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These days, we rely on the internet for…well, practically everything. We use the internet to stay in touch with others, do work, shop, entertain ourselves, and more. Systems around the world rely on the internet to function and transmit data with ease. Even mobile phones have internet connections, even though they come in the form of 4G/LTE or 5G data connections.
At home or in the office, the best way to stay connected is by paying for a DSL or cable internet connection. And to get connected to such a line, you’ll need a modem. You’ll also need a router if you’d like to connect through Wi-Fi.
Back in the day, you’d have to get a modem and router separately. But today, you can buy a modem/router combination unit to save on space and cost. This combo model will get you connected to your cable or DSL internet service provider, then allow your computers and devices to get on the internet as well.
If you’re looking for a modem/router unit, we’ve put together a list of some of the best that you can get today. Read on for our buying guide, tips, and recommendations for the best modem router combo!
This Article Covers:
Best Modem Router Combo: Our Picks
- Best Modem Router Overall: Arris SURFBoard SBG7600AC2
- Best Router Modem for Gaming: NETGEAR NightHawk C700
- Best Modem WiFi Router Combo on a Budget: ARRIS SURFBoard SBG10
- Best Internet Router and Modem for Home Use: NETGEAR NightHawk CAX30S
- Another Fantastic Modem Router Combo: Motorola MG770
- Best DSL Router Modem: GreenWave C4000BG
Do You Want a Separate Modem and Router or a Combo Unit?
Before you shop for a combo unit, you might be wondering — is the best wifi modem and router combo even worth it? Do you even need a combo unit? Or would it be better to just stick to the usual separate units?
Using a separate modem and router is a good idea if you want more flexibility. If space and cost aren’t as much of a concern, you can simply purchase separate units. Doing so can allow you better upgradeability in the long term, such as if you want to get a better router later on.
Modem router combo units can help you save on costs and space. You can minimize the footprint of your unit — you won’t need much shelf or desk space. Additionally, a combo unit is much more convenient. You won’t need to fiddle with more than one device to get yourself connected to the internet. Plus, you save money by purchasing just one unit instead of two.
Best Modem Router Combo in 2024: Top 6 Picks
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Product |
Description |
Key Info |
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Best Modem Router Overall |
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Best Router Modem for Gaming |
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Best Modem WiFi Router Combo on a Budget |
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Best Internet Router and Modem When Cost Is No Issue |
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Another Fantastic Modem Router Combo |
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Best DSL Router Modem |
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1. Arris SURFBoard SBG7600AC2 – Best Modem Router Overall
Specifications
- Max download speed: 1000 Mbps
- Approved for internet connection plans of 800 Mbps maximum
- Max wired speed: 1000 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 5GHz: 1700 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 2.4GHz: 600 Mbps
- Total Ethernet Ports: 4
- WiFi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 ac)
- Type: DOCSIS 3.0, 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
- ISP Compatibility: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox
Our top choice for the best wifi modem router combo is the Arris SURFBoard SBG7600AC2. It’s slightly on the pricy end, but it comes with all the bells and whistles and can take internet connections of up to 800 Mbps. This powerhouse of a modem/router combo provides users with great speeds and generous bandwidth.
For most users, the Arris SURFBoard SBG7600AC2 provides the best balance between cost, features, speeds, and bandwidth. Perhaps the only thing that could be improved is the fact that it’s still only on WiFi 5 while the world is beginning to adopt WiFi 6.
Pros
- Fantastic WiFi speeds
- Great for most users’ needs
- Compatible with most of the common ISPs today
- Arris is known for being very reliable
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other units
- Some complaints about the lights on the unit being a bit too bright
- WiFi 5 only
2. NETGEAR NightHawk C700 – Best Router Modem for Gaming
Specifications
- Max download speed: 1000 Mbps
- Approved for internet connection plans of 800 Mbps maximum
- Max wired speed: 1000 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 5GHz: 1300 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 2.4GHz: 600 Mbps
- Total Ethernet Ports: 4
- WiFi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 ac)
- Type: DOCSIS 3.0, 24 downstream and 8 upstream channels
- ISP Compatibility: Spectrum, Xfinity, Cox
The NETGEAR NightHawk C700 is in contention for best cable modem router combo for gaming. This model features an interesting design and a capable 1.6GHz processor to help it deliver properly prioritized traffic to ensure maximum speed.
