A modem is one of the simplest yet highly important devices needed to connect to the internet. It is used to modulate and demodulate network signals from cable and thus making it highly important if you are using the internet. A low-performance modem can cause a lot of latency issues, which is quite a problem while gaming. Hence, we are here with the best modems for gaming based on the following factors:
- Maximum Speed: The first thing to check while getting a modem for gaming is its maximum speed rating. It is highly important to check as a 1Gbps modem is going to offer much better speeds than a 300Mbps one. A few models might even offer network speeds higher than 1Gbps.
- Number of Channels: Another thing to check which affects the performance of a given modem is the number of channels offered by it. While some of them offer 16 downstream channels with 4 upstream channels, other models might also offer 32 downstream channels with 8 upstream channels.
- DOCSIS Version: While buying a modem for gaming, you will see that they offer different DOCSIS versions. This primarily includes DOCSIS 3.0 modems and DOCSIS 3.1 modems. Out of these two options, the DOCSIS 3.1 modems will offer better network performance and stability, making them ideal for gaming.
Other than these factors, there is still more to check because of which we have mentioned all of the major features and options of the various modems for gaming present in this article. You can even find a detailed “Buying Guide” related to these modems for buying the best modem for gaming after following this article until the end.
5 Best Modems For Gaming In 2024
| Modems for Gaming | Max. Speed | No. of Channels | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netgear Cable Modem | 1 Gbps | 32 downstream, 8 upstream | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Motorola MB8611 Cable Modem | 6 Gbps | 32 downstream, 8 upstream | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| Arris Surfboard SB8200 Cable Modem | 3.1 Gbps | 32 downstream, 8 upstream | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| Arris Surfboard SB6190 Cable Modem | 1.4 Gbps | 32 downstream, 8 upstream | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
5 Best Modems For Gaming In 2024 Reviews
1. Netgear CM1000 Modem
Netgear is one of the most popular brands of networking tools and devices out there, which is known for offering high-performance products like its modem for gaming.
The Netgear CM1000 modem is present in the 1st position in this article as it offers great performance without charging a premium for it. With this modem, you get a maximum speed of 1Gbps, which is quite high and results in a high value for money.
It is able to offer these speeds thanks to its DOCSIS 3.1 version, which is paired along with a 32 x 8 channel configuration. This means that you get 32 upstream and 8 downstream channels with this modem. You also get a 1-year warranty with this Netgear modem, which is always great to have.
Best Features
- Rated at a maximum speed of 1Gbps
- Offers 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
- Uses the DOCSIS 3.1 version
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros
- High value for money modem
- Offers high performance for the price
- Compatible with the newer DOCSIS 3.1 version
Cons
- Only one ethernet port
2. Motorola MB8611 Modem
While you might know Motorola for its smartphones or radio communication devices, it also makes many high-end networking devices that offer excellent performance to the user.
Motorola’s MB8611 modem is present in the 2nd position in this article as it is the best in terms of performance. Unlike most other modems for gaming available out there, this one offers a very high maximum speed rating of 6Gbps, which is much more than what you will need. The ethernet port on this router is also very high speed at 2.5Gbps.
Since this is a high-performance modem for gaming, you also get the DOCSIS 3.1 version with it. When combined with its 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels, you can expect excellent network stability. Because this is a premium modem for gaming, the included 2-year warranty is expected.
Best Features
- Rated at a maximum speed of 6Gbps
- 2.5Gbps Ethernet Port
- Offers 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
- Uses the DOCSIS 3.1 version
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros
- Excellent performance for gaming
- Uses a lot of channels for excellent stability
- Highly reliable modem
Cons
- Slightly on the expensive side
3. Arris Surfboard SB8200 Cable Modem
Compared with other modem brands out there, Arris is not as popular since it is a bit new. But it still offers a great modem which is rated to have pretty good performance for the price.
This Arris Surfboard SB8200 modem is present in the 3rd position in this article as it can be another great option if you are looking for a high-performance mode. When compared with most other modems, this one offers a slightly higher maximum speed rating of 3.1Gbps. It also contains two 1Gbps ethernet ports.
You also get a total of 32 downstream channels and 8 downstream channels with this modem, which is quite good for stability and performance. It uses the latest DOCSIS 3.1. Even though Arris is a smaller brand of models, it still offers a 2-year warranty for your peace of mind.
Best Features
- Rated at a maximum speed of 3.1Gbps
- Offers 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
- Uses the DOCSIS 3.1 version
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros
- Quite a reliable and durable modem
- High-performance modem for gaming
- Uses a lot of downstream and upstream channels
Cons
- None to specify
4. Arris Surfboard SB6190 Cable Modem
At the last option in this article, we have another listing from Arris. This is the Arris SurfboardSB6190 Cable Modem, an affordable alternative to the earlier model.
The Arris Surfboard SB6190 modem is another great option if you are looking for a high-performance mode. When compared with most other modems, this one offers a slightly higher maximum speed rating of 1.4Gbps.
You also get a total of 32 downstream channels and 8 downstream channels with this modem, which is quite good for stability and performance. Although, it uses the slightly older DOCSIS 3.0 version instead of the 3.1. Even though Arris is a smaller brand of models, it still offers a 2-year long warranty for your peace of mind.
