Choose a self-contained modem and router setup. Prioritize reliability and ease of use.
Choose a self-contained modem and router setup. Prioritize reliability and ease of use.
Hey there! I managed to get my mom to ditch our landline, so we won’t be billed the ridiculous fees from Comcast for their modem/router bundle. Right now we’re waiting to open a new account under my name in order to secure their affordable two-year plan—it’ll still be cheaper once it ends. I don’t want to rely on the ISP router again! We already own a TP-Link Archer AX50 router, and I’m open to swapping it out if needed.
We’re planning to go with a cable internet package offering 200Mbps download and 10Mbps upload speeds. Even though I’m a gamer, my setup only has 2–3 devices online at once. Our home is about three stories high and roughly 2200 sqft. The only wired connection is from my PC to the router.
I’m hoping to tap into this helpful community for advice on finding a good replacement modem and possibly a compatible router. So far, I’ve been checking out Asus products—especially the CMAX6000 modem, since I’ve had success with them before. The only hiccup was an Asus ROG power supply.
Thanks for any tips or recommendations!
I would just stick with the standard modem they offer. It should work just fine. Modems aren't complicated... and the free one included will suffice. Your router seems okay too. I think ISP modems are usually not worth it since their routers aren't reliable, and the Wi-Fi isn't strong... but the default modem should be adequate. If you decide you don't need their setup, avoid getting a bundled combo. Instead, choose a dedicated modem that matches your DOCSIS connection (200mb should be fine) and then keep using your existing router.
Comcast doesn’t offer free services. The gateway rental cost is around $15 per month for unlimited data, which is about $25 if you need extra. That’s why many people opt for their own devices to save money. Consider using a Docsis 3.1 modem. For internet speeds above 1 Gbps, look for a model with a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port. I own the CM1000v2, which performs well and supports up to 940 Mbps on Gigabit Ethernet. The 400/10 service works, but coverage in a multi-story home can be limited. A mesh network might provide better overall reach.
Comcast provides a catalog of compatible modems on their site. You can purchase devices that work with their phone service. You might have avoided renting altogether while keeping your landline active. For advice, I’d advise against using an Asus model. They probably don’t manufacture them in-house. It’s better to choose brands like Arris or Motorola that supply Comcast equipment. I’ve used the Motorola MB8611 and it performed well. If you’re on a tighter budget, skipping the 2.5 Gb port isn’t necessary.
Wow, that's surprising... I've been using this system for a long time, and it's much less competitive, but the prices are really high.
Spectrum stands apart. They are the sole provider offering a typical cable modem. They remain the only ones to do so at no cost. Comcast’s approach is the norm in the market. I have limited knowledge of Spectrum’s rates, but we’re charged $96 monthly for 400/10 service with a 1.2 TB limit. An additional $10 applies for every 50 Gbps exceeded, up to a $200 maximum fine.
Man, cable providers are really unfair. I’m paying 100 for what should be 500 per month with no limits, and they even give me a free modem. Things are spiraling out of control… But honestly, there’s almost nothing we can do about it—it’s a controlled monopoly or duopoly in most U.S. cities.
The modem is generally in poor condition. Upgrading depends on your networking skills. For instance, I use Mikrotik throughout my work. My home has a three-story building. The main router is a hAP AC3, which works well for home needs. I connect a CRS326 to it. To improve Wi-Fi range, I place the main router on the third floor, while on the opposite side of the house there’s a WAP AC on the second floor and another WAP AC on the first floor. I suggest using all these setups. At work, I rely heavily on Mikrotik and find them very useful. They do require some learning to set up, but the options are vast. If you lack networking expertise, consider a TP Link router for general use and a Mikrotik CAP XL AC for strong Wi-Fi coverage.