Pros
- Has a powerful 1.6GHz processor that allows it to handle, keep up with, and even boost gaming performance
- Uses WiFi beamforming technology to provide bigger coverage of up to 1800 square feet
- The guest network feature allows you to keep your password private and safe while still allowing you to share your internet connection
- Easy to set up
Cons
- On the pricier end of the spectrum
- The design isn’t for everyone
- Only WiFi 5
3. ARRIS SURFBoard SBG10 – Best Modem WiFi Router Combo on a Budget
Specifications
- Max download speed: 680 Mbps
- Approved for internet connection plans of 800 Mbps maximum
- Max wired speed: 1000 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 5GHz: 1300 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 2.4GHz: 300 Mbps
- Total Ethernet Ports: 2
- WiFi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 ac)
- Type: DOCSIS 3.0, 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels
- ISP Compatibility: Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum, etc.
The ARRIS SURFBoard SBG10 is one of the best options for those who don’t need countless features or have a budget. This unit is easily a contender for the title of best modem router wifi combo, at least within its price range. You’ll compromise a bit on maximum speeds, but its price is unbeatable!
Pros
- More affordable than many other models on this list
- A fantastic budget option, though there may be some minor compromises
- Works with most of the cable ISPs
- Simple and easy to set up
Cons
- Only has two ethernet ports
- Max speed isn’t the highest
4. NETGEAR NightHawk CAX30S – Best Internet Router and Modem When Cost Is No Issue
Specifications
- Max download speed: 2700 Mbps, 4000 Mbps, or 6000 Mbps
- Supports plans of up to 2 Gbps
- Approved for 1 Gbps with Cox, Xfinity, and Spectrum
- Max WiFi Speed 5GHz: Up to 4.8 Gbps
- Max WiFi Speed 2.4GHz: Up to 1.2 Gbps
- Total Ethernet Ports: 4
- WiFi Standard: WiFi 6 (802.11ax)
- Type: DOCSIS 3.1 and 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
- ISP Compatibility: Spectrum, Cox, Xfinity, and other cable internet providers
If cost is no issue, the NETGEAR NightHawk CAX30S might be for you. It uses the latest WiFi 6 technology and offers blazingly fast speeds — so fast that most ISPs don’t even offer plans that high. It’s tough to beat the features offered by this unit, including the up to 2500 square foot coverage.
Pros
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Reaches speeds of up to 2 Gbps, though not all ISPs will support this
- Compatible with the majority of cable internet providers
- WiFi 6
- Coverage for up to 2500 square feet
Cons
- Expensive
- Some complaints about the setup being slightly complicated
5. Motorola MG770 – Another Fantastic Modem Router Combo
Specifications
- Max download speed: 1000 Mbps
- Approved for internet connection plans of 800 Mbps maximum
- Max wired speed: 1000 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 5GHz: 1300 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 2.4GHz: 600 Mbps
- Total Ethernet Ports: 4
- WiFi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 ac)
- Type: DOCSIS 3.0, 24 downstream and 8 upstream channels; a DOCSIS 3.1 model is also available
- ISP Compatibility: Cox, Xfinity
The Motorola MG770 is another model in contention for best modem/router combo. This unit packs a punch and offers high speeds and bandwidths. It supports internet connections of up to 800 Mbps, though it will only work with Xfinity and Cox.
This modem/router also features what Motorola calls “Wireless Power Boost,” which can further improve its coverage.
Pros
- Reliable beamforming WiFi technology
- Fast speeds and four ethernet ports
- DOCSIS 3.1 model is available
- Strong overall performance
Cons
- Still on WiFi 5
- Some complaints about the coverage range, but your mileage may vary — signals can become impeded depending on environment
- Only works with Xfinity and Cox
6. GreenWave C4000BG – Best DSL Router Modem
Specifications
- Max download speed: 140 Mbps
- Max wired speed: 1000 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 5GHz: 2400 Mbps
- Max WiFi Speed 2.4GHz: 600 Mbps
- Total Ethernet Ports: 4
- WiFi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 ac)
- Type: DSL Bonded
- ISP Compatibility: Compatible with all VDSL and ADSL profiles going up to 17a
If you are using a DSL connection, the GreenWave C4000BG is one to consider. It’s in contention for the best wireless modem router combo for DSL connections, considering its mix of features and its overall value offered. This unit has a maximum download speed of around 150 Mbps, while its upload speed maxes out at around 50 Mbps.
Pros
- Compatible with the majority of DSL ISPs
- Plenty of ethernet ports
- Also offers a USB port
Cons
- WiFi 5
- Design isn’t for everyone
- Somewhat pricey
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 2-in-1 Modem Router
When you’re shopping for the best wifi router and modem combo unit, there are a few factors you might want to consider. Ask the questions below before you commit to purchasing a specific model:
Is It Compatible with Your ISP?
