If you’re in the market for a new cable modem, chances are you’ve come across the Arris CM8200 and the Arris SB8200. Both modems offer fast internet speeds and a range of features that make them stand out from the competition.
However, with so many similarities, it can be difficult to know which modem is the right choice for you. In this comparison article, we’ll take a closer look at the Arris CM8200 vs SB8200 and help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison Table
Last update on 2024-05-21 at 18:39 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Features | Arris CM8200 | Arris SB8200 |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | DOCSIS 3.1 | DOCSIS 3.1 |
| Downstream channels | 32×8 | 32×8 |
| Upstream channels | 2 | 2 |
| Ethernet ports | 1 | 2x 1-Gigabit ethernet ports |
| Switchable filters | Yes | Not specified |
| OFDM channels | Not specified | 4 |
| Compatibility | Major US cable internet providers | Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro) and others |
| Customer support | Not specified | Live Chat and Phone Support available 8am -1am EST. |
| Warranty | Not specified | 2-Year Limited Warranty provided by ARRIS |
Design and Compatibility
When it comes to design, the Arris CM8200 and SB8200 look quite similar. Both modems have a sleek, black and white design and feature LED lights that indicate power, upstream and downstream connectivity, and network activity. However, there are some key differences between the two.
The Arris CM8200 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that features switchable US and DS filters for flexible operation. It is compatible with most major US cable internet service providers, including Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum.
On the other hand, the Arris SB8200 is also a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that is certified for use with most US cable internet service providers. However, it has some additional compatibility features, including compatibility with Gigabit+ internet plans from Cox and Spectrum.
Internet Speed and Modem Technology
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a cable modem is internet speed. Both the Arris CM8200 and SB8200 offer maximum internet speeds of 1 Gbps. However, the SB8200 offers a few additional features that make it stand out from the CM8200.
The SB8200 uses DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is the newest technology available from cable internet providers. It provides 10x faster internet speeds than DOCSIS 3.0, offers better security, reduces lag while gaming, and enables multi-gig networking. While the CM8200 also uses DOCSIS 3.1 technology, it doesn’t offer the same speed and security benefits as the SB8200.
Setup and Customer Support
Both the Arris CM8200 and SB8200 offer simple and secure setup processes. The CM8200 allows custom-designed setups to be applied to monitor the end-user more efficiently with multiple provisioning methods, including SNMP, configuration file, and remote web GUI access. Meanwhile, the SB8200 requires users to download the SURFboard Central App and follow the instructions to activate the modem. Both modems are also compatible with Wi-Fi routers for networking.
If you encounter any issues during the setup process, both the CM8200 and SB8200 offer dedicated customer support. The SB8200 provides live chat and phone support available 8am -1am EST, while the CM8200 provides a range of MSO-specific OAM requirements, including Y.1731-based messaging.
Warranty and Value
When it comes to warranty, both the Arris CM8200 and SB8200 offer a 2-year limited warranty. However, the SB8200 has an additional advantage of being a more trusted name in home connectivity with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
When it comes to value, both modems offer excellent value for their price. However, owning your modem can save you up to $168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees, making the SB8200 an even more attractive option.
FAQs
Which modem offers more advanced features, the Arris CM8200 or the SB8200?
The Arris CM8200 offers more advanced features such as switchable US and DS filters, support for BSoD with multiple L2VPNs, and Y.1731 based messaging for integration in MSO specific OAM requirements.
Which modem is more widely compatible with U.S. cable internet providers?
The Arris SB8200 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro), and others. Check your ISP’s website to confirm compatibility.
Which modem offers better customer support?
The Arris SB8200 offers dedicated customer support with live chat and phone support available 8am – 1am EST.
Which modem offers a longer warranty period?
The Arris SB8200 comes with a 2-year limited warranty provided by Arris.
Which modem offers faster internet speeds?
Both modems offer DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which provides faster internet speeds compared to DOCSIS 3.0. However, the maximum internet speeds that each modem can provide depend on your cable internet service provider and the plan you are subscribed to.
Can the Arris CM8200 be used with major U.S. cable internet providers?
The compatibility of the Arris CM8200 with U.S. cable internet providers is not specified in the given information.
Does the Arris CM8200 come with a warranty?
Information regarding the warranty of the Arris CM8200 is not provided in the given information.
Final Verdict
After comparing the Arris CM8200 and SB8200, it’s clear that both modems are top-notch when it comes to providing high-speed internet connectivity. They both use DOCSIS 3.1 technology, have 32×8 downstream channels, and offer 2 upstream channels. However, there are some notable differences between the two.
The Arris CM8200 offers switchable US and DS filters for flexible operation, support for BSoD with multiple L2VPNs, and Y.1731 based messaging for integration in MSO specific OAM requirements. It also has a full capture bandwidth tuner with US and DS spectrum analysis and allows custom designed setups to be applied to monitor the end user more efficiently with multiple provisioning methods (SNMP, configuration file, remote web GUI access). However, information regarding compatibility, customer support, and warranty is not provided.
On the other hand, the Arris SB8200 is a trusted name in home connectivity with over 260 million modems sold and growing. It offers two 1-Gigabit ethernet ports, compatibility with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity, and is approved for cable internet speed plans up to 1-Gbps. It also comes with a 2-year limited warranty and dedicated customer support with live chat and phone support available 8am -1am EST. However, the switchable filters and Y.1731 based messaging features are not specified.
In conclusion, both modems are excellent choices for high-speed internet connectivity, and choosing between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you require advanced features such as switchable filters and Y.1731 based messaging, the Arris CM8200 may be the better option. However, if you prioritize compatibility, customer support, and warranty, the Arris SB8200 is a solid choice.