Comcast has the largest market share in the US in both Cable TV and Broadband Cable Internet services. Many of their million subscribers look into replacing their modem or router/modem combo gateway provided to them by Comcast/Xfinity with their own device. In this article we’ll show you the best Modems and Combo devices compatible with Comcast in case you want to buy your own equipment and avoid the monthly cost.
Quick Recommendations
If you are in a hurry, here are the results of our research for the best devices for Comcast Xfinity Internet service.
Best Combo Devices (Modem+Router on same box)
- Best for Performance (Starter, Plus, Pro) – up to 150 Mbps: Netgear C6250 or Netgear c6300
- Best for Blast Pro – up to 250 Mbps: Motorola MG7550 or ARRIS SBG10
- Best for Extreme Pro – up to 400 Mbps: Motorola MG7700
- Best for Gigabit – up to 1,000 Mbps: Netgear C7800 or ARRIS SBG8300
Standalone Cable Modem Devices (no WiFi)
- Best for Performance (Starter, Plus, Pro) – up to 150 Mbps: Netgear CM500
- Best for Blast Pro – up to 250 Mbps: Netgear CM500
- Best for Extreme Pro – up to 400 Mbps: Netgear CM600
- Best for Gigabit – up to 1,000 Mbps: Motorola MB8600
Buying your own device will save you a lot of money per year in rental costs because as you know Comcast (like other cable providers) charges a monthly fee for using their provided modem/router.
Fortunately, Comcast/Xfinity supports third party Internet equipment (i.e standalone cable modems or combo router/modem wifi gateways) and even provides online information about all approved models.
However, if you go through the list of compatible modems and routers you will find more than 70 different equipment without knowing which one is the best for your specific Internet speed tier.
In this article we have researched and selected for you the best Modems and Combo gateways (cable modem with WiFi router on the same box) that are supported by Comcast Xfinity Internet service.
Below you will find the best device in our opinion for each Xfinity Internet service plan such as:
- Performance Starter (up to 15 Mbps)
- Performance Plus (up to 60 Mbps)
- Performance Pro (up to 150 Mbps)
- Blast! Pro (up to 250 Mbps)
- Extreme Pro (up to 400 Mbps)
- Gigabit (up to 1,000 Mbps)
Moreover, we have grouped the Internet devices below in two categories:
- Combo Modem/Router Gateway (Cable modem and WiFi Router in the same box).
- Standalone Cable Modem (this option requires a separate WiFi router).
Comparison Table – Combo Devices
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Comparison Table – Cable Modems
Blast Pro - up to 250 Mbps
Blast Pro - up to 250 Mbps
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Criteria for selecting the best device
In our research we had a few criteria in mind to choose the best device among those approved by Comcast. Specifically, the following criteria were deemed important:
- Minimum DOCSIS 3.0 cable standard. Currently 3.0 and 3.1 are the most widely supported cable protocols and ISPs don’t support lower protocols.
- Minimum 16×4 bonded cable channels. Its rumored that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) will stop supporting smaller channel numbers (e.g 8×4) in the future.
- Broadcom chipset instead of Puma 6 chipset. Modems with the Intel Puma 6 chipset (processor) have several bugs including speed latency and lags. On the other hand, Broadcom chipset is reliable and stable (that’s why we mainly recommend Motorola and Netgear products below).
- Newer model if possible.
- Gigabit LAN ports.
- Future Proof. Its better to buy a modem that supports Internet speeds above your current Xfinity Internet service in order to have room for expansion in the future.
- At least AC1600 WiFi speed (i.e 1600 Mbps max). This is important to support newer technology demands such as HD and UHD video streaming, Internet of Things, Smart Home devices etc.
Combo Modem/Router Models Approved by Comcast – Brief Reviews
Let’s now see a brief review of the top combo modem/router models we are recommending for Xfinity Internet service.
These devices are more expensive than normal standalone cable modems but you will not have to buy a separate WiFi router since this function is already embedded in the box. Since you will be saving from rental fees, you will cover the initial cost in a few months.
1. Netgear C6250 AC1600
- COMPATIBLE WITH ALL MAJOR CABLE INTERNET PROVIDERS: Including certification by Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service.
- SAVE MONTHLY RENTAL FEES: Model C6250 replaces your cable modem and WiFi router saving you up to 168 dollars/yr in equipment rental fees.
