If you’re an avid gamer, you’ll probably relate to spending hours playing with your devices. Yes, most gamers do not ask for much except, well, a stable internet connection. Whether you’re a casual gamer or someone who takes their hobby seriously, lag and connection drops are likely your worst nightmares. Well, we’ve all been there, and because we have, we want to help you out!
Whether you’re looking for quicker download and upload speeds, greater convenience, or simply a reliable connection, the solution is a quality modem. So this article provides you with a list of the seven best cable modems for an optimal gaming experience. Read on if you’re ready to take your performance to the next level and eliminate annoying connection issues!
In a hurry and need to choose quickly, check out top list below.
How To Find The Best Modem For Gaming
When you’re in the market for a modem, particularly for gaming, there will be several factors you need to consider. However, the good news is that most of these do not require you to be too aware of specs. Here’s what you want to keep in mind when looking for the best modems for gaming:
Modem vs. Modem/Router Combo
This consideration depends on your budget because it will naturally cost you more to buy the two separately. That said, dedicated modems and routers can offer you features that combinations cannot. So think about how you use your system. Is it only for recreation, or do you rely on it for work as well?
If you choose the latter, you will be better off with separate items instead of a two-in-one deal. Here’s a quick table outlining the difference between the two. A once-over of these will help you decide which features are necessary and make your choice easier.
| Dedicated Modem and Router | Modem/Router Combo |
| More expensive | More cost-effective |
| More placement options | One line and only a few movable parts |
| Requires a tad experience | More user-friendly for beginners |
| Minimal to no dealing with ISP | ISP controls and pushes firmware updates |
| Limited performance | Better overall performance and advanced controls |
Download/Upload Speeds
For most gamers, download and upload speeds tend to be primary points of concern. However, manufacturers usually only provide information related to the download speed. Not to mention, only figures can be a bit confusing for the novice buyer.
However, you want to know that upload speed tends to be a lot smaller than download speed. Also, there is no point in getting a super-fast download speed if your internet plan can’t handle it. Instead, choose a modem that either matches your internet plan’s download rate or exceeds it by only a little.
Compatibility To ISP
One factor you absolutely don’t want to overlook is that your modem connects to the appropriate cable internet service providers. Yes, even the best modem for gaming will be nearly useless if it cannot support your cable internet providers.
So ensure you read modem labels carefully before investing in anything. Makers will generally list the providers they support on these labels. When you choose a modem that supports your ISP, it not only assures you of a connection but guaranteed performance to the highest specifications.
7 Best Gaming Cable Modems
The market is overflowing with options in cable modems and modem/router combinations. So much so that choosing just one can become overwhelming, particularly if it’s your first time. We understand that, so we’ve put together this list to make things that much simpler for you!
| Model | DOCSIS | Max DL Speed | Warranty |
| NETGEAR Cable Modem CM1000 | 3.1 | 1 Gbps | 1 year |
| Motorola MB8600 | 3.1 | 1000+ Mbps | 2 years |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200 | 3.1 | 2 Gbps | 1 year |
| TP-Link 16×4 AC1750 | 3.0 | 1750 Mbps | 2 years |
| ASUS Modem Router Combo | 3.0 | 1.3 Gbps | 12-36 months |
| ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 | 3.1 | 10 Gbps | 2 year |
| Linksys CM3024 | 3.0 | 960 Mbps | 1 year |
What’s not to love about the NETGEAR Cable Modem CM1000? This sleek and aesthetic modem offers compatibility with several US cable internet providers and does so at an affordable price. These include Cox, Comcast Xfinity, and Spectrum.
Not to mention, setting this modem up takes only around five minutes! You’ll likely find this extremely convenient since you’ll be itching to get back to your favorite game. That said, an even more notable feature of this modem is its insane download speeds! This modem comes with a DOCSIS 3.1, which serves to provide 32×8 channel bonding.
The result? High download speeds even when there are disruptions in the network! This feature makes it ideal for anything from making 4K videos to high-intensity multiplayer gaming.
The CM1000 modem is extremely convenient and will work like magic with any WiFi router you connect to its ethernet port. However, you should consider this as an option only if you have a 1GB internet plan.
