Best Gigabit DOCSIS 3.1 Modems 2022

Switching to gigabit internet cable? Replace your existing modem with the best gigabit modem.

by Editorial TeamUpdated

Gigabit internet is here. Although gigabit internet may not be available everywhere, by the end of this year, many cities will be covered by it. However, your existing modem will not work with gigabit internet. To make the latest gigabit fiber internet to work, you need a DOCSIS 3.1 gigabit cable modem. DOCSIS 3.1 has ten times more speed than DOCSIS 3.0. One of the other essential facts about DOCSIS 3.1 is that it is backward compatible. So, if you are in the market to buy a new modem, then why not buy a modem that is future proof.

However, selecting the best gigabit Docsis 3.1 modem requires extensive research and testing. And we have done the hard part of testing and researching for you. created a list of best gigabit Docsis 3.1 modems.

Docsis 3.1 Modems AT-A-Glance
Gigabit Docsis 3.1 modemGigabit Docsis 3.1 modemGigabit Docsis 3.1 modem
BrandARRISNETGEARARRIS
Typemodemmodemmodem and router
LinkAmazon linkAmazon linkAmazon link
ISPComcast XfinityCox, Comcast Xfinity, and MedicomCox, Comcast Xfinity, and Spectrum
Best DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Modem: ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

With more than 10Gbps download speed capacity, this modem is the best gigabit modem for the gigabit cable internet plans. Two one gigabit ethernet ports are there to make sure that you have access to two different networks should there be any need for it. Two years of limited warranty comes with the purchase to protect you in the future. It includes the McAfee Secure Home Internet protection app to improve security and reduce viruses and malware-related incidents.

It is perfect for 4K video streaming and gaming. More than 32 download channels and eight upload channels are there to handle the internet loads of as much as possible. This modem supports both ipv6 and ipv4 internet browsing standards. ARRIS is one of the industries leading modem companies. The SURFboard has been in the business since 1997.

Warranty: 2 years limited warranty

Compatible with: Cox, Comcast Xfinity, RCN Cable, Charter Spectrum, and Others.

Also check out our reviews on Best Wireless Router

Highlights

  • DOCSIS 3.1, up to 10Gbps internet speed.
  • Two 1-Gigabit ethernet ports.
  • 32 downstream and 8 upstream OFDM channels
  • Compatible with major US cable providers
  • Worldwide leader in cable modems
  • 2-year limited warranty
NETGEAR DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem: Netgear CM1200

With maximum download speed up to 2 Gbps, this Netgear gigabit modem is one of the best DOCSIS 3.1 modems out there. This modem can support all internet speed tiers up to Gigabit+. Streaming, gaming, and surfing made easy with lightning speed. However, if your internet cable is bundled with voice service, then the modem may not work as expected.

Gigabit internet speed with the fastest WiFi router will make sure all of your devices will be able to stream, browse, and game at the fastest speed possible. And the backward compatibility means that you are covered even in the future. Since this modem uses the Broadcom chipset instead of Intel chipset, it works perfectly without any issues.

Compatible with: Cox, Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, Medicom Cable, and Others.

Highlights

  • Max download speed up to 2Gbps
  • 4 Gigabit ethernet ports
  • Engineered with 32x8 channel bonding, OFDM 2x2, and DOCSIS 3.1.
  • Great for heavy-duty 4K HD streaming, multi-player gaming and more.
  • NETGEAR limited 1-year Hardware Warranty.
Best DOCSIS 3.1 Modem Router Combo: NETGEAR C7800

Unlike other gigabit modem listed here, this is a modem and WIFI combination. So, instead of buying a gigabit modem and a wireless router separately, you can buy a modem that is also a router. 32 download and eight upload channels will make sure you get 1Gbps speed or more. Two USB 3.0 ports make it even more pleasant to stream and store its multimedia.

Four high performance external active antennas and superior amplifiers will increase WIFI range and speed. With the 802.11ac wireless technology and dual-band, WIFI bands such as 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz will handle multiple devices simultaneously. Four-gigabit ethernet ports to connect as many devices as possible by the wired connection. Using this gigabit modem router, you can watch 4K videos at multiple devices without any lag.

Compatible with: Comcast Xfinity and Cox.

