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Best modem for Xfinity in 2024 – our top picks

Here are some of the best modems for Xfinity available on the market today.
Last Updated on March 1, 2024
Best modem for Xfinity

If you’re looking for the best modem for Xfinity, then you’ve come to the right place.

Many internet service providers offer their equipment, such as modems and routers, when you avail their services, and Xfinity doesn’t shy away from that practice. Those modems can be enough for most people; however, paying a rental fee can get quite expensive over time.

On the other hand, you can also get a third-party Xfinity-compatible modem. Yes, it is going to cost you a bit more, but that’s an upfront cost, and you will actually be saving money in the long run. Along with that, a third-party modem also brings specific security features and more ethernet ports.

However, when you search for modems, you’re presented with thousands of options from different brands and top-notch specifications, but the main question is, which modem is the right one for your Xfinity plan? To help you, we’ve rounded up some of the best modems for Xfinity. So, let’s get right to it.

 

Products at a Glance

How we picked

To provide you with the best available options, we conducted thorough research on several modems based on their DOCSIS standard, channel bonding, LAN ports, and other features. We have also included modem + router combos, so you can even say goodbye to your Wi-Fi router and have everything in one place. We’re always looking for the latest releases and update our guides regularly so you can make the most informed decision possible.

Our Recommended

Product Reviews

1
PROS
  • DOCSIS 3.1 to support high-speed internet plans
  • Covers up to 2,500 sq. ft
  • Can support speeds of up to 3 Gbps
  • Easy setup with the SURFboard Central App
CONS
  • Has a hefty price tag

If you’re looking for something that packs a serious punch and offers more functionality, look no further than the ARRIS Surfboard G36.

To kick things off, this modem is ideal for internet plans of up to 2.5 Gbps, so if your Xfinity internet plan can reach those speeds – this device should go well with it.

It makes use of the latest DOCSIS 3.1 standard like other best DOCSIS 3.1 modems and dual-band WiFi 6, which can cover up to 2,500 sq. ft., meaning that you can get your money’s worth out of your internet plan, experience seamless WiFi signals in every room, and get the best possible download and upload speeds.

When it comes to ports, the G36 is a cut above the rest of the modems in the market. It features 4x Gigabit Ethernet ports and a multi-gig WAN port, meaning that you can have multiple wired connections while squeezing every bit of performance out of your multi-gig internet plan with zero performance compromises.

Of course, you get IPv6 support, AES encryption, and all the bells and whistles of WiFi 6, but with the SURFboard Central App, you can also try out networking monitoring as well as parental controls for added security. All things considered, if you are after a jack-of-all-trades modem to go along with your Xfinity plan, we recommend the ARRIS Surfboard G36.

2
PROS
  • Can connect up to 30 concurrent devices
  • Support super fast speeds of up to 6 Gbps
  • Features excellent security measures
CONS
  • Very expensive
  • Will have to pay for the Netgear Armor software after the trial period

If you are searching the market for an option with more functionality, the Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 shines as a clear choice for the best modem router combo for Xfinity.

First, this modem uses dual-band WiFi 6 and DOCSIS 3.1 technology, meaning you can experience WiFi speeds of up to 6 Gbps. So, if you have a high-speed internet plan or are looking to upgrade it, then this modem-router combination is a good option to future-proof your setup.

When it comes to the ports, it has 4x Gigabit Ethernet ports and a single 2.5 multi-gig port. This is good if you want to connect multiple devices simultaneously without compromising performance. To put things in a better perspective, a direct wired connection supporting everything your internet has to offer without a hitch means that you can throw 4K gaming with simultaneous streaming with no hiccups.

With both the modem and the router promising good performance across all aspects, the Nighthawk CAX80 is an absolute powerhouse. However, its security features also play a significant role in making the modem stand out from its competition. For instance, you get VPN support, Firewall protection, DoS attack prevention, and guest access, and if you go with Netgear Armor, the suite of security features extends to ransomware, brute force attacks, and much more. 

In short, if you are after a modem router combo that leaves no stone unturned to pack top-notch performance along with excellent security features, the Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 is the way to go.

3
PROS
  • Delivers decent performance at an affordable rate
  • Has 4x Gigabit Ethernet ports for mutiple wired connections
CONS
  • Uses WiFi 5

If you’re looking for a modem that offers good performance without burning a hole in your pocket, then you should check out the Motorola MG7540.

