Having high-speed internet is a must these days, and the guys from Comcast Xfinity are known to have one of the best, if not the best, packages for upload and download speed.
The days when you made the connection directly from the UTP socket to your computer are long gone. Today we need the means to spread the internet in the whole house or office and enjoy it wirelessly.
Comcast Xfinity is more than aware that everybody needs fast home internet, and usually, people want to be able to use more than one computer that is located on a desk in the corner of a room. This is why they give you the possibility to rent a modem router to enjoy the wireless internet they provide.
When looking at the renting fee, you will most probably think that it is very small and therefore worth spending. Yet, if you make some very easy calculations at the end of the year, you will discover that that insignificant fee is not so irrelevant anymore.
Luckily, you can buy your own router that is compatible with the services offered by Comcast Xfinity.
However, I bet that if you don’t know much about technology, you will find buying a modem just as hard as launching a rocket. But don’t worry! I made a list with the best Comcast XFINITY compatible modems & routers from which you can choose. So, let’s start!
Best Comcast XFINITY Compatible Modems & Routers Comparison Chart
For a better view of the products and an easy comparison between them, I’ve created the next comparison chart that will ease your decision making. I strongly recommend you to read it to really understand the key features of these Xfinity compatible modems.
Image | Product | Internet Speed | Dimensions | Weight | Warranty | Pricing |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | MOTOROLA MT7711 | 400 Mbps | 8.2 x 2.2 x 9 inches | 3.95 pounds | 2 Years | Check On Amazon |
![]() | ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 | 300 Mbps | 5.1 x 1.7 x 5.2 inches | 1.85 pounds | 2 Years | Check On Amazon |
![]() | NETGEAR CM600 | 400 Mbps | 5.3 x 8.7 x 2.4 inches | 2.01 pounds | N/A | Check On Amazon |
![]() | NETGEAR Orbi AC2200 | 500 Mbps | 9.9 x 9.6 x 7.5 inches | 2.79 pounds | Needs to be registered | Check On Amazon |
![]() | Linksys DOCSIS CM3008 | 343 Mbps | 1 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches | 3.52 ounces | 1 Year | Check On Amazon |
![]() | TP-Link TC-7610 | 343 Mbps | 8.5 x 7.7 x 2.6 inches | 1 pounds | 2 Years | Check On Amazon |
![]() | NETGEAR Nighthawk | 2000 Mbps | 6.1 x 10.3 x 3.4 inches | 1.33 pounds | N/A | Check On Amazon |
![]() | MOTOROLA MB7420 | 686 Mbps | 4.9 x 2 x 6.1 inches | 9.3 ounces | 2 Years | Check On Amazon |
![]() | MOTOROLA MG7315 | 343 Mbps | 8.6 x 2.6 x 9 inches | 1.35 pounds | 2 Years | Check On Amazon |
![]() | NETGEAR C7500 | 400 Mbps | 9.9 x 9.7 x 5 inches | 5.9 pounds | N/A | Check On Amazon |
![]() | MOTOROLA MG7550 | 686 Mbps | 10.9 x 10.2 x 2.8 inches | 2.65 pounds | 2 Years | Check On Amazon |
Top 11 Comcast XFINITY Compatible Modems & Routers Reviews
#1 MOTOROLA MT7711 24X8 Cable Modem/Router
The first thing I want to mention about this specific product is that it is one of the Comcast approved modems that was designed specifically to work with Xfinity X1 and Comcast Xfinity. This means that it will only work if you are paying for a Comcast Xfinity internet service and will not work for any other service provider.
With that information out of the way, you have to understand that this is no ordinary modem but a 3-in-1 model. This means that it can be used as an AC1900 router, a cable modem, and as an Xfinity compatible voice port.
This product includes an AC1900 Dual Band Gigabit Router, a 24X8 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, and also two phone ports compatible with Xfinity Voice.
With the help of the MOTOROLA MT7711, you will be able to receive internet services at a speed that can reach 400 Mbps.
