11 Best Optimum Compatible Modems & Routers in 2023 [List Approved By Optimum]

Advances in internet connectivity have evolved over the years. The advent of modem and routers have made easy the networking and internet connectivity for several devices simultaneously. You can buy this efficient device to set up a home network and connect all your WiFi-enabled or wired devices to it to receive an internet connection. In the case of cable modems, your cable internet service provider plays a major role. The internet plan you choose and your ISP must be compatible with the modem you choose. 

Modems are the intermediate device that is used to receive and deliver internet services from one end to another end. These devices come with subjective compatibility. Some models are not compatible with certain ISPs. You must contact your internet service provider when you buy a modem and make sure if it will be compatible. With a WiFi router, you can connect wireless devices like laptops, smartphones to get a high-speed internet connection. The router and modem combo are even more efficient than the standalone design. These will support both a wired connection and wireless WiFi connections. 

You should check for important specifications like speed limit, ISP compatibility, download, and upload speed, and DOCSIS certification before buying a modem/router. ISP compatibility and WiFi speed are the most important of all. The DOCSIS protocol comes in various versions. Try to prefer modems or routers with DOCSIS 3.0 or DOCSIS 3.1 protocol for high speed and uninterrupted internet connection. You should also prefer buying devices with more number of channels. 

The modems and routers will just take a few minutes to set up. After it is done, you can enjoy seamless performance watching 4k videos, playing hardcore games, downloading and uploading high bandwidth files, etc. Devices with a high internet speed limit offer great performance. Prefer devices with a speed limit of more than 500 Mbps to experience lag-less and fast connection. We have shortlisted some of the best modems and routers that are approved by Optimum. These Optimum approved devices come in diverse speed limits, channels, ports, and designs. You can choose your desired one as per your internet needs.

10 Best Optimum Compatible Modems & Routers in 2023

Image	Product	Features	Price
	Arris TM822 Touchstone (Series - TM822A)	Cable modem that runs on the DOCSIS 3.0 framework Comes with the support for backward compatibility with DOCSIS 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0 based connections	Check Price on Amazon
	TP-Link AC1200 Dual Band Router ( Archer C50 )	Supports speeds up to 1200 Mbps Great device for those who like to stream in 4K resolution	Check Price on Amazon
	GRYPHON WiFi Router	Tri-band wireless router Covers up to 3000 sq. ft. of area	Check Price on Amazon
	TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Router ( Archer A7 )	Dual band WiFi Router (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz) 3 antennas help boost the WiFi coverage, up to 2500 sq. ft.	Check Price on Amazon
	ASUS RT-N12 N300 WiFi Router	Comes with 2 detachable antennas for better range Offers a three-year warranty period	Check Price on Amazon
	MOTOROLA MB7420 Cable Modem	DOCSIS 3.0 based cable modem with 16×4 framework  Supports maximum download speeds up to 686 Mbps	Check Price on Amazon
	ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 Cable Modem	DOCSIS 3.0 based cable modem with a 32×8 channel bonding setup Supports download speeds up to 1.4 Gbps and uploads up to 262 Mbps	Check Price on Amazon
	NETGEAR CBK40 Modem, WiFi router, and single satellite extender	Provides wireless internet access up to 4000 sq. ft. of area Easy to set up and install using the Orbi mobile app	Check Price on Amazon
	Linksys CM3024 Cable Modem	DOCSIS 3.0 based cable modem with 24×8 channel bonding framework Only a cable modem, does not come with a built-in wireless support	Check Price on Amazon
	NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000 AC1900 Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo	Cable modem + WiFi Router combo Supports cable internet plans up to a speed of 800 Mbps	Check Price on Amazon
	Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem	Only a cable modem, does not feature WiFi  DOCSIS 3.1 based cable modem	Check Price on Amazon

1. Arris TM822 Touchstone (Series – TM822A)

• Cable modem that runs on the DOCSIS 3.0 framework
• Comes with the support for backward compatibility with DOCSIS 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0 based connections 
• Supports maximum downstream speeds of 300 Mbps

Arris TM822 is a perfect modem to set up at your home space. It is compatible with even older versions of DOCSIS. It is compatible with DOCSIS 2.0, 1.1, and 1.0. The modem is certified by DOCSIS 3.0 protocol. Arris TM822 modem comes with flexible 8 downstream channels and 4 upstream channels. 

