Still paying $14/month for a basic modem from your ISP? Time to level up. In 2025, buying your own cable modem means faster speeds, more reliability, and long-term savings—not to mention better support for Gigabit+ plans, smart home devices, and even Wi-Fi 7 setups.
Whether you’re a 4K streamer, hardcore gamer, or just want buffer-free Zoom calls, investing in the right modem is the glow-up your network deserves.
We tested the top cable modems and modem/router combos of 2025, factoring in speed, DOCSIS standards, durability, and value. Here are the five GOATED picks that’ll save you money and boost your internet game.
📶 The Lineup: 5 Best Cable Modems of 2025
This post contains Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Learn more.
🥇 1. Arris Surfboard S33
Best for High-Speed Plans & Futureproofing
Best For: Gigabit+ users, streamers, small home studios
Highlights:
- DOCSIS 3.1 for Gig+ internet plans
- Dual Ethernet ports (2.5G + 1G)
- Sleek, compact, with excellent thermal design
Why It’s the Best:
The S33 is a speed demon with style. Perfect for households on 1Gbps+ plans, it combines top-tier bandwidth, strong ISP compatibility, and a small form factor that fits anywhere.
User Reviews:
“Handles all my gaming, streaming, and smart home traffic like a beast.” – TechForum Power User
✅ Pros:
- Handles congestion and heavy usage with ease
- Compact & modern look
- Plug-and-play with Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, and more
❌ Cons:
- No built-in Wi-Fi (requires separate router)
- Slightly premium pricing
Verdict:
🔥🔥 Certified GOATED. The best blend of speed, design, and future-readiness.
🥇 2. Netgear CM3000
Best for Tech Enthusiasts & Wi-Fi 7 Ready Homes
Best For: Early adopters, multi-device households, future-proofers
Highlights:
- DOCSIS 3.1 + Wi-Fi 7 router support
- Link Aggregation + 2.5Gbps port + 2x 1G ports
- Excellent for high-bandwidth homes
Why It’s Great:
If you want to set and forget your modem for the next five years, the CM3000 is your guy. It’s packed with high-end features for power users, gamers, and next-gen smart homes.
User Reviews:
“Bit pricey, but worth it for future-proofing. Rock-solid speeds and ready for Wi-Fi 7.” – Amazon Reviewer
✅ Pros:
- Overbuilt (in a good way)
- Great heat dissipation
- Top-tier port layout
❌ Cons:
- Expensive for casual users
- Overkill for under-1Gbps plans
Verdict:
🔥👍 Worthy Add-to-Cart. Perfect for premium users and tech-forward households.
🥇 3. Motorola MB7420
Best for Budget-Friendly Upgrades
Best For: Basic internet users, casual streamers, low-tier plans
Highlights:
- DOCSIS 3.0 modem with 686 Mbps max speed
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet port
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Why It’s Great:
If your plan is under 300 Mbps, don’t overpay for DOCSIS 3.1. The MB7420 delivers reliable, stable performance for entry-level users or anyone just trying to ditch that rental fee.
User Reviews:
“I saved $168 in one year and it works perfectly on my 200Mbps plan.” – BudgetTech YouTube Commenter
✅ Pros:
- Affordable and dependable
- Easy setup and activation
- Trusted brand support
❌ Cons:
- Not compatible with Gigabit speeds
- No multi-port flexibility
Verdict:
🔥👍 Worthy Add-to-Cart. Budget-friendly and rock-solid for average internet users.
🥇 4. Netgear CM600
Best for High-Speed Non-Gigabit Plans
Best For: 400–900 Mbps plans, mid-tier users
Highlights:
- DOCSIS 3.0 (24×8 channels)
- 960 Mbps max download speed
- 1x Gigabit port
Why It’s Great:
If you’re not on Gigabit but still need strong, consistent speeds, the CM600 is one of the most reliable DOCSIS 3.0 modems out there.
User Reviews:
“Rock-solid for my 500 Mbps plan. Saved money, boosted speed.” – TechForum User
✅ Pros:
- Affordable for speed tier
- Excellent reputation
- Plug-and-play with most ISPs
❌ Cons:
- DOCSIS 3.0 is slowly being phased out
- Only one port
Verdict:
🔥✅ Solid choice for non-Gigabit users. Reliable and efficient.
🥇 5. Netgear CM500
Best Budget Pick
Best For: 100–300 Mbps plans, light internet users
Highlights:
- DOCSIS 3.0 (16×4 channels)
- 680 Mbps max speed
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet port
Why It’s Great:
Just need to get rid of rental fees without fancy features? The CM500 is the definition of reliable, basic, and budget.
User Reviews:
“Cheap, simple, and fast enough. Works great on Spectrum basic plan.” – Walmart Buyer
✅ Pros:
- Easy setup
- Stable connection for basic needs
- Great value
❌ Cons:
- Not built for future speed upgrades
- Lacks modern extras
Verdict:
🔥💸 Top Budget Champ. Perfect for light users who just want to save money.
👥 Who Should Get What?
| User Type | Best Modem |
|---|---|
| Gigabit+ Home / Power User | Arris Surfboard S33 |
| Early Adopter / Future-Proof | Netgear CM3000 |
| Budget-Conscious Upgrader | Motorola MB7420 |
| Mid-Tier Plan User | Netgear CM600 |
| Entry-Level Plan User | Netgear CM500 |
🏅 Bonus Mentions
-
- Arris SB6183: Still a great DOCSIS 3.0 option—compact and reliable for sub-300 Mbps plans.
-
- Netgear CM2050V: Great for those needing voice support with DOCSIS 3.1 speeds.
✅ Final Verdict
Top Recommendation: Arris Surfboard S33
If you want blazing-fast speeds, top-tier compatibility, and a compact, stylish design, the Arris S33 is the ultimate modem for Gigabit and beyond. It’s ready for the future, cool under pressure, and backed by serious performance.
Best Value Pick: Motorola MB7420
For under $60, it gets you off rental fees fast and works flawlessly on everyday internet plans. Perfect for saving money without sacrificing speed.
🎯 Conclusion
All six modems in this roundup are solid, but the Arris Surfboard S33 leads the pack in speed, future-readiness, and durability. Whether you’re optimizing for savings or streaming in 4K, there’s a perfect pick here to cut the cord on those monthly rental fees—for good.