Products at a Glance
How we picked
To filter through the hundreds of options available on the market, we conducted thorough research based on compatibility, DOCSIS standard, number of Ethernet ports, and more – so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your requirements. We’re always updating our guides with the latest information, so check back for newer additions.
Product Reviews
- Supports internet plans of up to 2.5 Gbps
- Works with any WiFi router
- Features DOCSIS 3.1 technology for super fast internet support
- Only has a single 2.5 Gig Ethernet port
If you want the best modem for Cox, then look no further than the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000.
To kick things off, this modem boasts the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology with 32×8 channel bonding. What this means is that you can experience the full potential of your high-speed Cox internet plan, and the 2.5 Gig Ethernet port should deliver a congestion-free experience over a wired connection.
To make things better, it supports IPv6 internet protocol, which makes the modem compatible with any WiFi 6 router or mesh system for seamless internet connectivity for all your wireless devices.
By pairing it with the best router for Cox, you can enjoy lag-free online gaming, seamless high-definition streaming, and speedy downloads. Further, the setup and activation of the modem is fairly simple – just connect the ethernet cable to your PC, follow the on-screen instructions, and you’re good to go.
Alternatively, you can download the Nighthawk app to set up both your modem and WiFi router, set parental controls for kids, add guest networks, and monitor all network activity. So, all in all, considering all the features and specifications of the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000, it should work well with your Cox internet plan and may even future-proof your setup if you’re planning on upgrading your internet speed.
- Covers an area of 2,500 sq. ft
- WiFi 6 supports speeds of up to 3 Gbps
- Has 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Relatively expensive
If you were on the hunt for the best modem-router combo available, then the ARRIS Surfboard G34 is sure not to disappoint.
Firstly, this modem runs on the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology and has a built-in dual-band WiFi 6 router that provides more connectivity options and can support speeds of up to 3 Gbps. So you can connect all your wireless devices like smartphones, laptops, and game consoles without experiencing drops in signal quality or stuttering.
If you’re looking for a modem-router combination, then ports are obviously important because wired connections offer a better and interruption-free experience. This pair includes four 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports that allow you to connect multiple devices like smart TVs, PCs, consoles, IoT, and other devices simultaneously.
With the help of its 32×8 channel bonding, it can support up to 4 Gbps download speeds. However, it’s recommended to use this modem router combo with internet plans with up to 1 Gbps, such as Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity, without a hitch. This makes it the best WiFi combo for high-bandwidth tasks like HD online gaming, 4K streaming, and crystal-clear conference calls.
When it comes to the quick installation process, all you have to do is download the SURFboard Central App to activate the modem and create your WiFi Network by following the step-by-step instructions. Further, the app helps you set and manage advanced parental controls for your kids and get real-time monitoring of all connected devices.
Overall, the DOCSIS 3.1 modem technology and built-in Wi-Fi 6 router offer the best value for your money because you’re getting an all-in-one solution for your Cox internet plan, eliminating monthly modem or even router rental fees. If you’re interested in exploring more modem-router combinations, then check out our best modem-router combo guide.
- Relatively low price point
- Backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0
- Overkill if you have a slow internet plan
If you have a Cox Gigablast internet plan, then you need a modem capable enough to support the super fast downstream and upstream speeds, and the Motorola MB8611 checks all the boxes.
To begin with, the modem comes with DOCSIS 3.1 technology while being compatible with DOCSIS 3.0. This means that you can squeeze out every bit of performance from your internet plan and enjoy lag-free online gaming, 4K streaming, and more.
Another neat feature of this modem is that it is compatible with any WiFi router, and the 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port supports downstream speeds of up to 2,500 Mbps and upstream speeds of up to 800 Mbps – that is if your internet plan supports it. So, you can connect devices like Smart TVs and gaming consoles and enjoy a seamless experience.
As for easy setup, you only require three connections, which include power, coax cable, and Ethernet. Plus, it’s compatible with major ISPs offering fast internet plans, including Cox, Spectrum, and Comcast Xfinity – so if you ever were to switch between these ISPs, this modem will transition without breaking a seat. However, there are more options available that might be better suited for these ISPs; for a better grasp, do check out our best modem for Spectrum and best modem for Xfinity guides.
Another notable feature is Active Queue Management, which significantly reduces network congestion and latency, making the modem ideal for fast 4K streaming, video conferencing, and online gaming.
How to pick the best modem
Before investing in any modem, there are certain aspects that you should look for. We’ve listed some of them to help you make an informed decision.
Compatibility
The most crucial factor to look out for is compatibility. You’d be throwing away your hard-earned money if the modem you choose to invest in isn’t compatible with your ISP. So, always check with your ISP if the modem you want is compatible with their services. They usually provide an approved list of modems, but if you can’t find it, then contact their support, visit their website, or email them with your queries.
Number of Channels
There are downstream and upstream channels in a modem that allow for data to be downloaded or uploaded. The more channels a modem has, the faster the data will travel and the better experience you’ll have. So ensure that your selection has a high channel bonding, such as 32×8, which means 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels.
Ethernet Ports
Having Gigabit or multi-gig Ethernet ports is essential if you want to experience everything your internet plan offers. So, look for a modem with at least one 2.5 multi-gig Ethernet port; however, more ports are obviously better as you can have direct wired connections to multiple devices such as laptops, TVs, game consoles, and more.
DOCSIS Standard
The DOCSIS standard directly impacts the performance of your modem as it determines the maximum speed it can handle. DOCSIS 3.1 can support speeds of up to 10 Gbps, whereas the previous DOCSIS 3.0 version clocked out at 1 Gbps. So, pick a modem with the latest standard to future-proof your setup.
WiFi Standard
Many modems offer dual functionality as they come with built-in WiFi routers. Opting for a modem-router combination that offers WiFi 6 or 6E is recommended, as they can support higher download and upload speeds compared to previous WiFi standards.
Should I upgrade my Cox modem?
Depending on the current specifications of your Cox modem, you can upgrade it to a third-party modem with better features and specifications, such as the latest DOCSIS 3.1 standard, more Ethernet ports, and maybe even a built-in WiFi router. This allows for better flexibility and gives you the option to upgrade your internet plan to higher speeds should you wish to do so.
Our Verdict
After looking at all the specifications and features of the listed modems, we concluded that the Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 is the best modem for Cox. It features the latest standards of DOCSIS and WiFi, 3.1 and 6, respectively, and the Nighthawk app allows for easy setup, parental controls, network monitoring, and more. Let’s not forget about the 2.5 Gig Ethernet port that can support high-speed internet connections and future-proof your setup if you ever upgrade your internet plan.