However, if you don’t want to use only the wireless connection, this model from Motorola also has 4 Ethernet LAN ports (10/100/1000 Gigabit) that you can use to create a wired connection with both Mac and Windows computer,
What you don’t receive is a backup battery that could allow you to make calls in case of a power loss.
- Great warranty;
- Includes voice function;
- Good internet speed;
- Can be used for both Mac and PC.
- Can be considered expensive;
- It doesn’t come with a backup battery.
#2 ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 Docsis 3.1 Gigabit Speed Cable Modem
I’ve picked another model from the Xfinity approved modems to present you. This one is made by ARRIS and is its SB8200 modem.
The product in the discussion here not only that is one of the Xfinity compatible modems available, but it is also compatible to use also with Spectrum or Cox and with all the important U. S Cable Providers.
Even though it is just a cable modem that doesn’t include the Wi-fi router function, it does supports both IPv4 and IPv6 internet standards.
It comes with eight upload and 32 download channels, is compatible with DOCSIS 3.0. And is recommended to be used if you have at least 300 Mbps included in your internet plan.
It works great for watching 4K videos or playing online games.
Also, you can create two home Gigabit speed networks due to its Gigabit Ethernet ports.
I don’t know if it matters to you since you are looking for Comcast Xfinity routers and modems, but you should keep in mind that this model is not compatible with AT&T or Verizon and also with bundled voice services.
- Great for high-quality videos and games;
- Can create 2 home networks;
- Compatible with other providers.
- It doesn’t have router capabilities.
#3 NETGEAR Cable Modem CM600
While testing to find the best Xfinity compatible routers, I’ve stumbled upon the NETGEAR CM600 model and decided it is worth telling you about it.
First of all, this is part of the Comcast compatible modems and not routers. However, it is not suited only for Xfinity. You can use it for multiple internet providers such as Spectrum or COX.
This means that if you decide to switch providers, you can still find a use for it. Be advised that there are some which the NETGEAR CM600 is not compatible with, such as AT&T or Verizon. Also, you won’t be able to use it for any kind of voice service.
Now that you know all the important things about compatibility let’s move to the next and most important part: internet speed. This modem was designed to work at high speeds up to 400Mbsp. Also, it has an auto-sensing technology for the Gigabit Ethernet.
It has 24*8 channel bonding and also DOCSIS 3.0. As a last aspect, I want to mention is its possibility to connect with any Xfinity compatible routers.
- Great internet speed;
- Can be used for other internet providers as well;
- Very good price;
- 24*8 channel bonding.
- It is only a modem and you will need an extra router;
- Nothing related to warranty is specified.
#4 NETGEAR Orbi AC2200 Built-in-Modem Whole Home Mesh WiFi System
I know that so far, I haven’t presented many Xfinity compatible routers, but this model will make you understand why I am so picky. I must confess that the NETGEAR AC2200 first caught my eyes due to its elegant white design.
But after testing it, I discovered that its good looks are not the only plus worth mentioning. So let’s take one feature at a time.
First of all, it delivers great internet connectivity and also creates something known as a Mesh WiFi network. This means that this product will cover all your home or office with a super-fast WiFi and will replace both the modem and the router from Comcast Xfinity.
Since we are at the connectivity discussion, you should also be informed of the fact that NETGEAR AC2200 actually will eliminate any WiFi dead zones and, therefore, any possible buffering. This is possible because it has a 4000 sq. ft. of consistent coverage that comes at speeds up to 2.2 gigabytes per second (Gbps).
Thanks to its DOCSIS 3.0 modem that comes with a 32 x 8 channel bonding, the cable modem will provide extremely fast downloading speeds.
Last but not least, it can be connected with Alexa due to its voice approval.
- Offers parental control;
- Also includes a router;
- Very high internet speed;
- Compatible with multiple internet service providers.
- It is expensive.
