Most modems only have one Ethernet port and don’t support Wi-Fi. They also don’t have the same security features as routers. If you want to enjoy seamless internet connectivity on all your devices without spending money on both a modem and a router, a Wi-Fi modem router combo is just what you need.
This two-in-one device offers the functionality of a modem and a router. It usually has multiple Ethernet ports and lets you connect all your devices to the internet via Wi-Fi. However, it can be tricky to choose the best Wi-Fi modem-router combo, as there are many options available today from different brands.
I worked with the Cybernews research team to analyze several devices and come up with a list of the best modem and router combos in 2025. Continue reading for my honest reviews of the top router modem combo devices. I assess their speeds, security, compatibility with internet service providers (ISPs), and other features.
Best Wi-Fi modem router combo – shortlist
- NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) – the overall best router modem combo
- ARRIS (SBG8300) - Cable Modem Router Combo – best cable modem router combo
- NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80) – best Wi-Fi 6 modem router combo
- Motorola MG7700 Modem WiFi Router Combo – best modem and router combo with PowerBoost
- ARRIS SBG7400AC2 – best budget router modem combo
- Motorola MG8725 WiFi 6 Router – best multi-gig cable modem router combo
- NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000 – best router and modem combo for gaming
The best Wi-Fi modem router combos compared
The table below shows key details of my best Wi-Fi modem router combo devices, including their prices, key features, and what they’re best suited for:
| Model name | Best for | Pricing | Key features | Ease of use |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) | Large homes and gaming | Mid-range | One USB 3.0 port, Wi-Fi, DOCSIS 3.1 | Plug-and-play |
| ARRIS (SBG8300) - Cable Modem Router Combo | Streaming and multiple devices | Affordable | DOCSIS 3.1, 4 OFDM channels, real-time monitoring | Parental controls |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80) | Large homes | Premium | Multiple ports, dual-band Wi-Fi 6 speeds, NETGEAR Armor | Plug-and-play |
| Motorola MG7700 Modem WiFi Router Combo | Security | Mid-range | Power boost, multi-gig ports, DOCSIS 3.0 | Plug-and-play |
| ARRIS (SBG7400AC2) - Cable Modem Router Combo | Gaming | Affordable | DOCSIS 3.0, 4 connection ports, speeds of 2,350Mbps | Parental controls |
| Motorola MG8725 WiFi 6 Router + Multi-Gig Cable Modem | Large homes | Premium | Multi-gig speeds, DOCSIS 3.1, robust security | Advanced customization |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000 | Gaming | Mid-range | DOCSIS 3.1, WPS encryption, supports multiple devices | Plug-and-play |
7 best Wi-Fi modem router combos – our detailed list
Now, let’s go through detailed reviews of my top seven best Wi-Fi modem router combos.
1. NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) – overall best wireless modem router combo in 2025
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band |
| Max speed: | 2,700Mbps |
| Best for: | Gaming |
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) is the overall best Wi-Fi router modem combo in 2025. It combines a new-generation Wi-Fi 6 router with a built-in DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem. This device delivers blazing-fast, multi-gigabit internet speeds and strong Wi-Fi signal.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) is compatible with all the major ISPs, including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. Its coverage spans up to 2,000 square feet and it supports 25 devices.
This device provides dual-band Wi-Fi 6 (AX2700) speeds of up to 2,700Mbps. It has four 1Gbps Ethernet ports that support port aggregation and one USB 3.0 port for computers, game consoles, streaming devices, and storage drives, ensuring the fastest speeds for gaming, streaming, or any other activity.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) comes with a 30-day NETGEAR Armor subscription. This automatic security shield offers real-time protection for your Wi-Fi and connected devices from hackers and other threats.
