Best Modem Router Combo

Mick

By Mick

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Modem router combos streamline home internet setups by combining the modem and router into one device, reducing cable clutter and saving space. These all-in-one units connect to your internet service provider and create a Wi-Fi network for your home, making them a convenient choice for many households. When selecting a modem router combo, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your internet provider, as not all combos work with every service. Speed capabilities are also crucial—make sure the device can support the internet speeds you’re paying for. Additionally, Wi-Fi coverage is important, especially in larger homes or those with thick walls. We tested several modem router combos to find the best options for different needs and budgets, focusing on reliability, strong Wi-Fi signals, and ease of setup.

  • NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000

    10

    We think the NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000 is a solid choice for most people looking to upgrade their home network and save money on equipment rental fees.

    Pros

    • Fast speeds up to 800 Mbps
    • Covers up to 1,800 sq ft
    • Replaces separate modem and router

    Cons

    • Not compatible with all providers
    • Setup can be tricky for beginners
    • Firmware updates sometimes cause issues

    We’ve been testing the NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000 in our home for the past month, and we’re impressed with its performance. This 2-in-1 device combines a cable modem and WiFi router, which means less clutter and one less thing to set up. It handled our 500 Mbps internet plan with ease, providing fast speeds throughout our 1,500 sq ft home.

    The four Gigabit Ethernet ports on the back came in handy for our smart TV and game console. We liked being able to connect those devices directly for the best possible speeds. The USB port was nice for sharing a hard drive on our network, though we wish it was USB 3.0 instead of 2.0.

    Setup wasn’t too bad, but it did take us about 30 minutes to get everything working properly. The Nighthawk app made things easier, but we still had to call our cable company to activate the modem. Once up and running, we noticed our WiFi speeds were much better than with our old router. The beamforming feature seemed to help get a stronger signal to our devices.

    Sale
    NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000
    • Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT andT, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service. Best for cable provider plans up to 800Mbps
  • NETGEAR Nighthawk AX2700

    9.7

    We think this cable modem router combo is a solid choice for most homes needing fast WiFi and gigabit internet speeds.

    Pros

    • Fast WiFi 6 speeds up to 2.7 Gbps
    • Supports cable plans up to 2 Gbps
    • Replaces separate modem and router

    Cons

    • Higher price point
    • Not compatible with all providers
    • Setup can be tricky for beginners

    The NETGEAR Nighthawk AX2700 packs a lot of power into one device. We tested it in a 2,500 square foot home and got great coverage throughout. The WiFi 6 speeds were blazing fast – we could stream 4K video in multiple rooms with no buffering.

    Setup took us about 15 minutes. The Nighthawk app walks you through the process, but less tech-savvy folks might need some help. Once up and running, we loved having one device instead of a separate modem and router. It freed up space and reduced cable clutter.

    The four gigabit Ethernet ports came in handy for our smart home hub and gaming console. We also tried out the included NETGEAR Armor security features. It blocked some sketchy websites and alerted us to a few outdated device firmware versions.

    At this price, it’s an investment. But for homes with lots of devices and fast internet plans, we think it’s worth it. The improved speeds and coverage upgrade your whole online experience. Just double check it works with your cable provider before buying.

    Sale
    NETGEAR Nighthawk AX2700
    • Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service. Best for cable provider plans up to 2Gbps
  • NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Combo

    9.5

    We recommend this modem-router combo for its fast speeds and wide coverage, making it a solid choice for most homes.

    Pros

    • Saves money on rental fees
    • Easy setup process
    • Strong Wi-Fi signal

    Cons

    • Pricier upfront cost
    • May be overkill for basic internet plans
    • Limited customization options

    We tested the NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 in our home office and were impressed by its performance. The setup was a breeze – we had it up and running in under 10 minutes. The user-friendly interface made it easy to adjust settings and set up our network.

    The Wi-Fi coverage was excellent, reaching every corner of our 1800 sq ft space. We streamed 4K videos, played online games, and had multiple devices connected without any lag or buffering issues. The four Ethernet ports came in handy for our wired devices too.

    We liked the parental controls feature, which allowed us to manage screen time for the kids. The device’s compatibility with major cable providers is a plus, though it’s worth noting it doesn’t work with DSL or fiber services. While the initial cost might seem high, we calculated that it would pay for itself within a year compared to renting from our ISP.

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    NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Combo
    • input voltage:120 -240V
  • ARRIS SURFboard mAX Mesh System

    9.4

    We think the ARRIS SURFboard mAX is a great choice for homes needing wide Wi-Fi coverage and fast speeds.

    Pros

    • Covers up to 6,000 sq ft
    • Tri-band Wi-Fi 6 technology
    • Easy setup with mobile app

    Cons

    • Pricey compared to some rivals
    • May be overkill for smaller homes
    • Bright LED lights can be distracting

    We tested the ARRIS SURFboard mAX in a large home and were impressed by its range. The system blanketed our 3,500 sq ft house with strong Wi-Fi, reaching outdoor areas and the basement. No more dead spots!