- SPEEDS BY CARRIER: Spectrum (up to 300Mbps), Xfinity (up to 200Mbps), Cox (up to 150Mbps).
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This Netgear model is mature, cheap and reliable. It will work great with Xfinity speeds of Performance Starter, Plus or Pro (up to 150Mbps).
You’ll notice streaming HD videos is much faster with this device. Many users noted that the Netgear was extremely easy to set up and quite straightforward to use.
One hardware feature I like with this model is its USB port (USB2.0) combined with ReadyShare app which allows you to share media files over the network or use it as backup storage device. You can buy a 256GB USB flash drive, connect it to the router and use it as backup storage for the whole family.
Managing your router is made simpler with the Genie mobile app that grants controls such as monitoring, connecting and even sharing files. All in all, the Netgear C6250 is a very good choice for modest bandwidth requirements.
Pros:
- Low Cost for a combo device.
- Easy installation.
- Fast speed and reliable connection.
- Includes parental controls.
- Allows you to share files across different devices with the USB port.
- Features a Guest Network as well as WPS.
Cons:
- Only 2 Ethernet Ports.
2. Netgear C6300
- Coverage up to 1,600 sq. ft. for up to 25 devices with AC1750 speed (up to 1750Mbps)
- Speeds by carrier: Xfinity (up to 300Mbps), Spectrum (up to 400Mbps), Cox (up to 250Mbps). NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service
- Replaces your cable modem and WiFi router saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is another value for money device which can easily support Comcast Xfinity plans of 150 or 200 Mbps but you get also room for expansions because it can actually go up to 300 Mbps.
It works on DOCSIS 3.0 standard with 16×4 (down/up) bonded channels. What I like about this is its wired connectivity options (4x Gigabit Ethernet ports and one USB) and the pretty good WiFi speed. It supports AC1750 for a total combined speed of 1750 Mbps on the wireless radio.
It is fully supported on Comcast Xfinity as a combo modem/router device and also supports the newest IPv6 which will replace the older IPv4 internet addressing scheme in the near future.
Using the Netgear’s “ReadyShare” technology allows you to connect a USB storage device to its USB port and access your files via the WiFi network. Moreover, you can also stream audio or video that you have stored on the USB device to your playback devices.
Pros
- Value-for-money device
- Allows room for expansions in terms of Internet speed
- Plenty of wired ports for connectivity (4x Gigabit wired Ethernet and a USB port)
- Its manual has instructions how to set-up this device specifically for Comcast Xfinity
- Pretty good WiFi speed (AC1750) for moderate use.
Cons
- No coaxial cable included in the box (you need to buy one for connecting the modem to the wall)
3. Motorola MG7550
- 16x4 DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem plus a built-in AC1900 Dual Band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) WiFi Gigabit Router with four Gigabit (GigE) Ethernet ports, a firewall DFS, Power Boost, and more. This product is recommended for actual cable Internet service speeds up to 375 Mbps. A Broadcom cable modem chipset provides security from Denial of Service attacks. WiFi performance is exceptionally good, even in multi-dwelling units with lots of WiFi noise from neighbors. DFS and Power Boost are key
- Requires cable Internet service. Approved by and for use with Comcast Xfinity and Xfinity X1, Cox, Charter Spectrum, Time Warner Cable, Suddenlink, WOW., CableOne and other cable service providers. Eliminate cable modem rental fees up to 156 dollars per year. (Savings are shown for Xfinity and vary by cable service provider. No cable modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others. Model MG7550 has no phone jack.)
- Built-in high-speed Wi-Fi router with AC1900 Wi-Fi, and Power Boost, and DFS provides Internet access for Wi-Fi devices including smartphones, notebooks, tablets, game stations, HDTVs, Amazon Echo, Google Home, Chromecast, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and AppleTV. Four 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports provide wired connections to Windows and Mac computers, HDTVs, game stations, streaming TV devices, and other Ethernet-capable devices.
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Motorola Internet devices are mostly equipped with the Broadcom chipset which is reliable, secure and high-performance. Broadcom provides also security against Denial of Service attacks which is a plague for Internet connected devices.
The MG7550 is ideal for Comcast Xfinity Blast Pro (up to 250 Mbps) although it can support service speeds of up to 375Mbps, so it is future proof in terms of speed.
