Cable Modems That Work with Comcast Xfinity for Any Situation

I’m here to save you time and money when choosing a cable modem for Comcast Xfinity. As a network engineer that worked for Comcast in the Xfinity internet department, I bring expertise and wisdom to the table to help you get the best modem for your home internet based on what you subscribe to with Xfinity.

Now let’s get into our easy-to-read guide.

The first thing to understand is your modem is limited by what Xfinity plan you subscribe to. No modem will make your internet faster than what you pay for. Xfinity has a wide variety of speed packages. If you are unsure of the top speed for your subscription, check the Xfinity Internet Plans first to see what speed your package provides and how many bonded channels your modem will require. Don’t worry; we’ll explain what bonded channels are later.

This list of approved modems is compatible with all internet packages, including Connect, Connect More, Fast, Superfast, Ultrafast, and Gigabit speeds. We even cover the new future-proofed DOCSIS 3.1 modems so that you may buy with confidence knowing you got the actual best modem available for your specific scenario.

Choosing between a modem, router, or combo gateway can be confusing, so we will also cover this topic in-depth to provide you with the knowledge needed to make the right choice for your situation.

6 Best Compatible Modems and Routers Combos

Based on our extensive hands-on research and product testing, here are the best Modems and Combo Routers that are Xfinity-approved to replace the Comcast-provided modem. Each one has item specifics and options that may be the best for your home network, which is why we have broken the categories up for you to make the best decision when buying your Comcast Approved Replacement Modem.

#1 Newest Fastest Modem with Wi-Fi 7 – ARRIS Surfboard G54

• Type: Ultra-Fast Modem
• Approved for: Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum
• Download Speed: Up to 10Gbps
• Certified by Comcast: Yes
• Also Compatible with: Cox, Spectrum
• Channels: 32×8 4 OFDM Channels
• DOCSIS: 3.1
• Voice: No
• Wireless: Wi-Fi 7 up to 18Gbps
• Wi-Fi Range: Up to 5,000 sq ft
• Warranty: 1 year offered by Arris
• Highlight Feature: 10Gb Ethernet Port and 4x 1Gb Ports
• Chosen as: Newest and fastest modem router available.
• Release Date: October 2023

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The ARRIS G54, recently introduced by CommScope, is the cream of the crop. Their newest and fastest modem router for plans that don’t even exist yet on some services. Up to 10Gbps you can be sure it will power your home internet for years to come. Not only that, it has a built in Quad-Band Wi-Fi 7 router that supports speeds up to 18Gbps and the newest 6 GHz band.

It works with Xfinity, Cox, or Spectrum so it won’t matter if you move to a region with another ISP.

As for the feel, it is actually not that big coming in at 4.65″ x 10″ x 12.44″ inches and weighing only 3.12 pounds. It packs a heavy punch in a small package unlike some powerful wireless routers that take up a lot of space.

This modem is certified with Comcast internet making it perfect for Gigabit speeds.[1]

#2 Best Gigabit Future Proofed Modem – ARRIS Surfboard S33

• Type: Ultra-Fast Modem
• Recommended for: Xfinity Gigabit, Cox Gigablast, Spectrum Gig
• Download Speed: Up to 2500 Mbps
• Certified by Comcast: Yes
• Also Compatible with: Cox, Spectrum
• Channels: 32×8 4 OFDM Channels
• DOCSIS: 3.1
• Voice: No
• Wireless: No
• Warranty: Offered by Netgear
• Highlight Feature: 2.5Gb Ethernet Port and 1Gb Port
• Chosen as: Best Overall High Speed Modem up to 2.5Gbps

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The ARRIS S33 is the best overall modem for current gigabit plus packages because it is not only high-speed but also approved for the highest plans with a 2.5Gbps ethernet port. It is required to buy a modem of this caliber if you subscribe to the Gigabit package or higher with Xfinity, Cox, or Spectrum. It not only works with the Gigabit but is also backward compatible with lower speed tiers such as Performance Starter, Performance, Blast!, Extreme, Extreme Pro, Connect, Connect More, Fast, Superfast, and Ultrafast plans. It is the fastest you can get when using the best Comcast package. You wouldn’t really buy this modem if you will not have Gigabit speeds though otherwise, you would be wasting its full potential.

