Selecting the right router for your Cox internet service is important for ensuring smooth online connectivity and excellent performance across all your devices. With many options to choose from, it’s essential to find a router that matches Cox’s network requirements precisely.
Factors to Consider:
- DOCSIS Version: DOCSIS is simply a standard of broadband used by modem devices. The latest DOCSIS version around right now is DOCSIS 3.1 which allows the modem to support internet plans up to 1Gbps. On the other hand, its predecessor, the DOCSIS 3.0 technology is found in modems that support up to 200Mbps plans.
- Wireless Standard: Apart from the modem, you should also check the wireless standard and speed of the router. In the case of DOCSIS 3.0 modems, most routers generally support up to Wi-Fi 802.11ac standards, which is ideal for most internet plans offered by Cox.
- Data Transfer Rate: In case you want a fast internet connection, you can check out the max data transfer rates of the router. In our list, we have included a variety of routers that offer Wi-Fi speeds like 1200Mbps, 1600Mbps, 1900Mbps, 3200Mbps, etc. Routers supporting high speeds are future-proof as you can upgrade your internet plan anytime keeping the same router.
For a comprehensive “Buying Guide” and top picks tailored to your requirements and preferences, explore our selection to make an informed decision that enhances your Cox Internet experience.
Best Router for Cox Table
| Best Router for Cox | DOCSIS Version | Wireless Data Transfer Rate | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo | DOCSIS 3.0 | Up to 1200 Mbps | 3 months long | Check On Amazon |
| ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 Cable Modem | DOCSIS 3.0 | Up to 1600 Mbps | 2 year long | Check On Amazon |
| TP-Link AC1750 Wi-Fi Cable Modem Router | DOCSIS 3.0 | Up to 1750 Mbps | 2 year long | Check On Amazon |
| NETGEAR Cable Modem CM500 | DOCSIS 3.0 | --- | 3 months long | Check On Amazon |
| Motorola MG7700 Cable Modem Plus AC1900 | DOCSIS 3.0 | Up to 1900Mbps | 2 year long | Check On Amazon |
| Arris SURFboard Cable Modem Plus | DOCSIS 3.0 | Up to 1900Mbps | 2 year long | Check On Amazon |
| Motorola MG8702 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi Router | DOCSIS 3.1 | Up to 3200 Mbps | 2 year long | Check On Amazon |
Best Router for Cox Reviews
1. NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C6220
Netgear is one of the most versatile brands in the market when it comes to devices like routers and modems. You can pretty much find a router or modem of any category depending on your budget from Netgear.
This option from Netgear holds 1st position in this list because of its attractive pricing and feature-full specifications. Speaking about the WiFi Router Combo C6220 device, it is compatible with all the major ISPs including Cox. Since this modem router is engineered with 16×4 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0, it supports internet plans of Xfinity up to 200Mbps, Cox up to 150Mbps, and 100Mbps plans from Spectrum.
Coming to its router performance, it’s a single band router and supports Wi-Fi data transfer rates up to 1200Mbps which makes it a great router for home networks. In fact, it can seamlessly connect up to 20 devices at the same time. Thankfully, the coverage area is about 1200 sq. ft, so you won’t experience any wireless dead zones in your house either.
Best Features
- Deliver Wireless Speeds up to 1200Mbps
- Supports Cable plans up to 200Mbps
- Decent Wireless coverage up to 1200 Sq. ft.
- Comes with a 3 months warranty
Pros
- Affordable option
- Decent build quality
- Supports other leading ISPs also
Cons
- Overheats sometimes
2. ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem
If you are looking for a modem router combo that you can use at your office, modem-routers from ARRIS are one of the best options that you can check out as it’s a highly popular brand for manufacturing reliable and feature-rich devices.
This SURFboard modem router surely deserves the 2nd position in this list because of its high build quality and fair pricing. The SBG10 is a perfect modem router for a budget of around $100. It’s great to note that it features 16 downstream & 4 upstream channels, which helps it support cable internet plans up to 400Mbps. Thus, if you have a Cox subscription, this DOCSIS 3.0 modem router isn’t going to disappoint you at all.
