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Winner
The ARRIS (S34) modem is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home internet experience, particularly if you're using Mediacom or other major U.S. ISPs like Xfinity, Cox, or Spectrum. With DOCSIS 3.1 technology, it offers remarkable speed capabilities, supporting plans up to 2.5 Gbps, which is a significant improvement over older DOCSIS 3.0 modems. This means less lag while gaming and faster uploads, catering well to users who require high-speed internet for streaming or online activities.
One of the standout features is its ability to save users money by eliminating rental fees, potentially saving up to $168 per year, depending on your service provider. Additionally, the modem's built-in Ethernet ports (including a 2.5 Gbps port) allow for direct connections to devices, ensuring that you can maximize your internet speed without relying solely on Wi-Fi.
Another consideration is that the ARRIS S34 does not have a built-in Wi-Fi router, meaning you'll need to pair it with a separate router to create a wireless network. This may be a drawback for those looking for an all-in-one solution. Additionally, while it supports future-proofing with multi-gigabit speeds, not every user may require that level of performance, making it potentially overkill for casual internet users.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 is a solid choice for users looking for a modem that can handle high-speed internet plans up to 2Gbps. It supports DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is the latest standard for cable internet, ensuring better performance and future-proofing your connection. The modem's 32x8 channel bonding allows for efficient data handling, making it suitable for heavy internet use, such as gaming, streaming, or working from home.
One of its standout features is the four Gigabit Ethernet ports, which provide plenty of options for wired connections, whether that’s for a computer, gaming console, or a separate WiFi router. This flexibility allows users to create a robust home network with minimal lag. Additionally, the link aggregation feature enables combining two of its Ethernet ports for even faster speeds when needed.
However, there are some limitations to consider. While it is compatible with major cable internet providers like Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, it does not work with DSL providers or any services bundled with voice, which could be a drawback for users with those types of services. Additionally, while it can be used with any WiFi router, it does not come with a built-in router, which means users will need to invest in one separately if they want wireless connectivity. Lastly, the CM1200 is designed for use in the US only, which might limit its appeal for users outside this region. Despite these drawbacks, for users seeking high-speed internet and compatibility with major cable providers, the NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 is a strong option that can save on rental fees while delivering robust performance.
The NETGEAR Orbi Modem Router Combo (CBK752) is a high-performance device that combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a WiFi 6 mesh router. This combo is especially beneficial for users who need extensive WiFi coverage, as it can cover up to 5,000 sq. ft. and support over 40 devices. It's compatible with major ISPs like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, offering download speeds of up to 1Gbps with Spectrum and Cox, and 900Mbps with Xfinity. This makes it suitable for activities like HD video streaming, gaming, and web conferencing without interruptions. Additionally, it saves users up to $168 per year in equipment rental fees from their ISP.
The device also includes the NETGEAR Armor software, providing real-time protection against hackers and additional privacy features through a VPN, though the security feature comes with a 30-day trial and might require a subscription afterward. The Orbi app simplifies setup and management, making it user-friendly even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. However, a key drawback is that this product is tailored for use in the U.S. only, limiting its usability for international customers. Furthermore, while the modem supports high-speed internet plans up to 4Gbps theoretically, actual ISP compatibility may not fully utilize these speeds. Another consideration is the additional cost for expanding coverage with optional Orbi Mesh WiFi 6 satellites.
For families and individuals looking for robust home WiFi performance and security, this modem-router combo offers a comprehensive solution, but buyers should be aware of its geographical limitations and potential extra costs.