Best Features
- Rated at a maximum speed of 1.4Gbps
- Offers 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
- Uses the DOCSIS 3.0 version
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros
- Quite a reliable and durable modem
- High-performance modem for gaming
- Has a lot of downstream and upstream channels
Cons
- Uses the older DOCSIS 3.0 version
- Not the most powerful modem
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gaming Modem
In online gaming, having the right equipment matters for success. While gaming consoles and PCs get a lot of focus, the modem is often overlooked. A modem connects your gaming device to the internet, impacting your gaming experience. Let’s explore key factors for choosing a gaming-focused modem.
1. Compatibility with Gaming Consoles and PCs
Verify if your modem aligns with your gaming system. Smooth incorporation is crucial for Xbox, PlayStation, or gaming PC. Some modems provide gaming-focused functions such as prioritizing gaming data or reducing latency. Refer to compatibility guides from modem and gaming device makers.
2. Speed and Bandwidth
For smooth gaming, a speedy and dependable internet connection is key. When choosing a modem, prioritize its speed and bandwidth. Opt for models compatible with high-speed internet plans and equipped with DOCSIS 3.1 tech for faster downloads and uploads. Also, check if it can handle multiple devices at once, especially if others in your household are using the internet.
3. Lag and Latency Reduction
Gamers often get frustrated by lag, which interrupts their fast-paced online gameplay. To solve this, choose a modem with Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities. QoS prioritizes gaming traffic, making gameplay smoother, especially during busy times. Look for a modem with customizable QoS options for the best gaming performance.
4. Quality of Service (QoS) Features
Prioritizing your gaming experience requires Quality of Service (QoS) features in your modem. Look for ones offering traffic shaping, packet prioritization, and bandwidth allocation. These features maintain smooth gaming by managing latency and reducing jitter. They ensure your gaming data gets priority over less time-sensitive internet tasks.
5. Security Features
Cybersecurity is vital, especially for gamers vulnerable to disruptions or data breaches. Prioritize security features such as firewalls, encryption, and parental controls when choosing a gaming modem. These features safeguard against online threats, providing peace of mind during gaming sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: There are no gaming modems but there are some “Gaming Routers”. Gaming Routers are slightly advanced than normal routers in terms of features and performance.
Ans: Technically speaking, a Modem is a device that converts the data from the cable or telephone line into internet data. Router is a device that is used to provide internet connectivity to multiple devices (either wired or wireless).
Usually, modems have only one port for connecting a computer or laptop and doesn’t even have Wi-Fi connectivity. If your internet connection needs a modem, then we recommend you to buy a W-Fi router, as you can use the Wi-Fi as well as some wired connections as well.
Ans: If you have a decent internet connection with low latency and ping time, then a gaming router can further improve the efficiency of the internet connection. They often have better data management, right to the individual user. Some gaming routers even have some sort of gaming mode, which restricts the internet connectivity to other devices while the main gaming system gets maximum bandwidth allocation.
Even if you are not a gamer, gaming routers can be used in multi-user households as they often have additional features such as Quality of Service or QoS, using which control the bandwidth to every device. The quality of hardware used in gaming routers is also superior than normal routers, which results in a good Wi-Fi range and good overall build quality. Some gaming router manufacturers also provide frequent firmware updates with all the latest and improved features.
Ans: Just like routers, an expensive and a better modem does make a difference in terms of speed, connectivity, less or no data drop outs. All this is possible only if you a decent from your ISP and the speeds cannot be more than the limit of the plan you are on.
Ans: DOCSIS is the standard for transmission of internet data on cable. Presently, there are two standards that are commonly used: DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. DOCSIS 3.1 is an update to DOCSIS 3.0 and has higher upstream and downstream speeds.
In DOCSIS 3.0 modems, the upstream and downstream speeds are 200 Mbps and 1 Gbps respectively. The speeds in case of DOCSIS 3.1 modems are 1 Gbps and 10 Gbps for upstream and downstream. Apart from this, the data throughput has also gained a significant bump. It is 42.88 Mbps per 6 MHz channel in DOCSIS 3.0 and 1.89 Gbps per 192 MHz channel in DOCSIS 3.1.
Ans: If you want 500 Mbps on both upstream and downstream, then you need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
Conclusion
If you play a lot of online multiplayer games, then you must know that keeping your ping to a minimum is highly important for getting rid of all lag and other latency issues. This means that apart from having a high-quality internet connection, you will also need to have high-performance networking devices for your computer.
This also includes getting one of the best modems for gaming mentioned up above in this article. We have mentioned all of them, along with all their important details like major features and options.
You can also find a detailed buying guide related to these modems for gaming. And based on all those factors, here are our favorite recommendations for the best modems for gaming:
- The first product we recommend is the Netgear CM1000 Cable Modem. It is DOCSIS 3.1 compatible and supports major cable providers such as Comcast, Cox, Spectrum, etc. Coming to the internet speeds, depending on the cable internet provider, it supports speeds up to 1Gbps. It comes with 1-year warranty.
- If you are looking for even higher internet ethernet, then the Motorola MB8611 Cable Modem is one of the best performing modems available out there. It uses 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels resulting in a very high maximum speed of 6Gbps, which is much higher than others. It also supports the latest DOCSIS 3.1 cable for the best performance. You also get a 2-year long warranty with this modem from Motorola.
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