While a router can get you speedy internet in your home, a router alone won’t get you connected to the internet—you need a modem, too. If you’re renting from your internet service provider, you don’t have to. A modem-router combo can do the two-in-one job for you, while saving you that monthly rental fee by combining both into one speedy, reliable device. The best modem-router combos, including my top choice, the Arris Surfboard G54, can save you space as well as be more wallet-friendly and convenient for your home.
Modem-router combos put all the parts you’d usually find in both devices into one hub, meaning that you don't have to install, connect and configure multiple devices. You don’t have to spend hundreds on a new modem-router combo either—my budget pick, the Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2, costs only $200. Because it can be hard to find speedy and reliable units, I’ve done the research and found the best modem-router combos you can buy in 2024.
Best Modem-Router Combo Overall: Arris Surfboard G54
Best Mesh Modem-Router Combo: Netgear Orbi CBR750
Best Budget Modem-Router Combo: Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2
Best Mid-Range Modem-Router Combo: Arris Surfboard G36
Best Modem-Router Combo For Gamers: Netgear Nighthawk CAX30S
Best Modem-Router Combo For Landlines: Motorola MT8733
Best Modem-Router Combo Overall
A Do-It-All Option
Arris Surfboard G54
Bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz | Speed: 10 Gbps | LAN Ports: 1 x 10 Gbps, 4 x 1 Gbps | Standard: Wi-Fi 7
Best for: Modern Wi-Fi performance in an all-in-one device.
If you're looking for a great do-it-all modem-router combo, then the Arris Surfboard G54 is the best option. It offers excellent download speeds, supporting internet plans of up to 10 Gbps, plus it has a relatively sleek design that makes it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to remain up-to-date on Wi-Fi standards.
Under the hood, the Surfboard G54 offers almost everything you could need in 2024. Notably, it supports the relatively new Wi-Fi 7 standard—which means that it supports the fastest Wi-Fi speeds you can get right now, with full support for 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands.
On the back of the device, there’s a good port selection too. You’ll get one port that supports a massive 10 Gbps, with four 1 Gbps ports. This device is also compatible with the majority of major ISPs, including Spectrum, Comcast and Cox. It's still not as expensive as others on this list, and likely cheaper than buying a modem and an equivalent router.
What the reviews say: One reviewer on Amazon noted that this router helped them get their money’s worth from their internet service provider. “I replaced my old modem and router and was having some bottlenecking issues with the old modem on upload speeds (getting around 10 Mbps up with a 20 and up plan with Spectrum). My download and upload speeds are now what I'm paying for. Videos, gaming and downloading are so much faster now.”
Pros:
- Wi-Fi 7
- Good port selection
- Supports major ISPs
Cons:
- A bit expensive
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Best Mesh Modem-Router Combo
Expandable Range In Larger Homes
Netgear Orbi CBR750
Range: 2,500 square feet per node | Band: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz | Speed: 4 Gbps | LAN Ports: 4 x 1 Gbps | Standard: Wi-Fi 6
Best for: Getting top internet speeds for gaming or streaming.
If you're looking for a great mesh modem-router combo, then the Netgear Orbi CBR750 is definitely worth considering. This device offers many of the same specs as our top pick, plus it adds in mesh capabilities so that you can expand on your network's range by simply adding more nodes. With two nodes, you'll cover 5,000 square feet.
This router supports Wi-Fi 6, but doesn't offer Wi-Fi 6E. But even without the extra speed, you'll still get more than enough bandwidth for your needs. The main downside of the Netgear Orbi CBR750 is that it's pretty expensive—even more so than the Arris when you add more nodes (just one will run less than the top pick, but then there’s little point in getting a mesh router). But if money isn't an issue and you want to cover a large space, then this is definitely a great upgrade pick for those looking to expand their network range.
What the reviews say: One Amazon review loves the reliability of the Orbi, saying, “Since my install, my upload and download speeds are insane. The app is great. I consider myself a techy and I just love the ease of use. I couldn't be happier with my continued relationship with Netgear. Nothing is more important than security of my home network and I have trusted Netgear from the beginning, and true to form they have rewarded me with a system that is easy to use and reliable.”
