Best Modem for Cable Internet - Complete Guide

Check out our list of best modems for cable internet for optimized internet performance.

sheryl Dunphy Senior Content Writer

Last Updated 16 April 2025

Investing in a good cable modem might help you save money on your internet subscription. By getting your modem, you may be able to avoid the equipment rental cost your internet provider charges you.

You can check this cost on your monthly bill too. In exchange for supplying you with a modem, most internet providers charge a fee, which can be up to $14 a month depending on the ISP. This cost can pile up over time and you might just end up paying a fortune to your ISP without even realizing it.

Another important thing to note is that many times ISPs do not upgrade their internet modems and keep on renting out older versions, which also means that you would not be getting the best connection speeds because of the modem’s old technology. On such an account, you should always consider getting your own modem with newer and better features, provided that it has been approved for usage by your ISP.

This blog post brings you an entire rundown of the best modems for cable internet so you can make a well-informed decision on your part.

1. Motorola MB8611

DOCSIS: 3.1
Speed: 2.5 Gbps/ 800 Mbps
Channels: 2 x 2 / 32 x 8
Wired Ports: One

Motorola MB8611 is one of the best modems for cable internet. This modem not only supports the latest DOCSIS technology (3.1) but also delivers up to 2.5 Gbps download and 800 Mbps upload speeds.

If your household has intensive internet usage, you might want to buy this modem for impressive results. Motorola MB8611 offers high-speed internet while maintaining the lowest levels of latency, making it an ideal choice for gamers and video streamers.

2. Netgear Nighthawk CM2000

DOCSIS: 3.1
Speed: 2.5 Gbps/ 800 Mbps
Channels: 2 x 2 / 32 x 8
Wired Ports: One

Having a sleek hardware design, the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 ensures that you get all the high speeds that your ISP has to offer. It works with the latest 3.1 DOCSIS standards and features one 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port as well. You can switch between its channels as per convenience, as well.

3. Arris Surfboard SB6190

DOCSIS: 3.0
Speed: 1.2 Gbps/ 216 Mbps
Channels: 32 x 8
Wired Ports: One

One of the best cable internet modems, Arris Surfboard SB6190 is reliable, offers high speeds, and possesses a solid body. It is ideal for internet plans featuring less than 1 Gig download speed. Arris Surfboard SB6190 is a powerhouse that offers supreme performance and is compatible with all the major cable ISPs.

4. Arris Surfboard SB8200

DOCSIS: 3.1
Speed: 2 Gbps/ 800 Mbps
Channels: 2 x 2 / 32 x 8
Wired Ports: Two

Arris Surfboard SB8200 has amazing boxy hardware that is compact enough to fit anywhere, without looking distasteful. This cable modem offers great value for your money and has two Ethernet ports that let you create two networks, just like Arris Surfboard S33. The only downside, however, is that SB8200 is a bit costly.

5. Arris Surfboard S33

DOCSIS: 3.1
Speed: 2.5 Gbps/ 800 Mbps
Channels: 2 x 2 / 32 x 8
Wired Ports: Two

Arris Surfboard S33 can handle multiple Gbps speeds with a single connection only. It has two Ethernet ports (1 Gbps and 2.5 Gbps) that allow you to enjoy super-fast internet speeds with two routers. This, further, means that you can create multiple internet networks with this modem. What’s more, if your ISP is not compatible with DOCSIS 3.1 tech, you can switch this modem to work with DOCSIS 3.0 standards too.

Optimize Your Cable Internet Connection with a Good Modem

This rundown of the best cable internet modems must have eased your decision-making process. One thing to remember before investing in any internet modem is to find out its compatibility with your internet provider. You can do this by reading out the service contract with your ISP or by calling your ISP directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my own modem with a cable internet connection?

Yes, you can use your modem with cable internet. Using your modem will save you on your overall internet bill as well.

How long does a cable modem last?

A cable internet modem usually lasts for 2 to 3 years depending on the quality and technology. More advanced quality routers may also last for up to 8 years.