Navigating the array of routers for Spectrum internet service can be daunting, given the importance of achieving optimal speed, coverage, and reliability in your home network. To assist you in this endeavor, we’ve conducted thorough testing of the market’s leading routers, in partnership with network technology experts.
We’ve carefully curated a selection of the best routers for Spectrum subscribers, highlighting those that excel in delivering the below key factors.
- Frequency Band: Dual-band routers, operating on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, are essential for balancing speed and range, with all recommended Spectrum routers featuring dual-band capabilities.
- Speed: Evaluate the router’s speed rating to ensure it meets your needs, with high-end models offering 1600 to 1900 Mbps and entry-level versions around 300 to 600 Mbps.
- Antennas: Routers vary in antenna design; high-performance models typically include multiple external antennas for superior range and signal strength, compared to those with less powerful internal antennas.
For comprehensive insights and recommendations on making the right choice for your Spectrum internet setup, don’t miss our “Buying Guide”, where we delve deeper into what to look for in a router and how to maximize your home network’s potential.
9 Best Routers for Spectrum in 2024
| Best Routers for Spectrum | Frequency Band | Speed | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NETGEAR C7000 Wi-Fi Router | Dual Band | 1900 Mbps | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 Wi-Fi Router | Dual Band | 1600 Mbps | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| ASUS AC1900 RT-AC68U Wi-Fi Router | Dual Band | 1900 Mbps | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Linksys EA7300 Wi-Fi Router | Dual Band | 1750 Mbps | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| MOTOROLA MG7540 Wi-Fi Router | Dual Band | 1600 Mbps | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| NETGEAR N600 Wi-Fi Router | Dual Band | 600 Mbps | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Arris SURFboard AC1900 Wi-Fi Router | Dual Band | 1900 Mbps | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| ASUS CM-32 Wi-Fi Router | Dual Band | 2600 Mbps | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| ASUS AX6000 Router | Dual Band | 6000 Mbps | --- | Check On Amazon |
Best Routers for Spectrum in 2024: Reviews
1. NETGEAR C7000 Wi-Fi Router
Netgear is a highly popular brand of networking devices that makes all sorts of routers which even includes multiple models that can work with your Spectrum connection.
The Netgear C7000 router for Spectrum comes at the 1st position of this list since this can be a great high-performance option for many. Its WiFi connection is rated for speeds of up to 1900 Mbps which is quite high. This is possible thanks to the dual-band frequency band that this router uses.
You will be glad to know that this router works on DOCSIS 3.1 version along with 32 x 8 channels for excellent performance. And being a high-end router, its connectivity options are also quite great, which includes 4 ethernet ports and 2 USB ports on the back. As Netgear is a reputable brand of networking devices, it includes a 1-year long warranty with its router.
Best Features
- Offers a maximum speed of up to 1900 Mbps
- Dual-band frequency router for Spectrum
- Works over DOCSIS version 3.1
- Includes 32 x 8 channels
- Features 4 ethernet ports and 2 USB ports
- Comes with a 1-year long warranty
Pros
- High-performance router with excellent speeds
- Supports latest DOCSIS and a lot of channels
- Wide range of connectivity options
Cons
- A bit on the expensive side
2. ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 Wi-Fi Router
While Arris might not be as popular as other networking product brands, it is certainly a great option if you wish to get a router for using with your Spectrum connection at the given price tag.
Arris’s Surfboard SBG10 router for Spectrum comes at the 2nd position of this listicle as it offers decent performance numbers without charging a premium for the same. Starting with its network speeds, this dual-band router for Spectrum can offer speeds of up to 1600 Mbps. Although, its range is a bit limited since it lacks any external antennas.
Moving over to the support of this router with your Spectrum connection, it will work just fine with its DOCSIS 3.0 version and 16 x 4 channels. While you only get 2 ethernet ports on the back, both of them are rated for Gigabit speeds. Despite being a small brand, Arris features a 2-year long warranty with its router, which is always great to have.
Best Features
- Offers a maximum speed of up to 1600 Mbps
- Dual-band frequency router for Spectrum
- Works over DOCSIS version 3.0
- Includes 16 x 4 channels
- Features 2 ethernet ports
- Comes with a 2-year long warranty
Pros
- Fairly high-performance numbers for the given price
- High-speed gigabit ethernet ports on the back
- Longer warranty periods than most other routers
Cons
- Limited number of connectivity ports
3. ASUS AC1900 RT-AC68U Wi-Fi Router
Asus is known for a wide range of high-performance computing as well as networking products which also includes a high-performance router for Spectrum, which is stated here.