This Ultra-Fast Modem has another huge benefit over the others. Not only does it come with a single 2.5Gb ethernet, but it is also a stand-alone modem so you get to pair it with your own choice of a wireless router giving you access to the most powerful options available. This would be ideal if you want a Wireless Mesh Router or a gaming router instead of a combo router.

As for the feel, it is nice, slim, lightweight, and can fit on just about any desk or bookshelf with no problems. It feels like the standard ARRIS modems of the past but with the power of the new line of modems with DOCSIS 3.1 built-in.

This modem is certified with Comcast internet making it perfect for Gigabit speeds.[1]

#3 Best Gigabit Voice Modem – Netgear CM2050V

• Type: Ultra-Fast Voice Modem
• Recommended for: Xfinity Premier Triple Play Gigabit
• Download Speed: Up to 2500 Mbps
• Certified by Comcast: Yes
• Channels: 32×8 and OFDM(A) 2×2
• DOCSIS: 3.1
• Voice: Yes
• Wireless: No
• Warranty: 2 Year
• Highlight Feature: 2 Phone Ports
• Chosen as: Fastest Voice Modem up to 2.5Gbps

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The Netgear CM2050V is the best modem voice because it is not only high-speed but also voice-enabled with a 2.5Gbps ethernet port. If you have Gigablast and Voice, then you’re going to want to buy this modem. This is normally the Xfinity Premier Triple Play package. This modem will also support the lower speed packages such as Ultimate Triple Play or Double Play and the even lower speed Popular Triple and Double Play but would be overkill for those situations.

This Ultra-Fast Modem has another huge benefit over the others. It is stand alone meaning you may buy your own router that best fits your needs. And because router technology is changing rapidly, it will ensure you have an extremely fast modem with whatever new router you want to pair it with at any time.

This modem is a bit bigger and bulkier because it has a built-in voice modem. Although larger it is still only 6.8″ long, 3.7″ wide, and 8.2″ in height.

This modem is certified with Comcast for their voice internet, making it perfect for Premier Triple Play Gigabit speeds.

#4 ARRIS Surfboard G36

• Type: Combo Modem and Router
• Recommended for: Fastest modem with built in router
• Download Speed: Up to 2.5Gbps
• Certified by Comcast: Yes
• Channels: 32×8, 4 OFDM Channels
• DOCSIS: 3.1
• Voice: No
• Wireless: AX3000
• Warranty: 2 Year
• Highlight Feature: Wi-Fi 6 coverage up to 2,500 square feet
• Chosen as: Best Modem and Router In One for 2.5Gbps Speeds

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The ARRIS Surfboard G36 is the best modem and router in one for Comcast speed up to 2.5Gbps. It works with Connect, Performance Starter, Performance, Connect More, Fast, Blast!, Superfast, and Extreme plans. It is the fastest you can get when using the best Comcast package.

It is also the strongest built-in wireless router combo modem with a built-in wireless router capable of powering large home networks with its full-strength Wi-Fi 6 Wireless AX3000 router.

#5 Best Voice Modem under 1Gbps – Netgear C7100V

• Type: Combo Voice Modem and Router
• Recommended for: Xfinity Ultimate Triple Play
• Download Speed: Up to 600Mbps
• Certified by Comcast: Yes
• Channels: 24×8
• DOCSIS: 3.0
• Voice: Yes
• Wireless: AC1900
• Warranty: 1 Year
• Highlight Feature: 2 Phone Lines
• Chosen as: Best Combo Modem for Voice Under 1Gbps

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The Netgear C7100V is the best voice modem for performance and value. It is required to work with the voice Triple Play package. It works with both the Ultimate Triple Play and Popular Triple Play plans up to 600Mbps.

The C7100V is a strong cable mode, with a built-in wireless router capable of powering mid-sized home networks with its powerful Wireless AC1900 router.

This combo device is certified up to 600Mbps on the Comcast network, making it perfect for Ultimate or popular Triple Play.[4]

#6 Best Combo Modem Router under 1Gbps – Motorola MG7700

• Type: Combo Modem and Router
• Recommended for: Comcast Superfast & Extreme
• Download Speed: Up to 800Mbps
• Certified by Comcast: Yes
• Channels: 24×8
• DOCSIS: 3.0
• Voice: No
• Wireless: AC1900
• Warranty: 1 Year
• Highlight Feature: Simple Setup
• Chosen as: Best Budget Performance Combo Modem Under 1Gbps

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The Motorola MG7700 is the best modem for performance and value because it works with the Connect, Performance, Performance Starter, Connect More, Fast, Blast, Extreme, and Superfast plans and will not cost you an arm and a leg.

