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- Best overall: Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000)
- Best budget: ARRIS SURFboard G34 DOCSIS 3.1 Wi-Fi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX3000)
- Best premium: ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200)
- Best for 6 GHz Wi-Fi 7: TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300)
- The Motorola MG8702 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem and AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 router in one device.
- The ASUS RT-BE88U is a standalone BE7200 Wi-Fi 7 router with extensive multi-gigabit Ethernet connectivity.
- A cable modem-router combo suits shoppers who want one device; a separate router suits homes that already have a modem.
- The TP-Link Archer BE550 adds tri-band Wi-Fi 7, including a 6 GHz band.
- Check cable-provider compatibility and your home’s wired-speed needs before choosing a Black Friday 2026 upgrade.
The Motorola MG8702 and ASUS RT-BE88U solve different networking problems: the Motorola is a cable modem and Wi-Fi router in one, while the ASUS is a standalone Wi-Fi 7 router. I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to help you match the right setup to your home, internet service and upgrade plans.
For a cable household replacing an existing modem and router together, the Motorola MG8702 is the best bet for a simple all-in-one setup. For a household that already has a cable modem—or uses another internet connection—the ASUS RT-BE88U brings newer Wi-Fi 7 and multi-gigabit wired networking. Below, you’ll find seven options, clear comparisons and practical Black Friday 2026 shopping advice.
How We Picked
- Compared each product’s core job: cable modem-router combo, standalone router or both.
- Reviewed headline Wi-Fi standards and class ratings, including AX3000, AX6000, AX5700, BE7200 and BE9300.
- Considered wired connectivity, with attention to gigabit, 2.5-gigabit and 10-gigabit Ethernet options.
- Prioritized household fit, such as replacing one device, expanding a current setup or upgrading to Wi-Fi 7.
- Used published specifications, reviews and owner feedback to shape shopper-focused recommendations.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Wi-Fi class | Modem | Ethernet highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) | Cable households replacing modem and router | AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 | DOCSIS 3.1 | 4 x Gigabit |
| ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) | Multi-gigabit wired networking | BE7200 Wi-Fi 7 | No | 2 x 10 Gigabit; 10 ports total |
| Motorola MG8725 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6E Router (AX6000) | Cable households wanting 6 GHz | AX6000 Wi-Fi 6E | DOCSIS 3.1 | Ethernet ports |
| NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 DOCSIS 3.1 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX6000) | Cable internet with a multi-gigabit wired device | AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 | DOCSIS 3.1 | 1 x 2.5 Gigabit |
| ARRIS SURFboard G34 DOCSIS 3.1 Wi-Fi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX3000) | Everyday cable household use | AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 | DOCSIS 3.1 | 4 x Gigabit |
| TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300) | Wi-Fi 7 with a 6 GHz band | BE9300 Wi-Fi 7 | No | 5 x 2.5 Gigabit |
| ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (AX5700) | Wi-Fi 6 and a separate modem | AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 | No | 1 x 2.5 Gigabit |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000)
The Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) is the best all-in-one pick for cable households seeking a single device, with AX6000-class Wi-Fi 6 and a DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
Best for: Cable households replacing a separate modem and router
- Wi-Fi class
- AX6000
- Wi-Fi generation
- Wi-Fi 6
- Cable modem
- DOCSIS 3.1; 32 x 8 channels
- Ethernet ports
- 4 x Gigabit Ethernet
- Combines modem and router functions
- Wi-Fi 6 supports newer wireless devices
- Four Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired gear
- Cable service is required; not a fit for fiber or DSL
- No Wi-Fi 7 or 6 GHz band
Is the Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) is worth considering for cable customers who want one modem-router device. The Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000)'s DOCSIS 3.1 modem and AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 suit a straightforward home-network replacement.
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#2
ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200)
The ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) is the best wired-networking upgrade for multi-gigabit homes, with BE7200 Wi-Fi 7 and two 10-gigabit Ethernet ports.
Best for: Homes with a separate modem and multi-gigabit wired devices
- Wi-Fi class
- BE7200
- Wi-Fi generation
- Wi-Fi 7
- Wi-Fi bands
- Dual-band: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
- 10-gigabit ports
- 2
- Total Ethernet ports
- 10
- Wi-Fi 7 supports newer compatible devices
- Two 10-gigabit ports and a broad port selection
- Useful for homes with several wired devices
- Requires a separate modem for cable internet
- No 6 GHz Wi-Fi band
Is the ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) is worth considering for homes with a separate modem and a need for fast wired networking. The ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200)'s two 10-gigabit ports and Wi-Fi 7 support make it an upgrade-focused choice.
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#3
Motorola MG8725 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6E Router (AX6000)
The Motorola MG8725 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6E Router (AX6000) is the best combo choice for cable households seeking a 6 GHz band, with AX6000-class Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi 6E.
