCSIS | Speed | Channel | EthernetPorts | |
| Netgear Nighthawk CM1200 | Yes | 3.1 and 3.0 | 2Gbps | 32×8 | 3 |
| Arris SBG8600 | Yes | 3.1 and 3.0 | 2Gbps | 32×8 | 2 |
| Motorola MB8600 | Yes | 3.1 and 3.0 | 6Gbps | 32×8 | 1 |
Final Verdict
The three modems are all-powerful DOCSIS 3.1 modems, with a lot of similar features. Major ISP like Spectrum have upgraded to DOCSIS 3.1 standards and are now compatible with such modems. They provide ultra-fast internet speed at multi-Gigabit even though Spectrum ISP only supports speed up to 1Gbps.
While it may seem redundant to buy a modem offering a higher speed than your ISP, you would be future-proofing your home network. This is because technology is advancing and ISP are increasing their bandwidth. Spectrum for example now supports a max of 940Mbps from 600Mbps. Additionally, these DOCSIS 3.1 modems still support speeds lower than 1Gbps and help you make the most out of your ISP internet speed.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
How is DOCSIS 3.1 different from DOCSIS 3.0?
DOCSIS 3.0 is an older version that supports speeds below 1Gbps, as compared to DOCSIS 3.1, the newer version capable of supporting the speed of Multi-Gigabit. Major ISPs in the USA have upgraded to DOCSIS 3.1 standard.
What is the meaning of “backward compatible”?
Backward compatible means that an ISP or device follows DOCSIS 3.1 protocols but still supports DOCSIS 3.0.
