Top 10 Gigabit Modems

It's 2021. Say goodbye to lags and delays by switching to gigabit internet! Make sure your connection is reliable — get your very own gigabit modem.

Do you need better internet for your work from home setup? Or maybe a home device that can improve your internet use? Local-based ISPs have rolled out their gigabit internet services a couple years back, where internet speeds go up to 1000mbps or 1gbps, which is relatively faster than ultrafast broadband offers ofy up to 200 to 500mpbs. Today, more broadband providers are offering gigabit internet to a wider audience across New Zealand. However, users can only enjoy this type of gigabit fibre when paired with the right hardware.

Internet users can get the best out of what they pay for when they connect to a modem broadband that is compatible with their gigabit connection. Having a gigabit modem can highly improve your connection and get the maximum speeds that you signed up for.

What is a gigabit modem?

A gigabit modem is a device that’s specifically designed to accommodate gig-speed broadbands in order to provide the fastest connection possible. Normally, gigabit modems utilise a new tech called DOCSIS 3.1 or a high-speed fibre optic that boosts internet speeds of up to 10 gigabit per second. Old modems used for Fibre or DSL or those provided by your ISPs, can also be considered, however, may bring frequent fluctuations in the long run.

What to consider when looking for a gigabit modem

First things first — you need to make sure that your chosen modem is compatible with your ISP. If a separate or different modem is not possible, you can ask your broadband provider to get you a better hardware or look into the specs of your modem.

Next is to check for ports that allow for advanced activities. A modem generally has one LAN port, which is for connecting to a computer, and one service-related port for telephone or cable modems.

Another thing to consider is the product warranties that come with the modem. This will help you contact customer service in case of glitch or defect in the modem.

Top 10 gigabit modems you can find online

1. Motorola MB8600

This is one of the brand's top modems for gigabit connection where users can expect stronger privacy protection. Its Broadcom’s chipset that has DDoS or Denial of Service attacks and can handle up to 6gbps speeds. It has a chic and compact design that makes it ideal for small households.

Order yours here for less than $200.

2. ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

Getting the Arris SURFboard SB8200 lets you enjoy videos and gaming in 4K Ultra-HD and allows you to create two home networks using a single modem with its two gigabit Ethernet ports. You can also use this with Comcast Xfinity and Cox Cable, and likewise supports IPv4 and Ipv6 internet surfing standards.

Order one here for less than $200.

3. NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200

NETGEAR CM1200 is one of the popular brands when looking for standalone modems. It’s a premium device that has a single gigabit Ethernet port. If you’re into reliability, affordability, and design, this Nighthawk variant is the perfect choice for you.

Get it here for below $200.

4. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800

This NETGEAR model is designed for gigabit broadband plans that offer up to 2gbps. It has four gigabit Ethernet ports and two hi-speed USB 3.0 ports for wired connections for your PC, printer, storage drive, game box, and other devices.

You can order yours here.

5. ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300

The SURFboard SBG8300 can support gigabit broadbands with speeds up to 4gbps. It has four gigabit Ethernet ports, plus a portable design which is easy to setup and manage with also the aid of the SURFboard Manager app.

You can get yours here.

6. ASUS DSL-AC68U

ASUS is a leading technology provider in the world who also offers future-proof modems that can support dual band data rates of up to 1.9Gbps. It comes with three external antennas to speed up coverage so users can enjoy zero lag in both gaming and streaming HD videos. This high performance device is a little more expensive than most modems in the market but it does an excellent job in providing a consistent superfast connection whether at home or in the workplace.

Get yours here.

7. TP-Link Archer VR600

TP-Link Archer can support ultrafast Wi-Fi of up to 1.6 Gbps which is perfect for video games, HD streaming and downloading large files, also a smart choice for your work-from-home setup. It’s a compact device that allows easy installation with three detachable antennas to provide users with stable wireless internet and a better broadband coverage. It also offers a “beamforming technology” that improves wireless performance on the 5GHz band.

You can get one here.

8. Arris Touchstone CM8200A

The Arris Touchstone is similar to SB8200 however more expensive and comes with a black design. If you’re looking for a more stylish device, you can opt for this model and get the best performance for your gigabit connection.

Get yours today here.

9. NETGEAR CM1000-1AZNAS

Several reviews tag this device as the best modem for a gigabit internet connection because of its design, performance and affordability. It’s considered to be a smart option for gamers and movie watchers as it offers fast and stable 4K HD streaming, downloads and high-speed video gaming.

You can buy yours here.

10. Motorola MB7220

This is one of the most affordable modems that you can get online. With its price, you can enjoy up to 1gbps of internet speeds and get a single LAN port for your Ethernet cable.

You can get yours here for less than $50.

Many broadband plans come with a modem router combo that’s rented out to users for $50 a month or up. However, you can actually save more by purchasing a standalone modem that’s more reliable, affordable and a device that can get the most out of your gigabit fibre connection. If you’re interested in upgrading your home broadband, head over to glimp and compare gigabit fibre plans available in your area.