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Best Cable Modem Router Combo 2017 Reviews & Buyers Guide

Those of use with high-speed broadband packages no longer have to pay a pricey monthly rental fee to your provider to use their equipment, instead, people are opting to buy their own modem/router combo to save money and in many cases have a much better product and internet speeds. Read on to find out the best modem router combo to boost performance and save money on the long therm.

Today, the Internet is not a place that merely caters to our thirst for information, but it is also a place that can better our lives. With the help of the Internet, we end up shopping conveniently, while remaining within the confines of our own house. New technologies, websites, applications and streaming services enable us to extract the maximum entertainment that can keep us in a jolly mood for the entire day.

In the cusp of an Internet revolution, one does realize that this is a wonderful thing that people can look forward to. However, when it comes to Internet connections, we basically depend upon broadband connections that enable us to get constant data at all possible times. A broadband connection is necessary so as to reduce the latency as well as provide a constant 99.9% uptime for the home user.

As our needs for the Internet have increased, so has the requirement for bandwidth. There are various ISPs that offer enormous speeds that cannot only transform our lives but enable us to get buffering free entertainment. However, with a whole string of gadgets that depend upon Wi-Fi, it is also important for the procurement of a modem router that comes with Wi-Fi facilities.

This way, data streaming can happen without having to travel through a lot of hoops just so that you can access it from your computer. The cable modem ensures that you can get a streamless connection from your ISP to all the other devices that require active Wi-Fi connection to keep themselves connected to the outside world.

Quick Navigation
Top 7 Modem Router Combos 2017 Comparison Table
Why a Cable Modem Router Combo?
The Cable Modem Wi-Fi Combo.
Modem Router Combo vs Separate
How to choose a modem router combo?
Best Modem Router Combo Individual Reviews
1. ARRIS SURFboard SBG6782-AC DOCSIS 3.0 AC1750
2. NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 (C7000)
3. TP-Link AC1750
4. NETGEAR N300 (C3000)
5. NETGEAR N600 (C3700)
6. Actiontec 300 (GT784WN)
7. TP-Link Archer CR700
Best Modem Router Combo for Time Warner
TP-Link N300 Wireless (TC-W7960)
Best Modem Router Combo for Gaming
NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 (R7000)
Best Wireless Modem Router Combo
Netgear N300 WiFi DSL Modem Router (DGN2200)
Cheap Modem Router Combo (for low budget)
TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Router (TL-WR841N)
Modem / Router FAQ’s
Is it best to buy a new, used or a refurbished modem?
What security standards must your device possess?
Should I get a warranty?
Does the number of users actually affect the internet speed and signals?
What price should you go for?
Is your modem/router combo compatible with your ISP?
What are the factors that enhance the speed and range of your internet in a modem router combo?

Let's compare some of the best modem router combos on market

Top 7 Modem Router Combos 2017 Comparison Table

Image

Model&Rating

Speed

LAN Ports

Prices

Reviews

ARRIS SURFboard AC1750

1750 Mbps

2x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900

1900 Mbps

5x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

TP-Link AC1750

300 Mbps

4x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

NETGEAR N300

300 Mbps

2x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

NETGEAR N600

600 Mbps

2x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

Actiontec 300

300 Mbps

4x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

TP-LINK Archer CR700

1750 Mbps

4x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

ARRIS SURFboard SBG6580-2

300 Mbps

4x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

TP-Link N300

300 Mbps

4x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900

1900 Mbps

4x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

Netgear N300 (DGN2200)

300 Mbps

4x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

TP-Link N300 (TL-WR841N TP-LINK)

300 Mbps

4x Ethernet ports

Check price
Check review

Why a Cable Modem Router Combo?

The advantages of going for a cable modem router are that you get the flexibility of placing the router at any location and getting easy access to the Internet. Moreover, tweaking the performance of the router with the help of a third party firmware also makes it a reliable product to be used in this given timeframe.

Most of the cable modem routers come with enhanced security features like the DOCSIS 3.0, and hence can be the perfect product to your Internet accessing needs.

