Netgear CM500 VS ARRIS SB6183 – Which of the two is more reliable?
Two of the most popular entry level cable modems today are the Netgear CM500 and Arris SB6183. Here, we’ll compare the similarities and differences, and see which of the two is more reliable.
Cable modems are used as the bridge between the internet service provider’s signal and your home devices. Most cable internet providers provide you with a modem that you pay for monthly, like rent. To eliminate this extra costs, you can buy your own cable modem. Two of the most popular and affordable ones are the Netgear CM500 and Arris SB6183. Both are midrange entries that provide high speed connectivity and are compatible with all the major ISPs. In the following table, we break down their differences and features further.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between Netgear CM500 and Arris Surfboard SB6183?
Model |
Netgear CM500 |
Arris Surfboard SB6183 (Winner) |
DOCSIS supported |
3.0 |
3.0 |
Size dimensions |
7.28 x 4.88 x 2.36 inches |
5 x 5 x 2.1 inches |
Gigabit Ethernet Ports |
1 |
2 |
Spectrum Analyzer |
No
|
Yes |
Channels |
32 Down
8 Up |
32 Down
8 Up |
Speed |
Downstream – 680 Mbps
Upstream – 132 Mbps |
Downstream – 686 Mbps
Upstream – 100 Mbps |
Cable internet service providers supported |
Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Mediacom Cable and others |
Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum and others |
Availability |
Netgear CM500vsArris Surfboard SB6183- How do they compare?
Design
A key consideration when buying a cable modem is its exterior design. A good design means attractiveness and practicality is everyday life. The Arris modem features better design than the Netgear and this is because it checks both credentials. It is attractive, with a glowing white color with a matte finish that feels amazing to the touch. The matte design also ensures minimal dirt sticks on the surface of the modem. In addition, it is also much smaller than the Netgear CM500 and this offers much more practicality for homes and small businesses. Small size ensures that it does not stick out in your home’s interior design and also saves on floor space. On the other hand, Netgear’s model is large and features a very bold design. It resembles an industrial modem due to the sheer size. Overall, Arris is more attractive and saves on space making it the better choice.
Performance and speed
Depending on our internet service provider, the modem you pick should be able to handle high throughput speeds. Both of these modems feature a mid-level performance ideal for streaming in high resolutions. However, the Arris SB6183 is slightly ahead when it comes to speed. Theoretically speaking, it provides a download speed of 686 Mbps and an upload speed of 100 Mbps. When tested in a real environment, it churned out speeds of 80 Mbps and 5 Mbps which is rather decent. Netgear on the other side has similar theoretical speeds against real world speeds of 72 Mbps and 4 Mbps respectively. Again, the Arris takes the win with its high throughput speeds.
Ports
Ports are essential to cable modems as they do not support wireless connectivity. Furthermore, cable modems are always connected to routers. Both modems have one gigabit Ethernet port located at the back. They also have a coaxial port for your cable internet service provider to connect to and a power port.
Extra features
Other than the basic functionalities that a modem offers, there are extra features that manufactures put to improve the overall performance of the device. Here, Arris’ product excels since it is fitted with more and practical features. The CM500 comes with DOCSIS 3.0 support that is backward compatible with 2.0. It supports all major cable internet providers such as Xfinity, Time Warner and more. Furthermore, it features addressing support, IPV6, quality of support (QoS) and a simple plug and play installation. The Arris on the other hand features IPV4 and IPV6 support, compatibility with major cable internet providers, HD multimedia streaming, energy efficient components and more. This makes the Arris a better choice for gamers and for large file downloads.
Netgear CM500 vs Arris Surfboard SB6183 – A comparison review
Netgear CM500
- 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...
The CM500 is a wonderful choice for anyone who wants their own modem rather than renting the ISP provided one. This is because it is cheap and offers higher speeds than the rented one. Moreover, the modem features a lovely design – it has a sleek black body with a solid build for durability. It is also lightweight weighing just 0.62 lbs. On top of this, the modem features several LED lights on the front panel that indicate different statuses of the device such as no connection, locked channels and more.
With the Netgear CM500, there is no need to worry about compatibility issues with the ISP. This is because the modem supports all major cable internet providers such as Comcast Xfinity. With this, there is even no need to call your ISP to activate or configure any settings since self-activation is offered. The CM500 features one gigabit Ethernet port located at the back. Its download and upload speeds are 72 Mbps and 5 Mbps respectively. Finally, the modem features DOCSIS 3.0 for high speeds and is backward compatible with DOCSIS 2.0.
Pros
- Solid build ensures durability
- The modem is cheap and offers great value for money
- It is backward compatible with DOCSIS 2.0
- High speeds of about 200 Mbps ensure fast downloads and seamless streaming
- The modem comes with a one year warranty and three months of technical support
Cons
- The LEDs are too bright any may be a problem when trying to sleep
Arris Surfboard SB6183
No products found.
Among the best-selling modems on Amazon is the Arris SB6183. It is a small white cable modem with the best performance you’ll get in that price range. One of the top reasons the modem has sold so many units is its compatibility with all major cable internet providers. A few examples include: Time Warner, Brighthouse, Comcast Xfinity, Cox and more. Furthermore, the unit boasts 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels that allow high speeds of 686 Mbps and 131 Mbps respectively. This translates to download and upload speeds of 80 and 5 Mbps respectively. In addition, the Arris features some wonderful extra features that boost the performance such as HD multimedia streaming, energy efficient components and more. With that, the following are its benefits and downsides
Pros
- It is small and compact to save on floor space for homes
- The modem features high speeds for large downloads and HD streaming
- The LEDs are color coded to show upstream and downstream connection quality
- The modem is durable
Cons
- The Ethernet and coaxial ports are too close together
Conclusion
In conclusion, Arris SB6183 offers higher speeds and a stable consistent connection than the Netgear modem. CM500 excels in durability and also offers high speeds.
Final Verdict – So which is better, Netgear CM500 or Arris SB6183?
Overall, the arris SB6183 is the better buy because it offers high speeds and consistency with low latency. It also offers greater value for money that the CM500
FAQs
-
Does the CM500 overheat?
No. Netgear ensures breathability and cooling in their modems by using a mesh-like body.
-
Do both modems feature link aggregation?
No. None of these modems have these feature since they both have just one gigabit Ethernet port.