What We Love
- Lightning-quick download speeds
- Seamless connection with any WiFi router
- Compatible with several major ISPs
What We Like
- Aesthetic, space-saving design
- Speedy set up
- DOCSIS 3.1
What We Dislike
- One ethernet port
- Only 256 MB of RAM
NETGEAR Cable Modem CM1000 – Best for Multiplayer Gaming
As a gamer, you’re likely very particular about how your setup looks. So why not carry that consciousness into your choice of gaming modems as well? The Motorola MB8600 is definitely one of the most stylish modems on the market. However, that’s not to say that it doesn’t also have some amazing features to offer.
This modem has a futuristic vertical design with five status LEDs on its front panel. There are 4 LAN ports, 1 WAN port, Reset, and Power buttons on this modem’s rear end. Besides, it only has three connections, so it is pretty easy to set up and get back to your game. Speaking of games, if you play ones that require intense bandwidth, this modem will likely become your best friend.
Curious to know why? It comes with Active Queue Management (AQM) that eliminates or diminishes internet latency issues. So not only will this be super useful when you’re gaming, but also every time you need to participate in video conferencing. It also includes a Broadcom chipset to shield you against denial of service attacks.
You’ll find this modem in both DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1, along with 32×8 channel bonding capabilities. So rest assured, your games will be running on a net connection that is fast and consistent. If all of this doesn’t convince you, then maybe its 2-year warranty will be able to seal the deal.
What We Love
- Very supportive of bandwidth-intensive games
- Extended warranty
- Guards against denial of service attacks
What We Like
- 4 LAN ports
- Reset button
- Compatible with mesh routers
What We Dislike
- Large size
- Setup instructions can be confusing for beginners.
Motorola MB8600 – Best for Bandwidth-Intensive Gaming
NETGEAR is a big name in the computer hardworking industry, so it shouldn’t surprise you to see the name pop up again. Now, this modem from them is one you can rely upon without considering your internet service provider. In terms of appearance, this one looks pretty similar to the CM1000.
Setting up this modem is a simple and uncomplicated process leaving you with an elegant, streamlined product. One that also provides you high speeds perfect for both heavy gaming and 4K HD streaming. If you have a pan with 2GB speeds, look no further. You need not even ask your cable internet provider for any further details.
The Nighthawk CM1200 is compatible across several WiFi routers, which is always a plus. It comes in DOCSIS 3.1 as well. However, the feature you might most care about is its 4GB ethernet ports. Yes, hook your PC, game box, printer, or any other device you can think of to one of these ports, and instantly you get ultra-fast wiring!
The Nighthawk CM1200 screams quick, reliable, and powerful. For this reason, you’ll find this modem uses link aggregation. This process combines two 1G ports into a single 2G port for the highest internet speed levels.
What We Love
- Versatile and support all routers.
- Link aggregation ensures potent connections.
What We Like
- Employs the latest IPv6
- Supports 2GB speeds
- Streamlined, aesthetically pleasing design.
What We Dislike
- More high-end
NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 – Best for HD streaming
Now, if you’re looking for a budget option, give the AC1750 a shot. The modem/router combo is definitely far more feasible than separate devices. That way, you have the benefit of having a plethora of wired connections spread across your gaming devices. Simultaneously, you can still enjoy your more casual device through wireless connections. Not to mention, it also comes with a two-year warranty period.
In terms of download speeds, this one offers up to 2GB. Besides, this modem also handles both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, bands. However, perhaps its stand-out feature is how flexible this modem is in terms of channel bonding options. You can indulge in a total of 16 downstream channels and four upstream channels.
If you think of power, you should think TP-Link AC1750. It packs six powerful internal antennas and high-powered amplifiers—the result being potent and consistent performance without any disruptions. Not to mention it also has a dual-core processor to supplement it. So if you have an internet plan of up to 300 Mbps, this modem could be the perfect fit for you.
What We Love
- Six powerful antennas for wireless connections
- Some of the strongest channel bonding
What We Like
- Certifications from several ISPs
- Dual-core processor
What We Dislike
- Hefty device
- It can get hot while running.
TP-Link 16×4 AC1750 – Best Budget Gaming Modem
The ASUS Modem Router Combo is another one you can try out if you would rather not have dedicated devices laying about your house. This 2-in-1 option comes with four WiFi transmitters to enhance both sensitivity and transmission range. How does this help? Well, it assures you of a reliable performance whether you wire up your system directly or rely on wireless Wi-Fi signals.
