Guide to 2020’s Best Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo

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For the modern household, high-speed internet is practically a necessity. If you want to enjoy streaming media, answer emails, or use smart home devices, you need a high-speed connection. But your internet connection is only as good as your home networking hardware. While it’s standard practice to provide your own router, most service providers will outfit you with a modem.

Whether or not this is a good deal depends on two factors. First, how fast are your ISP’s modems? If they don’t have any high-quality offerings, you’ll find yourself languishing in the information superhighway’s slow lane. Second, are you being charged a lease? Many ISPs charge an additional modem fee on your monthly bill. If this is the case, you’ll save money over the long term by providing your own modem.

Of course, a modem also takes up space on your desk or shelf. And it needs to be connected to your router, which means more wires that can get tangled. Oftentimes, a better solution is to use a cable modem-WiFi router combo. This frees up space and eliminates wires. To that end, we’ve reviewed three of the best cable modem-WiFi router combo units available. Here’s what we learned.

ARRIS Surfboard SBG7600AC2

ARRIS Surfboard SBG7600AC2

The ARRIS Surfboard SBG7600AC2 is a modem/router combo unit with an unassuming rectangular shape. It’s 8.7 inches high, 6.4 inches deep, and 2 inches wide, and tips the scales at just over 1 pound. The case is constructed from glossy black ABS plastic, with vented sides. On the front of the case, you’ll find the same standard LED indicators as most routers. There’s also a button for easy WPS connections, and a USB port for updating the firmware.

On the back, there are four color-coded segments, each with its own purpose. The bottom, green portion houses the power input. The next, blue portion houses the cable input. Above that, in the yellow section, there are four gigabit Ethernet ports. Finally, in the top purple section, you’ll find a recessed reset button, which requires a pin or paperclip to operate.

Speed and Connection Quality

The SGB7600AC2 utilizes the DOCSIS 3.0 communication standard. This is a newer, faster standard than the older DOCSIS 2.0 standard. It’s capable of handling speeds up to 680 Mbps per channel. And with 32 download channels and 8 upload channels, you’re looking at a lot of total speed. Even if you’ve got a house full of relatives and everyone is streaming something, the signal will be good. Now, 8 upload channels may sound excessive. But it’s important for supporting smart home devices, which frequently need to send data as well as receive it.

ARRIS Surfboard SBG7600AC2

This unit works on both 2.4 and 5.0 GHz channels, which will be compatible with just about any modern device. It utilizes the 802.11ac standard, which is not the latest protocol. That said, there aren’t many devices that support the latest WiFi 6 protocol. So in practice, you’ll be able to get the fastest available speed with any device that’s currently on the market.

But a fast connection isn’t everything. Signal strength is equally important. After all, even the fastest connection on Earth won’t do you any good if you’re not getting a signal. Here, the SGB7600AC2 shines. It uses WiFi beamforming to get you the best signal. This technology can focus the signal on your devices to boost the range where and when it’s needed. You won’t notice much of a difference when it comes to stationary devices. Any WiFi router with an antenna can be adjusted for your PC, smart TV, or smart home devices. But if you’re walking around on your phone, or if you use a laptop in different locations, it makes a big difference.

Extra Features

The Surfboard SGB7600AC has MacAfee Home Security integrated into the unit. This will ensure that your network is protected from the moment your signal comes out of the wall. The unit comes with a three-year subscription, which is pretty good. After that, you’ll need to renew your subscription if you want to receive continued support. While you’re inside the subscription period, you’ll be able to use their app to monitor your network remotely.

In addition to virus protection, you’ll also get a full suite of parental controls. The SGB7600AC allows you to set individual user profiles, so different devices will have different abilities. You can set time limits, which will keep your kids from staying up all night on their phones. You can block entire categories of sites, blacklist individual sites, or whitelist sites that are in an otherwise forbidden category. You’ll also receive alerts if someone tries to change their user profile, or if unauthorized devices try to gain access.
We’ve actually reviewed the SGB7600AC2 in the past. If you’d like to learn more, check out our full review.

NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800

NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800

The NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 is designed to look less like a modem and more like a traditional router. It’s fairly large, measuring 12.4 inches in width, 10.4 inches in depth, and 7.5 inches high. That height includes the four antennas, which can be swiveled down. So you can theoretically fit the C7800 in a 2-inch space, but you won’t be able to swivel the antennas.

Three buttons on the front of the unit allow for easy control. The left side button can be used to turn the LED indicator lights on and off. This can be a convenient feature if your modem/router is located in your bedroom, since it will keep your room darker. The second button is used for WPS pairing, and the third is used to turn the WiFi network on and off.

In addition to the four antennas, the back of the C7800 houses all your ports. The cable input is located all the way to the left, with four gigabit Ethernet ports in the middle. The Ethernet ports are highlighted with yellow, which makes them easy to find in low light. To the right, there’s a power input, as well as an on/off switch. This is a nice touch, since you don’t need to use a paperclip to push a reset button.

Speed and Connection Quality

The C7800 is exceptionally fast. It supports up to 3.2 Gbps WiFi connections, which is absolutely insane. This is possible due to the built-in 1.5 GHz dual processor, which quickly processes even the most demanding packet handling. This router/modem combo unit also has 128MB of flash memory and 512MB of RAM. It’s basically a mini PC!

NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800

Like most modern routers, the C7800 operates on 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz channels. The 2.4 GHz channel delivers 1,000 Mbps speeds, while the 5.0 GHz channel delivers 2,200 Mbps of speed. It utilizes the 802.11ac wireless protocol, which is compatible with almost all current WiFi devices.

If you’re looking for the fastest possible speeds, not just now but in the future, you’ll love this router. It uses the DOCSIS 3.1 communication standard, which is the latest and greatest. All in all, you get 32 upstream channels and 8 downstream, which allows for plenty of connectivity.

Extra Features

The Netgear C7800 provides the security features you’d expect from a well-designed router. It includes both SPI and NAT firewall protection, as well ad DDOS protection. You also get standard WPA/WPA2 – PSK encryption, which makes it very difficult for anyone to mooch off your connection.

One thing we appreciated was the ability to provide separate access for your guests. A guest connection uses a temporary password, and is segregated from the rest of the network. As a result, your guests won’t be able to spy on your network, but they’ll also have a secure connection.

You’ll also get parental controls, with the ability to set separate permissions for each individual device. And the C7800 supports Netgear’s Genie App, which is available for free on Google Play and the Apple Store. This app allows you to configure your network, troubleshoot issues, and even reboot your modem remotely.

If you want a blazing-fast Netgear router, but don’t need a built-in modem, there are plenty of options. We recently reviewed the Netgear Nighthawk XR450. It’s a powerful, low-latency gaming router that can handle just about any speed.

ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300

ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300

Similar to the previous Surfboard combo unit on our list, the ARRIS BG8300 has a boxy, modem-style design. It’s 10 inches tall and 8 inches deep, and 3.7 inches wide at the bottom. It tapers down from there, which keeps it stable on your desk. The case is black ABS plastic, with ventilation on both sides. This ensures cool, quiet operation, even in a relatively warm room.

On the front of the device, two LED lights make it easy to perform a quick check on your network. The top light indicates that you’re connected to the internet, and the bottom light tells you when WiFi is active. This is a big plus if you value simplicity. If you need more advanced diagnostics, you’ll still be able to do that. You’ll just have to use the companion app.

Much like the Surfboard SBG7600AC2, the back of the SBG8300 is color coded. From the bottom to the top, there’s a power supply port, the cable jack, four gigabit Ethernet ports, and a reset button.

ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300

Speed and Connection Quality

If you’re looking for a fast connection, the SBG8300 has got you covered. While the previous Surfboard router uses the DOCSIS 3.0 standard, this combo unit uses the latest DOCSIS 3.1 standard. This allows for up to 10 Gbps of total data transfer. Currently, you’re not going to get that kind of speed from any ISP. However, it’s nice to know that you have the option once connection speeds get faster. You won’t need to replace the SBG8300 for many years.

