Top 9 Best Cable Modem For Cox Review In 2021: A Buying Guide

Best Cable Modem For Cox

Cox cable can be regarded as one of the largest ISPs in the USA. It offers high speed internet service to more than 7 million households in the country. In order to enjoy its high speed internet service, you must buy a cable modem for cox.

Cox internet does not use just any modem; you must find the ideal cox supported modems. DOCSIS 3.0 or higher are the only modems that work with cox.

The Cox Wi-Fi equipment required must also meet certain requirements, these include 802.11ac standard. The Gigablast and Ultimate service are advance Cox that will require a minimum of DOCSIS 3.1.

Table could not be displayed.

Things To Look Out While Choosing The Best Cable Modem For Cox 

There are a wide range of factors to consider when choosing the best modem for cox, the most important factors are;

  • Compatibility
  • Internet speed
  • Type (wired or wireless)
  • The Range
  • Heat and Weather resistance
  • Energy Efficiency

Compatibility

Compatibility if the number one factor you must consider when choosing the best modem for cox internet.

You must choose a modem that is compatible with your cable hook. You can find several compatible modems on Cox’s website and you should read descriptions on a modem to be sure it is compatible with your cable hook. You may want to contact the modem manufacturer via email or phone for the compatibility check.

You should also go for a modem that comes with the manufacturer’s customer support online. This will help you resolve some compatibility issues.

Internet speed

Internet speed is as important as compatibility. You want to purchase a modem that will be as fast as possible when it comes to internet speed. The speed of modem is normally written clearly on the product. You may also go for a modem that has a row of lights on its console.

The lights on the console are coded with colors with green indicating that a function is active and red color indicates an inactive function. You can always troubleshoot problems with the use of lights on modems. Simply check the speed on the description to make the right choice. Internet speed normally varies from one modem to the other. Generally, the higher the speed, the costlier the modem gets.

Type (Wired or wireless)

Technically, both wired or wireless, cox cable approved modems, offer the same speed and other functionalities. The issue here is that wired modems are more stable and have fewer interferences than wireless modems.

On the other hand, wireless modems offer more convenience, in that you can carry the modems everywhere you go. Wired modems will require some cables or wires and that could require extra spaces for installation.

Wireless modems are usually costlier than a wired modem, hence you should consider this when working out a budget.

The Range

The range of connectivity will also determine the type of modem you should for your Cox internet. Depending on whether you set the modem in your home or office, you must confirm the range. It is quite common to find some modems with ranges less than 50ft, these are considered to be poor ranges.

Wireless modems with less than 50ft range may suffer from issues such as interferences and these can interrupt connections constantly. If you choose a high-speed range, you should consider a modem that comes with channel bonding. Channel bonding is a term whereby incoming internet data is spread over multiple channels or lines.

Modem with ranges higher than 50ft with channel bonding will provide fluid transmission and no interruption to streaming.

If you will be using the internet outdoors, perhaps you should consider a longer range, otherwise, a 50ft range may be enough for indoor use in smaller homes.

Heat and Weather Resistance

If you are a heavy internet user, you need to be bothered about heat and other weather conditions. Cox internet modems can generate heat a lot, especially when continuously used. For instance, if you game a lot or stream videos and songs every day for long hours, you should be bothered about the heat.

In addition to the heat generated within the modem, exposure of the device to excess sunlight, and specks of dust can also affect it negatively. In summary, you need to be sure that the modem you choose has protective materials against excess heat and adverse weather conditions.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a factor you should consider because it is one of the ways to save even more money. For instance, an energy-efficient Cox internet modem will consume less electricity to perform its functions.

The energy rating of most modems is normally displayed on the products. If there are no energy ratings on the modem, then you may have to check at the manufacturer’s website. You may want to position the modem in a cool place within your home or office to reduce exposure to adverse weather.

Price

Price should normally be the last factor because you shouldn’t compromise top quality modem for a cheaper price. Have a budget but don’t hesitate to buy a top-quality product if it is outside of your budget range.

Review Of The 9 Best Cable Modem For Cox

1. NETGEAR Cable Modem CM1000

NETGEAR Cable Modem CM1000

One of the best cable modems for cox you should consider right now because of its speed and multiple ISP compatibility.

- Specifications

  • Up to 1 Gbps of speed.
  • Works with a W-Fi router.
  • Black color
  • Ethernet port to connect with all wireless devices.
  • DOCSIS 3.1 and 32 x 8 channel bonding technology.

