It’s a good idea to buy a modem that supports DOCSIS 3.1, even if you don’t think you need the improved speeds yet, and we think most should go for a modem that offers at least eight download channels and four upload channels over DOCSIS 3.0. Are DOCSIS 3.1 modems backwards-compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 modems?A. However, when you can find one, it’s one of the best available for such a low cost. There are a lot of great options out there for high-performance cable modems, but if you’re also using your ISP’s voice services, your options will be slightly more limited, as you’ll need one that also includes a built-in voice gateway. The system uses standard Community Antenna Television (CATV) coaxial cable and microprocessor based Bus Interface Units (BIUs) to connect subscriber computers and terminals to the cable. We generally recommend getting a modem from a brand that has a proven track record when it comes to networking equipment. That’s plenty fast for most users, and can even support tasks that use a lot of data, like streaming 4K video. Most ISPs will have a list of compatible modems on their website, or, at the very least, you should be able to contact customer service to find out. Suitable for plans up to 300 Mbps. As an IP addressable network node, cable modems support functionality at other layers. The only downside to buying a modem that supports the newer standard is that it may be a little more expensive. The simple answer is yes. It’s also built to support all of Xfinity’s enhanced voice service features, including three-way conference calling, caller ID, call forwarding, and more. When buying a modem, different brands might offer different warranties. If you’re lucky enough to be on a cable provider that can deliver gigabit-class internet speeds, you’ll definitely want to go with a DOCSIS 3.1 capable cable modem for the best performance, and venerable cable modem manufacturer Arris has you covered with its SB8200 Gigabit Cable Modem. Arris makes some of the most reliable cable modems available, and the SB6190 is no exception; it's a powerful little workhorse that will more than meet the needs of anybody who doesn’t need blazing fast gigabit internet speeds and wants something that can be tucked away unobtrusively. The data rate of our test-bed system is 307.2 kbps. Compatible with Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 10, Vista, XP, 2000 and macOS, this modem can work with just about any computer. That’s probably why so many people rent their modems from their internet service provider (ISP). [26][27], CS1 maint: BOT: original-url status unknown (, Learn how and when to remove this template message, "RF Micro Devices, Inc. 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Recent processor. The MG7550 delivers the speed you'd expect from a modern unit, plus some cool proprietary capabilities. If you need basic high-speed internet, get a DOCSIS 3.0 modem; but if you’ve signed up for gigabit service, you’ll need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem. Some companies offer a warranty of up to two years, while others stick with one year. We recommend steering clear of these models altogether as they're not only slower, but less secure. The router then takes that signal and beams it out through Wi-Fi, which is how you get wireless internet connectivity in your home. It is one of the fastest broadband solutions that can significantly improve cable Internet performance through a dial-up connection. Jesse Hollington is a tech writer with 10+ years' experience. The best cable modems provide 32-channel DOCSIS 3.0 support as a minimum, which will ensure that you can handle internet speeds of 600Mbps and slightly beyond, but if you really want to be ready for the future of multi-gigabit internet plans, you’ll need to look one of the cable modems on our list that offers DOCSIS 3.1 support — with speeds of up to 10Gbps, you may never need to buy another cable modem again. Return a rented cable modem to your ISP in person and get a receipt. Get exclusive content, advice, and tips from BestReviews delivered to your inbox. Some ISPs will offer to accept your cable modem in the mail – they’ll even send you a prepaid box for shipping. With deceptively fast speed for the price point, the CM500 has a simple, elegant look. But buying your own cable modem is always a smart decision: you’ll save on monthly rental fees and, in some cases, you can even get models with added functionality, such as a built-in wireless router for WiFi. Please contact us. To use a cable modem connection, you must pay high monthly, quarterly, or annual costs. DOCSIS 3.0 In DOCSIS 3.0, customers can use cable modems that support channel bonding to aggregate several channels and get higher throughout. It is much faster than the speed at which you can enter or read characters per second.