If you have an internet connection at your home or office, you must be familiar with routers and other network-related devices. But, to connect to the internet connection provided by your telephone operator, you will need a modem along with the router.
A modem offers internet connectivity via cable line or telephone line. These connections are more secure and stable and are mostly preferred for official use. If you do not own a modem or your current modem is outdated, you can get a new one by considering the important factors mentioned here.
- Bandwidth Capacity: Similar to other routers, the DSL routers also have a limited bandwidth capacity which is basically a limitation on their data transfer speed. For example, a 1000 Mbps DSL modem will not be able to utilize a gigabit connection as it can only transfer data at a rate of 100 Mbps.
- Type of DSL Modem: There are 2 different types of DSL connections available that are ADSL2+ and VDSL2. Every DSL modem is capable of either one out of these options, Thus, you should note your DSL connection type and buy the modem accordingly.
- Ports: The number of ports available on a DSL modem must be checked as it gives you an idea about how many devices you can connect to the modem. You should prefer a device that allows more connections at once.
If you find your network router being incompatible with your application, it is time to get an upgrade and buy one of the best DSL modems available out there. These options are perfect for versatile usage, and you can find all the relative information right here. Also, there is a “Buying Guide” for the best DSL modem that will be very helpful for you.
7 Best DSL Modem 2023 List
| DSL Modem | Bandwidth | Number of Ports | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CenturyLink DSL Modem | Up to 300 Mbps | 4 ethernet ports, 1 LAN port, 1 USB port, 2 VoIP ports, 1 DSL port | 1 Year | Check On Amazon |
| Actiontec DSL Modem | Up to 300 Mbps | 4 ethernet ports, 1 USB port, 1 DSL port | N.A | Check On Amazon |
| TP-LINK DSL Modem | Up to 100 Mbps | 1 LAN port, 1 DSL port | 2 Years | Check On Amazon |
| Netgear DSL Modem | Up to 100 Mbps | 1 LAN port, 1 DSL port | 1 Year | Check On Amazon |
| CenturyLink DSL Modem | Up to 3000 Mbps | 4 Ethernet ports, 1 USB port, 1 LAN port, 1 DSL port | N.A | Check On Amazon |
| NETGEAR D2200D DSL Modem | Up to 300 Mbps | 4 Ethernet ports, 1 DSL port | N.A | Check On Amazon |
| Arris DSL Modem | Up to 1000 Mbps | 4 ethernet ports, 2 USB ports, 1 ONT port, 1 DSLport, Phone line port | N.A | Check On Amazon |
Best DSL Modem 2023 Reviews
1. CenturyLink DSL Modem
CenturyLink is known for making industry-grade network peripherals in the market. Its DSL modem is a decent choice for commercial applications.
Coming on the top, we have the CenturyLink DSL modem. It is the first DSL modem on our list that supports a dual-band wireless network. Hence, you can use the 2.4 GHz connection for distant devices or a 5 GHz connection for faster speeds. It is backed by the next generation IEEE 802.11ac for the 5 GHz network to provide seamless video playback without any lag. It also has integrated VDSL2 that supports bonded ADSL2+ and bonded VDSL2 up to 17 a profile standard.
On the rear side of the C2100T, you will find a dedicated USB port, a WAN/LAN port, and 4 additional Ethernet ports that should cover most of your requirements. There are also 2 dedicated VoIP ports and a DSL port, which will allow you to get connected via a DSL connection. Despite its premium price tag, it is a great choice and backed by a year of warranty from CenturyLink.
Best Features
- Premium DSL modem
- Supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless networks
- 1 year warranty period
- 300 Mbps bandwidth capacity
- Next-generation IEEE 802.11ac wireless standard
- Integrated VDSL2
Pros
- A great option for industrial application
- Can be used for a large number of devices
- Dual-band connection is great
Cons
- Very expensive option
2. Actiontec DSL Modem
Actiontec is bringing you a great DSL router if you have a Verizon DSL connection. Considering the fact that it is rather a popular service, this DSL modem might be a great choice for many users.
Our 2nd choice is featuring the Actiontec Verizon High-Speed Internet DSL modem. As mentioned in the title itself, the Actiontec Verizon High-Speed Internet DSL modem is designed to work with Verizon DSL service only. It is basically a 3 in 1 product. Within a device, you will be getting a full rate ADSL 2/2+ modem, a 4 port network switch, and a dual antenna router for wireless connectivity. It features the 2.4 GHz network band and offers a standard 300 Mbps bandwidth capacity.
Unlike most other routers, Actiontec performs various tests and examinations on its router at the time of production. Thus, you will end up with a durable and long-lasting device that is suitable for its premium price tag. Additional features on the Actiontec Verizon High-Speed Internet DSL include a secure network firewall, dedicated parental controls, and multiple layers of encryptions to keep your data secured. You will find 4 Ethernet ports on this router present alongside the DSL port.