#5 Linksys DOCSIS 3.0 CM3008 8×4 Cable Modem
Another modem that I want to talk about is the Linksys CM3008. I didn’t add it to this list because I think it is the best because I don’t. However, I do think that it is a good modem that does its job and comes at a more than half from the price that you would pay in a year if renting one from Comcast Xfinity. This being said, if you are on a budget, take a good look at this product.
So, the Linksys CM3008 is an average modem that delivers a stable internet connection, and there is nothing fancy about it. You can easily link it to a WiFi router and enjoy video games, online videos, or just browsing your social media accounts.
It is compatible with many cable providers, including, of course, Comcast Xfinity, but also others such as Cox or Time Warner.
It provides 4 upload and 8 download bonded channels and also a DOCSIS 3.0 certification. This means that it will ensure high-bandwidth transferal speeds over existing cable lines at rates of up to 343 Mbps. When you order this product, you will receive the device along with an Ethernet Cable, a Power Adapter and a Quick Start Guide that will help you to do the setup.
- Amazing price;
- Good value for money;
- Compatible with multiple internet service providers.
- Doesn’t allow very high internet speed;
- You will also need a WiFi router.
#6 TP-Link TC-7610 DOCSIS 3.0 (8×4) Cable Modem
Another cheap and good product is the TC-7610 model from TP-Link. Just as the previous modem, this one also doesn’t appear to be anything out of the ordinary. So what makes is special is the price that it can be purchased and the specifications that it offers for that money.
This is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem that will provide an eight-time faster download speed that what DOCSIS 2.0 can offer. With four upstream and eight downstream channels, you will be able to reach a download speed of 343 Mbps and an upload speed of 143 Mbps.
The TC-7610 model is made by the latest internet standards. This means that it supports IPv4 and IPv6.
What makes it stand out from the low-budget modems is that it comes with a two years warranty and also non-stop technical support. This is probably why it won the “Highest in Customer Satisfaction for Wireless Routers” award in 2017.
Of course, it is compatible with Comcast but also with other providers such as Cox or WOW.
- Very good value for money;
- Supports IPv4 and IPv6;
- Great client support.
- Not the best internet speed;
- You will need an extra router for WiFi.
#7 NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Voice CM1150V
Among other Xfinity approved modems that are worth mentioning is the NETGEAR Nighthawk. It actually a Comcast certified model, especially for Xfinity. This means that it is not compatible with other providers such as AT&T, Verizon, DISH, or any voice services that are not related to Xfinity.
What makes it very special is that it can support internet plans up to 2 GB speed. It comes with four ethernet ports that will give incredible fast connection directly to your computer or through a WiFi router. Link aggregation connects two 1G ports into a single 2G port for a faster-wired ethernet speed.
It also has voice phone support available for Xfinity Voice. It allows you to add two phone lines premium call characteristics such as a caller ID or a 3-way conference calling.
This modem works with any kind of router, and therefore, it can support any wireless device from your house or office.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk is a DOCSIS 3.1 and it can connect with both operating systems from PC and Mac.
- Supports an incredibly fast internet speed;
- Has voice support;
- DOCSIS 3.1;
- It is expensive;
- It doesn’t come with any Comcast compatible routers
#8 MOTOROLA MB7420 DOCSIS 3.0 16×4 Cable Modem
If you are looking for a more powerful cheap modem than the ones that I’ve presented earlier in this article, then you should definitely look into the MOTOROLA MB7420 model.
This is a 16×4 DOCSIS 3.0 that can offer a 686 Mbps. This is actually 16X faster than what DOCSIS 2.0 can do. It also has a Full-Band Capture digital tuner that will guarantee a faster and also a more reliable internet connection.
It’s Ethernet port will ensure the connection with any computer, wireless router, or game station. Keep in mind that this model doesn’t have built-in wireless, a phone jack, or any other telephone adapters.
This is a Comcast XFINITY certified model for home speeds up to Extreme 300. It is also has a Comcast Business certification for speeds up to Deluxe 250.
You can do the setup very easily just by following the steps provided in the guide that you will receive along with the modem.