- Features

This cable modem is compatible with Cox and other major ISPs in the market, these include; Comcast, and Spectrum. You can also save up to $168 a year on rental fees payable on the device. There will be no issues even when you are swapping modems.

To set this modem up, simply plug the coax cable into the modem, then activate by connecting the Ethernet cable to the computer and follow the on-screen setup. Alternatively, you can call the internet service provider on the phone to activate it for you.

Plug the Ethernet cable in-between the modem and your Wi-Fi router. This modem measures 8.8 x 5.4 x 5.9” in height, width and length respectively.

Pros
  • The huge speed supports 4K, HD streaming, and multi-player gaming.
  • It can be set up in 5 minutes.
  • It can be mounted easily with a stable surface.
  • Built to last for decades.
  • More affordable than many of its rivals.
Cons
  • It is only compatible with a few ISPs. It is not compatible with DSL providers, AT&T, Verizon, and DirectTV.

Check Price On Amazon

2. TP-Link Cable Modem

TP-Link Cable Modem

This is the best Wi-Fi modem for cox you should go for if you don’t want to pay the rental fee. This cable is quite simple and compactly designed to be installed easily.

- Specifications

  • DOCSIS 3.0 and 8 x 4 Channel bonding technology.
  • Speed of up to 343 Mbps for download and 143 Mbps for upload.
  • Supports both IP4and IP6 internet standards.
  • Compatible with almost all major ISPs
  • Black color
  • It measures 8.5 x 7.68 x 2.62” in height, length and width respectively.

- Features

With its DOCSIS 3.0 technology, it provides speed at up to8x the speed of DOCSIS 2.0. It comes with 8 down-streams and 4 up-streams channels. This product comes with a 2-year warranty plus a 24/7 customer service support online.

This modem comes with several network safeguards to ensure that your sensitive data are protected efficiently. It comes with a very easy setup. Simply open your web browser after an installation, then start online activation or contact the ISP for your activation. The Cox communications preferred on this modem is 100.

Pros
  • It saves you up to $120 a year.
  • It is compatible with all the major internet service providers.
  • A 2-year warranty covers all functional parts.
  • It provides supports for smooth HD video streaming and gaming.
  • It eliminates the need for monthly rental fees.
Cons
  • You need to buy a router separately to enable your Wi-Fi service.

Check Price On Amazon

3. ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200This is one of the most sturdy and fastest modems you can ever ask for. It is a DOCSIS 3.1, 1 Gigabyte modem that has been approved for the Cox internet service and some other ISPs.

With a high-speed cable modem like this, you can automate every component of your home for security purposes. This automation covers video surveillance, lighting control, and automation of all electronics or appliances.

- Specifications

  • Metallic silver color.
  • DOCSIS 3.1 and 32 X 8 channel bonding technology.
  • 10 Gbps maximum download speed.
  • Link aggregation with 2 Ethernet ports

- Features

With 32 down-streams and 8 up-stream DOCSIS 3.1 technology, you can expect the best speed plus connectivity with many third-party devices. This cable is one of the few that offers link aggregation benefit because of the presence of 2 Ethernet ports.

With more channels provided on this modem, your network will be much stronger to prevent latency. It comes with easy-to-follow installation and internet activation process.

Pros
  • With up to 10Gbps speed, this is the fastest modem for streaming and downloading.
  • More channels ensure higher bandwidth for all connected devices.
  • Does not come with any monthly rental fees, simply buy, plug and play.
  • It is compatible with all the major internet service providers.
  • Rectangular construction makes it easy to mount.
Cons
  • This modem will not support cable digital voice service.

Check Price On Amazon

4. NETGEAR C3000

NETGEAR C3000

This modem is certified for the Cox internet service because it comes with everything you will need a modem to do. There is a power on and off setting you can use to save energy consumption on this modem.

- Specifications

  • DOCSIS 3.0 AND 8X4 channel bonding technology.
  • Double firewall security protection (NAT and SPI firewalls)
  • Lee 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz compatible.
  • 340 Mbps speed.
  • NETGEAR Genie app
  • Comes in black color
  • Separate guess network access.

- Features

If you are concerned about securing your internet modem, perhaps you should consider this device. With double firewall technology, this is one of the most secured cable modems you can consider. The device is a DOCSIS 3.0 device, and it also comes with a 2 Gigabit wired switch plus N300 Wi-Fi Router for efficient transfer of data from COX.

This modem comes with the Netgear app for filtering purposes, which means you can manage your network remotely from anywhere. Parental controls are part of the filtering services. You need to check your modem for data tier or service level compatibility.