You can expect good internet speed and performance with these features. The modem is qualified under IPv4 and IPv6 standards. The modem has a 10/100/1000 Base-T Ethernet interface. The modem has green indicator lights to show the power, battery, and internet status. You can connect two telephone lines with this modem.

It is one of the popular modems approved by Optimum and also used by many. It is of simple neat built and black design. The internet speed is ultra-fast in this model. The modem supports a speed of more than 300 Mb per second. The modem is a bit costly when compared to other models of its kind. But, the price is reasonable for the features it provides. 

The touchstone modem is suitable for uses in the home and small offices or businesses. The modem comes with 30 days return and money back policy. Optimum offers user-friendly instructions with the modem. You can check the modem compatibility with major ISPs by research or through contacting your ISP. You can reduce your modem rental fee to a great extent using this modem.

2. TP-Link AC1200 Dual Band Router ( Archer C50 )

• Supports speeds up to 1200 Mbps
• Great device for those who like to stream in 4K resolution
• Easy to set up using the TP-Link Tether app

TP-Link AC1200 is a dual-band router, with which you can stream and download intensive files online at super-fast internet speed. The router will help you escape from annoying buffers and provide uninterrupted streaming. The router comes with 4 Ethernet ports that support internet speed up to 100 Mb per second. 

You can upgrade to AC WiFi that supports speed up to 1200 Mb per second. The router is capable of working with all kinds of WiFi devices. It supports Wi-Fi devices of 802.11ac. There is a WAN port and USB 2.0 port apart from Ethernet ports. You can use the USB port to transfer multiple files including audio and video files from a computer. 

You can stream uninterrupted videos or play hardcore games in a dual-band of 5GHz and 2.4GHz. The processor of the router is designed efficiently to balance internet connectivity between various devices that are connected to the router. TP-Link provides an app to manage your WiFi settings through smartphones. 

The TP-Link Tether app will help you access your WiFi settings anytime easily. The device’s durability is also good with consistent quality over the years. The router can be set up easily at your home with ease. TP-Link provides 2 years of warranty and 24/7 technical support for its users. 

3. GRYPHON WiFi Router

• Tri-band wireless router
• Covers up to 3000 sq. ft. of area
• Comes with excellent parental control features using the mobile app

Gryphon WiFi router will provide you a secure network with a fast and reliable internet connection. The router can be set up in a few minutes with simple steps. Apart from regular router functions, this device is known for its exclusive security features. It provides 24 hours of protection for your devices that are connected to the router. 

The router has options to scan your devices and look for threats. It also has an AD blocker to block irrelevant ads from websites. The advanced internet protection and security features provided by the router come free for the first year. The parental control feature is so efficient for home use, as it will help parents to take control of the content your children see. 

The homebound parental control feature comes with a 3-month free trial. You can later subscribe to continue the security services or even upgrade for advanced security functions. There are over 6 antennas to provide uninterrupted internet for you. The tri-band feature (2.4GHz and two 5GHz) in WiFi is a good advantage in this model. 

The Wifi supports internet speed up to 3 Gb per second. With additional units, you can expand the efficiency of the Mesh WiFi technology. A unit comes with one year warranty and 90 days money back policy. You can use the Gryphon app to access your router settings via smartphones. 

4. TP-Link AC1750 WiFi Router ( Archer A7 )

• Dual band WiFi Router (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz)
• 3 antennas help boost the WiFi coverage, up to 2500 sq. ft.
• Can easily connect up to 50 devices on the network

TP-Link Archer A7 is one of the popular routers for wireless internet connection. The router is compatible with almost all WiFi devices and 802.11ac. The router is a dual-band device that supports up to 1750 Mb per second (2.4GHz + 5GHz). The AC1750 WiFi router is ideal for HD video streaming, gaming, large file downloading, software updates, etc. 