Additionally, the cable modem router is necessary for people making use of a cable or a wired broadband Internet connection. In order to get blazing fast speeds at cheap rates, one needs a wired connection.

The cable modem is necessary in order to make the data flowing through the cable to be accessed by the computers and other electronic devices.

The Cable Modem Wi-Fi Combo.

Instead of purchasing a cable modem that would otherwise provide a wired connection to various desktop and laptop devices, the use of the cable modem Wi-Fi combo enables people to access the Internet through wireless means as well.

The combination can be particularly affordable, as it helps people to save on the Internet packages normally used in mobile phones while remaining within the confines of their homes or in their offices.

Moreover, the combination also saves you a lot of money on the hardware which would otherwise need to be purchased separately, one for accessing the Internet that is the cable modem, and the other is the Wi-Fi modem to provide Wi-Fi services.

It would only be a worthy decision for you to divert your attention to the combination rather than going for single product purchased that only ends up eating away at your budget.

Modem Router Combo vs Separate

When you purchase a modem router combo, what you get is a modem, in combination with a router. The job of the modem is to convert the data flowing through the cable into a reliable gateway to access the Internet.

The job of the router is to provide a bridge network that can enable a lot of other computers to connect to that particular Internet platform with the help of multiple cables. Sometimes, the router also comes with Wi-Fi capabilities, thereby providing greater access to the people making use of the wireless connection.

When we talk about separate devices, then we have to purchase a modem that is specifically used to access the Internet. A router would need to be purchased just so that there could be a LAN platform for other people to access the Internet.

If Wi-Fi services are necessary, then a separate Wi-Fi router would need to be purchased for the same task.

If you need to save some space as well as money, then the combination of a modem and router is the best device for the task. The modems that come with the wireless combination also contains a lot of security features which would otherwise be absent from the separate modems. So, migrating to the use of the combo should be a sound decision.

How to choose a modem router combo?

There are certain parameters/features that need to be ticked off from the list before you select a particular modem router.

  1. Usage habits: For how long do you keep yourself connected to the Internet with your gadgets? If it is a constant 24 hours, then you need a robust modem router that does cost you a lot more than the normal router in the market. However, the sturdy build and design ensures that you can get the maximum connectivity out of your Wi-Fi router, and you need not worry about any kind of problems associated with the usage of that product.
  1. Wireless type: There are multiple wireless routers providing you with the standard connection of 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n. Depending upon your requirement, you need to select a modem router that functions in the kind of wireless type necessary for your gadgets. This gets rid of any kind of compatibility issue that you might normally face with a new product in your house.
  1. Upload and download speeds: Most modem router’s come with a maximum upload speed of 1 Gbps and a minimum download speed of 500 Mbps. This is more than enough for most homeowners. However, if the modem router is to be used for an establishment, then you are required to purchase a router that has a much better capability in providing the upload and download speeds rather than the norm.
  1. Security (DOCSIS 3.0): Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications or DOCSIS 3.0 is amongst one of the most important security features that have made its way into the cable modem. It provides a reliable connection to users while at the same time eliminates any kind of issues that is normally seen with people hacking into the server with the modem being the getaway device. So, there are various new cable modems that have come with the DOCSIS 3.0 security feature. Selecting a product that has this security feature can put you in a safe zone.
  1.  Signal reliability: When connected to a huge data streams, signal reliability is something that makes or breaks the experience of a seamless Internet connection. Good cable modems would always have excellent signal reliability, even when you go to the endpoint of the signal reaching your device. So, the cable modem should have a good enough signal reliability, particularly when there is a lot of movement in between accessing the Internet.

Best Modem Router Combo Individual Reviews

1. ARRIS SURFboard SBG6782-AC DOCSIS 3.0 AC1750

View on Amazon

When you need the right speed while not sacrificing on the performance, this is the product for you. You cannot probably do much better than going for the ARRIS SURFboard SBG6782-AC DOCSIS 3.0 AC1750 Wi-Fi Router.

As a Wi-Fi router, it can offer blazing fast speeds and can deliver data without any problems. It has the necessary hardware that can enable you to access faster Internet, without any possible problems with uptime.