- Very good price;
- Very good speed.
- Doesn’t come with any Comcast approved routers;
- Doesn’t have voice support.
#9 MOTOROLA MG7315 8×4 Cable Modem
This next product that I want to talk about is also a Motorola model, but what makes it different from the previous one is the fact that it comes with a built-in router. This means that the MG7315 model is among the Xfinity approved routers.
It is recommended to be used for DOCSIS 3.0 but also 2.0 cable services. When used for DOCSIS 3.0 purposes, this modem offers cable internet services at speed up to 145 Mbps. For security reasons, it also comes with a Broadcom Cable Modem Chipset.
Even though it is ideally suited for Comcast services, the Motorola MG7315 can also be used if you will decide to change your internet provider. Just as a note, it is also compatible with providers such as WOW or Cox, but does not work for services such as AT&T or Verizon. Moreso, it doesn’t have a phone jack.
Its router will cover the house with high-speed WiFi and you will be able to access it with your phone, tablet, laptop, Amazon echo, Amazon Fire TV, Google Home, Apple TV and others.
- Great value for money;
- Has a built-in router;
- Compatible with multiple internet providers.
- Doesn’t offer a voice function;
- It doesn’t have the best customer service.
#10 NETGEAR C7500 Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo
The last model from NETGEAR that I want to talk about today is the C7500. It one of the Xfinity approved routers that you should keep a close eye on. Not only that, it is compatible with Comcast, but you can use it also for other providers such as Cox or Spectrum. However, it doesn’t work for services like AT&T, DSL, DirectTV, or Verizon.
It is recommended for internet plans up to 400 Mbps, and it can provide extensive coverage of wireless connection. You can connect up to 45 devices in a 3000 square feet area with AC3200 speed. This means up to 3200 Mbps.
This product also comes with safety features such as WPA/WPA2 and WEP wireless security protocols but also parental controls.
- It comes with a built-in wireless router;
- It has safety features;
- It is compatible with other internet providers.
- Doesn’t work with any bundle voice service;
- It is expensive.
#11 MOTOROLA MG7550 16×4 Cable Modem
I’ve left for the final model one of the best ones you can find on the market, in my opinion. I am talking about the MOTOROLA MG7550.
It is a very qualitative device (16×4 DOCSIS 3.0 ) that comes with a built-in WiFi router, but also with a firewallDFS, 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, and a Power Boost.
It comes with a Broadcom cable modem chipset that keeps your connection free of attacks. Speaking of connection, as a recommendation, I would say that this device is great for internet services up to 375 Mbp.
Its WiFi performance is incredible. Not does it offers high-speed internet, it also can perform great even if it stumbles upon Wi-Fi noise that comes from your neighbors.
The WiFi router facilitates a very smooth connection with your devices. It is compatible with smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, Amazon Devices, and many others.
It is compatible with multiple internet providers, so you don’t have to worry if you decide to change it from Comcast Xfinity to a different one. Just keep in mind that you cannot use it for fiber optic connections, DSL and some other companies. All these details you can read about in the instruction manual.
- Has a built-in router;
- Compatible with other internet providers;
- Very good price.
- It doesn’t have voice support;
- It is not compatible with fiber-optic connections.
Xfinity – the Brand and Offers
Xfinity is the business name of Comcast Cable Communications that first appeared on the market in 2010. It works as a provider for telephone, cable TV, internet and wireless services.
They offer their services on 36 of the 50 states, exceptions being Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and Wyoming.