On the other hand, it also features an AC1600 dual-band Wi-Fi Router serving wireless speeds up to 1600 Mbps. Moreover, you will also find 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports at the back of the device in case you want to set up a wired connection to your PC or laptop. Apart from that, the setup of the device is super-easy, thanks to the SURFboard Manager mobile app support.
Best Features
- Deliver Wireless Speeds up to 1600Mbps
- Ideal for cable internet plans up to 400Mbps
- Supports SURFboard Manager mobile app
- Comes with a 2-year2-year warranty
Pros
- Durable and elegant design
- Fast performance
- Connection stability is good
Cons
- Not compatible with DSL
3. TP-Link 16×4 AC1750 Wi-Fi Cable Modem Router
Although TP-Link is most popular for selling the cheapest best quality modem and router devices in the market. We have picked up one of its premium offerings to mention here in this list for you.
First of all, you will definitely love its design and build quality as it looks no cheaper than any flagship router out there. Speaking of its features, it boasts about 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, which lets it deliver up to 680Mbps download speeds on wired connections. Speaking about wireless speeds, it is capable of reaching up to 1750Mbps Wi-Fi speeds while 450Mbps is offered by the 2.4GHz band, and the rest of the 1300Mbps is handled by the 5GHz band.
If you look at the back of this modem router, TP-Link offers 4 Gigabit Etheet ports along with 2 USB ports as well. Moreover, the best part is that it supports Cox internet plans up to 300 Mbps and also has support for other leading ISPs such as Comcast, Spectrum, etc.
Best Features
- Deliver Wireless Speeds up to 1750Mbps
- Supports Internet plans up to 300Mbps
- Has 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 USB ports
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros
- Advanced Security Features
- Supports TP-Link Tether app
- Has 6 internal antennas for extended coverage
Cons
- Heats up a little bit
4. NETGEAR Cable Modem CM500
In case you already have a router at home and want to upgrade to a new modem, Netgear is surely one of the best brands to pick your new modem from.
That said, you should check out the NETGEAR Cable Modem CM500 as it is one of the most affordable modem options that you can use with your Cox internet connection. The fact that it seamlessly connects and works with any Wi-Fi router makes it the most versatile modem option to get.
The max supported speed by this DOCSIS 3.0 modem is about 400Mbps, but that’s the case if you have a Spectrum connection. In the case of Cox connection, it supports up to 150Mbps plans which are good enough if you want a modem for regular home usage. Apart from that, you also get a single Gigabit Ethernet port on this modem which you can either connect directly to your PC or use with a Wi-Fi router.
Best Features
- Supports Cable plans up to 400Mbps
- Comes with a 3-month long warranty
- Has superior 16×4 channel bonding
- Comes with a Gigabit Ethernet Port
Pros
- Sleek vertical design
- Easy to set up
- Works with all Wi-Fi routers
Cons
- Does not have an inbuilt router
5. Motorola MG7700 24×8 Cable Modem Plus AC1900
Last but not the least, we have yet another premium option from Motorola to discuss. If you liked the previous Motorola product that we discussed, you will definitely like this one a lot more.
The Motorola MG7700 comes with 24×8 channel bonding, which means the connection’s stability will be top-notch, just as you expect from a premium router modem like this one. Although it’s a DOCSIS 3.0 modem, it delivers speeds up to 1000Mbps while supporting all cable plans up to 650Mbps. That said, it’s a perfect choice for you if you are using a high-speed Cox connection.
On the other hand, it also boasts of an AC1900 Wi-Fi 5 router which delivers fantastic wireless speeds up to 1900Mbps via its dual-band network. Moreover, the Wi-Fi connection stability is backed up by technologies like Power Boost, Beamforming, and MU-MIMO to provide you with the best Wi-Fi experience possible. In fact, there are 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports on this router-modem that will let you enjoy amazing cable speeds.