This Asus RT-AC68U router for Spectrum comes at the 3rd position of this article because it is one of the best performing options out there while offering a wide range of handy features. Because this router is rated for up to 1900 Mbps, you can expect excellent speeds from it. And the best part about this router is that it features 3 external antennas for superb range.
Being an Asus router, it also works with its web and mobile apps for easy control. It even supports Asus AiMesh for creating a large wireless network when compared with Asus’ routers. Similar to most other routers, it features DOCSIS 3.0 support but lacks any channel rating. You will be glad to know that you get 4 ethernet ports, a USB 2.0 port, and even a USB 3.0 port on the back for high-speed NAS service. Asus also includes a decent 1-year long warranty with its routers for your peace of mind.
Best Features
- Offers a maximum speed of up to 1900 Mbps
- Dual-band frequency router for Spectrum
- Works over DOCSIS version 3.0
- Supports Asus AiMesh via mobile and web app
- Features 4 ethernet ports and 2 USB ports
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros
- High-speed NAS service via USB 3.0 port
- Great performance for the given price
- Excellent range with 3 external antennas
Cons
- Does not mention channels
4. Linksys EA7300 Wi-Fi Router
Linksys can be another great option to consider if you are looking for networking devices that offer high-performance numbers without charging a premium for the same.
The Linksys EA7300 router for Spectrum offers hands down the best value for money in comparison to the rest of the routers for spectrum out there. Even at its fairly entry-level price tag, you get a pretty high speed of up to 1750 Mbps from it. To support such high speeds, Linksys has used dual-band antennas in it.
Speaking of the antennas, you will find 3 external ones which offer great range, especially when combined with its MU MIMO support. Similar to Asus, Linksys also features a companion mobile app for managing your network easily. Unfortunately, there is no DOCSIS or channels rating given with this router which can be an issue for many. On the back, you will also find 4 high-speed gigabit ethernet ports. Talking about the warranty, Linksys offers a decent 1-year one.
Best Features
- Offers a maximum speed of up to 1750 Mbps
- Dual-band frequency router for Spectrum
- Includes MU MIMO support
- Comes with 3 external antennas
- Features 4 ethernet ports
- Comes with a 1-year long warranty
Pros
- Superb value for money
- Features a companion smartphone app
- Decently high-performance numbers for the price
Cons
- No DOCSIS rating
5. MOTOROLA MG7540 Wi-Fi Router
Other than making smartphones, Motorola also makes a few networking devices which also includes some routers like this one which can be used with your Spectrum connection.
Motorola’s MG7540 router for Spectrum can be a great option for all those of you who want decent performance and high compatibility from their router. Starting with its performance numbers, this Motorola router happens to be a dual-band one. As a result, it can offer maximum speeds of up to 1600 Mbps.
To ensure that this router works properly with your Spectrum connection, Motorola has featured DOCSIS 3.0 version along with 16 x 4 channels in it. You will also find 4 ethernet ports on the back. Since Motorola is a highly reputable brand, it also features a 2 year long warranty with it which is higher than most other options.
Best Features
- Offers a maximum speed of up to 1600 Mbps
- Dual-band frequency router for Spectrum
- Works over DOCSIS version 3.0
- Includes 16 x 4 channels
- Features 4 ethernet ports
- Comes with a 2-year long warranty
Pros
- Great value for money
- Highly compatible with DOCSIS 3.0
- Pretty long warranty period for reliability
Cons
- Lacks external antennas for better range
6. NETGEAR N600 Wi-Fi Router
Netgear also offers a few entry-level and budget-friendly router options which can be used with your Spectrum, which includes the one stated here.
This Netgear N600 router for Spectrum happens to be the cheapest option stated here, making it an ideal option for those who are on a tight budget. Being such a cheap router, its given speeds of just 600 Mbps might be quite low for some. Fortunately, it is still a dual-band router for decent range and network performance.
But the best part about this router is that it is a DOCSIS 3.0 one which works with 8 x 4 channels making it a highly compatible one. Even at the given price tag, you will find a USB 2.0 port on the back which is combined along with 2 ethernet ports. And as you saw with the previous Netgear router stated up above, this one also features a 1-year long warranty for your peace of mind.