It has three antennas designed externally to provide a long-range WiFi connection. The router comes with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports to connect various devices to it. You can connect your computer or gaming consoles to expect optimum performance. There is a USB port in the router that is used to transfer and share audio/video files. 

There is also a WAN port in this model. You can access the WiFi settings and manage your network easily through the TP-Link Tether app, which can be installed on your smartphones. You can set up the router and access it easily using this app. TP-Link is known for its brand value and good durability. 

The router comes at in affordable rate and provides 24/7 free customer support for its users. The router supports IPv4 and IPv6 protocols. The router has security features such as parental controls and guest networks to provide you a secured internet connection. The WPA/WPA2 wireless encryption will provide your devices with efficient security.

5. ASUS RT-N12 N300 WiFi Router

• Comes with 2 detachable antennas for better range
• Offers a three-year warranty period 
• Operates at 2.4 GHz frequency

ASUS RT-N12 N300 WiFi router is a three in one router that can also serve as an access point and range extender in wireless modes. The router comes with 4 SSIDs to manage the allocation of bandwidth and access control. To provide a stable and reliant internet connection, the router has two detachable 5dBi antennas on each end. 

You can stream HD videos now with no buffers using this router. The router is capable of internet speed up to 300 Mb per second. The router is operated on a 2.4 GHz frequency. The router is known for its brand value and trustable performance throughout the years. You can set up to 4 wireless connections in this device. You can also take control of the accounts by setting up bandwidth limits and blocking access to unwanted websites. 

The router takes just a couple of minutes to be set up. You can use your smartphone to get access to the browser to enter the ID and password of router access from your Internet Service Provider. To switch from one mode to another, for example from the access point to the router, you can use the ASUSWRT graphical user interface from your browser. You can also switch modes using the Software EZ switch available on the router’s back. 

Switching between all three modes will take just a few seconds using these two efficient ways. The router is very affordable and comes with good durability. The WPA / WPA2 wireless encryption will enable a secured browsing experience for you. The router pack consists of an RJ45 cable, warranty card, 2 5dBi antennas, and a power supply. 

6. MOTOROLA MB7420 Cable Modem

• DOCSIS 3.0 based cable modem with 16×4 framework 
• Supports maximum download speeds up to 686 Mbps
• Easy to set up and connect using the Quick Start guide

Motorola MB7420 is a DOCSIS 3.0 certified Cable Modem. This modem is a great device to save your monthly rental fees. The modem offers amazing internet speed with a stable connection. It has 16 x 4 downstream and upstream channels. The modem’s internet speed is up to 686 Mb per second. It is much faster than DOCSIS 2.0 protocol. It is available both in black and white colors. 

Motorola MB7420 modem is just a modem and not a wireless router. There is no phone jack or telephone adaptor in this modem. The modem has an Ethernet port, in which you can connect your computer, gaming devices, wireless router, and HDTV. You need a cable internet service provider to enjoy connecting to the internet. 

You can buy a separate WiFi router to connect it to the modem. Be it a mesh router or gaming router, you can expect higher performance with the modem when you connect it to a router. The modem is compatible with Comcast XFINITY, Time Warner Cable, Cox, Charter Spectrum, BrightHouse, and many other internet service providers. 

The modem requires a simple setup process which will not take more than a few minutes. You can refer to the quick start guide to set up the modem. The modem is built in a smart way to save your shelf or desk space. It has auto-cooling features to reduce heating. The modem comes with a warranty period of up to 2 years.

7. ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 Cable Modem

• DOCSIS 3.0 based cable modem with a 32×8 channel bonding setup
• Supports download speeds up to 1.4 Gbps and uploads up to 262 Mbps
• Only a cable modem, does not come with built-in wireless router

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 is a DOCSIS 3.0 certified cable modem. The modem is very popular among the cable internet modems. It supports internet plans up to 600 Mb per second. The modem comes with a wide array of channels. It has 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels, which are DOCSIS 3.0 bonded. 

The modem has one Gigabit Ethernet port, which you can connect to a device or a WiFi router. The modem requires cable internet service to function, as it is not incorporated with the WiFi feature. It also does not support cable digital voice service. The modem is compatible with major cable Internet Service Providers like Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and many more. 