As packages, you can choose from a multitude of offers, as you can see below. As a note, I picked the ones that were available when I last checked, but you should check with Xfinity just in case their offer has changed in the meantime:
- The Economy Plus package offers 3 Mbps / 768 Kbps;
- Internet 5 package that offers 5 Mbps / 1 Mbps;
- The Performance Starter package that offers 6 Mbps / 1 Mbps;
- The Internet Essentials / Performance 10 package that offers 10 Mbps / 2 Mbps;
- Performance package that offers 25 Mbps / 5 Mbps;
- The Blast / Extreme 150 package that offers 150 Mbps / 20 Mbps;
- The Blast / Extreme 250 package that offers 250 Mbps / 25 Mbps;
- The Blast / Extreme 300 package that offers 300 Mbps / 25 Mbps;
- The Extreme 505 package that offers 505 Mbps / 100 Mbps;
- The Gigabit (XFINITY 1 Gig ) package that offers 1 Gbps / 25 Gbps;
- The Gigabit Pro package that offers 2 Gbps/ 2 Gbps.
Xfinity Voice
A great product that Xfinity has to offer is its Xfinity Voice. This is a digital phone service is also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), that converts your phone service into an online service. This will give you a very clear call accuracy and also advanced features, but it will require an Internet connection.
This sounds more complicated than it actually is because there are plenty of Xfinity compatible modems that offer voice accessibility.
So, the thing with this service is like this, Xfinity will require some basic information from your sides such as your name, your address, your telephone number, and something called Customer Proprietary Network Information
They will use all these details and share them will all emergency service providers, other service providers, and also with some vendors.
This, you will be able to have immediate access to 911 or other related emergency services, to the customer support line, and many others.
3 Big Reasons Why Should you Buy your own Xfinity Modem
Some would say that Xfinity offers great devices at good prices that should not be changed. Also, I heard that the reason that it is easier to replace a device if it is rented and it breaks than if you own it and need to buy a new one.
I won’t say that these are not good enough reasons to stick to your rented modem/router, but if you want more than average results at a big enough price, then let me tell you a few reasons why you should start browsing Xfinity compatible routers.
1. Save Rental Fee Money
I bet that when you look at the contract for your internet connection and see the small amount Xfinity is charging for renting a modem/router, you think it is a small price to pay for what you receive.
But have you ever draw the line at the end of the year to see how much it actually costs you to rent a device like this? I bet that you won’t like the result.
So, by purchasing your own modem/router, you will only pay once a sum of money, most likely way less than what you pay a year at Xfinity. After one spending, you won’t have to think about this aspect for a very long time and keep it even if you change providers (if the modem permits multiple providers.)
2. You will Have a Faster Internet Connection
When Xfinity rents you a modem/router, it will offer you an average one at best. This means that the internet speed will be just as average.
If you just use your internet for small web browsing and small social media sharing on just one device, then you probably don’t care about how fast the internet is.
However, if you work online, play online games, have multiple devices connected at the same time, such as a smart TV, your smartphone, and your kid’s tablet, then the situation looks a little different.
Luckily, there are lots of Comcast compatible modems, and Comcast approved routers that will give you much better internet speed. You won’t have to worry about how many internet consumers are online at the same time.
3. You will Get a Better WiFi Coverage
It is very obvious that in this era, we want to be connected all the time regardless of where we are compared to the internet router. The last thing that you want is to watch a video on your smartphone or tablet, move in a different room and see it buffering.
Unfortunately, this can happen with a rented device, especially if you live in a big house and not in a one-room flat.
The good news is that some Xfinity compatible routers offer a huge WiFi coverage for you to enjoy your online content without the fear of losing it when moving from your room to the kitchen.
Comcast XFINITY Modems & Routers – The Buyer’s Guide
I think that at this time, your head is spinning with all this information, and all you want to do is get over it and buy a model. So let’s see what features you should keep an eye on so you will buy the perfect one for you.
Internet Speed
Think about what internet speed you actually need. If you are going to watch online movies, play online games, or make your own streaming, then you will need a router that will support such intense use.
But if you only use the internet to Google your next work/school assignment and watch cat videos, you should not pay more money for a router that you don’t need.
Your Internet Plan
If you have a low internet plan, then you won’t receive a fast internet connection no matter what kind of modem and router you have installed.
So check out the maximum speed that your plan allows and buy a device suited for it. If you want better speed, you will also have to talk to your provider about an upgrade.