Best Features
- Deliver Wireless Speeds up to 1900Mbps
- Supports Cable plans up to 650Mbps
- Features Power Boost, Beamforming, and MU-MIMO technology
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros
- Power Boost technology for enhancing wireless speeds
- Minimal design
- Fast 24×8 DOCSIS 3.0 performance
Cons
- Installation is tricky
6. Arris SURFboard (16×4) Docsis 3.0 Cable Modem Plus
Next up on the list is yet another great modem router combo from ARRIS’s SURFboard lineup that you should check out if your regular internet usage is high.
Although this modem router is a bit on the expensive side, its build quality and amazing wireless speeds do justify the pricing really well. If you are concerned about the modem, it also has a similar DOCSIS 3.0 modem to the previous SURFboard modem router we discussed. But, the good part is that you can get download speeds up to 686Mbps from this cable modem which you can get from using any of the 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Apart from that, it also boasts one of the finest AC1900 dual-band routers which forms an amazing combination with such a powerful modem. While the 16 downstream & 4 upstream bonded channels allow you to experience the best internet connectivity, the dual-band router allows you to enjoy wonderful speeds in every corner of your house with its extensive coverage. Moreover, with the help of the SURFboard Manager app, you can set up and manage your device quite easily.
Best Features
- Deliver Wireless Speeds up to 1900Mbps
- Has 4 Gigabit Ethernet Ports
- Can be used with the SURFboard Manager app
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros
- Simple and sleek design
- Has a USB port at the front
- Works with all leading ISPs connections
Cons
- Slightly expensive
7. Motorola MG8702 | DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi Router
If you are a tech enthusiast and want to try out the latest technologies available, Motorola is one such brand that offers you a variety of modem router devices equipped with the latest hardware and features.
We are glad to put this modem router in the 7th position in this list as it’s one of the most premium options, and comes with plenty of latest features. That said, the Motorola MG8702 is the only modem router in this list that uses the DOCSIS 3.1 standard. Hence, this is an extremely powerful modem that supports internet plans up to 1Gbps. There are a total of 4 GigE ethernet ports for wired connections, and it also uses Active Queue Management (AQM) to make your internet experience smoother by reducing any unnecessary lags.
Along with that, it features a powerful 4×4 Wi-Fi 5 dual-band router that supports all the latest technologies like Power Boost, Range Boost, Beamforming technology, which makes your Wi-Fi connection a lot more stable. Apart from that, the router also supports MU-MIMO technology, hence using multiple devices at the same time won’t affect the router’s performance. In case you are concerned about the speed of the router, this dual-band router can fetch you speeds up to 3200Mbps.
Best Features
- Deliver Wireless Speeds up to 3200Mbps
- Features Power Boost, Range Boost, Beamforming technology
- Has the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology
- Comes with a 2 year warranty
Pros
- Reliable connectivity
- Power Boost technology enhances the connection stability
- Supports MU-MIMO technology
Cons
- A little expensive
Buying Guide for the Best Router for Cox
In case you are using internet services from Cox, you must be tired of paying the rental fee for the modem and router every month. However, if you think about it, you can save a lot of money if you install a modem-router of your own.
That said, we have already mentioned some of the best modem-router combos which work perfectly with Cox’s internet connection. In case you are not very aware of the features and aspects related to routers, we will explain it all to you in this buying guide. Hence, if you are getting confused to choose the best router for yourself, you should read this buying guide until the end.
1. DOCSIS Compatibility
Cox offers a range of internet plans, including some with speeds up to 1Gbps. To fully capitalize on these high-speed offerings, it’s imperative to choose a router that supports the latest DOCSIS standards. DOCSIS, which stands for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification, facilitates the transmission of data over cable TV systems, enabling robust internet connectivity. Ensuring compatibility with the latest DOCSIS standards ensures seamless communication between your router and Cox’s network, optimizing your internet experience.
