Xfinity imposes a rental fee of $14 per month for their xFi gateway, but many users find the cost unreasonable considering its basic capabilities. However, there’s a way to avoid this expense by purchasing your own modem that is compatible with Xfinity. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that not all modems work with your internet service provider. So, how can you navigate this selection process and find the perfect modem that suits your needs?
Selecting a modem or modem/router combo solely based on its compatibility with Xfinity is not sufficient. Several other factors need to be considered to ensure the device meets your requirements. Firstly, it is crucial to verify if the modem is capable of handling the speeds offered by your subscribed internet plan. Additionally, the device should have an adequate number of ports to accommodate your specific needs. It’s also essential to consider the latest standards, such as DOCSIS 3.1, which ensure optimal performance. These are just a few examples of the many considerations you should keep in mind when choosing the right modem or modem/router combo.
5 Best Modems for Xfinity (Comcast) in 2023
While Xfinity provides an official list of 83 modems or modem/router combos that are supported, it’s important to note that not all of them offer optimal performance. To assist you in making an informed decision, I have personally tested 17 different devices, evaluating various factors such as throughput, latency, signal transmission, and overall efficiency. After careful consideration, I have curated a list of the top 10 options for 2023. These devices have demonstrated exceptional performance and reliability, addressing concerns about potential overheating or other performance issues. By selecting from this refined list, you can confidently choose a modem or modem/router combo that meets your specific requirements while ensuring a smooth and efficient Xfinity internet experience.
ARRIS S33
If you’re in search of the absolute best modem for Xfinity, look no further than the Arris S33. Based on extensive first-hand testing, this device has proven itself to be unparalleled. It effortlessly handles Xfinity’s fastest Gigabit Extra plan, which boasts speeds of up to 1200 Mbps, without encountering any performance issues. With the Arris S33, you can expect a seamless and reliable internet experience, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking top-tier performance.
For those who prioritize gaming, streaming, or managing bandwidth-intensive IoT connections at home or in the office, the ARRIS Surfboard S33 is a modem worth considering. It surpasses the capabilities of the previously mentioned SB8200 due to its inclusion of a multi-gig port, placing it at the top of this list.
So why is the ARRIS S33 well-suited for Comcast Xfinity?
Firstly, it seamlessly works with any internet plan offered by Xfinity from Comcast. However, it particularly shines when paired with a 1200 Mbps service plan. I personally tested it with the same package and was thoroughly impressed by its speeds, throughput, and low latency.
As one of the top-rated DOCSIS 3.1 modems, the ARRIS S33 delivers enhanced data transmission through its 2 x 2 OFDM channels. It also provides backward compatibility, allowing it to support DOCSIS 3.0 connections from Xfinity.
While standard internet plans typically utilize 32 x 8 channel bonding, connecting this modem to a Wi-Fi 6 router resulted in remarkable wireless throughput. In 5GHz mode, I achieved the highest download speed of 1167 Mbps and an upload speed of 191 Mbps. These outstanding performance metrics further solidify the ARRIS Surfboard S33 as a top choice for Xfinity users seeking an exceptional modem.
To fully experience Gig-level speeds, utilizing the Ethernet ports on the ARRIS Surfboard S33 is highly recommended. During my testing, I connected my Dell laptop directly to the modem using either the 2.5G or 1G Ethernet port, resulting in impressive performance. I achieved download speeds of over 1187 Mbps and upload speeds of 97 Mbps over a wired setup. Notably, this setup exhibited flawless gaming and streaming performance, with no noticeable latency or instances of lag.
In terms of hardware and other features, the ARRIS Surfboard S33 boasts a Broadcom multi-core processor, which is well-matched with its 1GB (512MB x 2) of RAM. This combination allows the modem to easily handle any congestion that may arise on your network. Furthermore, the modem’s support for OFDM/OFDMA, as mentioned earlier, enhances data transmission efficiency.
A notable feature of the ARRIS Surfboard S33 is its ARM-based chipset, which incorporates an integrated spectrum analyzer. This analyzer proves invaluable as it helps prioritize specific transmission needs with urgency, optimizing overall network performance.
ARRIS SB8200
The Netgear CM1000 utilizes the DOCSIS 3.1 standard, ensuring optimal compatibility and support for Xfinity Gigabit internet plans. With its 32 x 8 channel bonding, the modem delivers exceptional speeds and efficiently handles high-bandwidth activities.
