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- Best overall: ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem
- Best budget: Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem
- Best premium: Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem
- ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem: Hitron CODA56 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem
- Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem has one 2.5GbE port for a straightforward multi-gig setup.
- ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem adds a 1GbE port alongside its 2.5GbE port.
- Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is another single-port 2.5GbE option.
- Check your cable provider’s approved modem list and plan speed before buying any model.
The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem and ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem are both DOCSIS 3.1 choices with a 2.5GbE port. For Black Friday 2026, the key difference is simple: the S33 also has a 1GbE port, while the CM2000 keeps its connection setup to one Ethernet port.
I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to make this guide useful whether you want a multi-gig connection, a practical one-gig setup or a lower-complexity modem. Confirm provider approval before shopping, then match the modem’s Ethernet ports and supported service tier to your home network. A cable modem does not provide Wi-Fi, so most households also need a separate router.
How We Picked
- DOCSIS standard and channel specifications help show how each modem fits current cable plans.
- Ethernet port count and speed matter for multi-gig service, routers and direct-wired devices.
- Provider compatibility is essential because cable companies approve specific modem models and service tiers.
- We researched and compared manufacturer specifications, customer reviews and owner feedback.
- We included different connection setups, from multi-gig ports to simple gigabit options.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | DOCSIS standard | Ethernet ports | DOCSIS 3.0 channels |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem | One multi-gig connection | DOCSIS 3.1 | 1 × 2.5GbE | 32 × 8 |
| ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem | Two Ethernet port speeds | DOCSIS 3.1 | 1 × 2.5GbE, 1 × 1GbE | 32 × 8 |
| Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem | Single-port multi-gig setup | DOCSIS 3.1 | 1 × 2.5GbE | 32 × 8 |
| Hitron CODA56 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem | Provider-approved multi-gig service | DOCSIS 3.1 | 1 × 2.5GbE | 32 × 8 |
| Netgear CM1200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem | Multiple wired connections | DOCSIS 3.1 | 4 × 1GbE | 32 × 8 |
| ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem | A basic DOCSIS 3.1 setup | DOCSIS 3.1 | 2 × 1GbE | 32 × 8 |
| Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem | One gigabit wired connection | DOCSIS 3.1 | 1 × 1GbE | 32 × 8 |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem
The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is the best streamlined multi-gig pick for households that need one fast wired connection. The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem's standout spec is a 2.5GbE port for a compatible router or device.
Best for: One multi-gig connection with a simple modem setup.
- DOCSIS
- 3.1
- Ethernet
- 1 × 2.5GbE
- DOCSIS 3.0 channels
- 32 × 8
- Fast 2.5GbE wired connection.
- DOCSIS 3.1 supports current high-speed cable service.
- Simple single-port setup.
- Only 1 Ethernet port.
- No built-in Wi-Fi.
Is the Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is a strong Black Friday 2026 choice for a provider-approved multi-gig plan. The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem's 2.5GbE port connects to a compatible router, while its single-port design suits households that do not need extra modem Ethernet connections.
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#2 · Top pick
ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem
The ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is the best flexible multi-gig pick for households that want two wired connection options. The standout setup pairs 1 × 2.5GbE with 1 × 1GbE.
Best for: Multi-gig service with an additional Ethernet port.
- DOCSIS
- 3.1
- Ethernet
- 1 × 2.5GbE, 1 × 1GbE
- DOCSIS 3.0 channels
- 32 × 8
- Two Ethernet ports with different speeds.
- 2.5GbE supports a compatible multi-gig setup.
- Compact modem design.
- No built-in Wi-Fi.
- Provider support and port use vary by service.
Is the ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is a worthwhile Black Friday 2026 pick for buyers who want a 2.5GbE connection plus a separate 1GbE port. Check your provider’s rules before expecting both ports to serve separate devices or connections.
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#3
Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem
The Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is the best alternative for multi-gig shoppers comparing one-port modems. The Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem's key number is a 2.5GbE port, which connects to a compatible router or wired device.
Best for: A single 2.5GbE connection in a compact setup.