Pros:
- Wi-Fi 6 capabilities
- Modern design
- Can double as a mesh system
Cons:
- Expensive
Best Budget Modem-Router Combo
A Combo At An Affordable Price
Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2
Band: 2.4 GHz | Speed: 800 Mbps | LAN Ports: 4 x 1 Gbps | Standard: Wi-Fi 5
Best for: Casual connectivity that won’t break the bank.
The Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2 is an excellent pick for those who want to get a modem-router combo device but don't want to spend too much. It only supports Wi-Fi 5—an aging standard at this point in time. So if you're looking for Wi-Fi 6 or 6E support, then you should probably go with one of the other options on this list.
That being said, it still offers decent download speeds of up to 800 Mbps, making it perfectly suitable for the casual internet user or Netflix streamer. Dedicated gamers and streamers however will want to take a look elsewhere for faster connectivity. There are four 1 Gbps LAN ports for wired connections. This device is also compatible with the majority of major ISPs, including Spectrum, Comcast and Cox.
What the reviews say: One Amazon customer raved about the Surfboard SBG7600AC2, saying, “This works for us in our three person household. I was tired of paying Comcast $15 a month to rent a modem... We had just “cut the cord” and needed something a bit beefier than the old modem-router combo that couldn’t handle the speed of our Xfinity 600 Mbps internet package. We chose this one because it seemed pretty solid for the price. It didn’t take me long to get it set up. I needed to go through a little process through the Xfinity app first and then I was able to connect all our devices. We seem to be getting decent speeds. My Zoom fitness classes were constantly stuttering on the old 2.4 Ghz band and they aren’t going that anymore. I put the TVs on the 5 GHz because when I tested them, they were getting the fastest speeds. We are easily able to stream shows to our 4K Fire TV and use other devices at the same time without lag.”
Pros:
- Affordable compared to competition
- Four LAN ports
Cons:
- Limited to Wi-Fi 5
- No dual-band support
Best Mid-Range Modem-Router Combo
Fast Speed, Reasonable Price
Arris Surfboard G36
Band: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz | Speed: 3 Gbps | LAN Ports: 1 x 2.5 Gbps, 4 x 1 Gbps | Standard: Wi-Fi 6
Best for: Those who don’t mind spending a little for faster speeds, but within reason.
Those who don’t mind spending a little for reasonably modern Wi-Fi tech, but who don’t want to spend the cash required for our top pick, should buy the Arris Surfboard G36. This modem-router combo may not have the latest and greatest Wi-Fi 7 technology, but it does have Wi-Fi 6, which helps make it faster and more capable than the Wi-Fi 5-equipped budget model on our list. It’s a little more expensive than the budget pick, but will be worth the cash for households who want reasonably fast speeds.
The Surfboard G36 offers five LAN ports, including one that supports speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps. It supports the Surfboard app, like the other Surfboard models. That means that it’s relatively easy to manage straight from your phone, where you can see what devices are connected to your network, set passwords and more.
What the reviews say: One Amazon reviewer noted the Surfboard G36’s easy setup. “The Arris Surfboard G36 is a fantastic modem-router combo that delivers on its promises. It's easy setup, VERY impressive speed, and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a seamless internet experience and some monthly cash savings from not having to rent their unit from the cable company.”
Pros:
- Wi-Fi 6
- 3 Gbps data speeds
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- Not the latest Wi-Fi technology
Best Modem-Router Combo For Gamers
Fast Speeds And A Slick Design
Netgear Nighthawk CAX30S
Band: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz | Speed: 4 Gbps | LAN Ports: 4 x 1 Gbps | Standard: Wi-Fi 6
Best for: Gamers and streamers who want the absolute best speed in an all-in-one device.
The Netgear Nighthawk CAX30S is an excellent pick for gamers who are looking for a modem-router combo that can handle their gaming needs. It offers similar specs to the Orbi, and with only one node, it covers up to 2,700 square feet of range. It also has Wi-Fi 6 and support for up to 2 Gbps of bandwidth from your provider. Compatible with Charter, Spectrum and Cox, it's important to note that not all providers will offer the same speeds or features.
On the back, you get four 1 Gbps LAN ports for wired connections, a handy option for connecting your console or PC to the network with a little more stability. The main downside of the Netgear Nighthawk CAX30S is that it's pretty expensive at $380 when not on sale. But if you're willing to pay a little more for good performance, it’s a great option.