During my testing with Comcast Gigabit internet, I achieved impressive wireless download speeds of up to 940 Mbps and upload speeds of 35 Mbps using the CM1000. Its superior performance ensures low latency for gaming and seamless streaming experiences.
The CM1000 features a Gigabit Ethernet port for a reliable and stable wired connection. This allows you to connect your devices directly to the modem for maximum performance.
Additionally, the Netgear CM1000 is equipped with a robust chipset and quality components, ensuring long-term reliability and consistent performance.
Overall, the Netgear CM1000 stands as a top-notch modem option for Xfinity Gigabit internet, providing fast and reliable connectivity for a variety of bandwidth-intensive activities.
In addition to its compatibility with Xfinity, the Arris SurfBoard SB8200 offers versatility as it is also compatible with other leading ISPs such as Spectrum, Cox, Mediacom, WOW, Midco, and Sparklight. This means that if you plan to switch to a different internet service provider in the future, you can do so seamlessly without any compatibility issues.
When it comes to the hardware setup, the SB8200 boasts a powerful processor paired with 3GB of RAM. This combination plays a crucial role in maintaining consistent speeds and stable connections, ensuring a smooth internet experience. Furthermore, the SB8200 incorporates DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which enhances performance and supports faster data transmission.
One notable aspect of the SB8200 is its use of a standard Broadcom chipset. This eliminates concerns about the Puma chipset-related issues that have been observed in some modems. With the SB8200, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re using a reliable modem without any of the potential chipset-related drawbacks.
Overall, the Arris SurfBoard SB8200 stands out not only for its compatibility with multiple ISPs but also for its impressive hardware and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a dependable and future-proof modem.
Nighthawk CM1100
If you’re considering adding a wireless router to create a wireless network with your modem, the Netgear CM1100 is a reliable option to complement your setup. Netgear routers are known for their compatibility and seamless integration with Netgear modems, ensuring a smooth and efficient wireless connection.
By combining the Netgear CM1100 modem with a Netgear router, you can create a comprehensive networking solution that meets your wireless needs. The CM1100 modem itself offers excellent performance, utilizing the DOCSIS 3.1 standard and advanced features to deliver high-speed internet connectivity.
When paired with a compatible Netgear router, such as the Netgear Nighthawk series or Orbi mesh systems, you can enjoy a seamless wireless experience throughout your home or office. Netgear routers are designed to work in harmony with their modems, allowing for easy setup, optimized performance, and enhanced security features.
So, if you’re looking to extend your internet connection wirelessly, the Netgear CM1100 modem paired with a Netgear router is a reliable and compatible combination to ensure a smooth and reliable wireless network experience.
Compatibility: The CM1100 is officially approved by Comcast Xfinity, ensuring seamless compatibility with their internet service. It is specifically designed to work efficiently with Xfinity’s network infrastructure, guaranteeing a smooth and reliable connection.
Gigabit Speeds: The CM1100 supports DOCSIS 3.1 technology, allowing it to handle Xfinity’s Gigabit (1000 Mbps) internet plans. With its advanced capabilities, the modem can deliver high-speed connectivity, enabling you to make the most of your Xfinity subscription.
Future-Proof Solution: As a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, the CM1100 is equipped to support the latest advancements in cable internet technology. It ensures that you’re prepared for future speed upgrades and network enhancements that Xfinity may introduce, providing a long-lasting and future-proof solution for your internet needs.
Reliable Performance: The Netgear brand is well-known for its reliability and performance. The CM1100 modem maintains a stable and consistent connection, reducing downtime and delivering a reliable internet experience for Xfinity customers.
Easy Setup: Setting up the CM1100 with Comcast Xfinity is straightforward. The modem is designed for quick and hassle-free installation, allowing you to get your internet connection up and running smoothly.
Overall, the Netgear CM1100 is an excellent choice for Comcast Xfinity customers due to its compatibility, support for high-speed Gigabit plans, future-proof capabilities, reliable performance, and easy setup. It provides a reliable and efficient solution for enjoying Xfinity internet services to their fullest.
Motorola MB8600
If you’re a gamer in search of a modem that prioritizes low latency and offers an optimal gaming experience, the MB8600 is the perfect choice. This modem stands out as one of the best gaming modems available, thanks to its advanced features and powerful hardware.
The MB8600 utilizes Active Queue Management (AQM) technology, which helps reduce latency and ensure a smooth gaming experience. AQM actively manages your internet connection to minimize delays and prioritize gaming traffic, resulting in faster response times and reduced lag during gameplay.