Speed

The Surfboard carries a delivery speed of 1.8 Gbps at a dual band concurrent with 2 point 4 GHz and 5 GHz connections. It can allow for delivery speeds of 343 Mbps for downloading any file from the Internet.

 

Compatibility

This product is compatible with almost all major ISPs in the United States, and across the world. It also comes with 4 Ethernet ports to enable proper router capabilities as well.

 

Networking

In terms of networking, it has the latest 802.11ac capability that allows for 8 downstream channels to work simultaneously.

 

Installation

The installation is no longer a problem with an accompanying booklet that helps you with a step-by-step guide in the installation of this gadget.

 

Security

For people concerned with security, it has the latest DOCSIS 3.0 security feature that makes it one of the most secure Wi-Fi routers in the market.

We liked

  • The versatility, the blazing speed as well as the presence of 4 Gb Ethernet ports are the primary advantages of this product.

We didn't like

  • The features such as the quality of service or QoS, router firmware, dynamic DNS and optimization protocol is not applicable for this combo product.

Functionality

9/10

Security

8/10

Speed

10/10

Overall Rating

9/10

2. NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 (C7000)

View on Amazon

When you are planning to optimize your Internet browsing experience, then NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 (24×8) Wi-Fi (C7000) should be the product of your choice.

It has some of the highest possible speeds for connection, and can provide excellent downstream channels, which according to the latest count comes to 24. Also equipped with awe-inspiring hardware, this is one of the best route combos that you can find in the market.

 

Speed

It offers maximum speeds of up to 960 Mbps for downloading, and also comes with 1.9 Gbps speeds mainly due to the downstream channels.

 

Compatibility

This modem/router combination is compatible to almost all the major cable as well as mainstream ISPs in various parts of the world.

 

Networking

It comes with the standard 802.11n networking capability that provides for solid wireless connectivity within its range.

 

Installation

The installation of this combo is a breeze and it is definitely amongst the easiest installation is that you can encounter in this section.

 

Security

With the inclusion of the latest DOCSIS 3.0 security feature, there are no apparent problems with this product.

We liked

  • A heady mix of excellent hardware, wonderful specifications, and a manageable price range makes this a wonderful product.

We didn't like

  • It is still a tad bit costly for homeowners, but seems to be perfect for the people that use them in establishments.

Functionality

10/10

Security

9/10

Speed

9/10

Overall Rating

9.5/10

3. TP-Link AC1750

View on Amazon

When you require fast speeds, there are no other alternatives to the TP-Link AC1750 DOCSIS 3.0 (16×4) Wireless Wi-Fi Router.

This is amongst one of the most important Wireless Wi-Fi routers in the market, and is compatible with almost any kind of cable broadband that you have. With excellent technical specifications and proper hardware, this is the product for you to purchase when you need a solid performer by your side.

Speed

The speeds of up to 1750 Mbps can be easily achieved with the help of 2.4 GHz bandwidth. If you go to 5 GHz, then you can get a network connectivity of about 1300 Mbps. In terms of speed, it can give you a maximum download speed of up to 450 Mbps.

 

Compatibility

This wifi modem/router has been known to work pretty well with almost all ISPs and any kinds of problems in compatibility can be easily taken care of by visiting their online forum.

 

Networking

Excellent network capability with the 802.11 g makes it a versatile Wi-Fi router while at the same time providing excellent connectivity even with a weak signal.

 

Installation

The installation process is pretty easy, and there are no particular problems that shall be faced during the installation of this product.

 

Security

with the DOCSIS 3.0 package as well as other security measures, this is a secure modem/router that you can look to purchase.

We liked

  • The presence of a dual core processor ensures that there would be no lag in terms of connectivity that is normally seen in other products.
  • The presence of 2 USB port to access data as well as access to remote FTP makes it a versatile product.

We didn't like

  • The cost can be somewhat overwhelming for the home users.

Functionality

8/10

Security

9/10

Speed

9/10

Overall Rating

8.5/10

4. NETGEAR N300 (C3000)

View on Amazon

If you are in the market for a cable modem combo, then have a look at the ones from Netgear. The latest variant, which is the N300 (also known as the C3000) is an absolute beast and can provide you with reliable high-speed performance without having to cost a ton of money.