With Dual-band AC1900 WiFi speed you have enough bandwidth to support multiple devices in the house.
One tip from me (this is what I do in my own house):
Use the 2.4 Ghz band for the smartphone devices and the higher-speed 5Ghz band for the laptops. The 2.4 Ghz band has longer coverage which is needed for mobile devices. Also, the 5Ghz band will provide better speeds for the more demanding laptops of the family.
Pros:
- Very good wireless coverage. A user reported very good coverage in 3100 sq.ft brick house (two floors).
- 1900 Mbps (max) Dual band WiFi.
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports.
- Increases speed and range of the signal with power boost.
- Mature product.
Cons:
- Close to this price range, you can find a higher-end model such as the Motorola MG7700 (see below).
4. ARRIS SBG10
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Get high speeds, better coverage, and a two-in-one product! With the ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 Wi-Fi Cable Modem, you will increase your network capability and get fast streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings vary by cable service provider). Certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers. For a complete list see additional details below.
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.0 is a reliable, broadly available, and affordable technology that delivers high speed internet to your home devices.
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Arris SBG10 is a popular product with high ratings for a good reason. It is reliable, works great with Comcast Xfinity and pretty compact to fit anywhere. It can be used for speed plans up to 250 Mbps.
Many people bought this combo device when Xfinity raised their modem rental fee from $10 to $13 per month. If you saved $13/month it means you will recoup your money in less than a year.
It is equipped with 2x Gigabit ports for connecting wired devices such as gaming consoles, smart TV etc.
Unlike the previous Netgear model above, the SBG10 does not have a USB port.
Its WiFi interface supports 802.11AC at 1600 Mbps which will be enough for a small to medium home (or apartment).
In order to set it up, you can use the Arris app on your mobile device and then call Xfinity to register the device to their systems in order to allow it to work on their network.
Pros
- Compact
- Economical
- Reliable
- Easy setup
Cons
- Not enough wired Gigabit ports (only 2)
- No USB port
5. Motorola MG7700
- Fast 24x8 DOCSIS 3.0 cable Modem Plus a built-in AC1900 Dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) Wi-Fi Gigabit Router with four Gigabit (GigE) Ethernet ports, power boost Wi-Fi amplifiers, firewall security, and more. The maximum modem speed is 1000 Mbps, supporting service speeds up to 650.
- Eliminate up to 156 dollars per year in cable Modem rental fees. (Savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and vary by cable service provider.) certified by all leading cable service providers including Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter spectrum (no cable Modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services, available from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.)
- Built-in high-speed router with AC1900 wireless and Power boost - Provides internet access for Wi-Fi devices including smartphones, notebooks, tablets, and more. 4 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports provide wired connections to Windows and Mac computers and other Ethernet-capable devices. A Broadcom cable Modem Chipset provides security from denial of service attacks.
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is another Comcast supported Motorola option. It is ideal for Xfinity Extreme Pro (up to 400 Mbps) and also has room for expansion in speed since the manufacturer recommends this model for service speeds up to 650 Mbps.
The Motorola MG7700 gateway includes a built-in AC1900 dual-band wireless router that includes a firewall and Power Boost capability. This feature amplifies the WiFi signal for larger coverage in the house (users reported very good coverage in 3400 sq.ft area and even on the 3rd floor of the house).
Regarding hardware ports, it includes 4 Gigabit Ethernet Ports to help you connect home wired devices such as your smart TV, desktop computers, gaming consoles etc.
Overall, this modem/router combo creates a more reliable and stable connection with users reporting enhanced performance in their network. Its design allows you to minimize shelf space and helps improve cooling that elongates the life of the product.
Pros:
- Very good wireless coverage. A user reported complete coverage in 3 floor house with 3400 sq.ft area.
- 1900 Mbps (max) Dual band WiFi.
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports.
- Reliable and secure connection.
- High-speed browsing and download speeds.
- Increases speed and range of the signal with power boost.
Cons:
- A little bit expensive.