Find out more on the best gaming modems

Highlights

  • Wi-Fi Built In, Ethernet, Wi-Fi Ready
  • Compatible with all major cable internet providers
  • Built for ultimate speed up to 2 gigabits speed.
  • 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 hi-speed USB 3.0 ports
  • Powerful 1.5GHz dual core processor boosts wireless, wired, and WAN-to-LAN
  • Beamforming—Boosts speed, reliability, & range of Wi-Fi connections
Best Modem and Router Combo: ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300

ARRIS is renowned for modem and router combo. This product has three different functions such as a modem, Dual-band WiFi router and four-port Gigabit router. And, of course, it is the gigabit modem capable of 32 downstream and eight upstream channels. On top of that, it has the 4 OFDM channels that make the download and upload much faster.

What we liked the most about this Gigabit 3.1 modem and router is that it is compatible with Alexa. Also, the Surfboard manager app for iOS and Android helped make the experience seamless. Xfinity and Cox approved while it is pending approval with providers like Spectrum. Being 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0, we highly recommend this product for its speed and exceptional services. Since it has both WIFI and modem built-in, it will help you clear up the cluttered situation.

Compatible with: Cox, Comcast Xfinity, and Spectrum.

Highlights

  • Wi-Fi Built In
  • Compatible with major U S Cable Internet Providers
  • Wave 2 AC2350 dual-band concurrent Wi-Fi Router with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
ARRIS SURFboard S33 32 x 8 DOCSIS 3.1

It is one of the best Docsis 3.1 cable modem with speed up to 3.5 Gbps. In the Surfboard lineup, this is the fastest modem. Quick and easy setup with self activation option from ISP activation page.

2 downstream and 2 upstream OFDM channels are there to make use of latest cable technology. Best known for high performance online gaming and simultaneous 4K Ultra HD and VR Streaming.

Highlights

  • Compatible with major cable provider - Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity and many others.
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • One 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Port and One 1 Gigabit Ethernet Port
  • Multi-network capabitlity
  • Online gaming and 4K streaming ready
Best Modem for Security: Motorola Ultra Fast DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem

This gigabit internet modem comes with Broadcom modem chipset, which protects you from the Denial of Service attack. Works with all Spectrum of internet speed up to 1000Mbps, so 4K video streaming, online gaming, or HDTV will work seamlessly. It includes Broadcom Full-Band Capture digital tuner, which saves energy and enhances speed.

One open and three-gigabit ethernet ports to bond ports to allow more than 1Gbps if you ever need it. The modem also includes a full broadband digital tuner to enhance speed and save energy. The built-in Active Queue Management reduces the latency of the internet. As a result, video conferencing, 4k video streaming, game streaming, and web page loads significantly faster.

Certifications and Warranty: 2 year warranty and certified by CableLabs

Compatible with: Comcast Xfinity, Cox and Cable One.

Highlights

  • Broadcom Full-Band Capture digital tuner
  • ACTIVE QUEUE MANAGEMENT (AQM)
  • A BROADCOM CHIPSET
  • Max download speed 6000 Mbps or 6Gbps
  • Compatible with Major cable providers
  • 2 year Warranty
Best Docsis 3.1 Gigabit Modem: Arris T25 Internet & Voice

This Arris Gigabit modem is equipped with 32 downstream and eight upstream capacity. This T25 combines a Docsis 3.1 cable modem with a 2-line digital voice adapter for telephone service. If you have a gigabit internet speed plan, this router will be perfect for 4k video streaming and online game playing. However, make sure to contact your ISP to check for compatibility.

Certified to work with Xfinity

Highlights

  • 10+ Gbps download speed
  • Internet and Voice
  • Compatible with Xfinity only.
  • 2 Years limted warranty
  • 2 Telephone ports
  • OFDM DOCSIS 31 channels
Best Docsis 3.1 Modem Router for WiFi 6: NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80

COMPATIBLE WITH ALL MAJOR CABLE INTERNET PROVIDERS including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, and COX. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service. Best for Gigabit cable provider plans up to 2 Gigabits speed. DOCSIS 3.1 Engineereing supports 32x8 channel bonding.

Get up to 3,000 sq. ft. wireless coverage and 45+ devices connected with 802.11AX Dual-band WiFi 6 (AX6000) speed (up to 6Gbps). One 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, and one USB 3.0 port give you fast wired and versatile connections to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices.