The MG7700 is not only a strong cable modem, it has a built-in wireless router capable of powering mid-sized home networks with its powerful Wireless AC1900 router.

The fact that it is a strong combo modem/router approved for most plans under Gigablast makes it the perfect option for a large majority of Xfinity subscribers. This is why this very modem is oftentimes the #1 best-selling modem online.

This combo device is certified up to 800Mbps on the Comcast network, making it perfect for Superfast and Extreme.[5]

#7 Best Cheap Modem/Router – Netgear C6250

• Type: Combo Modem and Router
• Recommended for: Comcast Connect More, Performance Pro
• Download Speed: Up to 200Mbps
• Certified by Comcast: Yes
• Channels: 16×4
• DOCSIS: 3.0
• Voice: No
• Wireless: AC1600
• Warranty: 1 Year
• Chosen as: Best Budget Combo Modem

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The Netgear C6250 is the best value modem router because it is not only cheap, but it is also approved for Comcast Performance Starter, Performance, Performance Pro, Connect, and Connect More Plan and has a download speed of up to 200mbps.

The C6250 has a strong built-in Wireless Router, which comes with both 2.5ghz and 5Ghz channels for your home network. It is strong enough to run a good wireless network in your standard apartment or single-story home living situation.

This combo modem router is certified on the Comcast network up to 200Mbps, making it the perfect value modem for your Performance package.[6]

Netgear stands behind this product and offers a 1-year warranty and excellent customer support for their products.

In summary, the Netgear C6250 is the modem router you should buy if you want to save money and you currently have a lower-end internet speed package such as Comcast Connect More.

Comparison of Approved Modems & Router Combos

Things to Know Before Buying a Comcast Xfinity Modem

If you’re still not sure what approved modem is best for your Comcast Xfinity, these are the important factors when choosing the best modem possible for your personalized home.

Comcast Xfinity Voice Triple Play

Note: You must use a voice modem if you have Triple Play, even if you do not use the voice. No exceptions.
It is very important to note that if you have any voice package at all that you must buy a modem with phone ports. We have made these modems clear so that you may easily find and compare your voice modem. For a more detailed voice modem buying guide try our best Comcast voice modem guide.

Comcast Speeds

It is very important to note that a modem can only get your speeds as fast as the Xfinity package you pay for. No modem can exceed what your internet subscription with Comcast provides.

For example, if you buy a Gigabit modem but only pay for 100 Mbps Performance, you will create a bottleneck and be limited to the top speed provided by that plan. And vice-versa. If you pay for Gig Speeds but only buy a modem capable of 400 Mbps, then you will not be able to achieve those high speeds on your plan.

When it comes to DOCSIS and Channel Bonding, they line up with the max speed of the modem. Both in the field and theoretical lab testing facility.

Here is a table that will allow you to match up what DOCSIS and Download Channels are compatible with your Comcast Xfinity plan. This will make it easy for you to know what modem is not only approved by Comcast but also compatible with your current paid subscription.

Future Proofed

All of these modems will work for years and years to come, but if you want the best top-of-the-line future-proofed modem, you have to get a DOCSIS 3.1 1Gbps modem with a 2.5Gbps ethernet port. With new gigabit speeds becoming more and more popular, getting the DOCSIS 3.1 modem may soon be a standard. However, not all DOCSIS 3.1 modems are future-proofed and ready for faster 2 Gig speeds. These modems with the 2.5Gb ports will be ready for the future wave of network upgrades.

Currently, Comcast offers Gigabit Pro at a semi-outrageous price for the home consumer. It cost thousands to have it installed and hundreds a month. It is actually not a normal cable modem install because it uses Fiber To The Home(FTTH). So if you want the fastest for now, it is the Gigabit 1.2Gbps package.

Choosing Between Modem/Router Combo or Separate Modem

Now that you know what plan you have and are able to make the right choice for your modem speed, you may decide if you need a modem or combo modem/router. It is important you understand what the differences are when purchasing your modem and or router. Buying the wrong one can leave some of your devices without internet access.

What is a Modem?

A modem is the main internet device and is required no matter what decision you make. It brings the internet signal from your internet service provider (ISP) into your home. They come in stand-alone devices or combined with built-in routers.