Pros
  • It saves up to $156 in rental fees in a year.
  • It is almost 8x faster than DOCSIS 2.0 modem.
  • Netgear Genie app offers parental controls.
  • The 340 Mbps speed will support live music and video streaming plus gaming.
  • It has Push “N? Connect button for Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • It is compatible with AirPrint app for simple printing and scanning.

Cons
  • Most suitable for medium size homes.

Check Price On Amazon

5. MOTOROLA MB8600 

MOTOROLA MB8600 This is another DOCSIS 3.1 rated modem for the Cox internet service. It comes with several in-built features that enhance speed, manages queues, and reduce energy consumption. All these features will help reduce the risks of occasional latency.

- Specifications

  • DOCSIS 3.1, and 32 x 8 channel bonding technology.
  • Measures 7.25 x 2.25 x 7.88” in height, width, and length respectively.
  • Maximum speed of 6 Gbps.
  • Active Queue Management (AQM)
  • Full band digital tuner.
  • Up to 10 Gbps speed.
  • Black color.

- Features

Experts recommend this modem for those who subscribe to Gigabyte speed internet connection from Cox. The in-built 32x8 channel bonding technology provides excellent speed for your internet data transfer. It is compatible with all internet services available from COX and other ISPs but it is not compatible with the likes of RCN. The AQM feature ensures faster loading of web pages and faster gaming experience.

Pros
  • You can save as much as $156 in cable rental service fees.
  • It comes with an Active Queue Management *AQM) that reduces latency.
  • The full-band capture digital tuner helps you save energy and sustain high speed.
Cons
  • It doesn’t come with an in-built wireless router or telephone call capabilities.

Check Price On Amazon

6. Linksys CM3024

Linksys CM3024

This is one of the largest cable modems you can find around. Though is quite huge, it comes with a flat bottom stand that provides excellent support on any surface.

- Specifications

  • F-type (female) cable
  • Supports up to 300 Mbps
  • Intel Puma 6 chipset.
  • Plug and play installation.
  • Black color.
  • 24 x 8 “in height and length respectively.

- Features

This device offers up to24x the speed of the regular modems. It also comes with an Intel Puma6 Chipset for sustainable upstream and downstream performance.

Pros
  • Very good for HD media streaming and gaming.
  • 24 x faster than its main rivals.
  • Easy plug and play set up.
  • Comes with a quick start manual or guide.
  • Quite affordable.
Cons
  • It comes with the cable modem only , hence you need to spend extra to buy router.

Check Price On Amazon

7. TP-Link DOCSIS 3.0

TP-Link DOCSIS 3.0This is another towering modem that works perfectly for most of your COX subscriptions. This cable is ISP certified to be compatible with COX and safe for use in homes and offices. It is energy compliance and it is cheaper than most of its main rivals.

- Specifications

  • 16 x 4” in height and length respectively.
  • 686 Mbps maximum speed.
  • No monthly cable rental fee
  • DOCSIS 3.0
  • 16x 4 channel bonding.

- Features

This cable modem comes with 16 channels and it is compatible with all Windows and Mac 10.4 or newer operating systems. The DOCSIS 3.0 version or technology provides up to 16x more speed than DOCSIS 2.0 modems. The channel bonding offers 16 channels for downstream and 4 channels for upstream.

Pros
  • No need to subscribe to monthly cable rental fees.
  • Much faster than DOCSIS 2.0 modems.
  • 680 Mbps for downloading at a faster rate and 143 Mbps for upload.
  • It comes with a 2-year warranty plus a 24-7 online customer support.
  • Very lightweight, easy to carry around, and easy to install.
Cons
  • It comes with the cable modem only, you need to buy router separately.

Check Price On Amazon

8. ARRIS Surfboard 

ARRIS Surfboard This is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that has been approved for COX internet service. This could have been a complete modem but you need to buy a router separately.

It can be easily installed.

- Specifications

  • Does not come with a telephone port and a router.
  • Supports IP4 and IP6 standards
  • DOCSIS 3.1
  • 32 channels for download and 8 channels for upload.
  • Up to10 Gbps speed.
  • White color

- Features

Though it is rated as DOCSIS 3.1, this modem is backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 modems. It comes with Gigabyte Ethernet ports that will help you create 2 different home networks with Gigabyte speeds. You need to keep in mind that COX may not accept the activation of a second Ethernet port.