It is however not compatible with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink, or other DSL or Fiber internet providers. The modem supports high-speed internet for your smart TVs, gaming devices, etc. It requires a simple and easy process to be set up. After connecting the coaxial and Ethernet cables, you should contact your internet service provider to activate the internet service. 

The modem comes in bright white color. You can additionally connect the WiFi router to enjoy wireless WiFi connections. The modem supports download speed up to 1.4 Gbps and uploads speed up to 131 Mbps, depending on your Internet plans and Internet Service Provider.

8. NETGEAR CBK40 Modem, WiFi router, and single satellite extender

• Provides wireless internet access up to 4000 sq. ft. of area
• Easy to set up and install using the Orbi mobile app
• Features a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with 32×8 channel bonding setup

Netgear CBK40 modem is a three in one modem that is a cable modem, WiFi router, and single satellite extender. This special modem has all the great features you look for in an internet supporting device. Netgear is known for its good brand value and high-speed internet connectivity. A router-modem combo will generally offer efficient performance by saving so much cost. This model is best for your home use. 

It comes in an attractive white design, supporting internet speed up to 2.2 Gb per second. The device will make your escape from buffers and internet lags. It provides 4,000 sq.ft of internet coverage. The device comes with 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels. With these channels, you can expect an uninterrupted connection to your connected devices. It is certified under DOCSIS 3.0 protocol. 

Even when many devices are connected, the device will not compromise its speed. The device uses tri-band technology for the internet. It uses Quad-Core 710MHz processor. The Netgear modem can be set up easily in a few minutes. You can use the Orbi app to access the WiFi settings from your smartphones. The device provides security features such as parental control features and guest networks. You can control the content your children see using the parental control feature. 

In guest network mode, you can set up separate accounts for your friends or guests when they visit your home. There are over 4 ethernet ports in the modem. The wired connection enables internet connection to your gaming devices or smart TVs. The modem is compatible with Internet Service Providers including Xfinity from Comcast, Spectrum, Cox, and others. It is not compatible with Gigabit service and with Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink.

9. Linksys CM3024 Cable Modem

• DOCSIS 3.0 based cable modem with 24×8 channel bonding framework
• Only a cable modem, does not come with a built-in wireless support
• Supports internet speeds up to 960 Mbps

Linksys CM3024 cable modem takes few minutes to set up. It comes in a black narrow built, ideal for your home networking. The device is only a cable modem and not a wifi router. You can expect internet speed up to 960 Mb per second. 

The modem is compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Time Warner Cable, Charter, Cox, Cablevision, and many others. It requires a Cable Internet Service to function. The modem is not compatible with Verizon, AT & T or CenturyLink. The modem is efficient for HD video streaming, gaming, and downloading files. 

The modem is incorporated with Intel Puma 6 chipset to deliver super-fast internet. The modem is certified under DOCSIS 3.0 internet standards. It will support an uninterrupted fast internet connection over the cable. Linksys modem has 24 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels. 

As the modem does not have a built-in WiFi, you can purchase a WiFi router separately to enjoy WiFi internet connections. Your internet plans need to support a minimum of 300 Mbps to support a high-speed connection in this modem. The modem supports Mac, PC, and Windows 7 OS. 

10. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000 AC1900 Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo

• Cable modem + WiFi Router combo
• Supports cable internet plans up to a speed of 800 Mbps
• DOCSIS 3.0 modem with a 32 x 8 channel bonding setup 

Netgear Nighthawk C7000 modem is both a modem and a WiFi router. This modem router combo will work so efficiently to provide you high a speed internet connection. The modem is compatible with many major cable internet providers such as Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. It is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and other bundled voice services. 

You can save your modem rental fees to a great extent by using this router-modem combo. The device supports internet speed up to 400 Mb per second. The device has over 24 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels. It is qualified under DOCSIS 3.0 internet standards. The WiFi range will extend up to 1800 sq ft. 