2. ARRIS (SBG8300) - Cable Modem Router Combo – best cable modem router combo
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band |
| Max speed: | 2,350Mbps |
| Best for: | Streaming |
The ARRIS (SBG8300) - Cable Modem Router Combo is another really good modem router combo device. It comes with DOCSIS 3.1 gigabit and AC2350 Wi-Fi technology, providing high-speed internet for streaming and other online activities.
This router uses the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which means it offers 10x faster speeds and less lag than DOCSIS 3.0 modems. It also provides better security and supports multi-gig networking.
Although this modem and router combo uses the Wi-Fi 5 standard, I picked it because its speeds of 2,350Mbps are more than enough for most online activities.
This modem, with a built-in Wi-Fi router, is approved for cable internet speed plans up to 1Gbps. It also has four 1Gbps Ethernet ports for wired networking, strengthening your connectivity.
3. NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80) – best Wi-Fi 6 modem router combo
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band |
| Max speed: | 6,000Mbps |
| Best for: | Multiple devices |
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80) is the fastest modem router combo on my list. With speeds of 6,000Mbps and broad coverage, this device is perfect even for larger homes with multiple devices.
This router/modem combo works with major cable internet providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. It supports cable provider plans up to 6Gbps.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80) has coverage of up to 2,500 square feet and supports 30 devices. It provides dual-band Wi-Fi 6 (AX6000) speed that reaches up to 6,000Mbps.
This device has four 1Gbps Ethernet ports, one 2.5 multi-gig LAN port, and one USB 3.0 port. Its two-port aggregation lets you connect it directly to your PC, streaming device, or game console and maximize your internet speeds.
4. Motorola MG7700 Modem WiFi Router Combo – best wireless router and modem combo with PowerBoost
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band |
| Max speed: | 1,000Mbps |
| Best for: | Security |
While the Motorola MG7700 Modem WiFi Router Combo’s speeds aren’t the fastest I’ve seen, this router-modem device caught my attention for its additional features that can boost connectivity. It also offers top-notch safety.
This DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem offers up to 1,000Mbps speed. It has a built-in AC1900 dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) Wi-Fi gigabit router, four gigabit Ethernet ports, PowerBoost, and Wi-Fi amplifiers.
In addition to PowerBoost and Wi-Fi amplifiers, you’ll also benefit from the Beamforming technology. This feature focuses the signal on wireless clients to enhance performance and range.
The Motorola MG7700 Modem WiFi Router Combo offers robust security features, including firewalls that control your incoming and outgoing network traffic and establish a safe home network.
5. ARRIS SBG7400AC2 – best budget modem router combo
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band |
| Max speed: | 2,350Mbps |
| Best for: | Gaming |
If you’re looking for an affordable combo modem router for gaming, I recommend the ARRIS SBG7400AC2. This device boasts fast speeds, increased network capability, and has a simple setup.
This device boasts high speeds of up to 2,350Mbps and extensive coverage, so you can stream and play your favorite games in any part of your home. Although this modem-router combo supports the Wi-Fi 5 standard, which is not the fastest, it uses DOCSIS 3.0 technology to boost the internet speed in your home.
The ARRIS (SBG7400AC2) is compatible with major US cable internet providers, including Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity. It is approved for cable internet plans with speeds up to 800 Mbps.
This modem-router combo comes with security features to keep your home network secure. It monitors the devices on your network in real time for security threats and offers enhanced parental control settings, such as time limits and internet pauses.
6. Motorola MG8725 WiFi 6 Router – best multi-gig cable modem router combo
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band |
| Max speed: | 2,500Mbps |
| Best for: | Multiple devices |
The Motorola MG8725 WiFi 6 Router is a top-rated modem-router combo device that leverages high-performing modem and router technologies. It offers superb speeds and coverage and is perfect for big homes with multiple devices.
But before I dive deeper into its performance, I must point out that this hardware model was the first to receive CableLabs' Low Latency DOCSIS (LLD) certification, making it LLD-ready. As a result, you’ll enjoy lower latency, which reduces lag and provides a smooth gaming, streaming, and conferencing experience.
