Best modem router combo

The best modem-router combo depends mostly on your internet provider (Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, etc.), your internet speed, and how much you want to spend. The trick is buying one that works with your provider so you don't waste money on an incompatible device.

My general recommendation: look for a DOCSIS 3.1 modem-router combo with Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7, especially if you want something reliable for several years.

Here are the models I'd compare first, depending on your needs.

Best modem-router combos to consider

(Best overall for most homes)

ARRIS SURFboard G36

DOCSIS 3.1 · Wi-Fi 6

A solid choice for gigabit-class cable internet, everyday streaming, gaming, and multiple connected devices. Includes a 2.5Gb Ethernet port. ModemGuides RTINGS.com

Best for: households wanting a capable all-in-one device.

Check Best Buy · Check Amazon

NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80

DOCSIS 3.1 · Wi-Fi 6 AX6000

A more powerful option for busy households with many devices, heavy streaming, and gaming. Has a 2.5Gb Ethernet port, but it can be expensive. NETGEAR Skip the Rental

Best for: higher-end cable internet setups.

Manufacturer product page

ARRIS SURFboard G34

DOCSIS 3.1 · Wi-Fi 6

A simpler option for internet plans up to around 1 Gbps. It has the core features most households need without paying for the higher-end hardware. ModemGuides RTINGS.com

Best for: budget-conscious buyers with ordinary home internet needs.

Check Best Buy

Before you buy, let me narrow it down

I can give you a much more confident recommendation if you tell me two things.

1. Who is your internet provider?

Xfinity / Comcast

Spectrum

Cox

Optimum

Other / fiber internet

Not sure

2. What is your internet speed?

Under 300 Mbps

500 Mbps–1 Gbps

Over 1 Gbps

Not sure

Budget

Under $150

$150–$250

$250–$400

Best regardless of price

Home size (optional)

Apartment or small home

Average home

Large or multi-story home

[Find my best option]

One important note: these are cable modem combos. If you have Verizon Fios, another fiber service, or DSL, you generally need different equipment. I'll help you avoid buying something that won't work with your connection.

The best modem-router combo depends on your budget, home size, and internet speed plan: HighSpeedInternet.com RTINGS.com

Best Overall:NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 (~$297–$380) is ideal for most households, featuring a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem and Wi-Fi 6 (AX2700) speeds supporting plans up to 1,000 Mbps. HighSpeedInternet.com

Best for Speed / Wi-Fi 7:ARRIS SURFboard G54 (~$449–$599) is a quad-band Wi-Fi 7 beast with a 10Gbps Ethernet port, built for multi-gigabit fiber/cable speeds and heavy-duty traffic. Best Buy

Best Mid-Range / Upper-Tier:NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 (~$450–$500) offers AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 speeds, a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, and a wide wireless range for larger homes. HighSpeedInternet.com

Best Budget Option:ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 (~$93) fits smaller spaces and plans under 400 Mbps if you want a reliable, low-cost Wi-Fi 5 gateway. HighSpeedInternet.com

To help narrow down the right choice, let me know:

What is your internet speed tier (e.g., 500 Mbps, 1 Gbps, or multi-gig)?

Who is your internet service provider (such as Xfinity, Spectrum, or Cox)?

Do you have a budget in mind?

When looking for the best modem-router combo (also called a gateway), the right choice depends heavily on your budget, your internet speed tier, and whether you want cutting-edge technology. HighSpeedInternet.com

Note: Modem-router combos only work for cable internet providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. They do not work with fiber-optic internet (like Google Fiber or Verizon Fios) or DSL.

Top modem-router combos categorized by use case include:

1. Best Overall: NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 (or CAX30S)

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (AX2700) HighSpeedInternet.com
• Modem Type: DOCSIS 3.1 HighSpeedInternet.com
• Best For: Most households looking for a balance of speed, reliability, and value.
• Why buy it: It supports multi-gig cable speeds, easily handles dozens of connected devices, and covers a mid-to-large-sized home. It’s a reliable workhorse that will stop you from paying monthly rental fees to your ISP.

2. Best for Maximum Speed & Future-Proofing: ARRIS SURFboard G54

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 7 (BE18000) HighSpeedInternet.com
• Modem Type: DOCSIS 3.1 (with multi-gig capabilities) HighSpeedInternet.com
• Best For: Heavy data users, high-end gamers, and multi-gig internet plans (up to 10Gbps). Forbes
• Why buy it: If you want absolute top-tier performance and the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology, this is the heavyweight champion of combos. Forbes It features a 10Gbps Ethernet port and blazing-fast wireless throughput, though it comes with a very steep price tag. HighSpeedInternet.com

3. Best Budget Option: ARRIS SURFboard SBG10

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (AC1600) HighSpeedInternet.com
• Modem Type: DOCSIS 3.0 HighSpeedInternet.com
• Best For: Smaller homes, apartments, or basic internet plans (under 600–700 Mbps). HighSpeedInternet.com
• Why buy it: At around $90–$100, it’s remarkably affordable. While it doesn't feature the newest Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 speeds, it gets the job done cleanly if you aren't running heavy bandwidth loads or competitive gaming setups. HighSpeedInternet.com

4. Best for Large Homes (Mesh Option): NETGEAR Orbi CBK752

• Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (AX4200 Mesh) HighSpeedInternet.com
• Modem Type: DOCSIS 3.1
• Best For: Large multi-story homes or layout challenges prone to dead zones.
• Why buy it: Unlike standard single-box combos, this comes with a satellite node to expand coverage across up to 4,000+ square feet, seamlessly blanketing your entire home in Wi-Fi while incorporating a robust DOCSIS 3.1 modem. HighSpeedInternet.com

A Quick Tip Before Buying: Separate vs. Combo

While modem-router combos save space and simplify setup, tech enthusiasts often prefer buying a standalone modem (like the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000) paired with a separate high-end router (like a TP-Link Archer or ASUS RT series). Separates allow you to upgrade your Wi-Fi router every few years without having to replace the modem, and if one component breaks, you don't have to replace both. However, if you prefer a clean, single-device footprint, the gateway options above are your best bets.

For most people, the ARRIS SURFboard G54 is the best pick: it combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with Wi‑Fi 7 and suits multi-gigabit plans and busy households. Check that it’s compatible with your ISP before buying.rtings.com