Best Modems for Xfinity Internet

When you get Xfinity internet service, you have a couple of options when it comes to the equipment you use to connect. You can use your own modem or rent the xFi Gateway from Xfinity.

Here’s a look at the best modems for Xfinity internet, the pros and cons of using your own equipment, and how it can save you money.

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Best Xfinity Compatible Modems

There are a variety of modems on the market that are compatible with Xfinity that have various features and benefits. If you happen to purchase a modem that isn’t listed here, be sure to confirm that it’ll work with your Xfinity service.

ARRIS SURFboard SBG7600AC2

This modem and router combo supports up to 1 Gbps download and upload speeds as well as dual-band Wi-Fi. It also includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections and support for IPv6 networking standards. Additionally, it has built-in security measures such as firewall protection against malicious attacks from hackers or viruses.

Price as of 2/17/23: $199

NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000

The Netgear Nighthawk C7000 handles speeds up to 1 Gbps download/upload and has a dual-band WiFi router built-in. Like the Arris, the Nighthawk sports four ethernet ports to directly connect devices for maximum speed. The Nighthawk also includes parental control settings so parents can monitor kids’ activities and keep them safe from cyber threats.

Price as of 2/17/23: $199

Motorola MG8702

The Motorola MG8702 is a feature-rich modem/router combo that can support multi-gig speeds. Like the Arris and Netgear devices, the Motorola has dual-band WiFi capability and four ethernet ports. What sets the MG8702 apart is the companion mobile app that allows for easy configuration, network management, and parental controls. Of the three devices we cover here, the Motorola MG8702 comes the closest to the features included in Xfinity’s xFi Gateway.

Price as of 2/17/23: $270

Why Use Your Own Modem?

Using your own modem with your Xfinity internet service offers many benefits. The most alluring is how much money you can save.

Cost Savings

Xfinity charges an additional $15/mo. to rent the xFi Gateway. That’s $180 per year, almost enough to cancel out the cost of buying your own modem. Since these devices typically last a few years, your cost savings really kick in during the second year, where you could be saving $150 or more per year.

Increased Flexibility

Not happy with your Xfinity internet service? Well, if you’re fortunate enough to live in an area with multiple cable internet providers, your modem will more than likely work with other internet providers. You can switch and not worry about buying a new modem.

Better Control

Using your own modem also gives you more custom control over your network and security. Third-party modems often come with advanced features, such as parental controls, network security, and quality of service (QoS) settings. These features allow you to prioritize bandwidth usage, which ensures that your devices receive the bandwidth they need for optimal performance.

Disadvantages of Using Your Own Equipment with Xfinity Internet

As great as the advantages are for running your own modem, there are potential drawbacks to keep in mind. 

Support

The most significant is the lack of technical support. The nice thing about leasing the xFi Gateway is that when things go sideways, you’ll have support from Xfinity and a replacement if the device is malfunctioning. Most manufacturers include a warranty, but might be a good idea to purchase an extended warranty, just to have the peace of mind if your modem malfunctions.

Equipment Upgrades and Replacements

Additionally, you will get upgraded equipment from Xfinity as it becomes available, or if your current leased equipment can’t support updated standards. If you’re using your own equipment, you’ll have to buy a new one when yours becomes outdated.

Speed

When you lease equipment from Xfinity, you are guaranteed to receive the advertised internet speed that you are paying for as well as future speed upgrades. If you decide to use your own modem, you will be limited to the top speed the equipment is able to support, and that may not line up with your plan. In some cases, you may even experience slower speeds.

Integration

The xFi Gateway is designed to work with Xfinity internet. While the modems covered here are compatible, you will lose out on some features by using them. This includes a lack of access to millions of hotspots nationwide, device support from Xfinity, and access to advanced, integrated security.

Test Your Equipment

Whether you’re using your own equipment or leasing equipment from Xfinity, it is recommended that you run an internet speed test for your connection periodically. The speed test results will tell you how fast your connection is on the device from which you are running the test. It’s the easiest way to begin diagnosing issues with your Xfinity internet. 

The cost savings of using your own equipment are definitely attractive. As long as you know what the pitfalls are and either know how to troubleshoot hardware and networking issues on your own, or have purchased an extended warranty to protect yourself, using your own equipment is a great way to go.

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