The Motorola MG8725 WiFi 6 Router delivers speeds of up to 2,500Mbps thanks to its ultra-fast DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem. It also has one 2.5Gbps Ethernet port and three 1Gbps Ethernet ports for wired connections.
The built-in router provides PowerBoost, RangeBoost, and AnyBeam Wi-Fi beamforming. While this router supports multi-gigabit speeds, the speed you’ll get depends on your internet service plan.
7. NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000 – best modem and router combo for gaming
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band |
| Max speed: | 1,900Mbps |
| Best for: | Gaming |
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000 is the last modem Wi-Fi router combo device on my list, but it boasts remarkable features, including fast download speeds, uninterrupted streaming, and low-latency gaming.
Although the NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem WiFi Router Combo C7000 uses the Wi-Fi 5 standard, its DOCSIS 3.0 technology helps it deliver speeds of up to 1,900Mbps. This means you can download large files, stream your favorite videos, and play video games without any interruptions.
It also has four Ethernet ports and two USB ports for connecting computers, printers, game boxes, or storage drives.
This device has up to 1,800 square feet of wireless coverage and supports 30 connected devices. As a result, you’ll be able to use this modem router combo device in large homes.
How did we select the best Wi-Fi modem router combos?
I collaborated with the Cybernews research team to investigate and review several devices before selecting the best cable modem Wi-Fi router combo devices in 2025. Below, I’ll provide a glimpse into the criteria I used to choose the best Wi-Fi modem router combo devices.
I assessed the performance, speed, and stability of different modem/router devices, checking the maximum speed of the built-in routers and the speeds that compatible network carriers support.
I checked the maximum supported download speeds of these router/modem combo devices and the number of ports they have, as wired connections boost performance.
I evaluated the compatibility of these devices with major ISPs, such as Spectrum, Xfinity, and Cox, and selected those that are compatible with a variety of leading ISPs.
I also considered user feedback and expert analysis when picking the top Wi-Fi modem router combo devices. By considering what experts and users had to say, I could validate my choices and check whether the real-life performance of these devices matches what the manufacturers advertise.
Wi-Fi generations: which one should I look for?
Wi-Fi networks operate on 802.11 standards. However, a few generations have emerged over the years. In the past, wireless networks used the Wi-Fi 4 and Wi-Fi 5 standards. Nowadays, the most used and best-performing Wi-Fi generation is the Wi-Fi 6. There’s now also a Wi-Fi 7 standard.
What distinguishes all of these wireless generations is their speed. Each generation offers faster speeds and more stable connectivity. For example, the Wi-Fi 5 standard supports speeds of around 5.4Gbps and works on a 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency. On the other hand, the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard supports speeds of up to 40Gbps and utilizes a 6GHz band.
I’ve prepared an overview table to illustrate the differences between these Wi-Fi generations:
| Wi-Fi Generation | Speeds | Features | Use cases |
| Wi-Fi 4 | 600Mbps | Up to 40MHz channels, MIMO technology | Basic internet use (browsing and sending emails) |
| Wi-Fi 5 | 3.46Gbps | Wider channel bandwidths, enhanced speeds, beamforming | Playing video games, streaming HD videos, and downloading large files |
| Wi-Fi 6 | 10.53Gbps | 160MHz channel, supports smart home devices, supports multiple connections | Controlling smart home devices, streaming ultra high-quality networks, and improving traffic congestion |
| Wi-Fi 7 | 40Gbps | MLO, 320MHz channel, 4K QAM, improved latency | Indoor networking, IoT applications, and dense public deployments |
While the ideal Wi-Fi standard for your home or office depends on your needs, I recommend going for Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 5 to ensure superb speeds and uninterrupted connections.