Best for: Cable customers who want an all-in-one device with 6 GHz Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi class
- AX6000
- Wi-Fi generation
- Wi-Fi 6E
- Wi-Fi bands
- Tri-band, including 6 GHz
- Cable modem
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Combines cable modem and router
- Adds a 6 GHz Wi-Fi band
- Supports Wi-Fi 6E devices
- Requires compatible cable service
- Wi-Fi 6E is not Wi-Fi 7
Is the Motorola MG8725 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6E Router (AX6000) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Motorola MG8725 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6E Router (AX6000) is worth considering for cable households that want one device and a 6 GHz band. Confirm provider compatibility and consider whether your devices support Wi-Fi 6E.
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#4
NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 DOCSIS 3.1 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX6000)
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 DOCSIS 3.1 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX6000) is the best combo for cable users seeking multi-gigabit wired connectivity, with AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 and a 2.5-gigabit Ethernet port.
Best for: Cable households with a multi-gigabit wired device
- Wi-Fi class
- AX6000
- Wi-Fi generation
- Wi-Fi 6
- Cable modem
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Multi-gigabit Ethernet
- 1 x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
- Combines a cable modem and Wi-Fi router
- Includes a 2.5-gigabit Ethernet port
- AX6000-class Wi-Fi 6
- Not suitable for fiber or DSL connections
- No Wi-Fi 7
Is the NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 DOCSIS 3.1 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX6000) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 DOCSIS 3.1 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX6000) is worth considering for cable customers who want an all-in-one device and a 2.5-gigabit port. Check your provider’s compatibility list before buying.
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#5
ARRIS SURFboard G34 DOCSIS 3.1 Wi-Fi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX3000)
The ARRIS SURFboard G34 DOCSIS 3.1 Wi-Fi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX3000) is the best straightforward combo for cable households with everyday Wi-Fi needs, with AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 and four Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Best for: Cable households seeking a practical Wi-Fi 6 combo
- Wi-Fi class
- AX3000
- Wi-Fi generation
- Wi-Fi 6
- Cable modem
- DOCSIS 3.1
- Ethernet ports
- 4 x Gigabit Ethernet
- Modem and router functions in one device
- Wi-Fi 6 for compatible phones and computers
- Four wired Ethernet connections
- Does not include Wi-Fi 7
- Requires cable internet service
Is the ARRIS SURFboard G34 DOCSIS 3.1 Wi-Fi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX3000) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ARRIS SURFboard G34 DOCSIS 3.1 Wi-Fi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX3000) is worth considering for cable customers who want a combined modem and router with four wired ports. Choose it for everyday Wi-Fi 6 rather than a newer Wi-Fi generation.
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#6
TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300)
The TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300) is the best 6 GHz Wi-Fi 7 pick for homes with a separate modem, with BE9300-class wireless and five 2.5-gigabit Ethernet ports.
Best for: Wi-Fi 7 households that want a 6 GHz band
- Wi-Fi class
- BE9300
- Wi-Fi generation
- Wi-Fi 7
- Wi-Fi bands
- Tri-band, including 6 GHz
- 2.5-gigabit Ethernet ports
- 5
- Wi-Fi 7 with a 6 GHz band
- Five 2.5-gigabit Ethernet ports
- Tri-band design for compatible devices
- Requires a separate modem for cable service
- Older devices do not gain Wi-Fi 7 features
Is the TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300) is worth considering for homes with a separate modem that want Wi-Fi 7 and 6 GHz connectivity. Five 2.5-gigabit ports also suit households with several wired devices.
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#7
ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (AX5700)
The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (AX5700) is the best Wi-Fi 6 upgrade for homes keeping a separate modem, with AX5700-class wireless and a 2.5-gigabit Ethernet port.
Best for: Homes that want a capable Wi-Fi 6 router without a modem combo
- Wi-Fi class
- AX5700
- Wi-Fi generation
- Wi-Fi 6
- Wi-Fi bands
- Dual-band: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
- Multi-gigabit Ethernet
- 1 x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
- AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 for a separate-modem setup
- Includes a 2.5-gigabit Ethernet port
- A router-only option for existing cable modems
- Does not include a cable modem
- No Wi-Fi 7 or 6 GHz band
Is the ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (AX5700) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (AX5700) is worth considering for a home that already has a modem and wants Wi-Fi 6 plus a 2.5-gigabit port. The ASUS RT-AX86U Pro Dual-Band WiFi 6 Router (AX5700) is a router-only option, not a cable modem replacement.
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Which is better, the Motorola MG8702 or ASUS RT-BE88U?
The Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) is better for replacing a cable modem and router together, while the ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) is better for a modem-plus-router setup that needs Wi-Fi 7 and multi-gigabit networking.
The Motorola combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with AX6000 Wi-Fi 6, which keeps the setup compact for eligible cable customers. The ASUS is a standalone router, so cable households need a separate modem. In return, the ASUS offers Wi-Fi 7 and two 10-gigabit Ethernet ports. Choose by connection type first, then weigh newer wireless features against the convenience of an all-in-one device.
Does the Motorola MG8702 work with every internet provider?
The Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) works with compatible cable internet service, not every type of internet provider.