- DOCSIS
- 3.1
- Ethernet
- 1 × 2.5GbE
- DOCSIS 3.0 channels
- 32 × 8
- 2.5GbE port for multi-gig networking.
- DOCSIS 3.1 modem technology.
- Straightforward connection layout.
- Only 1 Ethernet port.
- A separate router is needed for Wi-Fi.
Is the Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is a solid Black Friday 2026 option when your cable provider approves it for your plan. The Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem's 2.5GbE port makes it suitable for a compatible multi-gig router, but it does not include Wi-Fi.
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#4
Hitron CODA56 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem
The Hitron CODA56 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is the best alternative for shoppers seeking a single-port multi-gig modem from another brand. The Hitron CODA56 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem's standout connection is 1 × 2.5GbE for a compatible network.
Best for: A provider-approved multi-gig cable setup.
- DOCSIS
- 3.1
- Ethernet
- 1 × 2.5GbE
- DOCSIS 3.0 channels
- 32 × 8
- 2.5GbE port.
- DOCSIS 3.1 connection.
- Useful alternative to familiar modem brands.
- Only 1 Ethernet port.
- Provider approval is essential.
Is the Hitron CODA56 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Hitron CODA56 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is a good Black Friday 2026 option when your provider lists it for your service tier. The 2.5GbE port supports a compatible multi-gig network, while a separate router supplies Wi-Fi.
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#5
Netgear CM1200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem
The Netgear CM1200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem is the best port-rich pick for households that want several wired Ethernet connections. The Netgear CM1200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem's distinguishing number is 4 × 1GbE ports, rather than a 2.5GbE port.
Best for: Multiple gigabit wired connections.
- DOCSIS
- 3.1
- Ethernet
- 4 × 1GbE
- DOCSIS 3.0 channels
- 32 × 8
- Four Gigabit Ethernet ports.
- DOCSIS 3.1 support.
- A useful fit for wired network setups.
- No 2.5GbE port.
- No built-in Wi-Fi.
Is the Netgear CM1200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Netgear CM1200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem is worth considering for a provider-approved plan and a setup with several wired connections. The Netgear CM1200 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem's four 1GbE ports distinguish it from one-port modems, though it does not offer a 2.5GbE connection.
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#6
ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem
The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is the best straightforward gigabit-class choice for buyers who do not need a 2.5GbE port. The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem's standout connection count is 2 × 1GbE.
Best for: A basic DOCSIS 3.1 modem setup.
- DOCSIS
- 3.1
- Ethernet
- 2 × 1GbE
- DOCSIS 3.0 channels
- 32 × 8
- Two Gigabit Ethernet ports.
- DOCSIS 3.1 support.
- Simple option for non-multi-gig plans.
- No 2.5GbE port.
- Provider rules govern port use.
Is the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is a practical Black Friday 2026 pick for provider-approved service that does not require multi-gig Ethernet. The two 1GbE ports suit gigabit-class setups, and a separate wireless router is needed for Wi-Fi.
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#7
Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem is the best simple gigabit pick for buyers who want a basic modem connection. The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem's key spec is 1 × 1GbE, paired with DOCSIS 3.1 support.
Best for: A single wired gigabit connection.
- DOCSIS
- 3.1
- Ethernet
- 1 × 1GbE
- DOCSIS 3.0 channels
- 32 × 8
- Simple single-port setup.
- DOCSIS 3.1 connection.
- Works with a separate router for Wi-Fi.
- No 2.5GbE port.
- Only 1 Ethernet port.
Is the Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem is a sensible Black Friday 2026 choice for a provider-approved gigabit-class plan and a one-port setup. The Netgear CM1000 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem's 1GbE connection is not designed for multi-gig Ethernet, and it needs a separate router for wireless coverage.
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Which is better, Netgear CM2000 or ARRIS SURFboard S33?
The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem and ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem both offer DOCSIS 3.1 and a 2.5GbE port. The ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem adds a 1GbE port, making it the more flexible pick for households that need an extra Ethernet connection.