What to consider when choosing a Wi-Fi modem router combo
There are a few critical factors to consider when selecting a modem router combo device for your home. I compiled a list of some key things you need to consider:
- Speed and performance. Check the speeds of the good router modem combo. You need a router with at least 100Mbps to stream, play video games, browse the web, engage in video calls, download files, and perform other online activities without disruptions.
- Wi-Fi standards. While Wi-Fi 5 is pretty decent, check if there’s a device that supports Wi-Fi 6 or 6E for superior performance.
- ISP compatibility. Ensure that your modem router combo device is compatible with your internet provider. This will cut costs, as you won’t need to switch to a new provider.
- DOCSIS standard. The modem’s technology is another crucial thing to consider. While DOCSIS 3.0 is robust and provides decent speeds, DOCSIS 3.1 is even better. DOCSIS 3.0 supports speeds of up to 1Gbps, while the 3.1 version supports speeds of at least 1Gbps.
- Security features. The best modem/router combo devices offer security features like parental controls, WPA3 encryption, and firewall protection to keep your network secure.
Modem vs router: what’s the difference?
Modems are very different from routers, although they both contribute to delivering internet connectivity to the devices in your home. Below, I’ll highlight some key differences between these devices:
- What a modem does vs what a router does? Modems transmit internet into your home from your ISP, while routers convey the internet connection from the modem to your devices.
- Why a combo device can be more convenient and cost-effective? Getting a Wi-Fi modem router combo can help you to cut costs as you don’t need to purchase two devices, just one.
- When is it better to buy a separate modem and router instead of a combo? While purchasing a combo is a good way to save money, it may be advisable to buy a separate modem and router in some cases. For example, getting a separate modem and router is advisable if you want a more secure connection, as you’ll benefit from the security features of both devices. Getting a separate modem and router also allows you to connect more devices.
How to choose the right Wi-Fi modem router combo for my needs?
Choosing the right Wi-Fi modem router combo depends mainly on your needs. I’ll provide some tips to help you pick the best option:
- For gamers. If you need a modem router combo for gaming, choose a device with low latency and high speeds. This will allow you to enjoy HD gaming without any interruptions.
- For large homes. Large homes require broad coverage. In that case, you’re better off choosing a device that has excellent range and mesh system support. This will eliminate all the dead zones in your house and ensure there’s fast and stable internet in all of your rooms.
- For budget buyers. If you’re on a slim budget, you need to look for a modem/router combo that offers reliable performance at a reasonable price.
- For streaming. To get the best Wi-Fi modem router combo device for streaming, ensure the device supports high-bandwidth activities and offers quality of service (QoS) features.
A final word on the best Wi-Fi modem router combo
If you want to cut costs and get high-speed internet connectivity, you need a good Wi-Fi modem-router combo device. This two-in-one device has a built-in modem and router technology. To get the best speeds, performance, and stable connections, it’s important to choose your modem/router combo device carefully.
After conducting thorough research and investigating numerous Wi-Fi modem router combos, I found the NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) to be the best overall Wi-Fi modem router combo. It offers fast speeds for gaming and streaming, is suitable for large homes, and is very simple to set up.
If this device isn’t right for your needs, I recommend you look at the other options on my list. Remember to check for the latest deals and compatibility with your ISP.
FAQ
What is the best Wi-Fi modem router combo for gaming?
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) is the best Wi-Fi modem router combo for gaming. It has speeds of up to 2,700Mbps and boasts broad coverage. This ensures you can play your favorite video games without any lags or interruptions.
Do I need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem?
Yes, you need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, especially if you want fast internet speeds of at least 1Gbps.
Are modem-router combos better than separate units?
Modem-router combos are better than separate units if you want to cut costs. However, you should purchase a separate modem and router if you want a more secure network or plan to connect more devices.
How often should I upgrade my modem router?
Experts recommend upgrading your modem router every five years. This is optimal for the lifespan of the device if you want to get the most out of it.
Which ISP works best with these modem router combos?
Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity are among the ISPs that work well with the modem router combos I’ve selected above.
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