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.
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Best 2017 Modem Router Combo Comparison
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Best modem router combo’s in 2017
We have come across some of the latest modem router combos in the market and have laid down some of the best that money can buy in this section.
1. ARRIS SURFboard SBG6782-AC DOCSIS 3.0 AC1750 Wi-Fi Router
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.
Pros
The versatility, the blazing speed as well as the presence of 4 Gb Ethernet ports are the primary advantages of this product.
Cons
The features such as the quality of service or QoS, router firmware, dynamic DNS and optimization protocol is not applicable for this combo product.
2. NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 (24×8) Wi-Fi (C7000)
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.
Pros
A heady mix of excellent hardware, wonderful specifications, and a manageable price range makes this a wonderful product.
Cons
It is still a tad bit costly for homeowners, but seems to be perfect for the people that use them in establishments.
3. TP-Link AC1750 DOCSIS 3.0 (16×4) Wireless Wi-Fi Router
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.
Pros
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.
Cons
The cost can be somewhat overwhelming for the home users.
4. NETGEAR N300 WI-Fi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router (C3000)
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.
Pros
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.
Cons
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.
5. NETGEAR N600 WI-Fi DOCSIS 3.0 Modem Router (C3700)
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.
Pros
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.
Cons
The USB port rates are pretty unstable FTP end point that can be easily used to manipulate the router.
6. Actiontec 300 Mbps Wireless-N ADSL (GT784WN)
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.
Pros
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.
Cons
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.
7. TP-Link Archer CR700
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.
Pros
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.
Cons
The device menu has been undergoing a few problems lately, and that has led to some customer issues.
Best Modem Router Combo - Buyers Guide
Why choose a modem router combo?
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.
How to choose a modem router?
There are certain parameters/features that need to be ticked off from the list before you select a particular modem router.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
What Exactly is 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.
Why a Cable Modem Router?
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.
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.
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 $ 50-$ 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?
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.
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.