You can connect over 30 devices with this AC1900 WiFi. The WiFi supports speed up to 1900 Mb per second. The modem comes with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 USB ports. With the USB ports, you can connect your wired devices to get fast data transfers. The USB port supports computers, printers, game boxes, storage drives, etc. 

The modem comes with several security functions like parental controls feature, WEP, and WPA/WPA2 wireless encryption. This security feature will be of great use to families with children. Parents can block unwanted sites and have control over the content. The WiFi uses a dual-band feature to deliver a smart connection with no lags. The device takes very few minutes to be set up. 

11. Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem

• Only a cable modem, does not feature WiFi 
• DOCSIS 3.1 based cable modem
• Supports internet connections up to 2500 Mbps 

Motorola’s MB8611 is their top-of-the-line modem and comes with some of the most power-packed features compared to their other modems. This is a DOCSIS 3.1 based pure cable modem, but even this one does not feature a built-in WiFi router, which is perhaps its biggest weakness. However, on every other front, Motorola has totally got you covered, making this one of the best Optimum compatible modems out there. 

Let us start with the fact that this modem comes with a 2.5 Gbps port on the back, which is a big, big advantage. The Motorola MB8611 supports very fast internet speeds – providing access to downstream speeds up to 2500 Mbps and upstream speeds up to 800 Mbps. The modem provides the users with true Gigabit-plus speeds, as promised by the manufacturer. 

It makes use of technologies such as Active Queue Management (AQM) to provide users with faster and stable access to the internet. Thanks to AQM, this is also a great modem for gamers and streamers as it reduces the lag and latency, as well as the buffering time. Another advantage of AQM is that all your mobile apps will function more smoothly. This is a great product for anyone looking forward to getting a cable modem for home, as well as for an office, given the kind of speeds it supports. 

This is one of the best modems out there for a user on the Optimum internet service. Motorola is an experienced name in this industry and this is one of their finest creations. The modem does lose a couple of points due to the lack of a built-in wireless infrastructure, but in every other sense, it is one of the best options out there. It also comes with a two-year warranty period and excellent customer support from Motorola.

An Ultimate Guide To Choose The Best Optimum Modems

From the dawn of the internet, there has been a surging increase to access the near-infinite knowledge stored in this virtual library. The cost of maintaining continuous access is usually astronomical in the long run. This sudden need brought forth the introduction of devices such as Modems and Routers that allow you to access the internet from your systems at your convenience. Various factors need to be thoroughly checked if you are willing to buy a Modem or a Router, some of which are explained below. Once you grasp the basics, it’s pretty easy to get a gist of your actual needs and select the perfect device that suits them. Please keep on reading to refresh your knowledge on these devices.

1. Speed

With the growing trend, faster connections are readily available throughout the market as most network users hate slow network speeds. Choosing the best Modem also corresponds to the total uplink and downlink speeds it can support. One of the best available Modems is the ones that provide a link speed of 1 Gbps. Keep a note of your network provider’s highest speed limit too, since using a 1 Gbps high-speed modem for a 100 Mbps network connection will still cap your speed at 100 Mbps. Also, the 1 Gbps speed highlighted by the sellers only refers to the Downlink speed. The upload speed commonly peaks at about one-quarter of the download speed.

2. Channels

The number of available channels also determines how fast the modem is going to be. For example, in a 32 x 8 Channel modem, the total downlink channels are 32 and the uplink channels are 8. This is because most users tend to download data more than upload some. There are a few high-end systems that provide the same number of channels for upload and download but the applications of such systems are best in scientific research. For ordinary use, try to get at least a 16 downstream channel modem since it can tend to most networking needs of the current trend.

3. Compatibility

The next thing to be considered is the ISP compatibility. Most of the big shots in the Modem market provide products that support nearly all ISPs that exist, but some are limited in their scope as well. It’s always best to check whether the ISP you have is compatible with the Modem you are willing to buy. The best way is to just Google your ISP-compatible modems or try calling your ISP to clarify the same.

