5 Best Xfinity Compatible Modems 2023
Our experts sorted through over 80 Xfinity-approved modems so finding the right fit for your Xfinity plan will be a cinch.
ARRIS S33
Price*: $154.90
Max recommended speed: 1,200 Mbps
Channel bonding: 32x8
ARRIS S33
Price*: $154.90
Max recommended speed: 1,200 Mbps
Channel bonding: 32x8
Motorola MB8600
Price*: $139.98
Max recommended speed: 1,000 Mbps
Channel bonding: 32x8
Motorola MB8600
Price*: $139.98
Max recommended speed: 1,000 Mbps
Channel bonding: 32x8
ARRIS SB6183
Price*: $49.00
Max recommended speed: 400 Mbps
Channel bonding: 16x4
ARRIS SB6183
Price*: $49.00
Max recommended speed: 400 Mbps
Channel bonding: 16x4
NETGEAR CM400
Price*: $69.99
Max recommended speed: 100 Mbps
Channel bonding: 8x4
NETGEAR CM400
Price*: $69.99
Max recommended speed: 100 Mbps
Channel bonding: 8x4
NETGEAR CM1150V
Price*: $129.98
Max recommended speed: 1,200 Mbps
Channel bonding: 32x8
NETGEAR CM1150V
Price*: $129.98
Max recommended speed: 1,200 Mbps
Channel bonding: 32x8
ARRIS S33 is the best Xfinity-approved modem to work with any download speed. But if you have a slower plan like Performance Starter or Performance Select, your internet will work fine with a cheap modem like NETGEAR CM400.
While leasing the swanky Xfinity xFi Gateway has its perks, buying an Xfinity-compatible modem is the cheaper option in the long run. Let’s save you some cash with the best modems for Xfinity from Comcast.
Best Xfinity-compatible modems
- ARRIS S33 — Best for Gigabit Extra and Gigabit Plus plan ($154.90)
- Motorola MB8600 — Best for Gigabit and Ultrafast plan ($139.98)
- ARRIS SB6183 — Best for Fast plan ($49.00)
- NETGEAR CM400 — Best for Connect plan ($69.99)
- NETGEAR CM1150V — Best for voice plans: ($129.98)
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
Compare Xfinity-compatible modems
| Model / service | Price* | Max recommended speed | Channel bonding | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARRIS S33 | $154.90 | 1,200 Mbps | 32×8 | View on Amazon |
| Motorola MB8600 | $139.98 | 1,000 Mbps | 32×8 | View on Amazon |
| ARRIS SB6183 | $49.00 | 400 Mbps | 16×4 | View on Amazon |
| NETGEAR CM400 | $69.99 | 100 Mbps | 8×4 | View on Amazon |
| NETGEAR CM1150V | $129.98 | 1,200 Mbps | 32×8 | View on Amazon |
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
Xfinity-compatible modems should have a max recommended speed that is the same or greater as your Xfinity internet plan’s download speed. That way, your modem will deliver all the speed you’re paying for.
And if you have a home phone plan, make sure to get an Xfinity Voice–compatible modem like the NETGEAR CM1150V. Voice modems are specifically designed to support phones—a regular modem won’t cut it.
Best Xfinity-compatible modems in depth
We’ve covered the short and sweet on these Xfinity-approved modems. Now let’s take a deeper dive into each unit and the Xfinity-compatible routers that pair well with them.
ARRIS S33: Best for Gigabit Extra and Gigabit Plus
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
ARRIS S33 is our pick for the best modem for Xfinity. This absolute beaut’ from ARRIS makes our hearts go pitter-patter. It comes with the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is just what you need to get the most out of your Xfinity Gigabit Extra or Gigabit Plus plan’s 1,200 Mbps download speeds.
But if you want to be on the cutting-edge of modem tech, it’ll cost ya. To be fair, if you’re already shelling out for Xfinity’s Gigabit Extra or Gigabit Plus plan, you’ve probably got enough cash flow that you’re not worried about the sizable upfront price tag in exchange for long-term savings.
As for the rest of us, we’ll stick with the bargain modems.
Best mesh Wi-Fi system for Xfinity
We get you—you’re fancy. Why not take your router to the next level as well and go with a cutting-edge mesh Wi-Fi 6 system? The ARRIS AX6600 pairs excellently with the ARRIS S33, and it will cover up to 5,500 square feet. Wi-Fi from the pool, anyone?
Motorola MB8600: Best for Gigabit and Ultrafast
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
The Motorola MB8600 supports up to 1,000 Mbps download speed. But since Xfinity’s fastest cable internet speeds reach 1,200 Mbps, we suggest you use it only for Xfinity’s Gigabit, Ultrafast, and lower-speed plans.
If you’re living in the fast lane, you’ll appreciate how smoothly this modem streams 4K Ultra HD content and handles high-speed online gaming. And it’s durable, too, so you can expect it to keep you up to speed for years to come.
Best wireless router for Xfinity
Yes, the NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 is likely an alien invader, but its Tri-Band Wi-Fi will help you take full advantage of gigabit speeds and support all your smart home devices.
