Whenever it comes to my internet connection, I’ve always relied on the Gateway supplied by Xfinity, my internet service provider, and haven’t given it much consideration.
It’s generally painless, except for the time my xFi Gateway went down. However, if there are any problems with the connection, I can contact Xfinity Technical Support, and they will take care of the problem for me.
I did the arithmetic one day and concluded that, in the long run, it would be more cost-effective to use my modem than the one provided by the service provider. I was able to save a significant amount of money as a result of this.
Finally, I had a gadget that could use the full internet speed I’d paid for, and I could take the modem with me when I switched Internet service providers. Nevertheless, before I decided, I had to invest a significant amount of time studying to make certain that I fully understood what I was entering into.
To help you select between an Xfinity Gateway and your modem, I wrote this in-depth comparison post. Investing in your modem provides benefits such as quicker internet, greater power, and economic viability. Customer service suffers as a result.
A Closer Look at Modems and Gateways
A modem serves as a link between your computer and your Internet service provider. If you need additional power and have many devices to connect to, it is usually recommended that you pair it with a router.
Routers transmit the internet signal as radio waves over the air, allowing other devices to connect to the internet without connecting directly to the modem/router.
A gateway, often known as a “modem router combo,” combines the two more convenient technologies. You can connect up to four wired devices while also providing Wi-Fi. Your Internet service provider often provides this Gateway.
Here are a few things to keep an eye out for when purchasing a modem router before we go out and get one for ourselves.
- Compatibility: Xfinity should operate with the majority of modems (and most other ISPs). Xfinity provides a list of compatible modems on their website.
- Speed: It is possible to find routers on the market capable of handling higher speeds than the Xfinity gateway.
Your Xfinity Wi-Fi connection isn’t always up to par when it comes to speed. In other words, you can make use of your high-speed internet service now that you have your modem.
- Range: Making sure your modem router has a broad enough range to reach all of the gadgets in your home is essential to your comfort.
If one device isn’t enough, you may add extenders to make it work.
- Wireless Standard: When shopping for a modem router, look for one that supports the Wi-Fi 5 wireless standard. Wi-Fi 6 is the most recent technology available on the market, and it is much quicker.
Rent vs Buy: An In-Depth Look
Purchasing your modem is preferable from a financial standpoint if you want to remain in your present home for at least a year after moving in.
This is because you will get a better product while spending the same amount of money if you pay rent for about the same length of time.
If you are a gamer or conduct online streaming, it may be more cost-effective to get your modem since you will need a device that can manage the increased strain on your internet connection.
Customer Support
One of the few things you’d regret is the absence of customer assistance. If you use a gateway or modem router, you must be familiar with setting it up and fixing it. However, you can acquire all of this information if you devote an hour of your time to it.
Cost
Typically, Xfinity supplies you with a gateway, and you are responsible for a monthly charge as well as your internet service payment. This monthly charge would come to about $14 per month for you. If you were to compound this sum over two years, it would cost you a staggering 336 dollars!
If, on the other hand, you were to purchase your Xfinity Voice Modem, you would save a significant amount of money. While the first payment may seem excessive, keep in mind that this is a one-time payment.
In most cases, you’ll be able to use your modem for at least two years before you’ll need to change, which will save you a significant amount of money.
Internet Provider Choice
Having your modem gives you the flexibility to change service providers if you feel you are not getting value for your money.
Think about moving from an area where Xfinity provided you with fast internet to an area where Verizon offers the best connection.
You have to move your equipment and configure it to operate with Verizon’s network after you’ve set it up in your new location.
To avoid the cancellation charge, use the Xfinity Early Termination process if you’re canceling your Xfinity subscription.
What About my Wireless Router?
In its most basic form, a router is a device that connects wireless devices such as computers, phones, tablets, and other similar devices to the internet.
It may be used in conjunction with a modem or purchased with a modem already built-in; such “two-in-one” devices are referred to as gateways.
Internet service providers often provide gateways. If you are thinking about getting your modem, you will need to purchase a router separately or search for a gateway to make a move.
If you already have a modem, you can now look for an Xfinity Compatibility Wi-Fi Router that will work with your service.
Verdict
With this information in mind, I decided to purchase a modem, which has greatly improved my overall internet user experience. The fact that I own my modem beats using Xfinity’s, even if you don’t receive customer support. Take Advantage of Your High-Speed Internet
Please bear in mind that it is critical to balance the internet speed provided by your Internet plan against the maximum speed that your modem is capable of supporting.