What the reviews say: One happy customer says, “The Netgear Nighthawk CAX30S is fast and handles all the traffic in the house. I am so happy I made this move. We have two full-time work from home systems going at all times as well as a teenager watching tv and playing videogames. We also have an outdoor tv for football, golf and ESPN which is on constantly. This modem handles all traffic perfectly all at one time. So happy I purchased it!”
Pros:
- Wi-Fi 6
- 4 Gbps data speeds
- Large coverage range for one node
Cons:
- Expensive
Best Modem-Router Combo For Landlines
A Three-In-One Powerhouse
Motorola MT8733
Band: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz | Speed: 2.5 Gbps | LAN Ports: 1 x 2.5 Gbps, 3 x 1 Gbps | Standard: Wi-Fi 6
Best for: Connecting into your home’s landline.
For those that want to hook everything up to one system, you can. The Motorola MT8733 is an excellent pick for those who want not only a modem and a router, but also a home phone line. In fact, this device has two phone ports, which could come in handy for those that still use landline phones.
It’s built to specifically support Comcast Xfinity, so subscribers of other plans will need to look elsewhere. It does offer Wi-Fi 6 connectivity though, and there are three 1 Gbps LAN connections on the back to hook up all of your hardwired gear. It's a relatively high-tech device, but it does come with a bit of a high price tag at $410 when not on sale.
What the reviews say: One customer says, “I put off installing the Motorola MT8733 because I'm not hugely techie and figured I'd run into trouble. I finally got the nerve today, and I had no problems. I did watch a YouTube video which helped (and gave me courage), followed the directions carefully, went to Xfinity app and activated it (they even have a link there for "installing new equipment" so it was very easy). Then went to Motorola website on my cell and changed their default username and password to what I previously had with Xfinity so I didn't have to change it on my devices. All went smoothly without a hiccup. I definitely recommend this at least for Xfinity internet.”
Pros:
- A 2.5 Gbps port
- Wi-Fi 6
- Three-in-one
Cons:
- Expensive
- Only for Comcast Xfinity subscribers
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How I Chose The Best Modem-Router Combos
In building this list of the best modem-router combos, I looked at the most popular and reputable brands, and then at the specs of each brand’s top models. Metrics that I considered included things like speed, reliability, number of ports, durability, ease-of-use and more.
I not only looked at the top models—I also looked at cheaper models and the value that they presented. And, I looked at the general consensus of actual users of the device. Each modem-router combo’s reviews needed to be overwhelmingly positive, with no less than a 4 out of a 5-star rating.
How To Choose The Best Modem-Router Combo For Your Needs
Choosing the best modem-router combo for your needs can feel tricky thanks to the glut of available features. Here’s a look at what you should consider when investing in a modem-router combo.
ISP compatibility
Make sure the device is compatible with your internet service provider. This should be listed clearly on the product page or in the documentation for the modem-router. If you’re still not sure, contact your provider to double-check.
DOCSIS 3.0 vs 3.1
DOCSIS, which is short for “data over cable service interface specifications” is a standard that's specific to cable modems, so it also gets applied to modem-router combos. In a nutshell, this feature helps your modem understand your cable’s ISP. From there, it “translates” the signal into your internet service.
As of right now, there are two different options: DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. While it’s a little older, DOCSIS 3.0 supports upload speeds of 200 Mbps and download speeds of 1 Gbps, however DOCSIS 3.1 is up to 10x faster. If you can find one, getting a device with DOCSIS 3.1 is a good idea, but those who prefer a budget-friendly modem-router combo, the 3.0 suits just fine.
Speed
This is perhaps the single most important feature to keep in mind. If you aren’t paying for very high-speed internet, or if you’re only doing casual internet browsing and light streaming, then you don’t need to spend money on a high performance modem-router. You can save money with a budget-friendly pick like the Arris Surfboard SBG7600AC2.
But if you're looking for more bandwidth and speed, make sure that the modem-router combo supports those demanding needs. Also consider a device that will last into the future—especially if you think you'll upgrade your internet plan in the future.
Range
Consider the range of your device. This is especially important if you have a larger house or if you just want better coverage for your devices. Mesh systems like the Netgear Orbi CBR750 are great for this, as they come with multiple nodes that can extend your coverage throughout the home. Most small- and medium-sized homes can by perfectly fine without a mesh system, though.