CAX80 modem router with DOCSIS 3.1 supports cable Internet plans with speeds up to 2Gbps ensuring fast, reliable Internet speed for HD streaming and more. Netgear armor powered by Bitdefender: The world’s leading cybersecurity company that protects all your home devices from virus, malware, and data theft with a 30-day free trial. Did we mention it has 6Gbps wireless speed (AX6000), making it a perfect modem router combo for demanding HD streaming and gaming.

Compatible with: Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum

Highlights

  • Security Protocol WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK
  • WiFi 6 - 802.11ax
  • 3,000 sq. ft. wireless coverage
  • Connect up to 45+ devices
  • 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Speed up to 6Gbps
Best Mesh Modem/Router Combo Gigabit Docsis 3.1: NETGEAR Orbi CBK752

WiFi coverage for up to 5,000 sq. ft. and 40+ devices. Expand coverage by 2,500 sq. ft. with options to add Orbi Mesh WiFi 6 satellite. It is a great system for office space and large home where you don't want to have multiple modem and routers lying around everywhere. Just setup main modem and router in the middle of the office or home and add satellites where you feel like you need it.

Netgear armor powered by BITDEFENDER to protect you from Cybersecurity incidents, viruses, malwares, identity theft, data theft, and private information. Quad core 1.5Ghz CPU with OFDMA, QAM, and Beamforming technologies offer up fast, safe, and secure Wi-Fi to every corner. It can connect up to 40+ devices, so if you have a lot of people in the office, this router and modem combo is the best fit.

Compatible with: Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum

Highlights

  • Quad-core 1.4Ghz
  • Connect up to 40+ devices
  • Covers up to 5000 Square feet
  • WiFi 6 support
  • Bitdefender security option
  • 1024-QAM, Beamforming, OFDMA, Mu-Mimo technologies
  • Download speed up to 4.2 Gbps
  • Compatible with major cable providers in US
Arris Touchstone DOCSIS 3.1 Ultra Fast Cable Modem

This Arris Touchstone gigabit modem is one of the most budget-friendly out there. But don't let the price tag fool you, it comes with all the standard the functionality you expect from other DOCSIS 3.1 modems.

Being DOCSIS 3.1 means it is compatible with a non-gigabit internet plan. 4K streaming in multiple devices, online gaming, or virtual reality without any lag is one of the many reasons why consumers like this modem.

Compatible with: Cox, and RCN cable.

FAQ

Do you need Docsis 3.1 for gigabit?

For cable internet, yes you do need it, as it support gigabit download speed. For fiber, however, it is not needed, as fiber internet needs fiber-optic modem.

What is the best modem for high speed Internet?

We tested the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 and believe it to be the best modem for high speed Internet.

What does Docsis 3.1 mean?

Docsis means Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification. It is a standard for transferring data over the cable system. And Docsis 3.1 is a new generation of technology made for high-speed connections. It can support data transfer up to 10 gigabits per second downstream and 1 gigabit per second upstream over cable, which was only possible over the fiber-optic network.

Is a Docsis 3.1 modem worth it?

If you have a gigabit internet plan, then Docsis 3.1 modem is the best option. Even if you don't have a gigabit internet plan, it is still the best option since many ISP declared DOCSIS 3.0 end of life. It means some ISP may not allow DOCSIS 3.0 modem activation for new accounts. And some DOCSIS 3.0 modems cost the same as DOCSIS 3.1 modems, so there are no financial benefits to not using a DOCSIS 3.1 modem.

Difference between Docsis 3.0 and 3.1 modem?

The differences between 3.0 and 3.1 comes down to speed, and the ability to use simultaneous channels. Docsis 3.1 comes with 10Gbps of download speed, 1Gbps of upload speed, and 1.89 Gbps per 192 MHz channel. However, Docsis 3.0 is only capable of 200 Mbps upload, 1 Gbps of download speed, and only 42.88 Mbps per 6 MHz channel. In short Docsis 3.1 has much higher speed, throughput, and uses data spectrum more efficiently than Docsis 3.0.

Are the Docsis 3.1/Gigabit cable modem backward compatible with current provider?

Yes, Docsis 3.1 modems are backward compatible with Docsis 3.0, which is your existing cable modem if you didn't upgrade already.

Consult your ISP to make sure that the modem is compatible.

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