Best Cable Modems to Buy in 2026

Most internet providers charge $10–$15 per month to rent a modem — that's $120–$180 per year for hardware that costs $50–$150 to buy outright. If you've been renting for more than a year, you've already overpaid. Here's how to choose and buy the right modem.

How to Choose a Cable Modem

Before buying, check three things:

  1. ISP Compatibility: Not all modems work with all providers. Verify the modem is on your provider's approved list.
  2. DOCSIS Version: DOCSIS 3.1 is current standard and future-proof. DOCSIS 3.0 modems still work but can't reach gigabit speeds.
  3. Speed Tier: Match the modem's channel bonding to your internet plan. A 32x8 modem handles up to ~1.4 Gbps.

Top Recommended Cable Modems

Best Overall: ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 ($120)

The gold standard of cable modems. DOCSIS 3.1 supports up to 10 Gbps download speeds, compatible with Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, and most other cable providers. Two 1-Gbps Ethernet ports allow you to connect a router directly or use link aggregation. Pays for itself in 8–10 months vs. renting.

Best Budget: ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 ($60)

DOCSIS 3.0 modem suitable for plans up to 400 Mbps. If you have a lower-tier internet plan, this is perfectly adequate and pays for itself in just 4–5 months.

Best for Xfinity: Motorola MB8611 ($110)

Motorola's DOCSIS 3.1 modem is fully certified for Xfinity Gigabit plans and includes multi-gig 2.5G Ethernet port. Especially recommended for Xfinity users.

Best Modem/Router Combo: ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300 ($150)

Combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a dual-band Wi-Fi 5 router. Perfect for smaller homes where a separate router isn't needed. Reduces device clutter and monthly rental fees on both modem and router.

ISP Modem Compatibility

Xfinity (Comcast): Check xfinity.com/approved-modems
Spectrum: Spectrum requires DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1
Cox: Check cox.com/residential/equipment
Optimum: Requires DOCSIS 3.0+ certified device

Modems That Don't Work

You cannot use your own modem with Verizon Fios (they use fiber ONT equipment), AT&T Fiber (fiber ONT required), or most DSL providers. These technologies require proprietary equipment. Buying your own modem only applies to cable internet (Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, etc.).

The Math: Buy vs. Rent

Xfinity modem rental fee: $15/month = $180/year. ARRIS SB8200 purchase price: $120. Break-even point: 8 months. Over 3 years, you save $420 by buying your own modem. It's one of the easiest money-saving moves a cable internet subscriber can make.