Comcast is one of the most sought-after and cost-effective Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in the United States. The best modems for Comcast allow you to enjoy high-speed internet connections while eliminating hefty monthly rental fees.

These modems have different specs, suitable for anyone with moderate or ultra-fast streaming and downloading needs.

Some factors to consider when buying one are the DOCSIS version, number of channels, bandwidth capacity, speed, and ease of use.

Here are the best modems for Comcast available today.

Premium pick

1. Netgear Nighthawk CM2000

8.80 / 10
Read Reviews

A well-designed housing, high-rate speeds, and broad compatibility are the standout features that define the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000. Its transfer rate of up to 2.5Gbps makes it ideal for fulfilling the demand of high-speed network users. The Orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) line coding format lowers interference, ensuring better coverage over networks.

The DOCSIS 3.1 technology is 10 times faster than its predecessor, providing a stable and smooth internet connection. With 32 downstream and eight upstream channels, the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 provides sufficient bandwidth for heavy internet users. It ensures a smooth experience when streaming videos, playing online games, and backing up data.

The front part features status lights which come in handy when troubleshooting your WAN connection and during the setup process. The Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 measures ‎9.92 x 8.74 x 4.72 inches and comes with an up-standing design for easy placement. Its convenient web interface lets you check your network’s status and connected devices, among other settings.

Key Features
  • 32 downstream and eight upstream channels
  • Compatible with Spectrum and Cox
  • Wi-Fi 6 support
Specifications
  • Brand: Netgear
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Dual
  • Ethernet Ports: 1
  • USB Ports: None
  • MU-MIMO: Yes
  • Mesh Network Compatible: Yes
  • Supported standards: DOCSIS 3.1
  • Speeds: 2.5Gbps
  • Security: IPv6
  • Chipset/memory: Broadcom
  • App requirements: Android or iOS phone
  • Dimensions: 9.92 x 8.74 x 4.72 inches
Pros
  • Easy to set up
  • Decent compatibility
  • Excellent bandwidth capacity
  • High-quality build
Cons
  • No voice capabilities
Buy This Product
Netgear Nighthawk CM2000
Editors choice

2. Motorola MB8600

9.40 / 10
Read Reviews

Attention to detail, ease of use, ultra-fast internet speed, alongside a versatile chip, make the Motorola MB8600 a reliable choice. Its built-in DOCSIS 3.1 reduces packet latency, resulting in an improved online gaming experience and voice quality for VoIP calls. Included is a high-performing Broadcom BCM3390ZRKFSBG chipset that lets you enjoy a blazing fast internet speed of up to 1Gbps.

Several people in your home can video stream, hold online meetings, and download heavy applications without worries about buffering. The front part features a vertical array of small LED lights, which come in handy during the setup process or when checking the broadband connection status.

The vertical design helps save desk space while adding a stylish and modern look to your networking setup. Setting this modem is straightforward as it only requires three connections. It also comes with a full-band capture digital tuner for saving power and increasing IP content delivery throughout your home.

Key Features
  • Approved for Charter Spectrum and Cox
  • Active Queue Management support
  • Proactive network security
Specifications
  • Brand: Motorola
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Tri
  • Ethernet Ports: 4
  • USB Ports: No
  • MU-MIMO: Yes
  • Mesh Network Compatible: Yes
  • Supported standards: DOCSIS 3.1
  • Speeds: 1Gbps
  • Security: IPv6
  • Chipset/memory: Broadcom BCM3390ZRKFSBG
  • App requirements: Android or iOS smartphone
  • Dimensions: 7.25 x 2.25 x 7.88 inches
Pros
  • DOCSIS 3.1 compatible
  • High internet speeds
  • Works with any router
Cons
  • Only one Ethernet port
Buy This Product
Motorola MB8600
Best value

3. Motorola MB7621

9.20 / 10
Read Reviews

The Motorola MB7621 is compact and efficient, making it an excellent pick. The modem holds up well even when running several bandwidth-hogging applications as it has an internet speed of up to 650Mbps. You can download large gaming files and stream Netflix at 4K resolution without experiencing annoying dropouts.

The DOCSIS 3.0 channel-bonding increases the downstream speeds and upstream throughput, providing you with an ultra-fast internet connection. Besides Comcast, this modem works with Charter Spectrum, Cox, and other major cable providers. The ventilation on the sides and top protects the modem from overheating, ensuring continuous operations.

You don’t need to unplug the modem to power it off like in some models as it comes with a power button. There’s a set of instructions and a useful online user interface for offering basic and advanced setup options.