Similar products with feasible specifications cost you a lot more. The delivery system enables at least 8 downstream channels to work at the same time, giving you excellent Internet coverage over a longer range.

Speed

At a download speed of 340 Mbps, this is truly a product for the ingenious home user and small start-ups.

 

Compatibility

It has been found to be optimized according to the needs of some of the major ISP in the United States.

 

Networking

This router has been equipped with some of the best Wi-Fi technology, which makes it extremely fast for almost all Internets browsing needs.

 

Installation

The installation process in this router is not a problem and can be easily tackled by even novices.

 

Security

With DOCSIS 3.0, this is a product that provides you with seamless security coverage at all possible points, particularly during Wi-Fi connectivity. It also has the standard WPA and the WEP security features to prevent any unwanted Wi-Fi connection.

We liked

  • As one of the leading Wi-Fi router combos, having a price tag below a hundred dollars makes this the best cable modem router combo for many homeowners.
  • It features gigabit Ethernet ports, for people that would want to bypass Wi-Fi connectivity and get excellent wired connection speeds.

We didn't like

  • They do not contain a VPN pass-through, and hence total anonymity for the people using this router cannot be achieved.
  • Most of the time, port forwarding does not work; therefore it results in most of the online games not working in the multiplayer option.

Functionality

9/10

Security

8/10

Speed

9/10

Overall Rating

8.5/10

5. NETGEAR N600 (C3700)

View on Amazon

When you prefer a product that is extremely high in the speed and efficiency and contains a dual band, you need to go for the Netgear N600.

Although it can offer the same kind of technical specifications, but the plus point is that it contains dual band capabilities that is not found in most of the other modem/routers.

Speed

It offers decent downloading speeds at 340 Mbps, and with a dual band, it can offer up to 300 Mbps at each band.

 

Compatibility

This router is known to be compatible with almost all the cable and major United States ISPs.

 

Networking

With a USB port to wirelessly share the hard drive of your device as well as gigabit Ethernet ports, you can experience fast networking and connectivity without entirely relying upon the Wi-Fi routers.

 

Installation

The installation is pretty easy, and does not take up a lot of time. It is ideal for the people that have little to no knowledge about modems or routers.

 

Security

The DOCSIS 3.0 happens to be one of the most important security features that has been integrated into this platform, and is definitely the primary firewall against any kind of hacking attempts.

We liked

  • It has 8X4 channel bonding.
  • It contains gigabit Ethernet ports so as to provide fast connectivity for the wired connections. The presence of USB port also enables people to wirelessly share their hard drive.

We didn't like

  • The USB port rates are pretty unstable FTP end point that can be easily used to manipulate the router.

Functionality

10/10

Security

9/10

Speed

9/10

Overall Rating

9.5/10

6. Actiontec 300 (GT784WN)

View on Amazon

When you are looking for a wireless modem router combo, then it cannot be anything better than the Actiontec 300 Mbps Wireless-N ADSL (GT784WN).

It has a glorious history, and although everything is basic, it is fitted with almost all the modem specifications necessary for Internet connection to be passed on seamlessly. It is perhaps one of the best used amongst the people that do not find a constant need to be connected to the Internet.

Speed

It can deliver speeds up to 300 Mbps on a single band through the wireless network.

 

Compatibility

It is not to be compatible with almost all the major ISPs that you can encounter.

 

Networking

With this router being a basic ADSL modem, it has a very basic integration of wireless N capability that comes with a single band. It provides seamless networking for people that are using this model on a single user basis.

 

Installation

The installation does take a bit of time since this is outdated technology, but it does have own share of advantages.

 

Security

It contains all the standard security features, but it does not have the latest DOCSIS 3.0 security that is one of the most coveted amongst the modem & router combos on the market.

We liked

  • The price of this product is a pretty attractive factor for most people looking at a for a robust combo modem.
  • It can be easily be configured in order to take on a simple setup, so as to work according to the selected settings.
  • It has a pretty high grade firewall as well as parental controls and encryptions along with a wide variety of protection.

