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Docsis 3.1 Modem Comparison - December 2025
Overview: DOCSIS 3.1 modems are the latest and greatest technology available for cable internet connections. They offer speeds up to 10 Gbps and have been shown to be more reliable than previous generations of DOCSIS modems. In this article, we'll compare some of the top DOCSIS 3.1 modems on the market and help you choose the right one for your needs.
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2 -1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Works with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | For Cable Internet Plans up to 2Gbps | Modem Only, Router Required
Model
Motorola B12 - Advanced Compact Cable Modem | Pairs with Any WiFi Router | Supports Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | 2500 Mbps Max | DOCSIS 3.1 | 2.5 Gbps Port | Nex Gen MB8611
Model
Hitron CODA56 Multi-Gigabit DOCSIS 3.1 Modem | 2.5 Gbps Max Internet Speeds | Certified with Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox | 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Cable Modem ONLY | Requires Separate WiFi Router
Model
ARRIS (SB8200-RB) - Cable Modem - Fast DOCSIS 3.1 32x8 Gigabit Cable Modem , Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter Spectrum, & more | 1 Gbps Max Internet Speed, 4 OFDM Channels - Renewed
Model
NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000-1AZNAS) – Approved for Today’s Fastest Speeds - Works With all Cable Providers, Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps
Here are the top 3 recommended products with more information to help you find the right product for you
9.7
1
ARRIS
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi‑Gig Cable Modem | 2 -1Gbps Ethernet Ports | Works with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | For Cable Internet Plans up to 2Gbps | Modem Only, Router Required
Why we love it
Fast internet speeds up to 1 Gbps.
Compatible with major U.S. providers.
Easy setup with app guidance.
Main highlights
Save on rental fees: Own your modem and avoid monthly equipment charges—check with your cable provider for plan compatibility.
Provider compatibility: All SURFboard modems are CableLabs certified to work across major US Internet Service Providers. Tested and qualified for use with Cox, Xfinity, and Spectrum. Check with your provider to confirm device model support.
Not compatible with fiber, DSL, or satellite services.
Multi‑Gig speed for today & tomorrow: DOCSIS 3.1 performance supports cable internet plans up to 2 Gbps, delivering ultra‑fast streaming, gaming, and downloads.
Modem only: This cable modem requires a separate Wi-Fi router or mesh system for home Wi-Fi network.
Fast Ethernet: Provides two 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports to support connecting to Wi-Fi routers.
Easy setup: Connect cable, power on, and activate with your cable provider. Then connect a Wi‑Fi router to the Ethernet port for home Wi-Fi coverage.
Compact, modern design: Space‑saving footprint with discrete LED indicators for power, upstream/downstream, and online status.
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9.4
2
Motorola
12% Off
Motorola B12 - Advanced Compact Cable Modem | Pairs with Any WiFi Router | Supports Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | 2500 Mbps Max | DOCSIS 3.1 | 2.5 Gbps Port | Nex Gen MB8611
Why we love it
Fast internet speeds up to 2.5 Gbps.
Stylish design blends with home decor.
Easy setup with most major providers.
Main highlights
Ultra-fast DOCSIS 3.1 performance paired with a 2.5 Gbps ethernet port for true multi-gig internet speeds.
This model replaces the MB8611 with 32 x 8 Channel Bonding
Technical support available via phone, chat or email. Please contact us for any issues with connecting to service
Superior next generation technology but pays for itself. Owning your own modem eliminates up to $168 per year in monthly rental charges.
Multi-gigabit Ethernet speed - A 2.5 GB Ethernet port delivers true high-speed connectivity to even the fastest routers and computers, providing downstream speeds just below 2,500 Mbps and upstream speeds up to 800 Mbps when supported by your internet service plan.
Fast streaming, conferencing, gaming - Applies Active Queue Management (AQM) for reduced Internet latency and better app performance, including online gaming, conferencing, and streaming.
Approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, RCN and Astound and supports the fastest internet plans available. The products are residential only. Please verify your ISP requirements prior to purchase.
2 Year Warranty and US Technical Support available
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9.3
3
Hitron
16% Off
Hitron CODA56 Multi-Gigabit DOCSIS 3.1 Modem | 2.5 Gbps Max Internet Speeds | Certified with Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox | 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Cable Modem ONLY | Requires Separate WiFi Router
Why we love it
Supports high-speed internet plans up to 2.5 Gbps.
Compatible with major cable providers.
Reduces latency for smoother streaming and gaming.
Main highlights
MULTI-GIG PERFORMANCE: Supports internet plans up to 2.5 Gbps with 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port. Designed for plans 1 Gbps and faster from certified providers: Xfinity (up to 2.33 Gbps), Spectrum (1 Gbps), Cox (2 Gbps). Verify your plan speed and provider compatibility.
CABLE INTERNET REQUIRED: Works EXCLUSIVELY with cable internet service (DOCSIS) from providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, or Cox. Will NOT work with fiber (Verizon FiOS, AT&T), DSL, satellite, or fixed wireless internet. Contact your ISP to confirm compatibility BEFORE purchasing.
POTENTIAL SAVINGS: May eliminate monthly modem rental fees (check current rates with your provider). 30+ years Hitron expertise with 7-day technical support and warranty coverage.
SETUP REQUIREMENTS: You need: (1) Cable internet service, (2) Separate WiFi router with 2.5 Gbps port for full speeds, (3) ISP activation. This modem cannot create WiFi networks or connect multiple devices without additional equipment.
GAMING & STREAMING OPTIMIZED: DOCSIS 3.1 technology with low latency for smooth 4K streaming, gaming, and video calls. Backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 networks.
COMPATIBILITY CHECKLIST: Before buying, confirm: (1) You have cable internet (not fiber/DSL), (2) Your plan is 1+ Gbps, (3) You own or will buy a separate WiFi router, (4) Your ISP supports customer-owned modems.
️ MODEM ONLY - NO WiFi INCLUDED: This is a cable modem ONLY and does NOT provide WiFi. You MUST connect it to a separate WiFi router or mesh system to get wireless internet. Without a router, you can only connect ONE device via Ethernet cable.
TRUSTED BRAND + SUPPORT: 30+ years of networking expertise with technical support 7 days per week, warranty coverage, and easy product registration.
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Our ranking system
At bestchoice.com, our team curates a selection of top products from a vast array available online, using a sophisticated ranking system based on carefully defined criteria. While traditional hands-on testing has its merits, our use of AI technology offers distinct advantages. AI allows us to process and analyze vast amounts of data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive view that goes beyond what manual testing can achieve. This approach enables us to deliver insights that are aligned with current trends and consumer preferences, ensuring our reviews are both relevant and up-to-date.
Features
Our AI-driven analysis examines key attributes, capabilities, and other critical factors tailored to each product category. This method allows us to assess effectiveness from various perspectives, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation.
Consumer Reviews
We aggregate and evaluate consumer feedback from across the internet, giving weight to ratings and reviews that reflect the most reliable insights. AI enhances this process by filtering and prioritizing data, offering a balanced view without the need for direct personal endorsements.
Popularity
Our system also considers the popularity of products, analyzing factors such as market presence, reputation, and user satisfaction. By leveraging AI, we capture a comprehensive picture of a product's standing in the market, which may not always be evident through traditional testing.
Value for money
AI allows us to compare products based on attributes like price, specifications, and user feedback, helping to determine their value for money. This data-driven approach offers an efficient and reliable way to assess how products stack up against one another in terms of cost-effectiveness.
Advertising Disclosure
9.7
1ARRIS
Fast internet speeds up to 1 Gbps.
