A fast and reliable modem router combo is a necessity in most office workplaces and households.
The best thing about opting for a combo package is that you don’t have to purchase a separate WiFi router and a separate modem – you just opt for the combo and get a two-in-one package.
With the two built into one modem, you will enjoy seamless integration with less configuration. In this brief write-up, you will find the best of the best modem router combo.
We took the time to research and identify which ones of the following ten are worth considering, and which ones are not.
There are literally thousands of modem routers for sale on today’s market. To the average person, they probably all seem the same. That is why we went through tons of options to figure out which ones were actually worth testing. After all, it’s important that your router performs as expected, otherwise, you will have spotty internet and potentially risk your school or work performance. After we identified some potential candidates, we went through real customer reviews to determine the final list of products to test.
To test the products, we set up all of them in our offices and let expert testers evaluate them on the basis of key factors such as performance, ease of use, price, warranty options, and other perks. They ranked these things on a ten-point scale. When they finished, we averaged all of their rankings together in order to get the final order of our list.
If you’re looking to ditch the monthly charge of renting a modem from your Internet Service Provider (ISP), or simply you want to get higher performance, this TP-LINK modem is one of the best choices out there.
It is a two-in-one modem router combo combining a high-performance modem with a next generation wireless AC-router to provide you with a reliable and powerful home network. The modem is faster throughout utilizing four upstream channel and 16 downstream channel bonding.
6 internal antennas included with high-powered amplifiers to help reduce interference and improve the signal strength of the modem router combo.
Two USB ports that allow you to access and share media files from various networked devices and dual core processors to make sure no any kind of interruption while processing multiple tasks simultaneously.
Boasts beam-forming technology that helps in delivering highly-efficient and more targeted excellent wireless connection.
Features up to 450Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and up to 1300Mbps on the 5GHz band with Wi-Fi speeds of 1750Mbps.
PROS:
Two-year warranty
16-times faster than DOCSIS 2.0 with 680Mbps download speed maximum
Compatible with cable-Internet plans of up to 300Mbps
24/7 toll-free technical support
CONS:
Not ideal for cable subscription tiers over 300Mbps
As one of the most budget-friendly options, TP-Link N300 is an ideal choice for anybody who wants a reliable and strong signal.
This unit is paired with the latest N300 WiFi and DOCSIS 3.0 technology, which helps you to achieve high-speed download speeds of up to 300 Mbps. At this speed, you can look forward to faster file transfers, online gaming, HD video streaming and basic Internet browsing.
Powered by the latest DOCSIS technology which is designed to deliver up to 343 Mbps download speeds and 143Mbps upload speeds.
Utilizing 8 downstream and 4 upstream channels means your devices will achieve faster throughput that performs quite well with intensive tasks such as HD video streaming and online gaming.
Its back panel is packed with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports which provide space for direct wired connections that may not utilize wireless capabilities.
Simplified configuration and step by step setup make this modem router combo a plug and play device.
PROS:
Plug and play installation
Excellent transfer rate
Excellent range
CONS:
Produces a constant annoying low decibel noise which makes it unsuitable for bedroom use
ARRIS SURFboard with DOCSIS 3.0 Technology (SBG6782)
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Powered with DOCSIS 3.0 technology, which is 8 times faster than DOCSIS 2.0, this modem router combo, is designed to support speeds of up to 1800 Mbps. ARRIS SURFboard SBG6782-AC DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem and AC1750 Wi-Fi Router utilizes 8 downstream and 4 upstream channels, leaving your devices with faster throughput that performs exceptionally well with high resource intensive tasks.
Besides that, in order to create a suitable connection with WiFi signal that is suitable for large houses, the modem combo router comes with a built-in booster which enables the two antennas to work together to create a strong beam between connected devices and the router.
Backed by a 2-year limited warranty that keeps it protected against any malfunctions. In addition, ARRIS is known for their helpful technical support, which is available, round the clock by email and phone.