In addition to its impressive AQM technology, the MB8600 boasts powerful hardware that contributes to its exceptional performance. With a robust processor and ample RAM, the modem can handle the demands of online gaming without sacrificing speed or stability. This ensures that you can enjoy lag-free gaming sessions and maintain a competitive edge in multiplayer matches.
Furthermore, the MB8600 supports high-speed internet plans and utilizes the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, allowing for blazing-fast download and upload speeds. It is compatible with major ISPs, including Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and more, providing flexibility in choosing your internet service provider.
Overall, the MB8600 is an ideal choice for gamers seeking low latency and optimal performance. With its AQM technology and powerful hardware, this modem ensures a smooth and responsive gaming experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your favorite games without worrying about lag or delays.
During my testing of the MB8600 with Xfinity’s Gigabit and Blast! service plans, it consistently outperformed other modems in its price range. When paired with the Gigabit plan, I experienced download speeds of 901 Mbps, and with the Blast plan, I achieved speeds over 393 Mbps.
In terms of upload speeds, the MB8600 supports up to 50 Mbps, which is reasonable considering the absence of DOCSIS 4.0 technology at present.
For basic activities such as web browsing and video conferencing, the MB8600 offers fallback compatibility with DOCSIS 3.0, providing 32 x 8 channel bonding technology. Additionally, the AQM enhancement ensures better traffic prioritization, resulting in minimized latency for online gaming and other real-time applications.
In terms of hardware, the MB8600 features a reliable ARM-specific Broadcom processor, which enables faster internet speeds and efficient movement of data packets. The chipset ensures consistent performance even during peak usage hours, while the DOCSIS 3.1 standard helps manage network congestion.
While the MB8600 boasts theoretical capabilities of up to 3.8 Gbps, it’s important to note that achieving such speeds would require the ISP to launch plans that match the DOCSIS 3.1 standard.
Overall, the MB8600 impresses with its excellent performance, reliable hardware, and support for advanced technologies, making it an outstanding choice for Xfinity customers looking for a high-performing modem that delivers fast speeds and low latency for gaming and other demanding applications.
Netgear CM2050V
If you’re specifically looking for a modem with a phone jack that performs well with Xfinity, the Netgear CM2050V is an excellent choice based on my extensive testing.
The CM2050V stands out among other modems with phone jacks as it delivers exceptional performance and compatibility with Xfinity’s network. It is designed to support Xfinity Voice service, allowing you to enjoy reliable phone connectivity alongside your internet connection.
During my testing, the CM2050V proved to be a reliable and efficient modem, delivering stable internet speeds and excellent voice call quality. It supports high-speed internet plans, making it suitable for Xfinity’s offerings, and its compatibility with Xfinity Voice ensures a seamless and integrated experience for both internet and phone services.
In addition to its strong performance, the CM2050V also offers user-friendly features and easy setup. Its intuitive interface and straightforward installation process make it convenient for users to get up and running quickly.
Overall, the Netgear CM2050V is a top choice for Xfinity customers seeking a modem with a phone jack. Its compatibility with Xfinity Voice, reliable performance, and user-friendly features make it a reliable and efficient option to meet your internet and phone service needs.
The Netgear CM2050V is a multi-gigabit modem that utilizes DOCSIS 3.1 technology and 32 x 8 channel bonding. With its impressive specifications, it has the capability to support internet plans of up to 2500 Mbps. In my testing, I found that it performed exceptionally well with Xfinity’s 1200 Mbps plan, achieving a maximum download speed of 1152 Mbps and an upload speed ranging between 85-95 Mbps in close range.
In terms of connectivity options, the CM2050V offers a 2.5Gbps ethernet port, allowing you to take advantage of multi-gigabit speeds for your wired connections. Additionally, it features two phone lines, enabling you to connect your landline phone to the modem and make use of Xfinity’s IP bundles.
During testing, the CM2050V demonstrated its ability to handle various tasks with ease. It delivered smooth internet performance, ensuring seamless browsing, video streaming in full HD, and gaming experiences without any issues.
Overall, the Netgear CM2050V proves to be a powerful modem that offers exceptional performance and versatile connectivity options. With its support for high-speed internet plans, multi-gigabit ethernet port, and phone line capabilities, it is well-suited for Xfinity customers looking for a reliable modem with a phone jack to meet their internet and voice communication needs.
Motorola MB7621
If you’re looking for a mid-range modem to accommodate Xfinity’s Super Fast Plan with speeds ranging from 700-800 Mbps, the Motorola MB7621 is an excellent option. Despite its affordable price point, this modem offers a range of useful features that contribute to its impressive performance.