What is a Router

A router is the main workhorse for your home network, the brain, the control center. They are mostly wireless these days and provide the wifi signal in your home so that you may connect to the internet from any device in any room.

Routers also have ethernet ports so that you may “hardwire” devices into them if they do not have wireless access.

What is a Combo Modem Router or Gateway?

The modem router combo is both the modem and router combined in one single device. You do not need to buy anything else for this to support your wireless network. They are approved replacement devices authorized for use with Comcast Xfinity internet.

They are easier to install, have fewer wires to manage, and are often the most simple setup for novice users.

Do I actually need a Router?

Yes, you will need a router if you want to have a wireless signal in your home to attach your computers, phones, laptops, security cameras, various wireless-enabled devices, and even some smart TV’s

While it is not a requirement for the modem to work, you do need a router if you plan on using WiFi or connecting more than one device to the internet. For example, your cell phone would require a wireless router to connect. Your computer may be plugged directly into the cable modem, but if you do this without a router, no other devices may connect to the internet at the same time.

The only situation where you would not require a router is if you only want to connect one single device to your modem direct with a cat5 ethernet cable. If you truly only plug one internet-enabled device into your modem, then you will not need a router.

Do You Recommend a Combo Modem/Router?

As a Computer Support Technician, Internet Troubleshooter, and Network Engineer, yes, I do recommend the all-in-one combo device for almost all users. Many authors out there will attempt to sell you on the idea of 2 separate devices because they are more expensive. But the truth is in almost every situation, the modern gateways that you can buy will do everything you need and more. We have only recommended the best in this article with advanced research and usability.

The very few people who will benefit from a separate modem and router at this point are likely already advanced internet users and have inside working knowledge of router GUI’s. Without the proper knowledge and experience, all of the advanced features will be beyond your understanding and maybe even beyond access.

Again, as a tech support guru for decades, I have found out that 95% of people who call into the support center have never even accessed their router’s built-in management page.

If you found yourself reading this article, you will fall in the category of users who will be able to buy the all-in-one gateway combo modem/router. I am confident that the combo modem/router will be perfect for your situation and it is a lot easier to set up, use-manage, and maintain.

Combo Pros

• Single Device
• Fewer Wires
• Smaller Physical Footprint
• Cheaper
• Easy to Set Up
• Powerful Approved Routers

Separate Pros

• Good for advanced users
• You want to buy a gaming router
• Goof if you already have your own preferred router
• You can buy a Wireless Mesh System instead of a router
• Can replace or upgrade one device at a time instead of both
• Able to upgrade router or modem individually at any time

When Should I Buy The Modem and Router Separately?

A few cases warrant the modem and router separately. For example, If you live in a larger 3+ story home, you should buy the modem and router separately so you may buy a Wireless Mesh System. Another reason is you prefer the built-in router GUI of a specific brand and would rather just buy that router. Or you already have a router you want to use. For example, you prefer the ASUS GUI.

I myself, as a Network Engineer, use the 2-device system. I like the ability to have full control over what router you combine with your modem. This ensures flexibility, power, speed, and ease of use.

If you think the separate modem and router is right for you and you’re not sure what type of router you need, you can check out our router buying guide to establish what will work best for your home.

Rent Vs Buy Own Modem

If you’re here, you already know that buying your own modem can save you a lot of money over the years, and this is true. In fact, it may save you a lot more than you ever imagined. Picture this; Comcast charges you $14 a month to rent a modem from them which is $168 a year. I myself have had my own modem for nearly 20 years now, saving me well over $2,500. You can also be assured Comcast will continue to raise the prices of rental modems. When we first wrote this article, a rental was only $7 a month so they have actually doubled.

In this case, you would save more money in the long run by just buying your own device now, even if it seems like a big upfront cost.

You will not be limited to Comcast as this will be your own device that you own, and you can take it with you anywhere you move. These devices work with other major ISPs across the nation, such as Cox, Time Warner, and more.

Puma 6 Chip

Note: Many authors are recommending modems that contain the Puma 6 Chip, which is very problematic and can cause internet connection issues. None of the top modems we are advising for replacement come with the bad Puma 6 Chip. They are the gold standard Broadcom chips. All fully approved and certified for the Comcast Network.

