Netgear CM1100 Vs CM1200 – Which is better for gaming
Are you in the market for a new cable modem? The Netgear CM1100 and CM1200 should be among your top picks. Here, we’ll compare them and highlight their best features to determine which is the most suitable for you.
For gamers and other intensive bandwidth users, high performance model cable modems are essential for their households. Netgear manufactures the best high performance models and among them are the CM1100 and CM1200. These two modems were released in 2018 as part of the Nighthawk series. Since then, they have sold thousands of units on Amazon. With more and more people going for performance models, the CM1200 and CM100 have stood out because of their modern features and excellent value for money. The following table highlights their similarities and differences
Table of Contents
What are the differences between Netgear CM1100 and CM1200?
Model |
Netgear CM1100 (Winner) |
Netgear CM1200 |
DOCSIS supported |
3.1 and 3.0 |
3.1 and 3.0 |
Speed |
Up to 2 Gbps |
Up to 2 Gbps |
Gigabit Ethernet Ports |
2 |
2 |
Processor Chipset |
Broadcom BCM3390 |
Broadcom BCM3390
|
Channels |
32 Down
8 Up |
32 Down
8 Up |
RAM |
256 MB |
256 MB |
Cable internet service providers supported |
Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum |
Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, Charter, among others |
Availability |
Check out this video explaining differences between Netgear CM1100 and CM1200
Netgear CM1100vsNetgear CM1200- How do they compare?
Design
Being from the same manufacturer, the CM1100 and CM1200 are quite similar in design with little and minor differences. A modem with a great design is said to be practical in terms of size as well as attractive in design. The CM1100 is much more attractive in design due to its matte finishing and smaller size. Its small and compact nature allows for easy placement in the house and ensures it does not stick out against the interior décor. Furthermore, both units come in a solid black color and have triangular beveled mesh holes to allow cooling and breathability. This accounts for the few cases of overheating in Netgear modems. The CM1200 is slightly bulkier and heavier. However, both are built from strong solid plastic casing that ensure durability for the long term. All in all the Netgear CM1100 is a better choice as it is better designed
Performance
Both the CM1100 and CM1200 have a theoretical speed of 2 Gbps. In a test environment, the CM1200 performed better with a speed 680 Mbps compared to the 600 Mbps on the CM1100. Both of these speeds are quite high and will both work for professional gamers and large file transfers. To achieve these speeds, both routers are fitted with DOCSIS 3.1 technology which allows consistent speeds and bandwidth. In addition, they are both 32 x 8 channel modems providing enough channels for high resolution 4K streaming with little to no buffering. Either of these modems would be an excellent choice for intensive users
Compatibility with cable internet providers
One of major considerations when buying a modem is the compatibility with other internet service providers. When you buy a modem, the package contains a list of cable internet providers it is compatible with. Once again, the CM1100 and CM1200 share the same list of compatible ISPs. Some of them include: Xfinity by Comcast, COX, Spectrum and others.
Ports and connectivity
Like many of the routers today, these Netgear models provide both wired and wireless connectivity. Wireless connectivity is made possible by WPS and WLAN. They are also dual band routers meaning they support two channels: 2.4 and 5 GHz. The CM1100 comes with two gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections. With this, you are able to connect almost all your home devices from TVs, laptops and printers. The Cm1200 comes with similar number of ports, and a USB 3.0 at the front.
Netgear CM1100 vs Netgear CM1200 – A Comparison Review
Netgear CM1100
- Delivers true Multi-Gig Internet speeds with link aggregation support
- Built-in high-speed DOCSIS 3.1 channel bonding cable modem
Among the best modems released in 2017 was the CM1100 modem. Not only was it one of the best modems back then, but it can also go head to head with routers today. The CM1100 is timeless piece of hardware that boasts excellent performance and range. In fact, it ca be used for very large homes with an average of four bedrooms. And even with this super coverage, the router is affordable at less thana hundred bucks. This model weighs 1.6 pounds and measures 11.2 x 7.3 x 1.9 inches which is rather large. The large size however is responsible for the sturdy feel and durability. It comes with the following top class features: DOCSIS 3.1, QoS for amazing gaming and streaming experience, airtime fairness, free automatic backup and more.
The Netgear CM1100 comes with two gigabit Ethernet ports. The modem is responsible for sending and receiving the signal easily. NetgearCM1100 is however unique due to the presence of a USB port 3.0 located at the back of the modem. But perhaps the best feature of this router has to be the security system it comes with. It features preinstalled security system that protects your devices from malware, phishing attacks and stolen passwords.
Pros
- The Netgear CM1100 comes with a gorgeous and attractive design that fits perfectly into any home’s interior deco
- The modem provides superb range
- It is very easy to setup and configure this modem
- It has fast NAS and storage performance
- The modem is compatible with all major cable ISPs in the US
- It comes with a USB 3.0 port
Cons
- The CM1100 is quite expensive
NetgearCM1200
- 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...
The CM1200 is considered by many as the best Netgear modem for home use. And it’s not difficult to see why. This router is powered by a 1 GHz dual core processor that provides a total bandwidth of 2000 Mbps that translates to about 600 Mbps in a real world environment. When it comes to design, this modem is one of the largest in the market. It is bulky and you should set aside a large area for placement and an equally large power port for the huge adapter it comes with. However, it can be mounted. Like the previous modem, it also comes with rubber paddings fitted at the base of the device. In addition, it is also matte black to prevent fingerprints from sticking on the surface.
Pros
- It features high speeds of up to 300 Mbps
- Netgear CM1100 has a solid build for durability
- With link aggregation, the performance is highly improved making it a great choice for gamers
- It has two gigabit Ethernet ports
- The modem is compatible with all major ISPs from Comcast, Spectrum and more
Cons
- There is no built in router so you also have to buy a router
Conclusion
Choosing the most suitable modem for you depends on your top considerations. For high performance, the CM1100 is the better choice. But if you want to save your bucks while still getting great speeds, consider going for the CM1200
Final Verdict -So which is better, Netgear CM1000 or Netgear CM1100?
Netgear’s CM1100 is the better modem for one main reason. It is slightly faster than the CM1200. It also features two gigabit Ethernet ports and is fairly priced offering better value for money.
FAQs
-
Does the Netgear CM1200 have DOCSIS 3.1?
Yes. Being a performance model, DOCSIS 3.1 is used to reach the maximum speeds available
-
Do both modems feature link aggregation?
Yes. This is because they both have two gigabit Ethernet ports.