6. Netgear Nighthawk C7800 – DOCSIS 3.1
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 1Gbp. Currently certified with Spectrum and Cox (up to 1Gbps) and Xfinity (up to 800Mbps). Future speeds with these service providers may change over time. Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service
- Save monthly rental fees: Model C7800 replaces your cable modem and Wi-Fi router saving you up to Dollar 168/year in equipment rental fees
- Get up to 3000 square feet wireless coverage and 45 devices connected with AC3200 speed (up to 3200 Mbps)
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
At the time of this writing, the Netgear C7800 together with the Arris SBG8300 (see below) are the only Comcast approved combo devices (modem + router) for Gigabit Xfinity service.
Actually the new model of C7800 shown above supports speeds that are even higher than Gigabit (up to 2 Gig speed).
This model is a highly effective all-encompassing solution to your internet needs that includes a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem, a high-performance AC3200 WiFi router and a Gigabit switch (all on the same device).
Being a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, it can work on Xfinity Gigabit (1000 Mbps) service. Actually, only DOCSIS 3.1 protocols are supported on Gigabit cable services (this is true for all ISP providers).
Having 2 USB ports allows you to connect portable Hard Disks for storage (or USB sticks) or even printers for printing over the WiFi network.
Users found that opening new websites was like turning the pages of a book with the high-speed capabilities. Also included is incredible coverage which allows you to access the internet from every nook and corner of your home.
All in all, the Netgear C7800 is perfect for those with larger sized properties who need excellent coverage and exquisitely fast speeds.
Pros:
- Future Proof supporting both DOCSIS 3.0 (32×8) and DOCSIS 3.1 for Gigabit Internet.
- Extremely fast internet speeds.
- Wider WiFi coverage area.
- Perfect for lag-free online gaming, 4K and UHD video streaming.
- Includes 2 USB ports and a Gigabit wired switch.
- Four amplified and active external antennas for great WiFi coverage.
- It’s the only combo model supported for Xfinity Gigabit service.
Cons:
- Expensive.
7. ARRIS SBG8300 – DOCSIS 3.1
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Get high speeds, low latency, and a two-in-one product! With the ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300 Wi-Fi Cable Modem, you will increase your network capability and get ultra-fast streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings vary by cable service provider). Certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers. For a complete list see additional details below.
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers. Its 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0, provides better security, reduces lag while gaming & enables multi-gig networking (ability to run fast speeds on your copper cable from your internet provider).
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Some months ago, you could hardly find one combo device that supported Gigabit speeds and DOCSIS3.1 protocol. Now, there is a new kid on the block, and is called ARRIS SBG8300.
Together with the Netgear C7800 we have discussed above, these two modem/router combo devices are the only models in the market supporting DOCSIS 3.1 and hence Gigabit Internet Plans. The ARRIS model however is cheaper so you could save some money here.
The SBG8300 is fairly new in the market (released in Mid-2019) and has already received pretty good feedback from customers (although it is not a mature product yet).
This device has the newest tech on board. DOCSIS 3.1 on the cable interface, Wave 2 WiFi support (802.11AC 2350 Mbps), 4x Gigabit wired ports and full support of the Xfinity Gigabit service.
The WiFi capabilities of this Arris device are quite good as well. Supporting Wave 2 wireless with AC2350 speed, it is well suited for an average-sized house with moderate speed requirements.
Pros
- Cheaper than competing devices in the market
- Supports modern WiFi standards such as Wave 2 (MU-MIMO, beamforming etc).
- One of the few combo devices supporting DOCSIS 3.1 and Gigabit cable internet plans.
Cons
- No USB
- WiFi could be faster (to support more devices)
Standalone Cable Modems – Brief Reviews
This category includes devices which are only cable modems without any WiFi router capabilities. Ofcourse you will need to get a separate WiFi router to share the Internet line with multiple home devices.
In my opinion, having a separate cable modem and WiFi router is a better option compared to the combo devices.
If for example the cable modem or WiFi router breaks down, then you will have to replace only the device that is broken without throwing away the whole combo appliance.
Moreover, if you subscribe to a higher speed internet service, then you just need to buy a faster cable modem without having to replace the whole combo appliance again. The pros of having separate devices are much more than the cons in my opinion.
1.Netgear CM500
- Save monthly rental fees: Model CM500 replaces your cable modem, saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees.
- Speeds by carrier: Spectrum (up to 400Mbps), Xfinity (up to 200Mbps), Cox (up to 150Mbps).