Key Features
  • DOCSIS 3.0 channel-bonding
  • Sufficient ventilation
  • User-friendly
Specifications
  • Brand: Motorola
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Dual
  • Ethernet Ports: 1
  • USB Ports: 1
  • MU-MIMO: Yes
  • Mesh Network Compatible: Yes
  • Supported standards: DOCSIS 3.0
  • Speeds: 650Mbps
  • Security: IPv4, IPv6
  • Chipset/memory: Broadcom
  • App requirements: Android or iOS smartphone
  • Dimensions: 7.25 x 2.25 x 7.88 inches
Pros
  • Attractive design
  • Easy to set up
  • Compact design minimizes shelf space
  • Speedy network performance
Cons
  • No USB port
Buy This Product
Motorola MB7621

If you prefer a modem that delivers high-speed internet service without a hitch, then you can’t go wrong with the Netgear CM600. Onboard is an enhanced back-off algorithm that reduces collisions when various devices access the internet simultaneously. The 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and a robust security algorithm protect confidential data.

This modem comes with 24 downstream and eight upstream channels for offering ultra-fast Wi-Fi connections to over five devices. You can play online competitive games and stream HD videos without enduring frequent buffering. The Netgear CM600’s online interface is hiccup-free, allowing you to adjust the settings and view valuable information.

Its sturdy base keeps the entire unit in place, and it’s not too large that it will take too much space on your shelf. This modem for Comcast also works with other cable internet operators like Spectrum, Cablevision, Cox, and Charter, among others.

Key Features
  • 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard
  • 8MB NOR flash
  • Easy to set up
Specifications
  • Brand: Netgear
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Dual
  • Ethernet Ports: 1
  • USB Ports: None
  • MU-MIMO: Yes
  • Mesh Network Compatible: Yes
  • Supported standards: DOCSIS 3.0
  • Speeds: 960Mbps
  • Security: AES
  • Chipset/memory: Broadcom BCM3384
  • App requirements: Android or iOS smartphone
  • Dimensions: 8.47 x 9.97 x 3.78 inches
Pros
  • Works with any router
  • Great bandwidth speed
  • Supports multiple service providers
Cons
  • Only one Ethernet port
Buy This Product
Netgear CM600

Here’s a convenient and cost-effective solution for fulfilling your unique network needs. The Linksys AC1600 comes as a triple combo, including a modem, router, and Wi-Fi extender, making it an all-in-one home solution. The modem supports eight download and four upload channels for decent network performance when downloading HD movies and competing in mid-level games.

Since this is a dual-band modem, you can switch between 5GHz and 2.4GHz frequencies depending on your internet requirements. The Linksys AC1600 transmits reliable Wi-Fi signals up to a range of 7,500 square feet, eliminating the chances of dealing with dead zones within your home.

People in different rooms can browse and download videos smoothly without noticeable delays. The Smart Wi-Fi app lets you tweak the settings as per your needs from anywhere, provided you have a reliable connection. Measuring 8.8 x 5.3 x 2.1 inches, this modem sits nicely on compact shelves without being obstructive.

Key Features
  • Triple combo pack
  • 802.11ac technology
  • Smart Wi-Fi App support
  • Eight download and four upload channels
Specifications
  • Brand: Linksys
  • Range: 7,500 square feet
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Dual
  • Ethernet Ports: 3
  • USB Ports: 1
  • MU-MIMO: Yes
  • Mesh Network Compatible: Yes
  • Supported standards: DOCSIS 3.0
  • Speeds: 300 + 1300 Mbps
  • Security: WPA/WPA2, WPS
  • Chipset/memory: Broadcom BCM4708A0 at 800 MHz
  • App requirements: Android and iOS smartphones
  • Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.3 x 2.1 inches
Pros
  • Feature-filled interface
  • Cloud-based remote access
  • User-friendly
  • Compact design
Cons
  • Performance drops at a range
Buy This Product
Linksys AC1600

Equipped with a wide range of the latest features, the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 is one of the best modems you can invest in to enjoy fast internet speeds. It comes with an RF (Radiofrequency) Immunity technology which protects it from signal interference from your microwave, Bluetooth headset, and other devices.

The modem is IPv4 and IPv6 compatible, providing more confidentiality, data integrity, and authentication on your data. It also allows multimedia streams and other sensitive packet flow to be sent to various devices simultaneously. Unlike most of its counterparts, the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 comes with 32 downstream and eight upstream bonded channels, making it ideal for bandwidth-sensitive applications.