Bands
Consider the bands that your modem-router combo supports. The majority of devices today come with dual-band support for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, but there are also some out there with three bands. Newer Wi-Fi standards, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, both support three bands, adding a faster 6 GHz band. This enables a super low-latency, short-distance connection, which can be really helpful in some situations.
Design
Who wants an ugly device in their home? Design isn't as important as other features, but it's still something to consider. Most of the options on this list have a black and grey design, which will look fine in most homes.
Ports
Ports can also be important. If you have multiple devices that you want to connect directly to your device, then make sure the modem-router combo has enough LAN, also known as ethernet, ports for it. Most people will do just fine with four or five LAN ports—but that can vary depending on the size of your home and how many devices you plan on connecting.
Additional Features
Some modem-router combos come with parental controls and VPN support, which could be helpful for those who need it. Extras like these are welcome if they're available, but don't let them be a deciding factor unless they're very important to you.
Price
You also need to consider the price of your modem-router combo. Some options on this list are expensive, while others are more budget-friendly. Modem-router combos tend to cost a little more than traditional routers, but that also means you don't need to buy a modem separately.
What Is A Modem-Router Combo, And Why Should I Consider Getting One?
A modem-router combo, also known as a gateway, is a single device that combines the capabilities of both a modem and a router. The modem component connects your home network to your internet service provider (ISP), while the router manages your local network, including Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections. The primary advantage of using a combo unit is the reduction in clutter and simplification of your home network setup.
By eliminating the need for two separate devices, you save space and reduce the hassle of dealing with multiple pieces of hardware. Additionally, combo units are often easier to set up and configure, making them an excellent choice for those who are not tech-savvy. However, keep in mind that combo units may have limitations in terms of advanced features and customization compared to standalone modem and router setups.
You also want to check with your ISP company to make sure you can use the modem, as some are not compatible with certain providers. So, the decision to get one largely depends on your specific needs and technical preferences.
Can I Change The Modem-Router Combo Provided By My ISP With My Own?
In most cases, you can replace the modem-router combo provided by your ISP with your own, but there are some important considerations. First, you'll need to check if your ISP supports customer-owned equipment. You can typically find this information on their website or by contacting customer support.
Assuming your ISP allows customer-owned devices, the next step is to ensure the compatibility of your chosen modem-router combo with their network. Make sure it's on their approved list of devices, as this will minimize potential compatibility issues.
When you're ready to make the switch, you'll need to contact your ISP's customer support to help with the activation process and ensure that everything is configured correctly. Keep in mind that using your own equipment may save you on monthly rental fees and grant you more control over your network, but it may come at the cost of customer support. From our experience, if you own your own modem-router combo, your ISP may not be able to troubleshoot any issues as easily.
How Often Should I Upgrade My Modem-Router Combo?
The need to upgrade your modem-router combo depends on a few factors. First, technological advancements play a significant role, and you want to stay on top of the most recent Wi-Fi standards if only for security reasons. If your current unit is outdated and no longer supports the latest Wi-Fi standards or security features, it’s time for an upgrade.
Secondly, if you've recently upgraded your internet plan to a higher speed, your existing combo may not be able to handle the increased bandwidth, prompting the need for a more capable unit.
Generally, it's a good practice to check for firmware updates and performance issues regularly. If you notice a decline in speed or connectivity problems, consider upgrading. However, with proper care and maintenance, a quality modem-router combo can last several years before requiring replacement.
Are Modem-Router Combos Better?
Not necessarily, but they’re not necessarily worse either. There are far fewer modem-router combos than simple routers and modems, meaning that newer Wi-Fi technology is often unavailable to modem-router combo devices until a little down the line. It can sometimes be easier to find a traditional router and modem, and buy them separately.
However, having two devices is less convenient, and some simply prefer buying a device that’s a combination of the two. That doesn’t necessarily make them better technically, but it does mean that they’ll take up less space in your home.
What Should I Look For In A Modem-Router Combo?
There are many things to consider when buying a modem-router combo. For starters, you should look at the standard of Wi-Fi that the device supports—with newer standards being Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7. This can give you a good overall idea of how a modem-router might perform, when it comes to wireless technology.
Additionally, you should consider the number of ports you need, the price of the device and, of course, the design. After all, unless you’re going to completely hide away your modem-router, you don’t want something that’s unsightly cramping your home’s design.
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