Which modems are compatible with Xfinity internet?
While leasing the swanky Xfinity xFi Gateway has its perks, buying an Xfinity-compatible modem is the cheaper option in the long run. The ARRIS S33 is the best Xfinity-approved modem to work with any download speed. But if you have a slower plan or are working on a budget, your internet will work fine with a cheap modem like the ARRIS SB6190.
Let’s save you some cash with the best modems for Xfinity, do some comparison shopping, and teach you what to look for if you decide to shop more before buying.
Compare best Xfinity-compatible modems
Model / service | Price* | Max recommended speed | Channel bonding | Details |
---|---|---|---|---|
ARRIS S33 | $199.99 | 1,200 Mbps | 32×8 | View on Amazon |
Motorola MB8611 | $189.99 | 1,200 Mbps | 32×8 | View on Amazon |
ARRIS SB6190 | $59.95 | 800 Mbps | 32×8 | View on Amazon |
NETGEAR CM2050V | $338.79 | 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 CM2050V. 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.
The 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.
Motorola MB8611: Best for Gigabit and Superfast
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
The Motorola MB8611 also supports 2.5 Gbps internet speeds and Xfinity’s gigabit internet plans. It’s slightly cheaper than the ARRIS S33, although you’ll lose upgrades like the S33’s two Ethernet ports and its lower-profile design.
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.
ARRIS SB6190: Best for Fast
*Amazon.com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.
While the ARRIS SB6190 runs on DOCSIS 3.0 tech—older than the DOCSIS 3.1 of our top picks—it’s still a zippy little modem that retails for less than $100. If you have an Xfinity Fast plan, go for this device to get the speeds you need without forking out a ton of dough.
NETGEAR CM2050V: 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 CM2050V 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 with support for DOCIS 3.1 and 2.5Gbps speeds, so it can handle Xfinity’s Gigabit Extra plan, no sweat.
(That said, this little baby from NETGEAR is a bit pricey at more than $300. If you’ve got a slower plan or have a price ceiling, you can save some money with another product like the ARRIS T25. This second option is cheaper than the NETGEAR CM2050V, but it doesn’t support Xfinity’s Gigabit internet plans.
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. We recommend that most people get at least 150 Mbps to enjoy streaming TV online. If your modem isn’t built to support those speeds, you won’t get to enjoy all the internet speed you’re paying for.
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.
32×8 is the current channel standard for most mid-range and high-end modems. But while more channels can access faster and more reliable internet speeds (within the amount you’re paying your internet provider for), the technology for lots of channels costs more than the tech for older 16×4 or 8×4 modems. 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 many cities, while Xfinity has largely stopped offering DOCSIS 3.0-capable modems. DOCSIS 3.1 offers the best and most reliable internet connection, while DOCSIS 3.0 is generally a step behind on
DOCSIS 3.1 modems are backward-compatible, so if you get a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, you’re set no matter where you live. We’d recommend DOCSIS 3.1-capable modems if your household has multiple heavy internet users, but DOCSIS 3.0 modems can work in a pinch if you have basic internet needs and need a budget-friendly option.
Is a used Xfinity-compatible modem worth it?
If you’re browsing for modems on places like Amazon, you’ll typically see renewed or used models that cost much less than retail stores. But is it worth diving into the discount bin to find a good deal?
We avoided recommending used modems in this guide for several reasons: pricing or availability can vary widely between third-party resellers and they’re generally older models that offer slower performance. However, a used modem could be a good fit if you’re operating under a hard budget or simply need a modem for a basic Xfinity internet plan. For instance, used DOCSIS 3.0 modems generally cost less than $40, which is much less than our mid-range and high-end picks.
Follow these tips to find the best used Xfinity modem for your household:
- Make sure you’re shopping from a verified reseller like Amazon’s Renewed program.
- Used DOCSIS 3.1 modems can generally be found for around $100, while used DOCSIS 3.0 modems shouldn’t cost more than $50.
- If you need a cheap Xfinity-capable modem, models with 24×8 or 16×4 channel configurations offer a decent compromise between cost and performance. But don’t dip into older 8×4 or 4×4 models, as their age is not worth the price savings.
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 $15 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.
Is an Xfinity-compatible modem worth it?
While plenty of Xfinity-supported modems are out there, these picks are well-suited to specific plans. Find the one that matches your package for a fantastic Xfinity experience without the monthly modem lease fees.
Best Xfinity-compatible 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 $15 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 $15 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 $15 per month.
What modem does Xfinity use?
Xfinity uses three main models of its xFi Gateway (and a few sub-models). It assigns Xfinity modems to customers based on their location and service plan:
- xFi XB8 Advanced Gateway
- xFi XB7 Advanced Gateway
- xFi XB6 Advanced Gateway
What is the newest Xfinity modem?
The newest Xfinity modem is the xFi Advanced Gateway XB8. It supports internet speeds around 2,500 Mbps and has support for features like tri-band Wi-Fi.
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. In most areas, Xfinity’s internet plans top out at 1,200 Mbps.
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.”
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.
Disclaimer:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. CableTV.com utilizes paid Amazon links.
CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED ‘AS IS’ AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.