Best Features
- Offers a maximum speed of up to 600 Mbps
- Dual-band frequency router for Spectrum
- Works over DOCSIS version 3.0
- Includes 8 x 4 channels
- Features 2 ethernet ports and 1 USB port
- Comes with a 1-year long warranty
Pros
- Highly affordable router for Spectrum
- Decently compatible thanks to DOCSIS 3.0 support
- Includes a USB port on the back for NAS and networking printing
Cons
- Poor networking speeds
7. Arris SURFboard AC1900 Wi-Fi Router
Arris makes a wide range of routers that can work with multiple network providers, including Spectrum, because of which we are here with yet another Arris router here.
The Arris Surfboard SBG6950AC2 router for Spectrum can be another viable option for those who want a high-performance router for their internet connection. Taking a look at its speed rating, you will be glad to know that this router is rated for up to 1900 Mbps speeds. And to achieve this, Arris has offered dual-band frequencies with this router.
Similar to most other routers, this one is also a DOCSIS 3.0 router which works over 16 x 4 channels for decent performance. And while there are no USB ports on the back, its 4 ethernet ports can certainly come in handy for connecting multiple devices. Just like the previously stated Arris router, this one also features a 2-year long warranty for excellent reliability, making it perfect for long-term usage.
Best Features
- Offers a maximum speed of up to 1900 Mbps
- Dual-band frequency router for Spectrum
- Works over DOCSIS version 3.0
- Includes 16 x 4 channels
- Features 4 ethernet ports
- Comes with a 2-year long warranty
Pros
- Great performance numbers for Spectrum connections
- Multiple ethernet ports on the back
- Quite a long warranty period
Cons
- Lacks any USB ports
8. ASUS CM-32 Wi-Fi Router
We have yet another router from Asus stated in this listicle, which can be a great option if you have a Spectrum connection since it offers leading performance numbers.
Asus’s CM-32 router for Spectrum is hands down the best-performing router stated in this listicle. Compared to most other routers for Spectrum, its given speed rating of up to 2600 Mbps is much higher. And just as you would expect, it is also a dual-band router for the best range possible. To further make it a better router, Asus has included 4 external antennas that deliver proper signal throughout your home.
Apart from being highly powerful, this router is also properly compatible with Spectrum as it is a DOCSIS 3.0 router that works over 32 x 8 channels. Taking a look at the back, you will find 4 ethernet ports as well as 2 USB ports for high versatility. Because it is such a high-end router, its given 1-year long warranty is to be expected.
Best Features
- Offers a maximum speed of up to 2600 Mbps
- Dual-band frequency router for Spectrum
- Works over DOCSIS version 3.0
- Includes 32 x 8 channels
- Features 4 ethernet ports and 2 USB ports
- Comes with a 1-year long warranty
Pros
- Class-leading performance numbers
- Compatible with all networks, including Spectrum
- Multiple connectivity options on the back and front
Cons
- Quite an expensive router
9. ASUS AX6000 WiFi Cable Modem Wireless Router
ASUS is yet another premium and reliable brand when it comes to spectrum connection as it offers decent performance for the price.
AX6000 wireless router for spectrum is hands down one of the best-performing routers in our list of best routers for spectrums. Compared to other routers, it has speed rating of up to 6000 Mpbs with WiFi 6. So, it is 2.3 times faster than dual-band cable modem routers.
It is compact in size and has an elegant design. It has four Gigabit ethernet ports to connect with game consoles, NAS devices, Smart TV and other dedicated ports. It has light weight body and supports internet speed tires from XFINITY from comcast. It has heat efficient design which supports high-speed data services without issues.
Best Features
- Speed up to 6000Mbps
- Certified cable gateway
- Small and elegant design
- 100% passive cooling
- Four Gigabit ethernet ports
- Heat efficient design
Pros
- Fan-less design
- No noise generated
- Future-proof
- 5 times fast
Cons
- A little bit expensive
Buying Guide for the Best Routers for Spectrum
Even though Spectrum offers a router completely free of cost with all of its internet plans, the performance offered by this router is quite mediocre. Not only is it limited in terms of its range, but network speeds are also limited for higher-end internet plans.
