10 Reviews: Best Modem for Gaming Spectrum (Nov 2023)
These modems allow you get greater performance out of your Spectrum cable subscription. Check them out!
by
A. Wahyu
·
updated on
·
price $39.50 - $349.99
·
289 views
·
3 visitors liked products on this page
We hope you love the shops and products we recommend! Just so you know, our site may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Oh, and FYI — prices are accurate and products in stock as of time of publication.
Comparison Table
Product Image |
1
![]()
SMC |
2
![]()
TP-Link |
3
![]()
Motorola |
4
![]()
ARRIS |
5
![]()
ARRIS |
6
![]()
Gryphon |
7
![]()
NETGEAR |
8
![]()
NETGEAR |
9
![]()
Motorola |
10
![]()
ASUS |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Product Name | D3CM1604 | AC1750 (Archer A7) | MB7420 | SURFboard SBG10 | SURFboard SB8200 | AC3000 | CM1000 | Nighthawk C7000 | MG8702 | AC2600 |
1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | |
Features | Best for budget | Connect wired and wireless devices simultaneously | Faster and more consistent connection | Space-saving and cost-effective | For any occasion | Keep new dangers at bay | Both basic and classy | Seamless and steady connection | Router-modem combo | Simple-to-manage platform |
Connectivity Technology | USB, Ethernet | Wi-Fi | Ethernet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wi-Fi | LAN, WLAN | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wireless, Wired, USB, Ethernet, RJ45 |
Internet Service Provider | Cox, Spectrum | AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, Spectrum, RCN, Cox, CenturyLink, Frontier, etc | Time Warner Cable, Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, BrightHouse, Cox | Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, etc | Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, etc | Spectrum | Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum | Spectrum | Comcast XFINITY, Cox, Spectrum |
Internet Plan | up to 640 Mbps | up to 300 Mbps | up to 686 Mbps | up to 400 Mbps | up to 1000 Mbps | n/a | up to 1 Gbps | up to 800 Mbps | up to 800 Mbps | n/a |
Item Weight | 1.2 lbs | 0.93 lbs | 0.58 lbs | 0.94 lbs | 1.46 lbs | 2.03 lbs | 2.14 lbs | 1.60 lbs | 2.15 lbs | 2.09 lbs |
Dimensions | 1.8 x 5.3 x 6.5 in | 9.59 x 6.32 x 1.29 in | 4.9 x 2 x 6.1 in | 6.77 x 1.97 x 6.58 in | 5 x 2 x 5 in | 4.3 x 4.3 x 9 in | 8.8 x 5.4 x 5.9 in | 9.6 x 8.3 x 1.7 in | 9.5 x 2.88 x 9.75 in | 7.4 x 2.36 x 11.81 in |
price | $39.50 | $53.99 | $58.99 | $99.99 | $143.99 | $199.00 | $199.99 | $219.99 | $269.99 | $349.99 |
Buy at | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay | view product on Amazon view product on eBay |
Third-party modems are a wonderful option to the Spectrum-issued modem if you want to save money or get greater performance out of your Spectrum cable subscription. This is especially true if you’re considering a router-modem combination, since purchasing one eliminates the need to pay an additional $5 per month on top of your plan expenses for Spectrum’s pre-configured Wi-Fi router. Yes, there is an initial cost to purchasing a modem, but the better internet experience more than covers the investment over time. In today’s article, we’ve compiled a list of the best modems for Spectrum consumers on the market right now.
Table of contents
Product list
- SMC D3CM1604 : Best for budget
- TP-Link AC1750 (Archer A7): Connect wired and wireless devices simultaneously
- Motorola MB7420: Faster and more consistent connection
- ARRIS SURFboard SBG10: Space-saving and cost-effective
- ARRIS SURFboard SB8200: For any occasion
- Gryphon AC3000 : Keep new dangers at bay
- NETGEAR CM1000 : Both basic and classy
- NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000: Seamless and steady connection
- Motorola MG8702 : Router-modem combo
- ASUS AC2600 : Simple-to-manage platform
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Just in case you wonder...
Do modems have an impact on your internet speed?
If your modem fails or is slower than the specified maximum speed for your plan, it might affect your internet connection. You can’t also instantly improve the speed of your connection by getting a modem that is faster than what your plan permits.
What is the difference between a modem and a router?
Both are little boxes with connectors, but only a modem links your house to the worldwide network. A router is what permits other devices to connect to the network through a wireless signal. It also enables such gadgets to communicate with one another.
Is it necessary to have both a modem and a router?
Users’ requirements differ, thus some set up a modem to which gadgets will be directly linked. Others have equipment that cannot be plugged in, so they acquire a router to transmit the signal wirelessly. However, a modem is not required since routers can be used to form a LAN without Internet connectivity on their own.
Is it necessary for my ISP to approve my cable modem/router?
Yes, in most circumstances. Since your cable modem must be registered with your ISP in order to function correctly, it’s essential to get one that is guaranteed to be compatible. While some ISPs will allow you to register any cable modem, the majority will refuse to set up one that isn’t on their authorized list. Fortunately, most major cable providers in the United States have already “pre-approved” all of the main manufacturers’ cable modems. This information is usually included on the package or the manufacturer’s website, but if you’re still unsure, you can always ask your cable provider whether the modem/router you’re contemplating will operate with their network.
10 Reviews: Best Modem for Gaming Spectrum (Nov 2023)