Equipped with a super-fast processor that is designed to handle large tasks without worries about lag or latency.
Compatible with most operating systems including Windows, Mac, Unix, and Linux. Additionally, this modem router combo is compatible with all US cable companies (and approved by the same companies).
Channel bonding combines eight downstream and four upstream channels making sure you are connected with the best transfer rate possible.
PROS:
Strong connection
Less expensive
Reliable
CONS:
May require constant re-setting
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ARRIS SURFboard DOCSIS 3.0 with N600 Router (SBG6580)
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One of the budget-friendly modem router combo options available, ARRIS SBG6580 is the recommended choice for those who want a bit of an “umph!” in their WiFi signal. This device is paired up with DOCSIS 3.0 technology which is superior to its predecessor DOCSIS 2.0.
In addition, it is enhanced with N600 capacity which helps to achieve a superfast download speed of 343 Mbps.
Uses the highest level of security possible to prevent unwanted guests and hackers from compromising your online experience. Also, supports advanced encryption services for data.
Modem router combo has advanced parental control features which can help you filter out unwanted content so your children don’t end up viewing them.
Built with an intuitive user interface that makes it easier to manage networks. This UI can be accessed via PC, tablet or even smartphone.
PROS:
Compatible and approved by the top US cable providers
Advanced security features
Relatively fast download and upload speeds
CONS:
May heat up when placed in a stuffed up space. Requires good airflow to operate efficiently.
Recognized as a top modem router combo, SBG6400 is universally compatible with most major cable providers. It achieves fast download speeds of 343Mbps and pretty decent upload speed of 131Mbps – a feat that makes it surprisingly efficient for its price range.
And the icing on the cake is that this combo is quite reliable and versatile as it comes with 2 gigabit/speed Ethernet ports to facilitate direct wired connections.
Despite being a basic modem router combo unit, this unit still boasts of high upload and download speeds. Based on the service package you are using, the SBG6400 can achieve speeds as fast as 340Mbps.
Built with a reliable internal processor that performs exceptionally well with gaming and HD video streaming. Generally, the processor does a good job processing data and delivering it via WiFi without latency issues.
Compatible Windows and Mac, it is ideal for large homes with lots of walls that require a superior range and power. That’s of course in addition to an added layer of firewall and parental control protection.
NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 with 24×8 Channel Bonding
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As a modem router combo that is built to exclusively work with Comcast’s web service, AC1900 is definitely not for everybody. Its top price tag clearly suggests that this is the unit to go for if you are looking for a service-specific functionality and premium speeds.
Actually, this is the only combo unit that uses 24×8 channel bonding that delivers download speeds of 960Mbps and an upload speed to match that we have come across this far.
Our modem router combo reviews would be incomplete if we don’t mention a powerful 1.6 GHz processor of this combo unit that helps boost its performance if you’re looking to enjoy high-quality video streaming and gaming. It’s also an ideal choice if you’re looking for plenty of functionality packed into a router-modem combo.
Features 4 gigantic Ethernet ports and USB port to enable for sharing network across media. That is of course in addition to the fact that you get access to Netgear’s NetGenie app.
Powered by two processors a 600MHz processor dedicated for running the DOCSIS cable and a 1.0GHz to provide the best performance for both wireless and wired connections.
Enhanced with Beamforming+ technology for 2.4 and 5GHz band boost WiFi speed which offers reliable range for all devices.
Modem router combo built with advanced security features such as a customized URL for setting up the personal FTP server, guest network access, double firewall protection and DoS attack prevention.
Ideal for wireless coverage for both small and large homes, this modem router combo provides excellent range around the home and even beyond. Netgear N450 WiFi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router (N450-100NAS) has security features to make sure you don’t get infiltrated or even hacked while keeping all your users safe from the internet.
In addition, this modem router combo is easy to use as setting it up is a cinch. You simply connect up and browse to the set-up screen and it’s ready to start running.