2. Wireless Standard
Routers typically adhere to various Wi-Fi standards, with 802.11ac being one of the most prevalent in modern devices. This standard offers significant improvements in speed and performance over its predecessors, making it an ideal choice for Cox internet users. When considering routers, prioritizing those that support Wi-Fi 802.11ac ensures you can leverage the full potential of your Cox internet connection, enabling faster downloads, smoother streaming, and reliable connectivity for all your devices.
3. Data Transfer Rate
The data transfer rate of a router, often measured in Mbps (megabits per second), indicates the maximum speed at which it can transmit data wirelessly. Routers boasting higher data transfer rates, such as 1200Mbps, 1600Mbps, 1900Mbps, or even 3200Mbps, offer faster and more efficient Wi-Fi performance, accommodating bandwidth-intensive activities with ease.
4. Number of Bands
Another crucial consideration is the number of bands supported by the router. Single-band routers operate solely on the 2.4GHz frequency band, which, while widely compatible, may suffer from congestion and interference in densely populated areas. Dual-band routers, on the other hand, utilize both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering improved performance and reduced interference, especially in urban environments. Opting for a dual-band router ensures greater flexibility and reliability in your Cox internet connection, catering to a broader range of devices and usage scenarios.
5. Coverage Area
The coverage area of a router dictates the extent of its Wi-Fi reach, ensuring that all areas of your home or office receive adequate signal strength. Routers are typically rated for coverage areas ranging from approximately 1200 square feet to 5000 square feet or more, accommodating dwellings of various sizes.
6. Connectivity Ports
In addition to wireless connectivity, routers also feature a range of ports for wired connections and peripheral devices. Ethernet ports capable of speeds up to 1Gbps enable high-speed wired connections for devices such as desktop computers, gaming consoles, and smart TVs, ensuring reliable performance where wireless connectivity may be impractical or insufficient. Furthermore, routers equipped with USB ports allow for the attachment of external storage devices, printers, or other peripherals, enhancing the functionality and versatility of your network.
Routers for Cox – FAQs
Ans: No, you can use any compatible router with Cox internet service. However, choosing a router with features like DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 compatibility can maximize performance.
Ans: Key features to consider include dual-band or tri-band Wi-Fi, MU-MIMO technology, gigabit Ethernet ports, and compatibility with Cox’s internet plans and speeds.
Ans: Yes, Cox supports modem-router combo devices, but you’ll need to ensure compatibility with Cox’s network technology and internet speed tiers.
Ans: While Cox offers rental routers, purchasing your own router can often save money in the long run and give you more control over your network.
Ans: For Cox Gigablast service, you’ll need a router that supports gigabit speeds and DOCSIS 3.1 technology to fully utilize the high-speed connection.
Ans: Optimizing your router for Cox internet involves positioning it in a central location, updating firmware regularly, and adjusting settings for optimal performance.
Conclusion
So, if you have read this article up to this section, you must have seen all the best routers for Cox that we have mentioned in the list for you. In the list, we have tried to mix up and include all the best routers in all price ranges so that you can find a perfect router for yourself according to your budget.
Since we have also discussed all the major features of each product, you can easily compare and find the best one out of the list. In case you have any confusion picking any router, you can also take help from the buying guide as well. If we are asked to pick the top 3 picks from the list, we have a few good recommendations for you all:
- First of all, if you are not a heavy internet user, and want something affordable, then there is no better option than the NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C6220 as it works with almost all ISPs including Cox. It works with cable plans up to 200Mbps and delivers strong wireless network connectivity with 1200 Mbps speed in a 1200 sq. ft. coverage area.
- In case you want a modem router that offers better speeds, you can check out the ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem & AC1600 Dual Band Wi-Fi Router as it delivers speeds up to 1600 Mbps and supports cable plans up to 400 Mbps also.
- On the other hand, if you want to lay your hands on a premium modem-router, the Motorola MG8702 comes with the DOCSIS 3.1 technology, and ideally supports Gigabit internet plans. Apart from that, the wireless performance is quite impressive as it can reach up to 3200 Mbps speed and has various features like MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Power Boost, Range Boost, etc.