We didn't like

  • The firmware is a bit outdated, and hence it is not actively seen in the establishment and houses of people that use their Internet connection religiously.

Functionality

7/10

Security

9/10

Speed

8/10

Overall Rating

8/10

7. TP-Link Archer CR700

View on Amazon

When you need a versatile modem-router that not only looks good but also has a robust design, then you should be thinking about using TP-Link Archer CR700.

It is one of the most exciting combos that has wonderful certifications and come with speeds in excess of 400 Mbps. It also contains DOCSIS 2.0 which is a version older of the latest 3.0 but does the work of providing ample security pretty well to this router.

Speed

It can reach speeds of up to 1750 Mbps for Wi-Fi with simultaneous browsing using the 2.4 Ghz and the 5 Ghz.

 

Compatibility

It has been known to be compatible with almost all the major ISPs in the United States like Time Warner, Comcast, as well as Cablevision.

 

Networking

It is a cable modem router, and comprises of Ethernet ports for proper LAN connectivity.

 

Installation

The installation of this product is pretty spot-on, and does not take up a lot of time.

 

Security

It comes with the DOCSIS 2.0 which is 16 times faster than any known wireless security currently in the market apart from the 3.0 variant.

We liked

  • This product is pretty cost-effective and can eliminate the need for a cable modem.
  • It has extremely fast Internet browsing speeds without any lag whatsoever.
  • It is compatible with almost all the major ISPs in the United States.

We didn't like

  • The device menu has been undergoing a few problems lately, and that has led to some customer issues.

Functionality

7/10

Security

9/10

Speed

8/10

Overall Rating

8/10

Best Modem Router Combo for Time Warner

TP-Link N300 Wireless (TC-W7960)

View on Amazon

Among the largest internet service providers is the Time Warner Cable.  This provider has a list of compatible modems, but you got have the right one to reap its juice. TP-Link (TC-W7960) was built for this task. It is a 2-in-1 device that works as both a cable modem and a router.

Speed

TP-Link N300 has a download speed of up to 343Mbps and an upload speed of 143Mbps; sometimes it can vary with the provider and your speed tier. When using Wi-Fi, the download speed is up to 300Mbps.

 

Compatibility

It’s compatible with a Cable Internet plan of up to 150Mbps.The TC-W7960 is compatible with almost all major cable Internet service providers. Some of them include; Xfinity from Comcast, spectrum, Suddenlink, Mediacom, Cox and WOW.

 

Networking

It uses N300 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi to connect to your devices and has a channel bonding of up to 4 upstream and eight downstream channels for its upload and download capabilities. It also employs DOCSIS 3.0 technology to increase its throughput. Hence your devices will experience no lags.

It sports a USB port 2.0 that makes it versatile. You can connect anything to it such as an external drive for file sharing across the network.  You also get fast and reliable connections using four Gigabit Ethernet ports.

 

Installation

Using guidelines provided, the setup is as simple as plug n play with no hassle. You can also call the ISP if something is amiss.

 

Security

It has an SSID and password to help you protect your bandwidth from other unwanted users. To enhance this, TP-LINK has a Guest Network and Parental Controls feature. The guest network feature ensures your visitors access WIFI separately from your network while the parental control feature manages how your devices connect and access the internet. You can prioritize your devices as well as assign bandwidth accordingly.

We liked

  • Two in one cable modem router
  • USB port 2.0
  • Uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology
  • Has Guest Network and Parental Controls

We didn't like

  • Uses only 2.4GHz band.

Functionality

7/10

Security

9/10

Speed

8/10

Overall Rating

8/10

Best Modem Router Combo for Gaming

NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 (R7000)

View on Amazon

Powerful gaming machines carry out tasks with high-speed. Any lag and the experience won’t be satisfying. Most games support multiplayer mode, and most of them require internet to be played. Throughput is essential in gaming, and only powerful routers such as the Nighthawk R7000 can deliver such power.