The first question you need to ask is whether a specific model is compatible with your internet service provider (ISP). Not all units will work for all ISPs, but most modem/router combos will be compatible with cable internet from companies like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Comcast. If you have a DSL connection, however, you’ll need to double-check with your ISP to ensure a model will work before you buy.
As a rule of thumb, the best way to know for sure whether a model will work for you is to ask your ISP. Alternatively, some ISPs will allow you to check compatibility on their websites.
Does It Support Your Internet Plan’s Maximum Speeds?
Modem/router combo units have maximum speed capacities. Why does this matter? Well — your internet connection will also have a maximum speed. Your modem/router should match or exceed your connection’s speed, so you won’t end up needlessly throttling or limiting your speeds.
What Is Its Coverage Range?
Not all modem/routers are built the same. Some have better coverage ranges than others, so always ensure that the unit you buy is satisfactory for your needs.
Which Technologies Does It Use? Are There Any Other Features?
If most of the computers and devices you use on a day-to-day basis use WiFi 6, then you may also want to look for modem/router units that are WiFi 6 capable. Similarly, if you have certain needs for your home or office, ensure that any model you purchase can meet them!
Related: How Can I See What Devices Are Connected to My Network
Why Trust Us
At Productivity Spot, we are committed to helping our readers create the best work environments and routines for their needs. We make sure that we provide only the best and most accurate information possible by spending hours and hours on research, surveys, and the like. Our primary goal is to enable you to figure out what works for you, so you can boost your productivity over time.
How We Selected the Best Modem Router Combos
We considered several factors as we put together this list of the best modem and wifi router combos. It’s a short yet curated list of the top models available today, though the products on this list are for cable internet connections. We did include one DSL modem/router just to give those on DSL connections an option.
So what did we consider as we chose the contenders for the best wireless router modem combo? We looked at the criteria below.
- Cost – We made sure to provide an option for those on a budget while also offering models on the higher end of the price spectrum. The models on this list don’t exactly come cheap, but they are good investments that should last you at least a few years.
- Maximum speed – Internet plan speeds have only grown higher and higher over the years. Where before, you might’ve struggled to find an ISP offering 10 Mbps, now, it’s become possible to find Gigabit (1,000 Mbps) connections — at least in certain areas. Thus, we made sure that the products on this list can accommodate high maximum speeds.
- Range – Modem/router combos can sometimes be very limited when it comes to range, so we chose models that wouldn’t struggle as much in larger spaces.
- Technology and features – We looked at each model’s features and Wi-Fi technology to make sure we offer the latest and greatest while also providing some options for those who don’t need to be on Wi-Fi 6.
We also read countless reviews and conducted polls and surveys to see which models were most preferred by others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do modems affect your internet speed?
Yes and no. You don’t need the fastest modem router combo, but you’ll definitely want a model that can accommodate your plan speed with your internet service provider. Don’t choose a model that has a max speed lower than your internet speed. For example, if your internet plan is 800 Mbps, you’ll want a modem that has at least 800 Mbps or more.
What is the best router for gaming?
Practically any top-rated modem router combo will work just fine for gaming. However, some models are simply better than others. For example, on this list, we recommend the NETGEAR NightHawk C700 for gamers who want stable, reliable internet connections.
Is it better to get a modem and router separate or combo?
Even the best-rated modem router combo won’t make sense for you if it’s not well-suited to your use case. A modem router combo unit is perfect for spaces that aren’t too big, as you may need to get Wi-Fi extenders or mesh units to extend the signal otherwise. If you have limited space or want convenience more than anything, a combination unit is also a fantastic choice. However, if you’re looking for flexibility and upgradeability, you may want separate units instead.
What does Mbps mean?
Mbps is an abbreviation for megabits per second. It’s used as a unit of measurement for your internet speed and bandwidth. For example, if your internet service provider advertises your plan as 500 Mbps, that means your maximum download speed will be 500 Mbps (though many factors determine how fast your speed will actually be). You can read more about Mbps here.
The Bottom Line
With so many modem router combo models available, it can feel daunting to shop for yours. Thankfully, shopping for the best modem router combo becomes somewhat easier once you know which criteria to consider. Remember, you should always choose a unit that supports your internet speed — otherwise, you’ll needlessly limit your connection!
We hope that this guide has helped you find the perfect modem/router for your needs. If you think we missed a product that should be on this list, let us know in the comments below!
Do you finally have your modem/router set up properly? Here’s how to share your WiFi password! You can also learn how to find a WiFi password on your iPhone.
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