To overcome this issue, you can consider getting something like the best routers for Spectrum present above. For helping you in picking the right one, all these various routers also have their significant specifications and options explained. And you can also go through this detailed buying guide for the best routers for Spectrum to choose the right one:
1. Frequency Band
One of the first things to keep in mind while buying any kind of WiFi router for your internet needs should be the frequency bands that it supports. This primarily includes 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. While the 2.4 GHz band offers high range, the 5 GHz band is better in terms of its network speeds. Because of this, all routers for Spectrum stated above are dual-band routers. This means that they support both of these and switch between them as needed.
2. Speed
Whether you are downloading large files over the internet or sharing them over your local network, it is highly important to have a high-speed WiFi router for the same. Therefore, make sure to check the speed rating of your router before using it with your Spectrum internet connection. Starting with budget options, they are generally only rated for 300 Mbps or 600 Mbps speeds which is quite average. Fortunately, most routers for Spectrum are rated between 1600 Mbps and 1900 Mbps for excellent networking speeds.
3. Antennas
You should also check the antennas used by your router for Spectrum to get an idea of the range that it offers. Usually, most routers for Spectrum will have internal antennas that generally offer an average range at best. Thankfully, if you want a router with excellent range, then you can also find some options with multiple external antennas. Such routers are perfect for using in larger homes where you would want proper network coverage in all rooms.
4. Channels
For using any router with your Spectrum connection, it should also have an internal mode. And while all routers have one, not all modems are the same. They can have different numbers of channels which can result in different performance numbers. In general, any router that offers multiple channels will offer better performance. You can find channels rated as 32 x 8 or 16 x 4 where the former is much better. This channel rating includes the downstream channels as the first number and the upstream channels as the second number.
5. DOCSIS Version
You should also check the DOCSIS version supported by your router or its modem to ensure proper performance on your Spectrum internet connection. Usually, you will find routers to include either DOCSIS 3.0 or DOCSIS 3.1 versions. And while both of them are supported with Spectrum while offering very similar performance, you should go with the newer DOCSIS 3.1 version for slightly better performance.
6. Ports
Whenever you are getting a networking device like a router for your internet connection, it is also quite important to check the types and number of ports that it offers. The most common port found in all routers is the RJ45 port. This includes the RJ45 or Ethernet port for the internet connection as well as multiple RJ45 ports for your local network. Other than the ethernet port, you can also find USB ports in a few routers, which can be used for connecting a storage device to turn it into a NAS.
7. Warranty
Once you have bought a high-end router, you would want it to stay functional at all times so that there are no issues with your network. For the same, you can simply check the included warranty offered by your router. In most cases, you will find either a 1-year long or a 2-year long warranty which should be more than enough for most.
Routers for Spectrum – FAQs
Ans: No, you don’t need a specific router for Spectrum, but it should be compatible with their service specifications for optimal performance.
Ans: Yes, Spectrum allows you to use your own router, which can save rental fees and potentially offer better performance and features.
Ans: Check Spectrum’s approved router list or ensure the router supports DOCSIS 3.0 or higher for cable internet services.
Ans: Prioritize routers with strong security features, dual-band Wi-Fi for better coverage, and those that support high-speed internet plans.
Ans: A new router can improve speeds, especially if your current one is outdated or doesn’t support the bandwidth of your Spectrum plan.
Ans: Consider upgrading every 3-5 years to keep up with technological advancements and new internet speed packages offered by Spectrum.
Ans: Yes, most routers offer easy setup processes, and Spectrum provides instructions for configuring your router with their service.
Ans: Many modern routers are Wi-Fi 6 compatible, offering faster speeds, improved efficiency, and better performance in crowded networks.
Ans: A standalone router only provides Wi-Fi connectivity, whereas a modem-router combo includes both internet access and Wi-Fi in one device.
Ans: Place your router in a central, open area, away from large metal objects and interference sources for the best Wi-Fi signal distribution.
Conclusion
For those seeking optimal wireless performance with Spectrum internet, upgrading to a high-performance third-party router is advisable. Our top recommendations for Spectrum-compatible routers include:
- ASUS CM-32 Wi-Fi Router excels with 2600 Mbps speeds, extensive coverage via 4 antennas, and includes 4 Ethernet and 2 USB ports for connectivity.
- Linksys EA7300 Wi-Fi Router provides value with 1750 Mbps speeds, 3 antennas for stable dual-band Wi-Fi, app support, MU-MIMO, and 4 Ethernet ports.
- NETGEAR N600 Wi-Fi Router is a budget-friendly choice with 600 Mbps speeds, dual-band support for good range, and features 2 Ethernet and a USB port.