This lets people using different devices stream, surf, and game without any hiccups. Compatibility with many internet service providers, including Comcast, Spectrum, and Cox, makes this modem ideal for a wider audience. The ARRIS SURFboard Central app gives you access to various settings for seamless management at the comfort of your couch.

Key Features
  • 32 downstream and eight upstream channels
  • SURFboard Central app support
  • One Gigabit Ethernet port
Specifications
  • Brand: ARRIS
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Dual
  • Ethernet Ports: 1
  • USB Ports: None
  • MU-MIMO: Yes
  • Mesh Network Compatible: Yes
  • Supported standards: DOCSIS 3.0
  • Speeds: 600Mbps
  • Security: IPv4 and IPv6
  • Chipset/memory: Intel Puma 6
  • App requirements: Android and iOS smartphone
  • Dimensions: 7.15 x 4.5 x 6.11 inches
Pros
  • Useful ARRIS SURFboard Central app
  • Compatible with major internet service providers
  • Energy Star certified
  • Great for online gaming
Cons
  • Doesn’t include a fan
Buy This Product
ARRIS SURFboard SB6190

Experience improved transmission range without spending a fortune on hefty monthly rental fees with the Asus CM-32. The modem includes an AiRadar beamforming technology which minimizes surrounding signal interference, resulting in increased strength of connected devices. Streaming 4K movies and playing AAA games is seamless as the modem reaches a speed of up to 1.3Gbps.

The multi-user MIMO technology decreases the time connected devices have to wait for a signal, thus increasing the network speed. Homeowners with various gadgets will love this modem for its 32 downstream and eight upstream channel bonding. It lets family members stream and game simultaneously without experiencing frequent dropouts.

The modem allows you to customize your network according to your liking with ASUSWRT. This full-featured interface gives you access to the guest network, parental control, network map, and traffic monitor. The Asus CM-32 comes pre-configured with a unique SSID and password, which you can change later, reducing the hassle of setting it from scratch.

Key Features
  • Multi-user MIMO technology
  • DOCSIS 3.0 certified
  • Intel 1.6GHz combined processor
Specifications
  • Brand: ASUS
  • Wi-Fi Bands: Dual
  • Ethernet Ports: 4
  • USB Ports: 2
  • MU-MIMO: Yes
  • Mesh Network Compatible: Yes
  • Supported standards: DOCSIS 3.0
  • Speeds: 1.3Gbps
  • Security: WPA-PSK, 128-bit WEP
  • Chipset/memory: Intel 1.6 GHz combined processor
  • App requirements: Android and iOS smartphone
  • Dimensions: 7.4 x 2.36 x 11.81 inches
Pros
  • Supports dual-band frequencies
  • Easy to set up
  • Optimizes bandwidth
  • Blocks inappropriate websites
Cons
  • Web interface fails to load sometimes
Buy This Product
Asus CM-32

FAQ

Q: Should I Buy a Modem and a Router?

Yes, you need both. A modem allows you to connect your home with your IPS via a cable connection. An example of a modem includes Xfinity. A router allows you to connect your gadgets to each other and the modem through an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi signal.

Conventionally, modems and routers came as two separate gadgets. However, with today’s technological advancement, you can get a system with both the modem and router merged into one. These combo units are simple-to-use and reliable.

Q: Does My Modem Determine the Internet Speed?

No, the modem cannot enhance your internet speed. If your modem only supports 100 megabits per second (Mbps), then that’s the speed you’ll get.

If your internet service provider (IPS) offers 500Mbps or 200Mbps, you’ll receive 100Mbps because of your modem.

Ensure you buy a modem that supports the internet connection speed that fulfills your needs. You can get a modem that supports higher speeds than what your IPS provides. This approach allows you to upgrade your internet plan without getting a new modem.

Q: Should I Buy or Rent a Modem?

Buying is a better option because it allows you to upgrade to the internet speeds you are receiving from your IPS. Renting poses some issues like poor quality of the internet connection. Additionally, most of the rented modems tend to be outdated and can’t support the speeds of your internet plan.

When you’re renting, you have limited options because your IPS makes that choice for you. Furthermore, your IPS has control, meaning they can enable or disable your Wi-Fi features as they please.

Q: Can I Repair My Modem for Comcast?

Yes, you can. Unplug it from the power source. Wait for about 15 seconds, then plug it back in and wait for another two minutes. Power it on. Wait for the panel lights to go green before you test the internet connection.

If the modem runs hot, has consistent connection issues, or is more than five years old, you may need to replace it. In case of physical damage, seek professional assistance.