CenturyLink C3000z vs. C2100T – A Comprehensive Comparison

Are you a CenturyLink subscriber looking for an ideal router to meet all your internet needs and one that provides a strong, stable and reliable connection at all times? The CenturyLink C3000Z and the C2100T are great options that you can count on. 

In this day and age, we all want the best of the best, and in this case, we are all looking for network devices that provide the widest range of transmission and those that deliver the fastest speeds. For most of us, renting network equipment from our internet service providers is often the most reliable option. While our freedom of choice is very limited when we are dealing with rental equipment, it is important to understand the various technical specifications of the routers and modems that are provided by our service providers- in this case, CenturyLink. 

Among the most preferred modem/routers are the CenturyLink C3000Z and the C2100T. The two network devices are valued for their speed, performance and reliability. But, how do they compare against each other? 

What are the differences between the CenturyLink C3000Z and the CenturyLink C2100T? 

CenturyLink C3000Z vs. C2100T – How do they compare? 

Speed and Performance 

While the CenturyLink C3000Z and the C2100T have an elegant and modern design, they greatly differ when it comes to their speed and performance. The C3000Z delivers faster internet transmission over a wider range than the C2100T. Installed in a house that covers about 1,500-2,500 feet, this modem/router is able to seamlessly transmit speeds that reach about 1.7 Gbps in all the floors and rooms of the house. The C2100T, on the other hand, can only transmit speeds that reach up to 300Mbps, which isn’t so bad for a single device.

Based on this comparison feat, we can deduce that the CenturyLink C3000Z has an upper hand when it comes to speed and performance.

Ports and Connectivity 

Generally, all routers are fitted with ports for enhanced connectivity, but this doesn’t always mean that all the ports can accommodate simultaneous connections and more wired connections. Based on our comparison review, the CenturyLink C3000Z has a big advantage over other CenturyLink modems, such as the CenturyLink C2100T. On the back, the CenturyLink C3000Z has 1 WAN, 4 LAN and 1 extra port for USB connections.  The CenturyLink C2100T, on the other hand, has 4 LAN ports and 1 WAN. It does not offer a port for USB connections.

In that regard, the CenturyLink C3000Z has more ports, hence more enhanced connectivity than the CenturyLink C2100T.

CenturyLink C3000Z vs. C2100T – A Comparison Overview 

CenturyLink C3000Z Review

ZyXEL C3000Z Modem CenturyLink

• CenuryLink C3000Z
• ZyXEL C3000Z Modem

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The CenturyLink C3000Z is made by Zyxcel for use with the CenturyLink internet packages. It supports the latest Wi-Fi standard of 802.11ac, which explains why it provides up to 1.7 Gbps of speed. This means that it can seamlessly accommodate all your high bandwidth applications, including online gaming and 4K streaming. It delivers download speeds of 200 Mbps on LAN connectivity and download speeds of 100 Mbps on Wi-Fi. 

Additionally, it offers support for using DSL and Wi-Fi connections, and it comes with 4 LAN ports that allow you to connect four simultaneous devices. Based on this features, we can deduce that this CenturyLink modem is ideal for anyone who is tech-savvy, gamers and anyone invested in high bandwidth applications. 

To add to that, the CenturyLink C3000Z is compatible with CBRAS, this allows you to set up static IP addresses. We cannot forget to mention that it is the ideal option for anyone who has subscribed to CenturyLink internet plans that come with download speeds of 80 Mbps or more. You would also be impressed by the fact that the CenturyLink C3000Z is one of the most affordable DSL modems for CenturyLink that offers exceptional performance. 

Pros 

• Extended coverage 
• High powered on both the 2.4 and 5 GHz frequency bands 
• Equipped with MU-MIMO and beamforming technologies that ensure exceptional performance 
• Runs on the latest Wi-Fi technology 
• Good security 
• Dual Network support 

Cons 

• Doesn’t come with a warranty 
• Only works best with fast DSL technology

CenturyLink C2100T Review 

ZyXEL C2100Z (CenturyLink) VDSL2 Wireless Modem Router

• Compatible with CenturyLink Service
• Modem & WiFi Router Combo Device - No Extra Equipment Needed!

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The CenturyLink C21100T is particularly designed for smart homes and residences that want to enjoy an uninterrupted internet connection. It is ultra-compact and comes with a sleek design that gives an aesthetic boost to your home or workspace. 

The modem features a HPNA 3.1 adapter that is designed to ensure that you enjoy a high-speed connection at all times. In addition to that; the modem supports both wireless and DSL connections with top speeds of 300 Mbps on the 802.11n access point. You would be impressed by the fact that this high-performing modem is versatile and compatible with most internet-related devices and lines, such as the Prism Television, ADSL2+, and ADSL. 

Aside from that, the modem is equipped with the Wi-Fi Protected setup (WPS) that works as a great security option for your modem and private data. Also, the installation and setup process is hassle-free due to the auto detection feature that is found on all CenturyLink modems. Additionally, it comes with 4 Ethernet ports that allow you to connect 4 devices at the same time and 1 WAN port. 

Pros 

• Easy to install and setup 
• Allows for multiple connections simultaneously 
• Compatible with most lines and internet devices 
• Sleek and sophisticated design 
• Ultra compact 
• Reliable internet connection 

Cons 

• Doesn’t provide high speeds 
• Doesn’t have a USB support 

Verdict: So, which is better – the CenturyLink C3000Z or the CenturyLink C2100T? 

The CenturyLink C3000Z is better than the CenturyLink C2100T. It offers enhanced connectivity and faster internet speeds than the C2100T. So, if you are heavily invested in high bandwidth applications such as 4K streaming and online gaming, you would rather go for the C3000Z. However, if you are more invested in lighter internet applications, like mobile browsing, then you can work with the C2100T.

FAQs

1. Are CenturyLink modems bad?

No. CenturyLink has several DSL modems that are designed to accommodate all your internet needs. While some have shortcomings, you can always ask for a replacement.

2. Why is CenturyLink internet so sluggish at night?

This is mostly because the firmware and software updates take place at night.