All in all, the SBG8300 will support up to 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels. And that’s just using the DOCSIS standard. There are two additional channels that use the older OFDM standard. This can help you out if you want to get the absolute most connections possible.
This combo unit operates on both the 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz frequencies. It also supports multiple user, multiple input multiple output (MU-MIMO) technology. This allows for easy connections between different devices in the same house, saving your bandwidth. However, the MU-MIMO feature requires a line of sight connection to the router. So unless both devices are in the same room as the router, you this feature won’t do you much good.

ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300

Extra Features

The SBG8300 offers some of the easiest controls you’ll see. It’s compatible with Alexa, so you can change your settings via voice control. No need to use an app or any other solutions. That said, if you prefer to use an app, there’s one available. The Surfboard Manager App is available for free on Google Play and the Apple Store.

As with ARRIS’ other Surfboard-series routers, the SBG8300 comes with a full suite of parental controls. You’ll be able to blacklist sites, whitelist sites, or ban entire categories, all from the free app. You can also assign different permissions to different devices. Let’s say you want your kids’ internet to shut off at 11 PM, but you still want to watch Netflix. It’s simple and easy to do.

As with the previous ARRIS Surfboard router on our list, we’ve reviewed the SBG8300 in the past. Since it was a standalone review, we went into a lot more detail than we did here. Read our complete SBG8300 review to learn more!

Final Verdict

Which of these routers is the best? The Surfboard SBG8600AC2 is the most affordable. And the beamforming technology keeps your signal strong wherever you are in the house. But the DOCSIS 3.0 standard will be a limitation as connection speeds get faster. The Nighthawk C7800 is a great choice if you want a more traditional look. It’s also blazing-fast, with excellent security features. And the Surfboard SBG8300 is the fastest of all, although it doesn’t offer as many extras.

27 thoughts on “Guide to 2020’s Best Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo”

  1. Thanks for your recommendation of the NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900. I just received it today in the mail and all I have to say is, WOW – what a massive difference and huge upgrade in performance. It’s been years since we’ve upgraded our modem and router. Love how it’s a combo so there’s no need to configure both separately.

    Reply
  2. Thanks for the review. We tried the Nighthawk and the TP-Link Archer CR700 and settled on the TP-Link. TWC offers us download speeds of about 240MBps but our WI-FI speeds throughout the house, regardless of band seems to cap out at about 40 to 50MBps. These speeds are very similar to what we used to get before we upgraded to this newer TP-Link. So, it’s been a frustrating experience that we cannot get higher WI-FI speeds. We tried changing channels and made sure our firmware was up to date but we’re still not satisfied. Any suggestions?

    Reply
      • Thanks for your recommendation of the NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900.
        I have the AC1900 C7000 WIFI cable Modem Router.
        All my services are Frontier (TV,Computer, Internet) and have the Unlimited package
        FIOS Bundle Pack.
        Is my AC1900 C7000 modem router compatible with my current FIOS Verizon system?
        There are other AC1900 modems that are. Thank You

        Reply
  3. Are you aware of any combos that are cable modem router AND are phone capable? I have all of my services (phone,tv, and internet) with Charter Communication .

    Reply
  4. What do you recommend for connecting a regular landline . . . rather . . . how does one connect that landline to one of the above recommendations?

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  5. Ditto a couple of questions above…..we have a landline through comcast/xfinity and are looking to get rid of the monthly fee for our modem/router. Do any of the above support landlines, too?

    Reply
  6. I believe the same applies for the other carriers ,therefore ill share the information regarding Time Warner/Charter. I recently purchased the Netgear N600 Combo, and being able to change the settings to my liking (Time Warner’s equipment defaults to horrible stock settings), the speed and range is much much better. As far as the phone, I too was worried Id be stuck paying for the rental fee in order to use the phone but was pleasantly surprised. Instead of returning the prior modem phone combo to Time Warner, they change it to disable modem and only function for phone service. This was done over the phone in minutes, they DO NOT CHARGE the rental fee if the modem is only being used for the phone. Technical details explain this but I’ll spare you. It is also nice to be able to place my main cordless phone base in any location, not tied down next to my modem. By the way, after much tweaking plus ddwrt merlin custom firmware, my WiFi speed LOWEST has been around 190 Mbps, highest 280. I’m fully satisfied given wired speeds actually blow away the “cap” of 300.