Speed

NETGEAR Nighthawk R7000 offers the fastest Wi-Fi speeds a gamer can work with. It currently has a data transfer rate of up to 1900 Mbps. It is powered by a Dual Core processor with speeds clocking at 1GHz for extreme performance. It sports features like Dynamic QoS that prioritize on streaming and gaming devices such as Xbox and PS consoles hence creating a blazing-fast and lag-free Wi-Fi experience. It is overall design also enables service prioritization for data. Its design delivers high availability, flexibility and scalability, and for maximum performance.

 

Compatibility

It is compatible with hardware platforms such as Mac, PC, and Unix. It also supports almost all operating systems such as Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 8.1, Mac OS, UNIX, and Linux.

 

Networking

It has a wider coverage due to High-powered amplifiers and external antennas. Beamforming+ focuses the signals to both 2.4 and 5GHz band devices hence improving the range and ensures reliability. It has both USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports for connection to external devices. There are also 4 LAN ports in place. This router supports VPN services, Ready Share Vault, and PC Backup Software.

 

Installation

NETGEAR Nighthawk router is Easy and has an automatic installation. Remote access is also enabled via the NETGEAR genie.

 

Security

You can monitor the network using the NETGEAR genie app. all other WIFI security measures are in place. The VPN service also provides extra security.

We liked

  • Fast AC1900 (600+1300 Mbps) speeds
  • Compatible with Amazon Echo/Alexa
  • USB 2.0 and 3.0
  • NETGEAR Genie App for remote control
  • Ultimate Wi-Fi coverage
  • Open source community support

We didn't like

  • It can be expensive for some people.

Functionality

9/10

Security

9/10

Speed

10/10

Overall Rating

9.5/10

Best Wireless Modem Router Combo

Netgear N300 WiFi DSL Modem Router (DGN2200)

View on Amazon

Few routers have superb wireless capabilities. If you entirely rely on Wi-Fi connectivity in your home/ premises, what you need is a beast. The Netgear N300 (DGN2200) is the apex in this domain with its 802.11ac standard; 5G Wi-Fi. On top of that standard, is the beamforming+. With this feature in place, what you get is a warp speed Wi-Fi.

Speed

With a Dual Core Processor of 800Mhz, 256MB RAM and a dual-band Wi-Fi, the Netgear N300 (DGN2200) has more than enough horsepower to handle more than 12 wireless devices seamlessly.  With it’s Wi-Fi speed standard 802.11ac, the network performance is 3x as compared to the 11n standard.

 

Compatibility

It is compatible with Windows 7, 8, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, or Linux.

 

Networking

This wireless router has a better coverage as compared to other wireless routers. With the 11ac and a dual band, that’s ultimate coverage for larger homes. The beamforming + feature, its connections are reliable. This is possible because the feature is designed to extend Wi-Fi coverage, focuses Wi-Fi signals to Wi-Fi devices, reduces dead spots, and boosts signal strength. It also manages the signal automatically and performs checks with a connected device, and this ensures the Wi-Fi signal is at its optimal strength. You can also connect external devices via the USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports.

 

Installation

Setting this router is an easy task with the NETGEAR Genie application. It has detailed instructions and offers deeper access to the router’s settings. You can also use the web interface to perform settings.

 

Security

There are parental controls that filter what is accessed. With remote access via NETGEAR genie app, you can also manage your network, view network map, set up guest network and manage Parental Controls and also block Wi-Fi devices. It’s also equipped with WPS button.

We liked

  • Beamforming+
  • Dual band
  • USB ports;2.0,3.0
  • Network map
  • Remote access

We didn't like

  • Bulky

Functionality

7/10

Security

9/10

Speed

8/10

Overall Rating

8/10

Cheap Modem Router Combo (for low budget)

TP-Link N300 Wi-Fi Router (TL-WR841N)

View on Amazon

The TL-WR841N TP-LINK wireless router. Its cheap price does not, however, comprise its capabilities. It’s a balance between performance and price. It’s ideal for applications such as video streaming, web surfing, online gaming, multi-tasking, and VoIP.

Speed

With a 2.4 GHz band and two 5dBi antennas, this router significantly increases the wireless robustness, stability and is capable of delivering speeds of up to 300Mbps.

 

Compatibility

Being a router, it can be connected to almost all ISPs. It supports devices as Wi-Fi is cross platform.