The MB7621 supports DOCSIS 3.0 technology, which is capable of handling high-speed internet connections. With its 24 x 8 channel bonding capability, it can effectively manage and optimize data transmission, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
Compatibility with various internet service providers, including Xfinity, further adds to its appeal. This means you can seamlessly integrate the MB7621 with Xfinity’s network without any compatibility issues.
Although the MB7621 is designed for mid-range speeds, it still provides ample bandwidth to handle Xfinity’s Super Fast Plan, delivering a smooth and fast internet experience. While it may not offer the same ultra-high speeds as more advanced modems, it is a cost-effective choice for users who don’t require the absolute fastest speeds but still desire reliable performance.
In summary, the Motorola MB7621 is a reliable and affordable mid-range modem that supports speeds of 700-800 Mbps. Its DOCSIS 3.0 support, compatibility with Xfinity, and 24 x 8 channel bonding make it an excellent choice for users looking for a budget-friendly option that can handle high-speed internet plans.
The Motorola MB7621, while being compatible with Xfinity plans below 900 Mbps, performed decently when paired with the available 800 Mbps plan. During testing, I observed download speeds of around 734 Mbps and upload speeds of 28 Mbps on my Dell laptop. The modem’s performance remained consistent even when connecting other devices such as gaming consoles and smart TVs, surpassing my expectations.
However, it’s important to note that the modem lacks advanced technologies like QoS, MU-MIMO, and beamforming, which may result in weaker signals at longer distances. When connected to a router without these technologies, the speeds dropped by approximately 70%. Using a TP-Link Archer X90 router, which does support these features, resulted in a minimal speed drop of around 40%.
In terms of ports and connectivity, the MB7621 has only one Ethernet port. While it supports Gigabit plans and speeds, the actual performance with the 800 Mbps plan measured at around 797 Mbps for downloads and 214 Mbps for uploads. An upgrade in speeds can improve your gaming and streaming experiences, as I noticed a drop in ping value from 10ms to 8ms.
In summary, the Motorola MB7621 is a compatible and reliable modem for Xfinity plans below 900 Mbps. While it may lack advanced technologies and have limited ports, it still delivers decent performance and is suitable for users seeking a budget-friendly option for mid-range internet speeds.
Buying Guide:
Check Compatibility: Before purchasing a modem, ensure that it is compatible with Xfinity’s network. Xfinity provides a list of approved modems on their website, which you can refer to. Make sure the modem you choose is certified and recommended by Xfinity.
Internet Speed Requirements: Consider your internet speed requirements. If you have a lower-tier plan, a modem with DOCSIS 3.0 technology and lower channel bonding may be sufficient. For higher-speed plans, such as Gigabit or higher, opt for a modem with DOCSIS 3.1 technology and higher channel bonding to ensure optimal performance.
Channel Bonding: Look for a modem with adequate channel bonding. Channel bonding allows for faster and more efficient data transmission. Higher channel bonding numbers, such as 24 x 8 or 32 x 8, indicate better performance, especially for higher-speed plans.
ISP Compatibility: While focusing on Xfinity compatibility, it’s also worth considering modem compatibility with other internet service providers (ISPs). This flexibility can be useful if you plan to switch providers in the future.
Performance and Reviews: Research the modem’s performance and read customer reviews. Look for feedback on factors like stability, speed, and reliability. Pay attention to any reported issues or limitations, as well as positive experiences shared by users.
Hardware and Features: Consider the hardware specifications and features of the modem. Look for a modem with a powerful processor and sufficient RAM to handle your internet speeds without performance bottlenecks. Additionally, features like built-in Wi-Fi, multiple Ethernet ports, and advanced technologies like QoS, MU-MIMO, and beamforming can enhance your connectivity experience.
Price and Value: Set a budget for your modem purchase and compare prices across different models. Consider the value provided by each modem in terms of performance, features, and longevity. While it’s important to find an affordable option, prioritize quality and reliability over the lowest price.
Warranty and Support: Check the warranty and customer support provided by the modem manufacturer. A longer warranty period and responsive customer support can offer peace of mind and assistance in case of any issues or concerns.
Remember, choosing the right modem is crucial for a stable and high-performing internet connection. By considering compatibility, internet speed requirements, channel bonding, performance, features, and other factors, you can make an informed decision and find a modem that best suits your Xfinity internet needs.