4. DOCSIS Protocols

‘Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification’, commonly known as DOCSIS, denotes that your modem can provide broadband internet access through Coaxial cables. There are 2 versions available. The DOCSIS 3.0 is cheaper and is thus inevitably slower than the other variant. But, since most ISPs cap at around 100Mbps, DOCSIS 3.0 is enough to match the speed. If your ISP supports 1Gbps data transfer speeds, then DOCSIS 3.1 is the only way to go since it can support high-speed networks without any lag. This consequently makes it costlier than its counterpart by nearly twice to thrice its rate.

5. Design and Security

As far as design goes, there are only two options. You can either go for a Standalone design where the Modem and Router are obtained separately or you can opt for a paired device. Paired devices are usually the better option for novice buyers since there is a higher level of compatibility between the Modem and the Router. For those who are experienced, they can pick those that meet their exact needs as well. In terms of Security, Routers usually provide the means to restrict access based on the user’s preferences while Modems don’t have any security systems installed in them. The best way is to always check with your ISP, to confirm that your modem is secure at all times.

FAQs

1. What is the advantage of a modem and router combo?

A modem router combo is much more efficient than an individual modem or router. It will save much space as it performs the functions of two devices in a single device. A combo will need fewer numbers of wires and cables. It can connect both wired devices and wireless WiFi devices. It also takes a simple process to set this up, saving your time. 

2. How is DOCSIS 3.0 protocol different from DOCSIS 2.0, 1.0?

DOCSIS 3.0 protocol is the internet standard that is a much-updated version of DOCSIS 1.0 or 2.0. DOCSIS 3.0 will provide a high-speed internet connection than its predecessors. There is also DOCSIS 3.1 technology in modems and routers. If you prefer advanced technology for ultra-fast internet, you can opt for 3.1. DOCSIS 3.0 will support download internet speed up to 1 Gbps. 

3. What are the security features to look for in a modem or router?

Modems and routers are vulnerable to hacking over cables and by malicious sites. You cannot completely secure your device 100% but can look out for basic security features for optimum network protection. Features such as parental control options, WPA / WPA2 wireless encryption are some of the security features provided by the modem or router brands. You can contact your ISP to keep you updated on the internet security over the line. 

4. Why is ISP compatibility so important?

Your modem compatibility with your internet service provider will determine its working and speed. Modems usually come with a list of ISPs that it supports. You can either look at this list through modem websites or research on your own. You can also contact your internet service provider to gather the compatibility details.  

5. How to set up a modem at home?

You should plug in one end of the Ethernet or network cable to the modem and plug in the other end to your computer or any other device you want to connect. You can switch ON the power switch if there is one in the modem. Now, open your internet browser and enter the IP address of the modem to get access.  

6. How to secure my Optimum compatible modem?

In order to make sure that your optimum compatible modems remain secure, make sure that you are using some internet security software, particularly those that are aimed towards modems, such as Bitdefender-powered tools like Netgear Armor. Besides that, you also need to make use of internet security software such as those offered by antivirus makers Avast and Kaspersky. In addition to relying on these tools, also make sure that you are setting up a strong password for your network and that you are using routers that support the latest security standards.

7. How much do Optimum compatible modems usually cost?

Optimum compatible modems come in a pretty wide range. Those that stand in at a lower end generally cost around $50, and as you keep increasing features and improving upon the build quality, number of ports, etc, the price tends to rise. The average price for a decent modem would be somewhere between $100 to $150, and if you toss in a built-in router, the price might rise to about $200-$220. However, there are some modems on the other end of the spectrum too and can cost north of $250 as well. 

8. Can I buy a modem that does not have a built-in router? 

Yes, you can buy a modem that does not come with a built-in router. In fact there are a larger number of modems out there that do not have a router built in them than those which do. Almost every DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 modem comes with a support for all routers and aren’t limited by a certain brand. You can connect the router to the modem using an ethernet cable and start beaming wireless internet all over your home.

Conclusion

The Optimum-approved routers and modems listed above are of reliable quality and high-speed performance. Most of the models support an internet speed of more than 500 Mbps to provide you excellent browsing experience. Choosing the right modem or router for your home can be tricky, especially when there are many choices. You should sort out the number of devices you are going to use and select the device accordingly. Try not to skip crucial factors such as DOCSIS protocol, number of channels/ports, internet speed before you place your order.