The device weighs roughly 2.51 lbs. It measures 5.13 x 1.76 x 5.25” in height, width and length respectively. The compactly designed modem is built to last. It comes with a weather-resistant coating that makes it last longer than many competitors.

Pros
  • It supports 4k streaming in HD.
  • Backward compatibility allows you to switch from one-speed subscription to another.
  • It supports both IPv4 and IPv6 internet standards.
  • Easy to install and activate.
  • It comes with online and offline technical support 24/7.
Cons
  • Does not come with a telephone port.
  • No Wi-Fi Router included.

Check Price On Amazon

9. ARRIS Surfboard SBG10

ARRIS Surfboard SBG10This is one powerful DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem you can’t ignore. It delivers great speeds for web surfing, video and music stream, and computer gaming for hours. This is one rear modem with features you may never find in many other competitors.

- Specifications

  • 3-in-1 products; cable modem, dual-band Wi-Fi router, and 2-port Ethernet router.
  • 16 downstream x 4 upstream channels
  • Supports up to 300 Mbps internet speed.
  • Surfboard manager app.
  • Measures 6.77 x 1.97 x 6. 58” in height, width, and length respectively.
  • Black color.

- Features

This is a rear COX recommended modem because it comes with routers and Ethernet ports you need for all internet services. It is compatible with all major internet subscribers, in addition to COX.

Pros
  • It supports voice calls.
  • Inbuilt router will save you money
  • You can manage your network needs with the surf bard manager app.
  • Dual-band concurrent Router Wi-Fi
  • There is no need for renting a modem with a router.
Cons
  • COX does not activate two ports for one modem.

Check Price On Amazon

What Are The Reasons To Have Cox Compatible Modems? 

You must consider cox compatible modems when choosing the ideal modem. Your ISP, which is Cox do recommend compatible modems to avoid complications or interruptions to your services. The following are reasons why you should choose Cox compatible modems;

  • To prevent latency
  • To maintain speed
  • For connectivity purposes
  • For cost purposes.
  • For upgrade or downgrade reasons

1. To Prevent Latency

Network latency can be high or low depending on the compatibility of your modem with Cox ISP. The physical distances between hops and lower capacity modems, for instance, can cause increased latency. Other issues that can cause latency in incompatible Cox service modems are; poor quality of network service, low memory of modem, below-optimal routing, and distance between transmitting and receiver device. It is important to check the compatibility of a modem for Cox before buying it.

2. Speed-related issues

Non-compatibility of a modem with Cox ISP is the reason why internet speeds drop quickly. If you want internet speeds of 100 Mbps or higher, you will need a DOCSIS 3.0 modem or higher. Older modem versions will not support such a high speed. If you have currently upgraded your Cox internet service, perhaps you will need to upgrade to a new modem for compatibility purposes.

3. For connectivity purpose

The need to connect other peripherals, including third-party devices may require extra ports and connecting lines or points. Some modems offer priority to other applications such as gaming in addition to Cox compatibility. Modems that offer more connectivity for other applications are more desirable than those that offer connectivity for only the internet and peripherals.

4. Costs Purposes

The costs of changing a modem to another can be very high, this is the reason why you need to check for compatibility before purchase. If you choose a modem that cannot handle a speed up to 100 Mbps or 1000 Mbps, for instance, you need a modem that can handle such. Choosing a modem with lower speed capability means you will face latency and interruptions to speed and you will spend more to replace it. You must be sure of the type of service and speed before you place an order for a modem.

5. For upgrade or downgrade reasons

You may never know when you will upgrade or downgrade your Cox internet service, that is the reason you need a compatible modem. It is easier to maintain the same modem if you are downgrading but it costs more to replace a modem when upgrading. If you have a DOCSIS 3.0 modem, for instance, you can downgrade your service without changing your modem. If you have a DOCSIS 3.0 modem, for instance, you may have to go for a DOCSIS 3.1 to upgrade from a speed of 100Mbps to 1 Gbps speed. On the other hand, you may not need to replace your DOCSIS 3.0 when downgrading to a slower speed.