This modem also comes with certification from major cable providers, including Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. Of course, with a DOCSIS 3.0 and 32×8 cable modem, you can expect a seamless online gaming experience. Not to mention, its AC2600 WiFi router ensures fast internet connection speeds with minimal congestions.
Staying connected will never be an issue again with this modem/router. After all, it comes with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports. Not only that, this ideal modem comes with two additional USB 2.0 ports for any of your non-WiFi devices, like printers or storage hard drives.
That said, this modem is definitely the perfect piece of equipment for gamers who use more than one system. Its embedded MU-MIMO technology makes sure of that.
Since we spoke about how quick it was to set up the previous modem, let’s do the same here. With this combo device, your setup time is nil because you don’t need to! The design comes configured, so all you need to do is plug it in, and you’re good to go!
What We Love
- Super simple setup
- MU-MIMO tech to support multiple gaming systems
What We Like
- 2 USB 2.0 ports
- Powerful processor Intel 1.6 GHz
What We Dislike
- Incorrect setup instructions
ASUS Modem Router Combo – Best for Gamers with Multiple Systems
Whether you’re a noob or a professional gamer, the ARRIS SURFboard can make your gaming life that much easier. Besides gaming itself, this fantastic modem also supports ultra-HD video streaming and multiple gaming equipment.
Of course, the modem incorporates DOCSIS 3.1, ensuring high-speed data transfers. For all the data unkies out there, this is the ideal modem to make the most out of your ISP plans. It also provides 32×8 channel bonding for reliable connectivity that is also quick.
The unique feature of this modem is that it comes with a smartphone app for easy management. This app’s plus point is that it has a very user-friendly interface making it ideal even for beginners. When you consider this modem’s price, it seems like a versatile yet affordable option. Not only does it work with major internet providers, but it also supports both IPv4 and IPv6.
Add in its 1-gigabit ethernet connection port, and you’re in for a quality experience as you game. The company even offers an extended two-year warranty on its product. That should assure you how confident they are in this mode.
What We Love
- Lightning-quick download speed of up to 10 Mbps
- Supports IPv4 and IPv6
What We Like
- 2-Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports
- One port for wired connections
- Easy to read LED lights
What We Dislike
- No bundled voices support
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 – Best for Seamless Online Gaming
The final product we have to recommend to you is Linksys CM3024 cable modem. Much like the other modems on this list, this one pays for itself in a year because you can avoid ridiculous cable modem rental fees. However, if you’re conscious about not spending too much, this is the better option for you because it’s a budget modem.
This sleek tower-like modem has a super simple setup process that involves only three steps. Post setup, you can expect faster download speeds that are just as reliable because of its 24×8 channel bonding. It’s definitely not the fastest on this list, with a maximum download speed of 300 Mbps, but its DOCSIS 3.0 ensures a decent performance.
The modem’s elegant design includes five LED status indicator lights, which is an appealing touch. They are also equally helpful because they inform you about which modem components are currently in use.
The five statuses are Power, Status, Link, Downstream, and Upstream. You’ll find these on the front of the tower, but the back also holds a few components, including the Reset and Power buttons, a 1GB Ethernet port, and one cable port.
What We Love
- Easy to read LED diagnostics
- Intel Puma 6 chipset
- Plug-in setup
What We Like
- High transfer speeds
What We Dislike
- It runs a little warm.
Linksys CM3024 – Best for FPS games
Wrap Up
We all know what it feels like when your internet crashes just as you’re about to take a critical shot on Call of Duty. Or what it’s like when a lag gets you knocked off in Fall Guys. We know what it’s like, and we know that we don’t ever want to experience it again!
Likely so do you. Well, rely on one of these top-notch modems for gaming, and you won’t have to! However, instead of going for a modem that seems to be the latest or most expensive, take some time to consider your needs. Budget, ISP plan compatibility, number of ports, and so on are all crucial factors.
Doing so will help you select not just the best modem but the best one for YOU. So without a doubt, you can expect to see improvements in your gaming performances that lead you to rank up quicker than ever before!