    Reply
  7. I had the same issue of connecting the landline to the modem. I have a Comcast/Xfinity triple play, internet, phone and cable service.

    The Comcast crappy modem has a port for the phone.. but the above modems do not, however i brought a phone port to ethernet phone adapter and this solved the problem. Check it out here: http://amzn.to/2f4ePgy

    I brought the Arris SBG7580 its the best, an amazing modem.

    Reply
  8. Hi ,,it is time for me to upgrade my wifi modem router combo….I have CenturyLink as my stand alone internet..I talked with them a few times and my current machine is not handling the internet and wifi at all since it cuts i and out so much…..they recommend a few different Actiontecs…also said to be sure if I get a wifi modem router combo to be sure it is a ADSL +2 machine….do you have any recommendations?”” I currently use a desktop, 2 smart TV’s 2 laptops, and 2 android phones….along with any company we have and their gadgets>>>>>

    Reply
  9. Hello could you give information about using USB 802.11ac Adapters . as for use with arris 7580. And do I need the adapter if using Motorola 7550 . Thanks any fed back would be appreciated. Thank you. Mike.

    Reply
  10. Didn’t the Motorola win an award in a 3 way test against Arris and Netgear? They tested in a variety of environments and came out on top. Just purchased this to replace a failing sbg6580. Well see how it goes.

    Reply
  11. I’ve been thinking of buying Motorola MG7550 but I can’t find how long /wide the range can be in anywhere online. Even for the question on Amazon, the seller says it’s up to the house construction and how the interference with other device around house is like. I know it is up to those factors but at least somebody can tell the cable modem could cover up to either 1000sf or 5000st, can’t he/she? I want to find out if this could be good replacement for my current modem from xifinity or if I should get Netgear Orbi and connect to my existing modem for our house and our garage which is around 2000sf.

    Reply
  12. I want the best modem router for a two story house that’s about 3200 Sq ft. Best suggestion to get best wi-fi coverage?

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  13. Need some advice. Not “tech savvy” at all. Recently switched internet provider from phone company to our local cable company. Are currently using the combo modem/router they supplied. Arris DG2470. Our problem with that being once you leave the room in which it sits wifi signal is almost non existent. So due to that and wanting to get away from the monthly fee for their unit I want to purchase my own. My question is, Is there a combo unit that can provide wifi coverage for a 1200 sq. ft. house or would it be best to purchase separate modem and router?

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    • You should call your provider and have them reset your wifi signal. Its not sending a strong enough signal when you leave the room and it should be. And you should not have to pay for a signal booster to walk into the next ronn.

      Reply
  14. Great reviews on all three. Your recommendation? We currently use Xfinity as our provider and renting the Arris TG1682G modem/router. I am looking for more speed, eliminate rental fees and more coverage. Home Sq. ft about 2000. We have a bundled package X1 phone, internet and cable.

    Reply
  15. I have optimum and altice
    I literally watch roku and really haven’t used my tv
    I’m using WiFi and internet service no phone
    If like to get an all in one or something like this to negate the costly television etc any ideas on what is compatible as I’m not sure i have many internet options unless I use att as a possibility
    I’d rather buy a unit outright and cut my monthly costs and gain possible speed and strength
    Need to keep units minimal

    Reply
  16. Thanks for the article Techguru.

    Can I pair the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem with the AC1900 – NIGHTHAWK® SMART WIFI ROUTER?

    I own the AC1900 router, but I have to upgrade the modem to handle the faster speed I am upgrading with my service provider. So I am trying to determine if I will need a new router as well. If I need a new router, which would you recommend with the SB8200 for a 2800 sqft 2 story. I know walls and location make a difference but general recommendation would be appreciated.

    Reply
    • Yes, you can pair those two together. I would start there, and if you find that it doesn’t provide suitable coverage, you can upgrade your router later.

      Reply

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