 

Networking

This device give you control over your network. It has an IP based QoS that controls and sets bandwidth limit for various connected devices. It also has backward compatibility for devices with the 802.11b/g standard. It sports four fast Ethernet ports for fast wired connections.

 

Installation

Being a low budget router, even novice users find it easy to use this device. It has a setup assistant that provides easy, quick and a hassle free installation.

 

Security

You can secure your Wi-Fi connection using the WPS button. This ensures your bandwidth is not used by foreign entities. Using parental controls, you can filter what content is accessed and set limits on how and when devices connect to the internet. With its advanced security feature, your network connections are encrypted.

We liked

  • Low budget
  • Incredible speeds
  • Backward compatibility
  • IP-based QoS

We didn't like

  • No USB port
  • Single band

Functionality

7/10

Security

9/10

Speed

8/10

Overall Rating

8/10

Modem / Router FAQ’s

 

Is it best to buy a new, used or a refurbished modem?

In regards to electronic devices, it is always a good idea to purchase a new product. The same holds good for modems as well. So, when you’re looking to purchase a modem, make sure that you purchase a new device.

Of course, when financial concerns are valid, you could make use of a refurbished or even a used modem. However, you need to check whether the product is working or else you would be fleeced out of your money.

 

What security standards must your device possess?

The router modem combo should possess the standard security settings and have WPA as well as the WEP password protection for the Wi-Fi modules. Moreover, if it comes with DOCSIS 3.0, then you have a winner in your hands.

 

Should I get a warranty?

All electronic gadgets are susceptible to voltage fluctuations, which otherwise lead to unintended damage. In order to prevent your money getting wasted after you purchase a product, it is always vital for you to get a warranty.

However, when purchasing the product, make sure that you only succumb to a product that has a factory mention warranty, and not the extended warranty that ends up costing you a lot more than the cost of a new modem.

 

Does the number of users actually affect the internet speed and signals?

In terms of the number of people accessing the Internet at a given moment, yes, there is going to be certain fluctuations to the Internet speed that you experience on your portal. However, the signal strength is not going to get affected at all.

The Internet speed which is flowing into the main modem is not going to be affected by people accessing the Internet. However, you, as a separate user would witness fluctuation in speeds, particularly if another person on the same network is downloading a large file.

 

What price should you go for?

Any price between $ 100-$ 200 should be ideal for you to purchase a modem according to your requirements.

 

Is your modem/router combo compatible with your ISP?

Most modem and router products that you can purchase from the market will remain without a doubt, compatible with your ISP.

However, there have been certain instances in with cheap Chinese manufactured modems & routers did not work well with some ISPs. So, you need to check with your ISP before you commit to purchasing a Modem router.

 

What are the factors that enhance the speed and range of your internet in a modem router combo?

a.Channels

Choosing the right channel will obviously help you to enhance the speed of the Internet that you can access from your router. If you want to minimize the interference even when a lot of people are accessing the Internet through your modem, you should go for using the channels 1, 6 and 11.

b.Bands

Bands can have an adverse impact on the speed of Internet access. You need to start with 5 GHz which is in the range of 802.11n and 802.11ac and find more free space with various bands across 23 non-overlapping channels in any given cable modem combo.

 

Other Factors…

The number of devices connected to the router is also going to affect the speed of accessing the Internet. If a lot of people seem to be accessing the Internet at the same moment, there is going to be a heavy load of data transfer happening at the same time. This results in a lot of people not getting access to certain websites.

Distance from the cable modem combo is also going to affect the speed of the Internet that you can access on your device. If you are working on your handheld device through the Wi-Fi, and you happen to be located far away, then the signal strength is going to drop.

This can lead to Internet speeds crawling at a snail’s pace. In order to increase the speed, one would need to get closer to the cable modem router.

The quality of the product that you purchase also has a pretty big impact when extracting the maximum speed out of your broadband connection.

If the components used in the product are cheap, then you would not be able to enjoy the blazing Internet speeds that your ISP offers. The product in itself would create a bottleneck thereby deceiving you of your real speeds.

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