ARRIS SB6183: Best for Fast
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
While the ARRIS SB6183 runs on DOCSIS 3.0 tech—older than the DOCSIS 3.1 of the two previous devices—it’s still a zippy little modem. If you have an Xfinity Fast plan, go for this device to get the speeds you need without forking out a ton of dough.
Matching Xfinity-compatible router
If you want an affordable Wi-Fi router to team up with your Xfinity Fast and Performance Pro plan and new modem, go for the TP-Link A1C750.
NETGEAR CM400: Best for Connect
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
This affordable Xfinity-compatible modem is reliable and easy to install. For a bargain modem you can set and forget, it doesn’t get better than this.
Although this modem doesn’t have the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, it uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology at speeds most Xfinity households will appreciate. And if that techy talk has you baffled, don’t worry. We’re just saying the NETGEAR CM400 will take good care of you and your Xfinity plan.
Your favorite writer (me) uses the NETGEAR CM400 at home when I’m not testing out the Xfinity xFi Gateway. It’ll be a perfect fit for you, too, if you use Xfinity’s Connect plan.
Matching Xfinity-compatible router
The NETGEAR R6230 is a good match for the NETGEAR CM400 in supporting your Performance Starter or Performance Select plan from Xfinity—and it’s affordable to boot!
NETGEAR CM1150V: Best for voice plans
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
If you’re getting a voice plan from Xfinity, the NETGEAR CM1150V will help connect your phone service as well as your internet service. Then you can call and tell all your friends about it (lol).
This modem is about as souped-up as the ARRIS S33, so it can handle Xfinity’s Gigabit plan, no sweat.
But this little baby from NETGEAR is a bit pricey, so if you’ve got a slower plan, you can save some money with another product like ARRIS SVG2482AC. This second option can handle speeds up to 600 Mbps, and it comes with a Wi-Fi router built-in too.
Matching Xfinity-compatible router
Though we mentioned the NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 above, this snazzy Wi-Fi router will also work great with the NETGEAR CM1150V. Honestly, it’s the ideal buddy for just about any high-speed modem.
What’s the best Wi-Fi modem for Xfinity?
We prefer using separate modems and routers here at CableTV.com because most combination modem/routers don’t come with the latest technology, and they can be scary expensive.
But if you like the convenience of having one do-it-all device, more power to you! We can help you find the modem/router combo of your dreams over at “Best Cable Modem/Router Combos.”
What to look for in a modem
Modems are pretty simple as far as computer devices go. We’ve covered them in depth in our cable modem buyers guide, but here are the basics.
Max recommended speed
Before you purchase a modem, remember the download speeds your Xfinity plan comes with. If your modem isn’t built to support those speeds, you won’t get to enjoy all the internet speed you’re paying for.
We recommend that most people get at least 100 Mbps to enjoy streaming TV online. If you haven’t gotten your Xfinity plan yet, and you’re unsure what speeds you need, check out our article “What Is a Good Internet Speed?” for help deciding.
Channel bonding
You don’t need to know what channel bonding is to get a suitable modem, but if you’re curious, think of modem channels as lanes on a freeway. The same way more lanes can move more vehicles through at once, more channels on a modem allow more data per second, so your modem can support faster download and upload speeds.
But while more channels can access faster internet speeds (within the amount you’re paying your internet provider for), the technology for lots of channels costs more than the tech for just a few. To save money, don’t pay for a more robust modem than you need.
DOCSIS technology
DOCSIS stands for “Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification.” It’s the standard for sending a lot of data by coaxial cable at once. The latest version is DOCSIS 3.1, which Xfinity has set up in some cities, but DOCSIS 3.0 is still common.
DOCSIS 3.1 modems are backward-compatible, so if you get a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, you’re set no matter where you live. But if you want to be sure you’ll be okay with DOCSIS 3.0 in your area, check your address with Xfinity’s device webpage.
The bonafide Xfinity modem/router
Does all this talk about buying a modem for Xfinity have you overwhelmed? No stress. You can rent the Xfinity xFi Gateway for $14 a month instead.
There are a few models of the xFi, but Xfinity will send you one that supports your Xfinity plan download speeds and works with the internet technology in your area. It has a built-in router and telephone support, too, so you’ll be set for voice and Wi-Fi as well.
We like Xfinity’s modem/router combo. It’s easy to set up, the parental controls are great, and you’ll get Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots (which will save you from passing out your Wi-Fi password to every internet-jonesing visitor you have).
However, the price of renting the xFi Gateway adds up. For more help deciding if this Xfinity router and modem combo is right for you, check out our full Xfinity xFi Gateway review.
Compare Xfinity-compatible routers
| Model | Price* | Max recommended speed | Coverage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARRIS AX6600 | $355.89 | 2,500 Mbps | 5,500 sq. ft. | View on Amazon |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 | $125.00 | 1,000 Mbps | 3,500 sq. ft. | View on Amazon |
| TP-Link A1C750 | $52.99 | 450 Mbps | 2,500 sq. ft. | View on Amazon |
| NETGEAR R6230 | $72.74 | 300 Mbps | 1,200 sq. ft. | View on Amazon |
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
What to look for in a router
If you want to pick out an Xfinity-compatible router to match your Xfinity-compatible modem, you’re in luck—there’s no special qualifications your router needs to work with Xfinity. That said, here are some things to consider when choosing a wireless router.