Best Features
- Premium DSL modem
- Supports 2.4 GHz wireless network
- 4 Ethernet ports are available
- 300 Mbps bandwidth capacity
- Operates on 802.11n technology
- MIMO smart antenna for extended range
- 90 days warranty period
Pros
- It can provide a wired connection to 4 devices simultaneously
- Backward compatible with older devices
- Additional protection for wireless network
Cons
- The warranty period is limited to 90 days
3. TP-LINK DSL Modem
TP-link is globally known for its routers and other network devices. Buying a DSL modem from TP-link is a wise choice due to its reliability.
In the 3rd position, we are putting the TP-LINK ADSL2+ Modem Router. The TP-LINK ADSL2+ Modem Router or TD 8816 DSL modem supports DHCP that helps in automatically assigning IP addresses to all connected devices. It also supports UPnP on ports for greater bandwidth capacity on the local network. Since TP-Link has been designing routers for a very long time now, they have included various QoS policies to meet your requirements.
Once a DSL connection is connected to the TD 8816 DSL modem, you can get up to 24 Mbps downstream speed, which is good enough for official work. Furthermore, it supports Annex M technology that can potentially double your upstream data rate. As for security, the TD 8816 DSL modem offers triple firewalls that are SPI, NAT, and a special packet filter. There is 2 years warranty period provided on this DSL modem.
Best Features
- Reliable DSL modem
- 2 years warranty period
- 100 Mbps bandwidth capacity
- Supports Annex M technology
- QoS policies to meet end-user requirements
- Supports DHCP and UPnP
Pros
- Up to 24 Mbps downstream speed
- Double upstream data rate thanks to Annex M
- Three layers of firewall on the modem
Cons
- Bandwidth capacity should have been higher
4. Netgear DSL Modem
Netgear is also a popular brand for routers, and you probably own a Netgear router at your home or office. The DSL modem from Netgear is very compact and portable.
If you are looking for a portable DSL modem, then look no more. The Netgear Broadband ADSL2 Plus Modem is a great solution for all your needs. It is a highly compact and portable DSL modem that can be easily set up and install anywhere you want. You can use this DSL modem with various systems such as Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Unix, etc. As it is an ADSL2+ modem, it provides service prioritization for data.
Compared to many other DSL modems, you will find the Netgear Broadband ADSL2 Plus Modem to be the cheaper yet a highly effective alternative option. It offers up to 100 Mbps bandwidth capacity. Unlike most other affordable brands, Netgear offers a year of warranty on the Netgear Broadband ADSL2 Plus Modems.
Best Features
- Compact DSL modem
- 1 year warranty period
- 100 Mbps bandwidth capacity
- Supports various operating systems
- ADSL2 Plus Modem
Pros
- Reliable choice under an affordable budget
- Portable DSL modem
- Popular brand choice
Cons
- Bandwidth capacity is very limited
5. CenturyLink DSL Modem
CenturyLink has many different choices available for a DSL modem. Out of which, we have decided to include yet another model that offers extremely high data transfer speed.
The CenturyLink C4000LG DSL Modem is one of the best options present in the market right now. Along with an attractive design aspect, the C4000LG CenturyLink DSL Modem is capable of up to 3000 Mbps bandwidth capacity. You can get a dual-stream connectivity option on this router where you can get 600 Mbps and 2400 Mbps connection, respectively. There is a built-in dual-core processor on this DSL modem for powerful network optimization.
The network channels on the C4000LG CenturyLink DSL Modem are 160 MHz channels, so that you get double bandwidth speeds compared to the traditional 80 MHz channels. This increases the gigabit compatibility range for mobile devices. It is designed with 1024-QAM technology that provides a nearly 38% increase in data transfer rate. There is a USB port, a DSL port, a LAN port, and 4 Ethernet ports provided on the modem.
Best Features
- High-end DSL modem
- Supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless networks
- 160 MHz channel support
- 3000 Mbps bandwidth capacity
- 1024-QAM technology
- DSL port supports all ADSL profiles up to 17a
Pros
- Suitable choice for heavy users
- The data transfer rate is incredibly high
- Supports dual-stream connection
Cons
- Expensive DSL modem
6. NETGEAR D2200D DSL Modem
Netgear also has affordable alternatives for various network-related components. Thus, our last pick is a budget-friendly DSL modem from Netgear.
Coming at the end of our picks, we have yet another highly affordable DSL modem from Netgear. The Netgear D2200D is the cheapest DSL modem you can find in the market, which is compatible and suitable with your needs. This DSL modem supports ADSL services, so make sure that this option is compatible with your network. Apart from that, you will be getting standard 300 Mbps bandwidth capacity on this DSL modem so that you can watch high-quality video streams without any lag.
This DSL modem comprises 4-gigabit Ethernet ports and a single DSL port so that you can get up to 1000 Mbps bandwidth on your local network and data transfer. Moreover, it has 2×2 11n WiFi support, IPv6 dual-stack technology, and WPA/WPA2 security protocol along with WPS for easily connecting your devices with the router. And the TR-069 on the Netgear D2200D ADSL will allow you to remotely manage the parameters of the modem and troubleshoot problems with ease.