- Works with any wifi router: Connect any WiFi router to this modem's Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices.
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is a best seller product in a very low price. Great choice for lower Xfinity tiers like the Performance (Starter, Plus, Pro) of up to 150 Mbps.
Since this is a 16×4 modem, it can actually support up to 300Mbps service speeds therefore we recommend this budget device even for Xfinity Blast Pro of up to 250 Mbps.
The CM500 has been in the market since 2017 and proved its reliability and stability. It is equipped with a Broadcom chipset and unlike the Puma 6, which empowers the CM700, it works flawlessly with the DOCSIS 3.0 protocol.
Pros:
- Budget choice.
- Slim, sleek design.
- Quick and easy setup.
- Reliable and sturdy connection.
- Clean and easy user interface.
- Reliable Broadcom chipset
Cons:
- Does not show stats on the web interface.
- A little bit outdated.
2. Netgear CM600
- COMPATIBLE WITH ALL MAJOR CABLE INTERNET PROVIDERS: Including certification by Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service.
- SAVE MONTHLY RENTAL FEES: Model CM600 replaces your cable modem saving you up to $168/yr in equipment rental fees.
- BUILT FOR FAST SPEED: Best for cable provider plans up to 960 Mbps speed.
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 17:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is one of my personal favorites. With 24×8 bonded channels, it’s great for Xfinity Extreme Pro – up to 400 Mbps (although it is future proof since it can support even higher speeds).
The Netgear CM600 is one of the highest-ranking cable modem devices in terms of customer feedback.
Take a look at some of the popular online forums (like dslreports forum) and you will find raving reviews of users for this particular Netgear device.
Users love the fact that the CM600 is compatible with almost all providers. Furthermore, users remarked that the multiple downloads and upload channels make it a great choice for heavier internet uses.
Overall, the CM600 is a great option which is compatible with multiple service providers. Not only is it fast and easy to use, but it is great value for money as well.
Pros:
- Excellent customer reviews for this model.
- Compatible with multiple service providers.
- Includes power and a reset button.
- Reliable with its Broadcom chipset.
- Easy management interface.
- Best value for money choice.
- Great ventilation design.
Cons:
- The status LEDs are awkwardly placed on the box.
3. Motorola MB8600
- Top Internet Speeds for all Multi-gigabit Speed Tiers - Wirecutter recommends this model as the best cable modem for people using Gigabit Internet plans. Built-in DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 3.0 32x8 capabilities give top Internet speeds for all cable Internet services.
- Save Money - Eliminate up to 168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and vary by cable service provider.) Approved by Comcast Xfinity and Xfinity X1, Cox, and CableOne for all speeds including Comcast Gigabit services and Cox Gigablast. Not compatible with RCN. No cable modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services, available from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.)
- Flexible Compatibility - Pair with any Wi-Fi router you’d like, including Whole Home Wi-Fi or Mesh routers like eero, Google Wi-Fi, and Orbi. A 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet port allows connection of any SINGLE device with an Ethernet port including a router, Windows or Mac computer, HDTV, or game station. This cable modem does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability.
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 21:50 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We have compared and reviewed this modem in our article about the best DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems currently available.
It’s undoubtedly the best modem for Gigabit Internet speeds. Manufactured by Zoom Telephonics, a USA company, this is a robust and great choice for Gigabit service of Xfinity.
Having 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for LAN connections (although 3 of the ports are hidden behind a plastic label), it can even support more than 1 Gig speeds for future expansion if needed.
A unique feature that many users loved is the Active Queue Management mechanism which allows the system to prioritize packets. As a result, you’ll find that the modem delivers high-speed internet with faster loading websites and more responsive online gaming and video streaming.
Another exquisite feature is the Full Band Capture technology which is suitable for rural areas or areas with weak signals.
So, if you want a modem that lasts long in terms of durability as well as technology, there’s none better than the Motorola MB8600.
Pros:
- Future Proof for years to come.
- Sleek, elegant design.
- Multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports.
- Includes a priority management system.
- Boosts weak signals.
- Up to date technology.
- High-caliber manufacturer (Zoom Telephonics and Motorola).
Cons:
- Requires ISP to upgrade the device firmware if needed (actually this is valid for other modems as well but we had to write a con 😊).