Built in DOCSIS 3.0 modem to give you faster cable speeds. You can, therefore, experience up to 8 times faster Internet speeds compared to 2.0.
Provides you with up to 340Mbps Internet download speeds and 4 Gigabit LAN ports to give your wired devices such as computers the bandwidth they honestly deserve.
Includes two USB ports that allow you to share your hard drive wirelessly and a quick install guide.
Compatible with America’s Cable Internet Providers such as XFINITY, Cox, Cablevision, Time Warner Cable and Charter.
PROS:
Very fast
Ideal for online gaming and even HD video streaming
Fast self-activation for XFINITY users only
Safe and secure
CONS:
Although it helps in saving money in the long run, there is a one off cost you need to incur
NETGEAR N450 WiFi Cable Modem Router
Yotube Video Review: NETGEAR N450 WiFi Cable Modem Router
By owning a NETGEAR AC1750 Wi-Fi Cable Modem router, you know you’ll have a fast, reliable modem router combo and you’ll save so much money on rental costs. So get 16x faster download speeds, up to 680Mbps with this modem router. Along with the modem, some nice features have also been included. These features include:
Providing strong and reliable signal at an affordable cost, this modem router combo will help you get rid of monthly rental fees of up to 120 dollars in a year. Netgear N300 Wi-Fi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router (C3000) features advanced parental control that allows you to filter out any unwanted websites or even content that you don’t want your children to have access to.
Additionally, it is equipped with the latest DOCSIS 3.0 technology allowing you to achieve download speeds of up to 340Mbps.
Boasts a Turbo-Transfer feature that makes file transfer within your home network up to 40% better than before across several devices.
Gigabit-Ethernet ports that allow fast wired connections and USB port so you can easily share your hard-drive wirelessly.
NETGEAR’S Genie App gives you the ability to monitor and control your network from anywhere and even do some repairs. The App is free on Android, PC, Mac, smartphone or tablet.
PROS:
Provides separate access for guests that is safe enough
The modem router combo is great for HD gaming and video
Easy to set-up
Compatible with many US Cable Internet Providers
CONS:
The modem router combo is not compatible at all with the Cable-Bundled Voice Services
Pre-configured for easy set-up so the entire family can be connected, this GT784WN Modem Router Combo provides you with the flexibility and great power you need to connect every wireless device you have. It comes as three-in-one device featuring 300Mbps wireless-N router, full rate ADSL two/two plus modem and four port switch.
What’s more, it is fully compatible with most DSL service provider and includes a variety of encryptions and protections making it safe and secure to use.
NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 with 24×8 Channel Bonding
960Mbps
8,5
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Netgear N450 Wi-Fi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router
340Mbps
8
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Netgear AC1750 (16X4) Wi-Fi Cable Modem Router
680Mbps
8,5
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Netgear N300 Wi-Fi DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Router
300Mbps
7
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Actiontec Wireless-N ADSL Modem Router
300Mbps
7,5
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FAQs
What is the Best Modem Router Combo?
Our best choice would be the TP-LINK Modem. It’s a two-in-one modem router combo that combines a high-performance modem with a next-generation wireless AC-router. This gives you a dependable, fast, and powerful home network by utilizing four upstream channels and 16 downstream channel bonding.
Why Should I Buy a Modem Router Combo?
A combined modem and router won’t take up much space, would need only one power outlet and fewer cables and wires. You can easily set-up a combo box and some service providers are willing to take the stress off you and do the work for you instead.
How Do I Choose the Best Modem and Router?
To help you choose the best modem and router, we’ve listed the 10 best modem router combo units in our article with their full features, details and some tips as well, so that you can easily make the right choice.
Which is Better: Modem Router Combo Vs Separate?
Generally, if you’re looking for a decent and affordable router for your home networking, then going for a separate router and modem will cost you more. But if you’ve got the best modem/router combo, you would be getting the best for your home networking.