1.SMC
D3CM1604
Best for budget
D3CM1604 is a solid black device with a simplistic design. This improves the appearance of the area in which it is standing. SMC Networks’ D3CM1604, a 164 channel bonding DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem, is the finest in the business. Extreme speeds provide faster HD video streaming, file downloads, and high-speed gaming. You may anticipate lightning-fast performance with 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels! This gadget is ideal for multi-device HD video streaming and gaming.
Unit works great. I'm getting 230 mbps on Spectrum and they guarantee 200. I'm very happy with this unit and would buy again.
by Hal
Connectivity Technology | USB, Ethernet |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Cox, Spectrum |
Internet Plan | up to 640 Mbps |
Item Weight | 1.2 lbs |
Dimensions | 1.8 x 5.3 x 6.5 in |

2.TP-Link
AC1750 (Archer A7)
Connect wired and wireless devices simultaneously
TP-Link is a household name in the world of electronic accessories. The Archer A7 is the device used by TP-new Link. There are a number of exciting aspects to look forward to. This router has dual-band networking as well as four gigabit LAN connections. As a consequence, you may connect wired and wireless devices simultaneously. It has a clean, beautiful look thanks to three antennae and a set of LED activity indicators. The USB port supports an earlier 2.0 version that is somewhat slower.
There's nothing I dislike about this product im new to routers and the default one spectrum gives was complete garbage. I've never had a faster connection while gaming and downloading and streaming things at the same time
by Arely l.
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, Spectrum, RCN, Cox, CenturyLink, Frontier, etc |
Internet Plan | up to 300 Mbps |
Item Weight | 0.93 lbs |
Dimensions | 9.59 x 6.32 x 1.29 in |

3.Motorola
MB7420
Faster and more consistent connection
This is a well-made modem with a nice appearance. The MB7420 is a 164 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with a maximum speed of 686 Mbps, which is sixteen times faster than DOCSIS 2.0. A digital tuner with Full-Band Capture guarantees a faster and more consistent Internet connection. In addition, the Ethernet connector on this Spectrum cable modem connects to a monitor, high-definition television, gaming console, or wireless router. Access to the internet through cable is necessary.
Was having problems with my old modem. Plugged this in, called spectrum to activate it, worked like a champ. Prob the best you can get for the money. Been very reliable, hasn't disconnected or cycled on me once, and is really good for wireless gaming. Have had no latency issues whatsoever. Highly recommended.
by David G.
Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Time Warner Cable, Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, BrightHouse, Cox |
Internet Plan | up to 686 Mbps |
Item Weight | 0.58 lbs |
Dimensions | 4.9 x 2 x 6.1 in |

4.ARRIS
SURFboard SBG10
Space-saving and cost-effective
To begin with, the construction is sturdy and the design is straightforward. The SBG10 combines a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with an 802.11ac Wi-Fi router and two one-gigabit Ethernet connections. This is a space-saving and cost-effective solution, as well as the finest Spectrum Internet modem on the market. The SBG10 is compatible with most major US cable Internet service providers, including Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity, making it a great addition to your home network. It is best suited to Internet plans with speeds of up to 400 Mbps.
I connected everything, turned it on, and my Spectrum account popped up ready for setup! Did not need to call Spectrum. The MAC ID is inside the box. It was easy and took very little time. Very happy with this product!
by Donna Summer
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, etc |
Internet Plan | up to 400 Mbps |
Item Weight | 0.94 lbs |
Dimensions | 6.77 x 1.97 x 6.58 in |

5.ARRIS
SURFboard SB8200
For any occasion
To begin with, the looks are basic and beautiful, and they are appropriate for any occasion. The SURFboard SB8200 is compatible with major cable Internet providers in the United States, such as Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity. It supports wired Internet rates of up to 2 Gbps. Further, the most modern technology available from cable wireless providers, DOCSIS 3.1, enables faster and more consistent Internet rates. Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet slots with a maximum transfer rate of 2 Gigabytes.
This modem sure beats the piece of crap Spectrum gives you to use. My download speeds are the same however my signal consistency is awesome. If you constantly have you gaming system disconnect from the internet you need this is must have!
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, etc |
Internet Plan | up to 1000 Mbps |
Item Weight | 1.46 lbs |
Dimensions | 5 x 2 x 5 in |