4. Best Voice Modem with DOCSIS3.1 (Gigabit Internet)
- Supports internet speed up to 2Gbps. Certified with Xfinity Internet & Voice Plans up to 800Mbps speed. Future speed with Xfinity is subject to change
- Works with any WiFi router. Connect any WiFi router to this modem’s Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices
- Save monthly rental fees. Model CM1150V replaces your cable modem saving you up to $150/yr in equipment rental fees
Last update on 2023-03-22 at 19:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you have Xfinity Gigabit Internet and Voice service, the above Netgear CM1150V device is the newest kid on the block. It first appeared in the market at the beginning of 2019 and supports DOCSIS3.1 which is required for getting cable Gigabit speeds. It has 2 telephone ports and 4 Gigabit LAN ports but no WiFi (you will need a separate wireless router).
Pros and Cons of buying your own device for Xfinity
Pros
- Obviously, the most important advantage of buying your own device is money savings. You will save $13 per month in device rental fees. Usually, when you buy your own device you will be able to recoup the initial cost in less than a year.
- You get to select the best device in the market for your specific needs. For example, if you have large traffic demands in the family (HD streaming, gaming etc) you can select a device with better WiFi capabilities than the device provided by Comcast.
- You will have full control on the device. This is especially important if you are tech savvy. You will be able to tweak settings as you like, maybe install a VPN on the router etc.
Cons
- You will not have support from the provider regarding the router.
- If it breaks, you will have to buy a new one on your own.
What is Better: Combo or Separate Router & Modem?
Although there is a big debate whether its better to buy a combo device (router+modem on the same box) or buy two separate devices, both options have some strong benefits and some drawbacks as well.
Let’s first examine the pros and cons of buying a combo device:
Combo Device Pros
- You don’t have to manage two different devices.
- You save space because there is only one box.
- Its usually cheaper than buying two different devices.
- Fewer wires in the house.
Combo Device Cons
- Usually the WiFi capabilities of combo devices are not that good.
- If you want to upgrade the device (better specs, higher internet plan etc) you must buy a new combo box.
- No flexibility in placement in the house. It must be either close to the coaxial cable outlet or you must run the coaxial cable in the middle of the house.
Now let’s see some pros and cons of having two separate devices (modem and router):
Separate Devices Pros
- You can select a WiFi router with much better specs and performance to suit your needs.
- You have flexibility in placing the separate WiFi router anywhere in the house for better coverage.
- If you upgrade your cable Internet plan, just buy a new modem without changing the router.
- Can upgrade both modem and router separately.
Separate Devices Cons
- Usually costs more
- You must manage two different devices
- Take up more space
- More wires in the house
How to install your own device with Comcast
Comcast makes it easy for their customers to buy and install their own modem or combo device. They even have a webpage showing which devices are compatible for which speed tier.
The page here allows you to input your street address and download speed in order to find which devices are supported by Xfinity.
NOTE: All of the devices mentioned in this article are fully supported by Comcast Xfinity. We just hand-picked the ones we believe are the best in the market right now.
After you receive the compatible device that you have purchased, you need first to disconnect the existing device and then do the following (assuming you have purchased a third-party approved combo device):
- Connect the new device to the power outlet and also connect the coaxial (thick) cable coming out from the wall to the device.
- Power on the device and wait for it to boot-up (few minutes).
- Check the manual of the device to make sure it has booted up completely (usually all lights should stay solid on).
- Connect to the new WiFi network of your new device (check on the box or printed guide to find the new WiFi name and password). You can also connect with an ethernet cable to one of the ports of the device.
- Open a web browser on your laptop or smartphone and go to https://xfinity.com/activate
- Follow the prompts to verify your Xfinity account and proceed to finish the activation process (your new device might reboot or take some time to finish the registration process).
- Make sure to visit some sites on the Internet to verify connectivity.
Very helpful information.
This is listed as an advantage to separate modem / router:
“You have flexibility in placing the separate WiFi router anywhere in the house for better coverage.”
Do you not have to run ethernet cable from the modem to the router as well? Or is there a wireless way to connect the modem to the router?
I could use a wireless solution. Thanks.
Dave, yes you would need an ethernet cable between the modem and router, however you could also use a powerline ethernet adapter which can connect the modem to the router via the power lines.
great article. thnaks for sharing