You must be certain that your modem can process it at maximum speed; otherwise, you will be unhappy with your service and terminate it.
While you may contact Xfinity Customer Service, they would likely point the finger at your modem and suggest that you buy their Gateway.
Best Seller List of Xfinity Modem:
- Model MB7621 is recommended for actual cable Internet service speeds up to 650 Mbps. Wirecutter rates this “the best modem for most people.” A Full-Band Capture Digital Tuner ensures faster, more reliable Internet.
- This cable modem's 1 Gigabit Ethernet port connects to a WiFi router, computer, HDTV, game station, or streaming video device. Great for use with Whole Home WiFi or Mesh networks like eero, Google WiFi, and Orbi. (This cable modem does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability. The Motorola MG7315, MG7540, MG7550, and MG7700 have a built-in wireless router.)
- Requires cable Internet service.Approved by and for use with Comcast Xfinity and Xfinity X1, Cox, Charter Spectrum, Time Warner Cable, BrightHouse, CableOne, SuddenLink, RCN, and other cable service providers. Eliminate cable modem rental fees up to 156 dollars per year. (Savings are shown for Xfinity and vary by cable service provider. No cable modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others. Model MB7621 has no phone jack.)
- Setup is fast and easy using the quick start guide.
- Attractive, compact design minimizes shelf space, improves cooling, and extends product life while looking great in any home or office. A 2-year warranty plus rugged lightning and power surge circuits protect your investment.
- Support all cable internet speed tiers, up to Gigabit (1000 Mbps) service. Separate router required for Wi-Fi
- Docsis 3. 1 up to 10x faster download speeds than DOCSIS 3. 0. Docsis 3. 1 is OFDM 2x2+ DOCSIS 3. 0 32x8 channel bonding
- Eliminate monthly cable Modem rental fees - up to $156 per year. Meets DOCSIS 3. 1 specifications and is backward compatible with DOCSIS 3. 0 networks
- System Requirements- Cable broadband Internet service, Please check your cable Internet service provider web site for data speed tier compatibility and to ensure it provides DOCSIS 3.1 service, otherwise this modem will only work as a DOCSIS 3.0 modem,Microsoft Windows 7, 8, 10, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, or other operating systems running a TCP/IP network, Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0, Firefox 2.0, Safari 1.4, or Google Chrome 11.0 browsers or higher
- CM1000-1AZNAS is not compatible with: Verizon, AT&T, or CenturyLink. Not compatible with cable bundled voice services
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Better connectivity, better speed. The ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem is designed to bring you better connectivity, increase your network capability and provide faster streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings vary by cable service provider). Certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers. For a complete list see additional details below.
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.0 is a reliable, broadly available, and affordable technology that delivers high speed internet to your home devices.
- Simple and Secure Set-up: Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. Connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking.
- Compatibility: The SURFboard SB6190 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity and others. It's approved for cable internet speed plans up to 800 Mbps. Check your Internet Service Provider (ISP) website to confirm compatibility.
- Netgear Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished to work and look as new with 90 Day Warranty and email support. All accessories are included with limited documentation and additional information online. Netgear recommends to udpate the firmware for the device to be up to date.
- DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem unleashes 8x faster download speeds up to 340 Mbps faster, smoother WiFi, and works with all major cable Internet providers (Not Compatible with Cable Bundled Voice Services).
- Certified to work with Cable Internet Providers like XFINITY from Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cox, Cablevision, Bright House Networks, & More (Not Compatible with Cable Bundled Voice Services).
- 8x4 channel bonding with Gigabit Ethernet Ports for fast wired, connections USB port to wirelessly share your hard drive.Double firewall protection (SPI and NAT firewall)
- "Netgear Refurbished product may have a removed serial number. You will need to state the product is refurbished (state the full part number) if emailing customer support. See the attached (image) flyer to obtain the Serial Number and MAC Address information that maybe needed by your Cable provider before contacting them."
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Better connectivity, better speed. The ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is designed to bring you superior connectivity, increase your network capability and provide faster streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing. .Dedicated Customer Support: Live Chat and Phone Support available 8am -1am EST.Warranty Provided by ARRIS: Product ships with 2-Year Limited Warranty.