Channel Bonding
This is a little more difficult to explain to a person that has a very low understanding of technical notions, but I will try my best.
On every cable modem, you will see a section that will describe the channel bonding level. For example, a modem that has a 16×4 channel bonding, it will provide 16 channels for downloading purposes and four channels for uploading purposes.
As you could probably guess, the more channel, the faster the connection. For an approximation of the internet speed that comes along with each channel bonding type, check out the table below and choose the one that suits your needs, as discussed above.
Channels (DOCSIS 3.0) | Max. Theoretical Speed |
4*4 | 172 Mbps |
8*4 | 343 Mbps |
16*4 | 686 Mbps |
24*8 | 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps) |
32*8 | 1.4 Gbps (1400 Mbps) |
DOCSIS 3.1 | 10 Gbps (10000 Mbps) |
DOCSIS 3.0 or DOCSIS 3.1
Another very technical therm is the one DOCSIS that translates into “Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification.” This means data transportation over a coaxial cable, aka the internet service.
Probably the most common one today is the DOCSIS 3.0, but most ISPs also support DOCSIS 3.1. However, DOCSIS 3.1 is not an obvious feature, so before buying a modem that has this capacity, check if your provider supports it.
The principal difference between DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 is the actual speeds. The good thing is that even if you do have a DOCSIS 3.1, but your provider is not ready for this, the 3.1 will be compatible with a 3.0 network.
The only question is here, should you pay more on a modem that cannot function at its best?
Modem/Router Combo or Separate Units?
As you could see in the products that I’ve presented, you can either choose two distinct devices (a modem and a router) or one that integrates both.
In my opinion, it is better to have only one device for multiple reasons, such as lower price, easier setup, and, of course, the space issue.
However, if you already have a good WiFi router, you should not invest in a product that you don’t need. Buy only one of the Comcast compatible modems and connected with your already existing router (if possible).
How To Set Up Comcast Xfinity Modem & Compatible Router
This tutorial is a little different based on the purchase that you just made. Let’s take each at a time and see how to handle the situation.
1. Modem and Router Combo
The first thing you need to do in this case is to plug in the device. To do so, find an outlet near the place you want the modem to be located. Use a coax cable and plug it to the cable outlet.
After this is done, take one end of the Ethernet cable and connect it into the modem. Take the other half and connect it to your computer.
Now, open your computer and log in to the modem using your computer. You should see a setup wizard that will guide you step by step on how to finish this process. Each brand has its own techniques, but if you find the instructions, you will be fine.
2. Modem and Router Separately
The situation here looks very similar to a point. So you should do everything that I advised you about the combo situation. When you reach the point for finalizing the setup for the modem, you will have cable internet but no wireless.
So this is what you need to do.
- check to see if you do have an internet connection;
- place the router into place. The perfect place usually is a central higher position. This way, it will broadcast in every direction, and the radio waves will propagate easily in all your home.
- Connect to a power source. You will notice that some lights will activate once you plug it in.
- Connect it to the modem. Use an Ethernet cable to connect the router to the modem.
- Run the router’s online interface. Go to your computer and log in to the router interface. Just as in the modem’s case, a setup wizard will guide your steps. Also, for safety measures, you can also change the network’s name and password.
- You are ready to connect to your devices. Everything should work now, and your router should offer WiFi. Do a test and connect your smartphone to it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a modem from Comcast?
Can I only use the modem given by Xfinity?
How can I know which are the Xfinity compatible modems?
Should I look into a specific brand for Xfinity compatible routers?
If I buy a modem, will I also have a WiFi connection?
In Conclusion To
Well, this is it. I know that it was a long article, but I hope that you found it helpful. Moreso, I hope that after finishing it, you are one step closer to buying your own modem or router compatible with Xfinity.
I really wish that sooner rather than later, you will no longer be bound to pay a monthly fee for lesser quality that you could have at a cheaper price.
I would love to hear your thoughts on the matter, and if you did enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it, please feel free to use the share button.