Best Features
- Most affordable DSL modem
- Supports 2.4 GHz and wireless network
- 4-gigabit Ethernet ports
- 300 Mbps bandwidth capacity
- TR-069 for remote access
- IPv6 dual-stack technology
Pros
- Easy to set up and troubleshoot
- Available at a fraction of cost compared to premium DSL modems
- Standard router features
Cons
- There is no warranty period
7. Arris DSL Modem
Now that you are familiar with all of the premium choices available in the market, let’s turn our focus to some of the cheaper variants for a DSL modem. Out of which, the DSL modem from AT&T is a great option.
Most affordable DSL modems only feature a single band network as they are designed for limited compatibility. But, the AT&T Arris BGW210-700 is a spectacular alternative for a DSL modem that features a dual-band wireless network. Coming to the hardware compatibility of this device, there are 2 USB ports, 4 Ethernet ports with support for a gigabit connection, an ONT port, and a phone line connection port. Keep in mind that your connection must have ONT for this DSL modem to work.
With the AT&T Arris BGW210-700, you will be getting simultaneous support for the 400 mW 802.11b/g/n 2.4 GHz network as well as 802.11ac 5 GHz wireless network. Due to the dual-band support, you can expect up to gigabit connection speed even on the devices that are connected to this DSL modem over WiFi. And with the additional phone port, you can connect up to 2 telephones to the DSL modem, making it a perfect choice for commercial applications.
Best Features
- Affordable DSL modem
- Supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless networks
- 1000 Mbps bandwidth capacity
- 11b/g/n & 802.11ac network supported
- 4 LAN ports are provided
- Dual USB ports
Pros
- Connectivity options are great
- Gigabit support, despite being a cheaper option
- Can connect 2 telephones with the DSL modem
Cons
- Need to buy power cables separately
Buying Guide For The Best DSL Modem
While choosing the correct DSL modem for your requirement, you might get confused between a couple of options as most routers look similar in terms of specifications and budget. But, it is essential to choose the best option in your budget to get stable and reliable connectivity on your devices. So far, you might have come across various technical terms like bandwidth, network bands, WiFi standards, etc. But, to understand these aspects completely, we are presenting the following buying guide for the best DSL modem. Here, we will talk about these properties in brief and explain their importance regarding various applications. Thus, you can easily avoid the unnecessary choices for your requirements and get the most suitable DSL modem.
1. Compatibility With Your Network
Before buying a DSL modem, you must understand the fact that you need an existing network connection that you are going to connect to your DSL modem. Thus, your internet service must be compatible with the DSL modem that you are going to buy. If you are unsure about your network, you can discuss the choice with your ISP before buying it. Generally, there are 2 types of DSL services that are ADSL2+ and VDSL2. Keep in mind that most DSL modems only support one or the other, and it is hard to find the option that is compatible with both.
2. Available Ports
Buyers usually don’t pay much attention to the ports available on their modems before buying them. But this is not a good practice as these ports turn out to be very crucial later on. For example, if your DSL modem only has a single Ethernet port, you will not be able to connect more than one device with a LAN connection. Along with the number of ports, you should also consider the type of port and allowed bandwidth capacity for each port. A standard DSL modem must have at least one Ethernet port and one RJ11 port for a telephone connection. Having USB ports on the DSL modem is not necessary, but beneficial to have.
3. Additional Features
The DSL modem is primarily used for wired connections. But. there are few DSL modems that also offer wireless connectivity. Instead of connecting your wireless devices to a different router, you will be able to connect everything on the same device if you opt in for such a DSL modem. This will reduce the need for additional routers in the workplace and also avoid the bottleneck of bandwidth caused by additional routers.
4. Bandwidth Capacity
Lastly, we will consider the bandwidth capacity as it is also a crucial factor for network-related devices like routers and DSL modems. The bandwidth capacity of a DSL modem is basically the limitation on the data transfer speed available with the modem. Naturally, even with a higher bandwidth connection, you will not be able to get the advantage of the full speed if your DSL modem does not support it. Hence, your DSL modem must have equal or higher bandwidth capacity compared to your connection. This also provides you with the option to use the same device even if you decide to upgrade your network plan.
Conclusion:
When it comes to network-related peripherals, irrespective of the unit that you get, you will have to bear its running and maintenance expenses. Also, network devices have an important role in maintaining your connectivity so that you can carry out your online work and have a reliable connection to the internet. Therefore, you must invest in a high-quality DSL modem whether you are buying it for your home or office. Today, we have listed the best DSL modem present in the market for you. If you cannot decide which option is suitable for you, we will suggest you go with one of our recommendations given here.
- Data transfer speed is crucial for content creators and similar users. Hence, the CenturyLink DSL Modem
will be perfect for such users as it offers up to 3000 Mbps bandwidth capacity. It can be accessed via 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz wireless signal, both of which are supported by this DSL modem. - TP-Link routers are quite famous for their reliability. Hence, our next recommendation is the TP-LINK DSL Modem. This device is backed with 2 years warranty period so that it will last you a very long time. It supports 100 Mbps bandwidth over a 2.4 GHz wireless network.
- Lastly, we will recommend yet another gigabit DSL modem from our picks which is the Actiontec DSL Modem. This DSL modem has 4-gigabit ports available on the back that will let you connect up to 4 devices with a gigabit connection. It also offers high wireless speed thanks to the 2.4 GHz network band.