DOCSIS 3.0 vs 3.1

DOCSIS, or Data Over Cable Service Internet Specification, is the international telecommunication standard that allows high-bandwidth data transfer over the current cable television infrastructure. 3.0 and 3.1 are the current standard in modem devices with the huge difference being if you want speeds over 1 Gigabit per second, you’ll need DOCIS 3.1.

If you do not plan on getting these Gig plans then DOCSIS 3.0 is fine for you.

Channel Bonding

Channel Bonding comes into play with DOCSIS 3.0 modems and is a determination of how many download and upload channels a modem has. Comcast’s network ranges from 8×4 through 32×8 channels.

It is pretty easy to understand how many channels you need by comparing it with our Comcast plans chart above. You’ll notice higher Channels and higher download speeds tend to correlate with one another so the chart may seem pretty easy to read.

How to install a Comcast modem you bought

Simple Installation Guide

1. Location: Find an open-air location for heat ventilation in the middle of the home as high up a possible to evenly distribute the Wi-Fi signal.
2. Connection: Connect the Coax cable that comes into the house from Comcast and the power cord. If you have 2 separate devices, connect the wireless router to the standalone modem. The modem will plug into the port on the back of the router that says WAN or internet port. They are generally yellow or green but will be clearly marked.
3. Set up: Your device will come with a user manual with complete instructions for setting up the wireless at this point.
4. Activation: Don’t forget to activate your device with Xfinity on their page.

Xfinity provides in-depth steps to help you out and contact information if you need help.

Myths and Incorrect Information Provided by Other Sites

Now that you have learned everything there is to know about buying your own modem that is not only compatible but also approved to use with Comcast Xfinity, these myths may be obviously busted.

A big myth from many authors on the web is that combo modem gateways do not have as many options as standalone routers. This is no longer true. The new product lines from all of the major manufacturers have fully enabled built-in routers. They do not nerf the GUI or firmware. It is fully enabled and compares to buying a separate router. Claims that a stand-alone router is better are dated and not true with modern gateways. These gateways have powerful wireless routers that will give great signals to all apartment lifestyles as well as most multi-story homes.

Another huge flaw with other authors providing content is they are using old information and not giving you all of the Comcast packages by region. Comcast not only offers packages by the name of Performance Starter, Performance, Blast!, Extreme, and Extreme Pro. They also offer packages by the names of Connect, Connect More, Fast, Superfast, Ultrafast, Gigabit, and Gigabit Pro. They also have voice packages such as Xfinity Popular Triple Play, Ultimate Triple Play, and Premier Triple Play. The Internet plus TV Plans are Popular Double Play and Ultimate Double Play.

And perhaps the biggest piece of misinformation being spread by blogs online regarding the best modem for Comcast, is the fact that there is a best modem. The truth is most of these sites are just recommending the most expensive modem for affiliate commissions. The modem may be best for Gigabit 3.1 service but would be a terrible buying choice if you only have a 200Mbps service or if you are required to get a voice modem. These authors do not tell you this and just send you off to buy the MB8611 which is only the best for Gigabit users without voice who want to use a separate router. By now with all the provided information and facts you have likely already come to this conclusion on your own. By now you should be able to use the simple provided charts to match up a modem that is best for your service plan based on download speed, DOCSIS version, and bonded channels.

FAQ

Good luck, please feel free to ask questions below!

Conclusion

With Comcast being one of the biggest internet providers in the United States, many manufacturers build devices for their internet service. Thus giving you, the consumer, many options.

When it comes to the best compatible approved modem for Comcast, it is not a one size fits all answer, and it is going to depend on what service you subscribe to. If you are looking at DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit service then the Motorola MB8611 modem is going to be the best. But this can change based on what plan you have, so we gave you an option for every tier and package. For instance, if you have an Xfinity phone, the Motorola MT8733 is the best modem. Not to mention is it required for voice packages. But to go even further, if you have a lower-end plan under 1 Gbps, then the Motorola MG7700 will be your best modem. Because most people have less than Gigablast speeds, this option could be considered the best overall average modem router for Comcast subscribers.

Regardless of all the options, now you are personally equipped with the knowledge and information to make the right decision based on your home setup and Xfinity package. You no longer need to settle for a generic one-size-fits-all answer from some other non-expert online blog like most sites that may show up in search results. They are frauds and dishonest. Here at StickyStatic you get the honest answer from a Network Engineer with a lifetime career working on the inside directly with internet service providers’ tech support.