Max recommended speed
Like your modem, your Xfinity-compatible router will support a certain download speed and upload speed. Our recommended routers above were selected to match the speeds of the paired modems.
Remember, Wi-Fi speeds aren’t going to be as fast as speeds from a wired connection (even though Wi-Fi is way more convenient). But as long as your router supports high speeds, your Wi-Fi speeds won’t be terrible.
Coverage
Among your router specs, you’ll probably see info about how many square feet your router can blanket in Wi-Fi.
If you’ve got a particularly big house or thick walls that could interfere with the wireless signal, consider going for a mesh Wi-Fi system. Mesh Wi-Fi systems help your Wi-Fi reach a larger area than a regular router. Check out our recommendations for the best mesh Wi-Fi systems.
Wi-Fi standard
Most routers on the market come with Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax). Wi-Fi 6 is the latest wireless standard, and it’s faster and farther reaching than Wi-Fi 5. It’s also a little more pricey, so we recommend only springing for it if you need wide coverage and superfast Wi-Fi.
Final take
While plenty of Xfinity-supported modems are out there, these five are well-suited to specific plans. Find the one that matches your package for a fantastic Xfinity experience without the monthly modem lease fees.
Xfinity modem FAQ
Can I buy my own modem for Xfinity?
Xfinity allows you to bring your own modem as long as you buy one that’s compatible with Xfinity internet service. Check our above chart of modems compatible with Xfinity to find one that works best with your Xfinity internet plan.
Does Xfinity (Comcast) sell modems?
You can rent the xFi Gateway (a modem/router combo) from Xfinity for $14 a month—but it’s cheaper long-term to purchase your own.
Should I buy my own modem and router for Xfinity?
You should buy a modem and router if you don’t want to pay $14 per month to rent a modem/router combo from Xfinity and if you’re willing to pay a lump sum upfront for savings in the long run.
The Xfinity xFi Gateway and the Xfinity app make it easy to customize your home Wi-Fi, but renting adds up over time. However, you’ll notice that high-speed modems and routers cost much more than lower-speed devices. If you have the Gigabit plan, renting from Xfinity may be more doable than paying hundreds of dollars for your own equipment.
How do I know which modem is compatible with Comcast?
- Head over to Xfinity’s device webpage.
- Enter your address and select your current Xfinity plan—or the one you’re planning to get.
- Click “Find Devices.” If you get a pop-up, click “Continue to approved devices.”
- Change any filters needed on the left side. For example, if you have an Xfinity Voice plan, be sure to click the “Voice/Telephone enabled” box. If you’d like a modem/router combo, click the “Built-in WiFi” box.
- Xfinity lists the fastest (and most expensive) modems first, but any of the modems listed will work well with your internet plan. Under the modems that appear, click the “Show more devices” link. That will pull up all your options, making it easier to find an affordable Xfinity-compatible modem.
Which modem works best with Xfinity?
The ARRIS S33 is our recommended best modem for Xfinity. It supports download speeds up to Xfinity’s lightning-fast Gigabit plan.
But if you want to control your modem from the Xfinity mobile app, an Xfinity modem like the xFi Gateway is the right way to go. The xFi Gateway is available by directly renting from Xfinity for $14 per month.
What modem does Xfinity use?
Xfinity uses four models of its xFi Gateway (and a few sub-models). It assigns Xfinity modems to customers based on their location and service plan:
- xFi Wireless Gateway—275–700 Mbps (varies by sub-model)
- xFi Fiber Gateway—1,000 Mbps
- xFi Advanced Gateway—2,500 Mbps
- xFi Gateway 3rd Generation—1,000 Mbps
What is the newest Xfinity modem?
The newest Xfinity modem is the xFi Gateway 3rd Generation. It supports internet speeds around 700 Mbps—less than the xFi Advanced Gateway’s 1,200 Mbps.
Xfinity’s big selling point for the 3rd Generation is that it’s light gray instead of black (no, we’re not joking—Xfinity’s support article points out the color first). It also has four Gigabit Ethernet Ports to the xFi Advanced Gateway’s two.
Otherwise, we can’t see anything special about it that differentiates the 3rd Generation from Xfinity’s xFi Advanced Gateway. Newer isn’t always better, it seems.
What is the fastest internet speed for Xfinity?
Xfinity offers internet speeds up to 3,000 Mbps—but only in a few big cities. This exorbitantly expensive plan is much faster than most homes need. You’re probably better off sticking with a plan that has 1,200 Mbps speeds or slower.
Methodology
From Xfinity’s list of 83 compatible third-party modems, we researched and selected modems that will work best with your Xfinity plan according to price, specs, supported speeds, and customer reviews.
For more information about our methodologies, feel free to peruse our How We Rank page.
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