6.Gryphon
AC3000
Keep new dangers at bay
Gryphon is one of the top Spectrum Internet modems. The look is refined. To set up your secure network, download the Gryphon program and follow the simple step-by-step instructions. Among other things, the program allows you to keep track of the parental controls and any linked devices in order to safeguard them from hackers. It also gets regular security updates to keep new dangers at bay. Ad Blocker scans both applications for weaknesses.
I was having lots of problems with my Chromecast staying connected to my Spectrum wifi router. Now with the Gryphon I have no issues connecting to Chromecast.. I also now have good fast connections everywhere in my house.
by JT
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Spectrum |
Internet Plan | n/a |
Item Weight | 2.03 lbs |
Dimensions | 4.3 x 4.3 x 9 in |

7.NETGEAR
CM1000
Both basic and classy
This is one of the greatest Spectrum modems and is jam-packed with capabilities. The appearance is both basic and classy. A high-speed 328 DOCSIS built-in Cable modem with 3.1 channel bonding is included. There is also one auto-sensing Gigabit Ethernet port and one WAN coaxial cable connection. There are additionally two downstream OFDM channels and two upstream OFDMA channels. Installation is straightforward and does not need the use of a CD. It is compatible with IPv6, the next level of Internet addressing.
Got this with the nighthawk router Name my gaming and viewing live streams have improved so much I'm able to connect 13 devices so far to it It was easy to set up with spectrum
by gabriel
Connectivity Technology | LAN, WLAN |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum |
Internet Plan | up to 1 Gbps |
Item Weight | 2.14 lbs |
Dimensions | 8.8 x 5.4 x 5.9 in |

8.NETGEAR
Nighthawk C7000
Seamless and steady connection
All residential and business spaces are connected to the Internet through the NETGEAR AC1900 WiFi Cable Modem Router C7000 DOCSIS 3.0. The aesthetics are captivating. It is tiny and may be stored in a short space. This modem supports cable Internet plans with rates of up to 400Mbps, ensuring a seamless and steady connection for HD streaming and other applications. You’ll enjoy robust, consistent Wi-Fi coverage thanks to enhanced antennas and range-extending Beamforming+ technology.
Easy to install. Replaced the spectrum modem and WiFi with nighthawk. Kids love the speed for gaming. I definitely recommend.
by Nicholas
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum |
Internet Plan | up to 800 Mbps |
Item Weight | 1.60 lbs |
Dimensions | 9.6 x 8.3 x 1.7 in |

The Motorola MG8702 is a router-modem combination targeted firmly at discerning consumers seeking some of the greatest networking technology available. It supports the DOCSIS 3.1 protocol with 328 channel bonding, allowing for theoretical download rates of up to 10 Gbps, although Spectrum’s official certification suggests premium plans of up to 1 Gbps. The built-in 44 router supports the Wi-Fi 5 standard, with theoretical wireless rates of up to 3,200 Mbps, helped by a slew of technologies to provide a high-quality, dependable signal across the house.
Before we had very slow internet with spectrum, and to play video games it was a nightmare with the internet peaks so low, with this modem everything was fixed, perfect!
by Leonardo
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Spectrum |
Internet Plan | up to 800 Mbps |
Item Weight | 2.15 lbs |
Dimensions | 9.5 x 2.88 x 9.75 in |

10.ASUS
AC2600
Simple-to-manage platform
The ASUS CM-32 AC2600 Wireless Cable Modem Router combines a DOCSIS 3.0-compatible cable modem and an 802.11ac Wi-Fi router into a single, simple-to-manage platform. The CM-32 connects 32 parallel channels using DOCSIS 3.0, resulting in a downstream bandwidth of 1372 Mbps. Eight upstream channels provide a peak throughput of 245 Mbps, enabling you to easily send your information. Furthermore, the 5 GHz band has a bandwidth of 1734 Mbps, whereas the 2.4 GHz frequency has a bandwidth of 800 Mbps.
Replace Spectrums router and modem which were not getting the job done. This product was easy to setup and services my 3,100 square foot home with a strong signal in every room.
Connectivity Technology | Wireless, Wired, USB, Ethernet, RJ45 |
---|---|
Internet Service Provider | Comcast XFINITY, Cox, Spectrum |
Internet Plan | n/a |
Item Weight | 2.09 lbs |
Dimensions | 7.4 x 2.36 x 11.81 in |
Most viewed










Conclusion
Well, we’ve discussed the best modems as well as some other important things to consider when purchasing a modem. Finally, we hope that we were able to assist you in finding and selecting the best modem. However, you should bear in mind that before getting any modem, you should consider all of the factors and choose one that fits within your budget. Have fun shopping!