SB6121 VsSB8200 – Which Cable Modem Will Give You Reliable, Swift Internet?

When you have two models from a company that has produced cable modems for half a century which would you choose to keep home and business internet-connected? Let’s find out on the SB6121 VsSB8200 review.

Cable modems assure you of internet connectivity either by directly plugging your device to the cable internet or through a Wi-Fi router. In deciding which modem to buy it is important to determine your needs based on the speeds, number of devices simultaneously running, your budget, among others. The ArrisSB6121 and SB8200 are similar in many good ways since they are manufactured by the same reputable company, which has been in operation for over half a century. The modems are known for their blazing speeds and compatibility with major cable internet providers.How do these two modems compete against each other?

What are the differences between SB6121 and SB8200? 

SB6121 Vs SB8200 – How do they compare?

Both SB6121 and SB8200 are popular with high end residential users, small home offices and medium to large business enterprises.SB6121 operates on a DOCSIS 3.0 protocol while SB8200 is the most current innovation operating on a DOCSIS 3.1 protocol that supports future Gigabit+ speeds of up 10 + Gbps. We will now compare the 2 modems in detail:

Range and Capacity

SB6121has 4 X 4 bonded channelswhile SB 8200 has more bonded channels at 32 X 8. Since it relates to the number of streams/channels data is transmitted on, the number of bonded channels can be seen as an indication of the number of devices that can simultaneously run on the network. However, this is dependent on of the amount of data the ISP can allow to pass through when downloading or uploading data. The first figure is the download channels while the other is the upload channels. Just like lanes on a highway, the more channels there are, the less data congestion there will be. This leads to improved modem performance. SB8200 is therefore has the capacity to support more complex multimedia services, with better overall performance compared to SB6121.

In terms of speeds SB8200 combines the Docsis 3.1 capabilities with multi-gigabit port aggregation to offer blazing theoretical speeds of upto 10+ Gbpsdownloads and 2Gbps uploads. Such speeds will only be attained in future, though, because ISPs currently only support speeds up to 1Gbps. This is still much higher thanSB6121’s 172 Mbps downloads and 131 Mbps uploads speeds. This makes ArrisSB 8200 superior in performance hence able to support complex multimedia services, heavy internet work environments, shopping, video and voice conferencing, networking among others. The SB8200 is therefore better in terms of speed as it offers uninterrupted internet connections evento heavy users.

Structure and Design

The two Arrismodems are quite similar in size and shape. The SB8200 is much heavier however, weighing about 5 times more that the SB6121. Heavy modems offer more stability when standing compared to lighter ones which can easily fall over. To take care of overheating SB8200 is designed with more vents, comparison to SB6121 which is said to get pretty warm with heavy use. In addition, SB8200 has two Gigabit Ethernet ports allowing for multiple connections and enhanced speeds. SB6121 on the other hand has one port that also enhances speeds to some degree, while allowing for WIFI connectivity. Due to its heavy weight, more vents and 2 Gigabit ports, SB8200 is a better modem in terms of design.

Technology

SB8200 has potential for advancement in technologythrough Link Aggregation of its 2Gigabit Ethernet ports to enhance the port’s speeds to 2Gbps, instead of the current 1Gbps. For now, the 2 ports allow for connection with various computer brands as well different WIFI routers.

While SB8200 has the Broadcom chipset, the SB6121 is equipped with an Intel puma 5 one. This chipset has been found to have a jitters and latency flaw. A Broadcom chipset offers speed, stability and reliability. SB8200 is again better in the potential for technological advancement, and its choice of chipset.

Arris Surfboard SB6121 Vs SB8200 – A ComparativeOvereview

Arris Surfboard SB6121

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Arris Surfboard SB6121 serves in residential use, home offices as well us medium to large businesses requiring moderate speeds. With bonded channels of 4 downstream and 4 upstream channels the number of devices that can run simultaneously are limited as well as the data throughput capabilities. These are however determined by the ISP internet speed plans which prefer to use this modem for plans of up to 100Mbps.

That notwithstanding, the SB6121 has an enhanced tuner that supports upto 1GHz downstream input making high value services such as HD video streaming and interactive gaming possible. This modem is has a backward compatibility to DOCSIS 1.0, 1.1 and 2.0 expanding the scope for most users and choice of routers.On its’ front panel, the modem has LED lights that provides status information, communication as well as error. When this is understood setting up, assess connectivity status or troubleshooting becomes easy. The modem’s Intel puma chipset however has been reported to cause internet interruptions. This manifests injitters and latency flaws.

Pros

• Compatible with various ISPs
• Back compatibility with DOCSIS 1.0,1.1 and 2.0
• Enhancer tuner hence relatively great speeds and remarkable throughput
• IPv4 and 6 compatible hence enhanced security capabilities
• Affordable
• Easy to set up

Cons

• Connection with some ISPs is problematic
• Suffers latency and Jitter.

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ArrisSB8200

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem | Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum, & more | Two 1 Gbps Ports | 1 Gbps Max Internet Speeds | 4 OFDM Channels | 2 Year Warranty,White

• 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...

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Being one of the newest Arris innovations, the SB8200 runs on a DOCSIS 3.1 protocol and offers blazing speeds, uninterrupted connectivity and future-proofing, as well as enhanced security capabilities. Its ability to support complex multimedia services makes it attractive for both residential and corporates use. This widens the number of potential users for this modem.

The modem has flushing lights to appraise the user on status, setting up and knowing if it is compatible with your ISP.Moreover, the modem is also built with many vents to keep it cool even with endless hours of operation.SB8200 has 2 Gigabit portswhich enable high speed connections, multiple device usage as well future anticipation of even higher speeds due to technological advancement.It comes with a Broadcom chipset which ensures stable and reliable internet connectivity. This makes it possible for the modem to support complex multimedia services, heavy internet work environments, shopping, video and voice conferencing, networking and other internet-intense functions.

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Meets needs of various users ( office, residential and businesses)
• Wide compatibility with most ISP
• Compatible with most computer designs

Cons

• Pricey

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Conclusion

In summary, both modems can sufficiently meet the internet needs for regular internet use. If what you are looking for is an affordable modem supporting moderate speeds, SB6121 should be a preferred choice. If however, what you want is fast speeds for complex multimedia services and you are willing to pay for it, then SB8200 would be ideal.

Verdict: Which is Better, SB6121 or SB8200?

ArrisSB8200 is the clear winner. Its speeds are unrivaled and its reliability due to the Broadcom chipset sets it way above the SB6121 modem. Moreover, it has potential for greater speed performance after ISP’s technological advancements.

FAQs

Does the SB8200 and SB6121 have a built in wireless router?

No they do not,you would have to buy a router separately

Is Arris SB8200 compatible with Comcast?

SB8200 is compatible with major cable providers in the US, including Comcast (Xfinity).