This modem offers all the basic features and functionalities to accompany your Xfinity plan. To elaborate, it supports the DOCSIS 3.0 standard with dual-band WiFi to switch between two frequencies (2.5 GHz and 5 GHz) for varying performance. However, one thing to note is that this modem is recommended for speeds of up to 375 Mbps, so if you were planning on gaming and streaming with HD, then this modem might not cut it.

A downside to this modem is that its built-in WiFi is WiFi 5, which is considerably slower than WiFi 6 or 6E. However, it can handle speeds of up to 1,600 Mbps, and to make things better, it comes with 4x Gigabit Ethernet ports. So, having a wired connection should ensure that you’re getting everything you can out of your internet plan and this modem’s capabilities.

The lack of a USB port is a bit disappointing, but we can’t complain because the price is quite tempting. Going over the security features, you get basic parental controls, a firewall, and a guest network.

One good design feature of the MG7540 is its physical dimensions; the modem is relatively easier to store on most shelves. Overall, if extra features or the best performance isn’t your main concern, and you simply want a bang-for-the-buck modem for your Xfinity plan, we recommend the MOTOROLA MG7540.

4
PROS
  • Provides support for voice service
  • Supports speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps
  • Connects to any router
CONS
  • Only for those with an voice service plan
  • Has a relatively high price

If you have an Xfinity voice service plan with a high-speed internet connection, then we recommend the Netgear Nighthawk CM2050V.

This modem comes with two telephone lines and several call-enhancing features, such as call forwarding and 3-way conference calling. These features, combined with its support for DOCSIS 3.1 and multi-channel bonding, make it an excellent option for plans of up to 2.5 Gbps.

Going over the ports, it features a single multi-gig 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, 1 Coaxial WAN port, and 2x RJ-11 telephone ports. What this means in terms of performance is that the multi-gig Ethernet port will ensure that you’re getting every bit of your high-speed internet plan and experiencing a crystal clear voice-over internet connection.

While the modem can easily work with any router, there is no built-in router. Apart from that, you also get IPv6 compatibility and QoS. 

On that topic, there are many other modems that support QoS, but none of them is as robust as the CM2050V, which is a very impressive aspect because it significantly boosts the call quality. All in all, if you prefer calling and want a modem that offers both top-tier download speeds and high-end call quality, we suggest you get the NETGEAR Nighthawk CM2050V.

How to pick the best modem

Here are some factors that you should consider before selecting a modem to go with your Xfinity plan.

DOCSIS Standard

The DOCSIS Standard determines the maximum speed a modem can handle. The newer version (3.1) can support speeds of up to 10 Gbps, whereas the previous version (3.0) could only manage 1 Gbps. So, if you have a high-speed internet connection or are looking to upgrade it, then going for a modem with the latest DOCSIS standard should future-proof your setup.

Brand

While every brand has good and bad products, it’s preferred to stick with those with a good reputation for providing high-quality products, services, and after-sales support. This makes investing much safer as you can get a refund or resolve any issues quickly.

Compatibility

While there are tons and tons of modems out there, each with better specifications than the next, that doesn’t necessarily translate to a good product or a device that is suitable for you. Compatibility is the most crucial aspect to look out for while choosing a modem because if your choice isn’t compatible with your ISP, you will have to go through the process of making a refund and start your hunt all over again.

Ethernet Ports

Always look for a modem with multiple Ethernet ports or at least one multi-gig port. This will ensure that you can have multiple wired connections, free from radio interference, while enjoying the full extent of your internet plan.

Number of Channels

Think of channels as pipes and data as water – the more pipes there are, the more water can flow through it. So, having more channels results in a high data rate, meaning you get more download and upload speeds without experiencing congestion – the more, the merrier.

Can I replace my Xfinity modem?

You can replace your Xfinity modem with a third-party modem as long as it is compatible with it. To ensure compatibility, visit the third-party website and cross-check the modem you want to replace your Xfinity modem with.

Our Verdict

After carefully considering all the options and the features they offer, we conclude that the ARRIS Surfboard G36 is the best modem for Xfinity. It checks multiple boxes that make it the best, such as multiple gigabit Ethernet connections, DOCSIS 3.1 support, dual-band WiFi, a range of 2,500 sq. ft., and good security measures. So, with the G36, you can have a stutter-free and seamless experience that will make investing in this modem worth it.