How To Replace Cox Internet Cable Modem

Replacing your internet cable modem should not be difficult , especially if you can follow the simple steps below. These are;

  1. View the lists of Cox approved modems in this guide, and you should read FAQs on the Cox ISP website for more instructions.
  2. Buy a new modem you want to replace the old one and connect it by following instructions provided by the manufacturer. If for instance, you are replacing an identical modem all you need to do is to unplug the ethernet, alongside the cable and power cords from the old modem. Simply plug the cords of the ethernet, cable, and power cords into the new modem after removing the old one. Make sure the old power supply is replaced with the new one that comes with a new modem
  3. Call the customer care of Cox ISP to activate the new modem put in place. You will likely be asked to give your new modem ID which is the MAC address, located at the bottom of the modem. Cox may also provide online installation in some cases. They also have live chat features on their website, just in case you are unable to call.
  4. Once the new modem has been activated, you may have to reboot your system. You must unplug the new modem and the router and wait for about12 minutes. Plug both your modem and router back in and restart your computer. Open your web browser to confirm internet connectivity.
  5. Once the new modem is in place, you may want to drop the old modem at your local store to sell or simply keep it. If the old modem is leased, for instance, you need to return it to avoid continual payment of monthly fees. This should sort out the entire replacement process.

How To Easily Self-Install Cox

Your internet service or package from Cox may determine the type of installation you perform. The first 5 steps will generally be the same. If you have purchased the internet cable alongside the modem, you should take the following steps;

1. Check your equipment

Make sure all contents in the box are well-checked before you commence installation. A modem or Cox gateway must be inside the box. Other items including coaxial cables, ethernet cord, power adapter, cable filter, and an instructional manual must also be present.

2. Locate the ideal spot to install the modem

You should consider a very central location where signals can travel throughout the home or office without impediments.

3. Turn off Computers and other devices

Power surges and other problems associated with the setup of Cox will affect your computers and peripherals if you don’t power them off. Any device you will use in activating your Cox account must be powered off during installation, this is a standard precaution to follow.

4. Plug the Coaxial cable

Once a suitable connection for your modem has been established, you need to connect your Coaxial cable to the wall. The next step is to connect the coaxial cable against your wall connection. Once connected to the wall, simply connect the coaxial cable to the appropriate port on the modem.

5. Connect the piece to power 

The first step is to plug in your power adapter and then connect the modem after.

6. For Your cable-modem self-installation

You must wait for the internet light to come up before you complete the cable and modem installation. This step may take up to 10 minutes. The modem may likely reboot several times during this period. Add your internet cord when internet light has turned solid color. Connect your modem to your computer via the ethernet cord. Turn on your computer and activate the Cox internet service.

Frequently Asked Question (Buyer Guide)

The following are answers to some of the commonest questions asked about Cox modem routers;

Question: What Exactly Does DOCSIS rating means?

Answer: You have probably seen DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 on different modems for the Cox internet service before but unaware of the meaning. DOCSIS simply means “Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification”. It is a system deployed by the top cable manufacturers that define the higher internet transmission speed for users who subscribe to internet service. The latest DOCSIS used or recommended for Cox modem routers are DOCSIS 3.0 modems. DOCSIS 3.1 modems are the fastest modem routers available today.

Question: Why is my Subscribe Internet Speed Lower than What I subscribed for?

Answer: The main reason why you are not getting the speed you subscribed to is because you purchased a modem router ranked for a lower speed. If your modem router does not come with the correct upload and download channels for your tiers, there will be lag or latency and slower internet speed.

You need to check your modem router for its speed before you purchase one. Similarly, you may want to test your internet speed alongside your equipment before you subscribe to any internet package. Keep in mind that internet speed may decrease slightly in Wi-Fi compared to wired connection even with the same equipment and internet subscription.

Question: Is it Better to Buy a New Cable Over Old One?

Answer: It is advisable to go for a new cable instead of used one, however, a fairly used cable bought directly from the manufacturer can still work fine. If a used cable has not been deactivated by the old user, then it may not work for you. Problems may occur when you try to reactivate a cable that is also already in service.

Conclusion

This Content has given you an insight into the steps you should take when choosing your Cox Internet service modems. The products reviewed in this content have also proven to be the best and highly recommended for diverse purposes. As a precautionary method, you may want to test-run your internet service with a modem before you settle for it.

Cox will surely allow you to test the internet speed with a modem so that you can replace the modem with the appropriate one. You should test your cable and modem even if you are buying a used one. Make sure you also confirm the subscription status of a used cable.

You May Like These Review Articles As Well: 

Top 8 Best LGA 1150 CPU Review

Top 11 Best Mechanical Keyboard For Typing

6 Best Pc Coolant To Have: A Buying Guide

Top 11 Best Wireless Printer For Mac: Buying Guide

Top 11 Best Bose Bluetooth Speakers To Have

Top 9 Best Wireless Lavalier Microphones Review & Buying Guide

Do you like the article? Please leave a review

5/5 - (4 votes)

Similar Posts:

Leave a Comment