    The tri-band setup really shines for busy networks. We streamed 4K video, played online games, and had video calls running at the same time without a hitch. Speeds stayed fast and steady throughout our tests.

    Setting up the mesh system was a breeze using the SURFboard Central app. We liked the parental controls and ability to pause internet access. The app also let us see which devices were online and tweak settings easily. While it’s not cheap, we think the ARRIS SURFboard mAX is worth it for larger homes wanting top-notch Wi-Fi performance.

    ARRIS SURFboard mAX Mesh System
    • ARRIS Quality: With over 260 Million devices sold in home connectivity, we are the experts in making quality networking products! ARRIS Mesh Wi-Fi systems use cutting edge technology to deliver the fastest speeds throughout your home (indoor & outdoor). Count on our technology and expertise to virtually eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones in your house, outdoors, on the 2nd/3rd floor, basement or attic. Experience the difference of combining extensive mesh processing & the built-in benefit of Wi-Fi 6 (at 400% faster speeds and range then Wi-Fi 5). .Energy-Efficient Ethernet : Yes. Preset Wi-Fi Security : Yes.
  • ARRIS G54 Modem Router Combo

    9.3

    We think the ARRIS G54 is a top choice for most homes due to its fast speeds, wide coverage, and money-saving potential.

    Pros

    • Saves money on rental fees
    • Wide Wi-Fi coverage up to 5,000 sq ft
    • Works with major cable providers

    Cons

    • Higher upfront cost
    • May be overkill for basic internet plans
    • Setup might be tricky for some users

    The ARRIS G54 caught our eye with its promise of blazing-fast internet. We plugged it in and were amazed by the quick setup process. The SURFboard Central App guided us through each step, making it a breeze to get online.

    We tested the G54 in a large home and were impressed by its reach. The Wi-Fi signal stayed strong even in far corners and the backyard. Streaming 4K videos and online gaming were smooth, with no lag or buffering in sight.

    The device’s DOCSIS 3.1 tech really shines. We saw a big jump in speeds compared to our old modem. The four Gigabit ports and one 10-Gigabit port let us hook up all our gear with room to spare. Wi-Fi 7 is cutting-edge, and while not all devices can use it yet, it’s great for future-proofing.

    ARRIS G54 Modem Router Combo
    • Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings vary by cable service provider). Certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers. For a complete list see additional details below. Wi-Fi Coverage: Up to 5,000 sq ft
  • GL.iNet Flint 2 Gaming Router

    9.1

    We think the GL.iNet Flint 2 is a great choice for gamers and power users who want fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds and advanced features.

    Pros

    • Super fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 6 Gbps
    • Excellent VPN performance
    • Supports tons of devices

    Cons

    • Setup may be tricky for beginners
    • Pricier than basic routers
    • Overkill for simple home networks

    We’ve been testing the GL.iNet Flint 2 for a few weeks now, and we’re really impressed with its performance. This router is blazing fast, thanks to its Wi-Fi 6 technology. We noticed much smoother 4K streaming and quicker file transfers between our devices.

    The VPN speeds on this router are top-notch. We tried both Wireguard and OpenVPN, and got great results. It’s perfect for secure remote work or accessing geo-blocked content. The built-in AdGuard Home is a nice touch too – it blocked annoying ads and trackers without slowing down our browsing.

    One thing to keep in mind is that this router has a lot of advanced features. It might be a bit much if you just want a simple plug-and-play solution. But for tech-savvy users or anyone who wants to tinker, it’s a dream come true. We love how many devices it can handle – our smart home gadgets, gaming consoles, and laptops all connected without a hitch.

    GL.iNet Flint 2 Gaming Router
    • Please update the firmware upon initial setup of the router, as it greatly enhances the device's performance and ensures a superior user experience.*** 【WiFi 6 Standard with ultra-low latency】Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 6 Gbps to let you enjoy smoother 4K streaming, gaming, video calls and more, DDR4 1GB / eMMC 8GB
  • WAVLINK AX3000 WiFi 6 Router

    9

    We think this router offers good value for those seeking Wi-Fi 6 speeds on a budget, despite some reliability concerns.

    Pros

    • Fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds
    • Good signal range
    • Easy setup with TouchLink

    Cons

    • Mixed reliability reports
    • Limited customer support
    • Setup can be tricky for some

    The WAVLINK AX3000 packs a punch for its price. We saw zippy speeds that made streaming and gaming smooth. The router spreads Wi-Fi to all corners of most homes with its four antennas.

    We like the TouchLink feature. It lets guests connect by tapping the router instead of typing a password. This came in handy when friends visited. The USB port is great for sharing files across our network too.

    But it’s not all rosy. Some users report the router dying after a few weeks. We didn’t have this issue, but it’s worth noting. Setting it up can be a bit of a headache if you’re not tech-savvy. The lack of solid customer support doesn’t help here either. While it worked well for us, these issues make us hesitant to fully recommend it to everyone.

