Creating this list required me to go over the official list of modems compatible with Spectrum, try out about 14 different models, and evaluate various Spectrum Internet packages. Whatever your use case, I've made sure you can find a gadget that fits your demands and price range.
This list of modems compatible with Spectrum will undoubtedly help you find a device that's not only approved by the ISP but is also among the best options for various use cases, regardless of whether you've subscribed to or plan to subscribe to the fastest Internet Gig plan, mid-range Ultra plan, or even the lowest 100 Mbps plan.
Our Top Picks
We've done a lot of research on the best modems for Spectrum, and these are the ones that stand out from the rest. Our top pick of the best reviews, based on features, performance, and ease of use:
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Best Overall: Arris Surfboard SB8200
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Best Performance: Motorola MB8611
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Best Budget: Netgear CM500
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Runner Up: Netgear CM1000
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Best Premium: Netgear CAX80
Detail Reviews Of Top 5 Best Modems for Spectrum
The Best Modems for Spectrum alleviate consumer problems while also improving the overall user experience. Our suggestions focus on the best solutions that are largely future-proof yet are compatible with more antiquated hardware and software.
1. Arris Surfboard SB8200
(Best overall)
Product’s Specifications
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Type: Cable Modem
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Recommended for: Any Spectrum Internet Plan
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DOCSIS: 3.1
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Warranty: 2 year
Today’ Best Deal
Reasons to buy
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Future-proof.
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Suitable with any Spectrum plan.
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Ethernet aggregation
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Two-year guarantee.
Reasons to avoid
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Extreme brightness.
Product Summary
The Arris Surfboard SB8200 is your best choice if you wish to purchase a modem and then set it aside.
To start, the SB8200 is compatible with all Spectrum internet plans. This is due to the cable modem's DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which has a maximum speed of 2000 Mbps.
It is also future-proof because of this. You won't need to buy a new modem when Spectrum updates its internet to DOCSIS 3.1. Additionally, DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 are backward compatible, so they may coexist.
The SB8200 also features a feature known as Ethernet Aggregation. By doing this, you may merge the data streams from two Ethernet ports into one. A single Ethernet port can only handle about 1000 Mbps of this data stream's maximum speed.
The Arris Surfboard is a modem you can buy and then neglect, all things considered. Since there will be enough for future years.
2. Motorola MB8611
(Best performance)
Product’s Specifications
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Type: Cable Modem
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Recommended for: Spectrum 1 Gig
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DOCSIS: 3.1
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Warranty: 2 years
Today’ Best Deal
Reasons to buy
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Future-proof.
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Suitable with any Spectrum plan.
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Minimal latency.
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Ethernet port 2.5G.
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Two-year guarantee.
Reasons to avoid
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Only one port.
Product Summary
If you want the best cable modem for sheer performance, get the Motorola MB8611. working with 2500 Mbps or higher internet plans.
These speeds are so quick that Spectrum hasn't yet made them available to customers, enough to stream over a dozen 4K movies at once.
Because the modem has a 2.5G Ethernet connector and is DOCSIS 3.1 compliant, such rates are achievable, rather than the customary 1G port.
The MB8611 may be compared to a more advanced version of the SB8200 since it is quicker, newer, and even more future-proof.
Therefore, for Spectrum clients who need the best of the best, I suggest the Motorola MB8611.
3. Netgear CM500
(Best budget)
Product’s Specifications
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Type: Cable Modem
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Recommended for: Internet 400 or below
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Channel: 16×4
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DOCSIS: 3.0
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Warranty: 1 year
Today’ Best Deal
Reasons to buy
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Suitable for most users.
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Affordable.
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Excellent record.
Reasons to avoid
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Not future-proof.
Product Summary
If you have a Spectrum Internet 400 plan or below and are not interested in future-proofing, the Netgear CM500 is an excellent alternative for you. However, I just want anything that works right away.
Overall, the CM500 is a value-packed modem that will provide you an affordable, dependable internet connection.
Nevertheless, it's uncertain how long this cable modem will work given Spectrum's transition to DOCSIS 3.1.
I should warn you that if you purchase this cable modem, you could eventually need to get a new one.
The Netgear CM500 is a good choice, though, if you have a slower internet plan and want to start saving money right away.
4. Netgear CM1000
(Runner Up)
Product’s Specifications
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Type: Cable Modem
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Recommended for: Any Spectrum Internet Plan
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DOCSIS: 3.1
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Warranty: 1 year
Today’ Best Deal
Reasons to buy
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Fast and reliable performance.
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Reasonable price.
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Supported with any Spectrum plan.
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Relatively compact.
Reasons to avoid
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Single LAN port.
Product Summary
Another DOCSIS 3.1 modem that is compatible with all Spectrum internet plans is the Netgear CM1000.
It resembles the SB8200 a lot, except Ethernet aggregation is not included. Thus, it is limited to internet plans with speeds of up to 1000 Mbps.
It is consequently, in my opinion, a weaker choice and less future-proof than the other DOCSIS 3.1 modem on this list.
The CM1000 is still a viable option, though, if you prefer Netgear or if it's on sale. Future upgrades to internet plans with speeds beyond 1000 Mbps are not necessary because it is future-proof.
In general, any Spectrum subscriber who chooses Netgear has another DOCSIS 3.1 choice in the form of the Netgear CM1000.
5. Netgear CAX80
(Best Premium)
Product’s Specifications
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Type: Modem/Router Combo
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Recommended for: Spectrum 1 Gig
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Max Wi-Fi speed: 800+ Mbps
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DOCSIS: 3.1
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Warranty: 1 year
Today’ Best Deal
Reasons to buy
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Works with any Spectrum plan.
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Future-proof.
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Class-leading performance.
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Excellent range.
Reasons to avoid
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Pricey.
Product Summary
The Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 is among the fastest gateways we have tested, and it is compatible with all Spectrum internet plans.
Since the internet package we had access to only offered 800 Mbps, we were unable to determine its maximum speed.
These outcomes are quite excellent for a modem/router combination, allowing a household of seven or more to utilize the internet without any problems.
The CAX80 fared well in terms of range as well, with a range of roughly 90–100 feet. For all but the biggest households, this ought to be plenty. Especially if you put it nearer to the middle of the home.
FAQs
Which is the best modem for Spectrum?
After extensive testing and consultation with Spectrum, we came to the conclusion that the Arris Surfboard SB8200 is the best modem for Spectrum. Because it is speedy, dependable, and reasonably priced.
Does Spectrum require a DOCSIS 3.1 modem?
DOCSIS 3.1 modem requirements are determined by two variables. Your residence and internet plan.
A DOCSIS 3.1 modem is always required for Gigabit plans. Additionally, DOCSIS 3.1 modems are required if you reside in specific regions, including Wisconsin and New York.
Which modem will I receive from Spectrum?
The modem you receive if you decide to purchase it straight from Spectrum will depend on your internet package and kind of internet.
The Technicolor TC4400 DOCSIS 3.1 modem is most likely what you'll get if your cable service is faster. While the Cisco DPC3000 will most likely be provided if your plan is slower.
In contrast, companies like Comcast Xfinity are known for their modems.
Final Thought
Finally, I’ve compiled a list of the best modems for Spectrum in 2024. This list was carefully curated from the top wireless router manufacturers such as Motorola, ARRIS, NETGEAR, ASUS. We’ve narrowed the field down to the most popular models in both desktop and mobile versions, so whether you’re planning to build a home office or your dream mobile hotspot, we’ve got you covered.