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings vary by cable service provider). Certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers. For a complete list see additional details below.
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers. Its 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0, provides better security, reduces lag while gaming & enables multi-gig networking (ability to run fast speeds on your copper cable from your internet provider).
- Simple and Secure Set-up: Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. Connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking.
- Compatibility: The SURFboard S33 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro) and others. It's approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5-Gbps. Check your Internet Service Provider (ISP) website to confirm compatibility.
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Better connectivity, better speed. The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is designed to bring you superior connectivity, increase your network capability and provide faster streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings vary by cable service provider). Certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers. For a complete list see additional details below.
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers. Its 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0, provides better security, reduces lag while gaming & enables multi-gig networking (ability to run fast speeds on your copper cable from your internet provider).
- Simple and Secure Set-up: Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. Connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking.
- Compatibility: The SURFboard SB8200 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro) and others. It's approved for cable internet speed plans up to 1-Gbps. Check your Internet Service Provider (ISP) website to confirm compatibility.
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers with internet speed up to 2Gbps. Currently certified with Spectrum and Cox (up to 1Gbps) and Xfinity (up to 800Mbps). Future speeds with these service providers may change over time. Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service
- Works with any WiFi router: Connect any WiFi router to this modem’s Ethernet port to support all your wireless devices
- Save monthly rental fees: Model CM1200 replaces your cable modem saving you up to 168 dollars/yr in equipment rental fees
- Four (4) Gigabit Ethernet ports give you fast wired connections to your computer, separate WiFi router, printer, game box, and other devices
- Modem technology: Engineered with 32x8 channel bonding, OFDM 2x2, and DOCSIS 3.1
- RENEWED: This pre-owned product has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon qualified vendors.
- A Trusted Name in Home Connectivity: Better connectivity, better speed. The ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem is designed to bring you better connectivity, increase your network capability and provide faster streaming and downloading throughout your home. From a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings vary by cable service provider). Certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers. For a complete list see additional details below.
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.0 is a reliable, broadly available, and affordable technology that delivers high speed internet to your home devices.
- Simple and Secure Set-up: Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. Connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking.
- Fast 24x8 DOCSIS 3.0 cable Modem Plus a built-in AC1900 Dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) Wi-Fi Gigabit Router with four Gigabit (GigE) Ethernet ports, power boost Wi-Fi amplifiers, firewall security, and more. The maximum modem speed is 1000 Mbps, supporting service speeds up to 650.
- Eliminate up to 156 dollars per year in cable Modem rental fees. (Savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and vary by cable service provider.) certified by all leading cable service providers including Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Charter spectrum (no cable Modem is compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services, available from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.)
- Built-in high-speed router with AC1900 wireless and Power boost - Provides internet access for Wi-Fi devices including smartphones, notebooks, tablets, and more. 4 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports provide wired connections to Windows and Mac computers and other Ethernet-capable devices. A Broadcom cable Modem Chipset provides security from denial of service attacks.
- Wireless power boost for better speed and range - Adds high-performance Wi-Fi power amplifiers to boost the wireless signals to the legal limit, giving a significant Boost in speed and range. In addition, anybeam Performing at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies focuses the signal on wireless clients to further enhance performance and range
- DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem best for cable internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps*..DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem best for cable internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps*.Compatible with Xfinity Comcast, Charter Spectrum, Cox, and other major U.S. cable internet providers.32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, or 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels.Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet portsEasily setup your modem with the SURFboard Central app
- Compatible with Xfinity Comcast, Charter Spectrum, Cox, and other major U.S. cable internet providers.
- 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, or 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3.1 channels.
- Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Easily setup your modem with the SURFboard Central app
FAQs:
Do I need a router with Xfinity Gateway?
You don’t have to. The Xfinity Gateway has a built-in router.
Can I stop renting an Xfinity modem?
Yes, if you buy your modem gateway from Xfinity, you will no longer need to rent a modem from them.
How much does Comcast charge for a lost modem?
If you lose your modem or do not return it to Comcast, you will be charged the full amount for your borrowed equipment.
Do I need to return the Comcast modem?
The modem must be returned, yes. If you don’t, you’ll have to pay.
-our editorial board has reviewed this article and has been approved for publication according to our editorial policy.
Last update on 2023-06-09