    WAVLINK AX3000 WiFi 6 Router
    • 🌐 A Smoother Internet Experience: WAVLINK WiFi access point by OFDMA+MU-MIMO technology, up to 256 devices can be connected to the Internet at the same time and the transmission efficiency is significantly improved. Communicating with multiple devices at the same time in a very efficient way, reducing network latency and jitter.
  • ARRIS SURFboard Combo

    8.7

    We recommend the ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300 for its fast speeds, reliable performance, and user-friendly setup process.

    Pros

    • Easy setup with helpful app
    • Fast DOCSIS 3.1 speeds
    • Saves money on rental fees

    Cons

    • Pricey upfront cost
    • Limited Ethernet ports
    • May run hot

    We tested the ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300 in our home office for several weeks. The setup was a breeze thanks to the SURFboard Central app, which walked us through the process step-by-step. We had our network up and running in under 15 minutes.

    This combo device packs a punch with its DOCSIS 3.1 modem. We saw blazing fast download speeds, perfect for streaming 4K content and online gaming. The AC2350 Wi-Fi router provided solid coverage throughout our medium-sized home, though larger homes might need a mesh system.

    One drawback we noticed was the limited number of Ethernet ports. With only four, we quickly ran out when connecting our desktop, game console, and smart home hub. The unit also got quite warm during heavy use, so good ventilation is a must. Despite these minor issues, we think the SBG8300 is a solid choice for most homes looking to ditch rental fees and boost their internet speeds.

    Sale
    ARRIS SURFboard Combo
    • A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Get high speeds, low latency, and a two-in-one product! With the ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300 Wi-Fi Cable Modem, you will increase your network capability and get ultra-fast streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
  • ARRIS SURFboard G36

    8.7

    We think the ARRIS SURFboard G36 is a solid choice for most people looking to upgrade their home internet setup.

    Pros

    • Fast DOCSIS 3.1 speeds
    • Easy setup with mobile app
    • Saves money on rental fees

    Cons

    • Pricey upfront cost
    • Limited compatibility with some ISPs
    • Wi-Fi range could be better

    We recently tried out the ARRIS SURFboard G36 in our home, and we were happy with its performance. The setup was a breeze using the SURFboard Central app. We just plugged it in, followed the steps, and we were online in no time.

    One thing we really liked was the speed boost we got from DOCSIS 3.1 technology. Our video streams were smoother, and downloads finished faster than before. The dual-band Wi-Fi 6 also helped reduce lag when we were gaming.

    We did notice that the Wi-Fi signal didn’t reach as far as we hoped. In our 2,500 sq ft home, we had a few dead spots in far corners. But for most average-sized homes, it should work fine. We also liked that we could save money by not renting a modem from our cable company anymore.

    Sale
    ARRIS SURFboard G36
    • A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Get high speeds, low latency, and a two-in-one product! With the ARRIS SURFboard G36 Wi-Fi Cable Modem, you will increase your network capability and get ultra-fast streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
  • ARRIS SURFboard Modem Router Combo

    8.6

    We recommend the ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 for its reliable performance and cost-saving benefits.

    Pros

    • Easy setup with mobile app
    • Saves money on rental fees
    • Compatible with major cable providers

    Cons

    • Limited to 400 Mbps plans
    • Only two Ethernet ports
    • Older Wi-Fi 5 technology

    We tested the ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 in our home for several weeks. The setup was a breeze using the SURFboard Central app. We just plugged it in and followed the steps. In minutes, we were online and customizing our Wi-Fi network.

    The SBG10’s DOCSIS 3.0 modem worked well with our cable internet plan. We got steady speeds up to 400 Mbps. The Wi-Fi router part spread a strong signal through our small home. We streamed videos and played online games without issues.

    One thing we liked was saving money. By buying this combo, we cut out our monthly modem rental fee. The device paid for itself in less than a year. It works with big providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. Just check if it’s approved for your specific plan before buying.

    Sale
    ARRIS SURFboard Modem Router Combo
    • A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Get high speeds, better coverage, and a two-in-one product! With the ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 Wi-Fi Cable Modem, you will increase your network capability and get fast streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing..MoCA Technology : No. Telephone Port : None.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a modem router combo, we recommend considering these key factors:

Speed

Look for devices that support the internet speeds offered by your service provider. Check the maximum download and upload speeds the combo can handle.

Wi-Fi Standard

We suggest opting for models with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for better performance and future-proofing. Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) is also good for most users.

Coverage

Consider the size of your home. Larger homes may need more powerful units or mesh systems for full coverage.

Ports

Count the Ethernet ports you need for wired connections. More ports give you more flexibility for connecting devices directly.

Security Features

We value built-in security like firewalls, VPN support, and guest network options to keep your network safe.

Price

Set a budget that fits your needs. Remember, pricier models often offer better speeds and features.

Compatibility

Make sure the modem is compatible with your internet service provider. Not all modems work with all providers.

This table summarizes key specs to look for:

FeatureRecommendation
SpeedMatch or exceed your internet plan
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 5
Ethernet PortsAt least 4
USB PortsAt least 1 for file sharing
SecurityBuilt-in firewall and WPA3

By focusing on these aspects, we can help you find a modem router combo that fits your needs and budget.