Choose the Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem for a clean single-port connection to a router. Choose the ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem when the second port fits your provider’s supported setup. Neither modem includes Wi-Fi, so include a router in your network plan.
What does the Netgear CM2000 offer?
The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem offers 1 × 2.5GbE port for a compatible multi-gig connection. DOCSIS 3.1 technology and 32 × 8 DOCSIS 3.0 channel bonding make the model a relevant option for shoppers seeking a cable modem without built-in wireless networking.
The single-port layout is straightforward: connect the modem to a compatible router, then use the router for Wi-Fi and home-network connections. Confirm the Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is approved for your exact provider and service tier before buying. A fast port alone does not raise the speed included with your plan.
What makes the ARRIS SURFboard S33 different?
The ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem pairs 1 × 2.5GbE with 1 × 1GbE, while the Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem has one 2.5GbE port. That extra port is the clearest hardware distinction between the two Black Friday 2026 comparison picks.
Port count does not guarantee that a provider supports simultaneous connections or separate devices on both ports. Check the service provider’s compatibility page and setup instructions. For a standard home network, connect the ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem to a router and let the router handle wireless devices.
How do I check cable modem compatibility?
Your cable provider’s approved-device list is the most important compatibility check for the Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem, ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem and every alternative here. Approval can depend on the provider, region and speed tier, so check the exact model name before ordering.
Also check whether the modem supports the plan you use and whether your service includes phone or voice features. A standard data-only modem does not replace a separate modem with voice support. Save the provider’s activation steps and have the modem’s model information ready for setup.
Should I replace my modem for Black Friday 2026?
A modem upgrade makes sense when your current device is not approved for your plan, lacks the Ethernet speed your router needs or causes a mismatch with a new service tier. The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem and ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem both provide 2.5GbE connections for compatible networks.
Keep an existing modem when it remains approved and supports your current service; a new model does not automatically improve Wi-Fi or internet speed. Compare the modem’s port speed with your router’s WAN port, then factor in any provider rental or activation requirements. That check helps make a Black Friday purchase useful rather than redundant.
Buying Guide
Check provider approval first
Choose a modem listed by your cable provider for your exact plan. Confirm the complete model name, because similarly named devices can have different compatibility. Ask about activation steps and voice-service requirements before purchasing.
Match the Ethernet port to your network
A 2.5GbE modem port serves a multi-gig router only when the router’s WAN connection also supports that speed. Gigabit plans and routers pair naturally with 1GbE ports. Port speed does not change the speed included in your subscription.
Decide how many ports you need
The ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem has 2 Ethernet ports, while the Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem has 1. Follow provider instructions before connecting multiple devices directly to a modem.
Remember that a modem is not a router
The seven modems in this guide do not provide built-in Wi-Fi. Plan for a separate wireless router, and check that the router’s WAN port and wireless capabilities match the internet plan and devices in your home.
Compare the complete setup
Review modem approval, Ethernet ports, router compatibility and any provider account requirements together. Black Friday 2026 is a useful time to compare options, but the right model is the one that suits your service and home network.
FAQ
Netgear CM2000 vs Arris SURFboard S33: which is better?
The ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem is the more flexible pick because it has 1 × 2.5GbE and 1 × 1GbE. The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem has one 2.5GbE port and suits a simple router connection.
Does the ARRIS SURFboard S33 have Wi-Fi?
The ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem does not include Wi-Fi. Add a separate wireless router for wireless access, and check that the router’s WAN port supports the connection speed you want from your provider.
Does the Netgear CM2000 support multi-gig internet?
The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem has a 2.5GbE port for a compatible multi-gig setup. Your cable provider must approve the modem and plan, and your router’s WAN port must also support the intended Ethernet speed.
Are Netgear CM2000 and ARRIS SURFboard S33 compatible with every cable provider?
The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem and ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem are not universal choices. Check your provider’s approved-device list for the exact model and service tier before purchasing or replacing a modem.
Do I need a separate router with a DOCSIS 3.1 modem?
Yes. The Netgear CM2000 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem and ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem are modems, not Wi-Fi routers. Connect a compatible router for wireless coverage and additional home-network connections.