The built-in modem is designed for cable connections, so it is not the right direct replacement for a fiber ONT or DSL modem. Provider approval and supported service tiers matter as well: confirm the exact Motorola MG8702 model on your provider’s compatibility list before purchasing. The four Gigabit Ethernet ports connect wired devices such as a desktop computer, television or game console. Households switching to fiber should check whether their provider supplies a modem or ONT and then select a router designed for that arrangement.
What makes the ASUS RT-BE88U different from the Motorola MG8702?
The ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) is a router-only Wi-Fi 7 upgrade, while the Motorola MG8702 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem and Wi-Fi 6 router.
The ASUS stands out for its wired connections, including two 10-gigabit ports and a total of 10 Ethernet ports. Its dual-band design uses 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz; Wi-Fi 7 does not mean the RT-BE88U has a 6 GHz band. The Motorola instead focuses on cable convenience: one box handles modem and router duties. For a 6 GHz Wi-Fi 7 option, the TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300) is another fit, but it also needs a separate modem.
Which router or modem-router combo is the best Black Friday 2026 pick?
The Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) is the most straightforward pick for eligible cable households, while the ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) suits homes investing in Wi-Fi 7 and multi-gigabit Ethernet.
Black Friday 2026 shopping is a good time to compare the whole setup, not just the headline Wi-Fi class. Include the cost and compatibility of a separate modem when considering a standalone router. For a combined cable device with a 6 GHz band, compare the Motorola MG8725. For Wi-Fi 7 with tri-band coverage and 6 GHz, compare the TP-Link Archer BE550. An easy recommendation depends on the connection type and devices in your home, not on a single spec.
How do you choose between Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7?
The Motorola MG8702 offers Wi-Fi 6, the Motorola MG8725 adds Wi-Fi 6E and 6 GHz, and the ASUS RT-BE88U offers Wi-Fi 7 without a 6 GHz band.
Wi-Fi 6 remains a practical match for many homes, especially when replacing a cable modem-router combo. Wi-Fi 6E adds access to 6 GHz for compatible devices, while Wi-Fi 7 brings a newer generation and features supported by newer clients. The TP-Link Archer BE550 pairs Wi-Fi 7 with a 6 GHz band; the ASUS RT-BE88U pairs Wi-Fi 7 with substantial wired connectivity. Older phones and computers still connect according to their own capabilities, so a new router does not turn an older device into a Wi-Fi 7 client.
Buying Guide
Check your internet connection type
The Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) is for compatible cable service, while the ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) needs a separate modem for cable. Confirm provider compatibility and connection type before choosing.
Decide between one device and two
The Motorola MG8702 combines a cable modem and router, while the TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300) is a standalone router. A combo simplifies equipment; separate devices allow a router upgrade without replacing a working modem.
Match Wi-Fi to your devices
The Motorola MG8702 provides Wi-Fi 6, the Motorola MG8725 provides Wi-Fi 6E, and the ASUS RT-BE88U provides Wi-Fi 7. Check which standards your phones, laptops and other clients support before paying extra for features they do not use.
Count your wired connections
The ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) offers 10 Ethernet ports, including two 10-gigabit ports. The Motorola MG8702 has four Gigabit Ethernet ports. Count computers, consoles, storage devices and access points to avoid running short.
Compare total setup needs
The Motorola MG8702 includes its cable modem, while the ASUS RT-BE88U does not. When comparing Black Friday 2026 options, account for any separate modem, provider approval, existing equipment and the wired ports your home needs.
FAQ
Motorola MG8702 vs ASUS RT-BE88U: which one should I buy?
Choose the Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) for a compatible cable connection and one-box setup. Choose the ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) for a separate-modem setup with Wi-Fi 7 and extensive multi-gigabit Ethernet.
Does the ASUS RT-BE88U include a modem?
No. The ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) is a standalone router, not a cable modem-router combo. Cable customers need a compatible modem in front of it, while households with fiber should connect it according to their provider’s equipment requirements.
Does the ASUS RT-BE88U have a 6 GHz band?
No. The ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) uses 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Shoppers who want a Wi-Fi 7 router with 6 GHz should compare the TP-Link Archer BE550 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router (BE9300).
Is the Motorola MG8702 a router and modem?
Yes. The Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem + Wi-Fi 6 Router (AX6000) combines a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem and an AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 router. It suits compatible cable internet service and does not replace fiber or DSL equipment.
What is a good alternative to the Motorola MG8702?
The ARRIS SURFboard G34 DOCSIS 3.1 Wi-Fi 6 Cable Modem Router (AX3000) is a cable combo with four Gigabit Ethernet ports. For a combo with Wi-Fi 6E and 6 GHz, compare the Motorola MG8725 and confirm cable-provider compatibility.
Should I buy a Wi-Fi 7 router for Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS RT-BE88U Dual-Band WiFi 7 Router (BE7200) suits shoppers with compatible newer devices, a separate modem and multi-gigabit wired needs. The TP-Link Archer BE550 adds 6 GHz. Wi-Fi 6 remains a sensible match for homes without Wi-Fi 7 clients.