Are you tired of slow internet speeds and buffering? It’s time to upgrade to a faster cable modem that can provide better connectivity and faster streaming and downloading throughout your home. Two popular options available in the market are the Arris S33 and the Motorola MB8600. In this article, we will compare these two cable modems to help you decide which one is better suited to meet your internet needs.
Quick Comparison
Last update on 2024-12-21 at 19:00 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Features | Arris S33 | Motorola MB8600 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | ARRIS | Motorola |
| Internet provider | Suddenlink, Xfinity, Cox, Mediacomm, Spectrum | Spectrum, Optimum, Cox, Xfinity |
| Connectivity | Ethernet | Cable |
| Compatible devices | Router, Personal Computer, Ethernet connected devices | Personal Computer |
| Item Dimensions | 5.14 x 1.8 x 4.74 inches | 7.25 x 2.25 x 7.88 inches |
| Ethernet Ports | 2 | 2 |
| Number of Ports | 2 | 6 |
| Max Download Speed | 2500 Megabits Per Second | 686 Megabits Per Second |
| Recommended Plans | Up to 2.5 Gbps | Up to 1000 Mbps |
| Channel Bonding | 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels | DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 3.0 32×8 capabilities |
| Built-in Security | No | Yes (Broadcom chipset for DoS attack prevention) |
| Active Queue Management (AQM) | No | Yes |
| Wi-Fi compatibility | Yes (connects to Wi-Fi router for networking) | Yes (compatible with any Wi-Fi router) |
| Telephone Capability | No | No |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty provided by ARRIS | Not specified |
Arris S33 Overview
The Arris Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is a reliable choice for better connectivity and faster speeds. This modem is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and others. It is designed to bring you faster streaming and downloading speeds and increase your network capability. The modem is backed by a trusted brand with over 260 million modems sold and growing.
- Save Money: Own your modem and save. Reduce your cable bill up to $168 dollars per year in cable…
- Modem Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 is the newest technology available from cable internet providers. Its…
- Simple and Secure Set-up: Plug-in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the…
- Compatibility: The SURFboard S33 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including…
Last update on 2024-12-21 at 08:40 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Arris S33 comes with a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port and a 1 Gigabit Ethernet port to connect to a Wi-Fi router or other wired devices. It features 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, 4 OFDM channels, and DOCSIS 3.1 technology that is 10x faster than DOCSIS 3.0. It provides better security, reduces lag while gaming, and enables multi-gig networking.
This modem is simple to set up. Just plug in the device, download the Surfboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. Additionally, it comes with a 2-year limited warranty and live chat and phone support available 8 am to 1 am EST.
Motorola MB8600 Overview
The Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is a reliable and flexible modem option that provides top internet speeds for all cable internet services. It is approved for use with Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum, and supports cable plans up to 1000 Mbps.
- Top Internet Speeds for all Multi-gigabit Speed Tiers – Wirecutter recommends this model as the best…
- Save Money – Eliminate up to 168 dollars per year in cable modem rental fees (Savings are shown for…
- Flexible Compatibility – Pair with any Wi-Fi router you’d like, including Whole Home Wi-Fi or Mesh…
- Proactive Network Security – A broadcom chipset provides advanced security from denial-of service…
- Active Queue Management (AQM) – AQM significantly reduces Internet latency on both DOCSIS 3.1 and…
Last update on 2024-12-21 at 19:00 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Motorola MB8600 has a 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet port that allows connection of any single device with an Ethernet port including a router, Windows or Mac computer, HDTV, or game station. It is also compatible with any Wi-Fi router including Whole Home Wi-Fi or Mesh routers like eero, Google Wi-Fi, and Orbi. This cable modem does not have a built-in wireless router or telephone call capability.
The MB8600 features DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 3.0 32×8 capabilities that give top internet speeds for all cable internet services. It is not compatible with RCN or fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services available from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.
This cable modem also features proactive network security with a Broadcom chipset that provides advanced security from denial-of-service attacks. It also has Active Queue Management (AQM), which significantly reduces internet latency on both DOCSIS 3.1 and 3.0 services.
Arris S33 vs Motorola MB8600: Comparison
To help you decide which cable modem is better suited to your needs, let’s compare the Arris S33 and Motorola MB8600.
Speed
The Arris S33 cable modem has a maximum downstream data transfer rate of 2500 Megabits per second, which is the same as its data transfer rate. In contrast, the Motorola MB8600 has a maximum downstream data transfer rate of 686 Megabits per second.
Compatibility
When it comes to compatibility, the Motorola MB8600 is an excellent option for those who are looking to upgrade their cable modem. It is compatible with many of the major cable internet service providers, including Spectrum, Optimum, Cox, and Xfinity. However, it’s worth noting that it is not compatible with RCN and cannot be used with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services.
The ARRIS Surfboard S33, on the other hand, is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro), and others. It’s approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5-Gbps. Before purchasing either modem, it’s always best to check with your internet service provider to confirm compatibility.
Setup
Both modems are easy to set up, and you can have them up and running in no time. The ARRIS Surfboard S33 is designed to be plug-and-play, and you can activate it by downloading the SURFboard Central App and following the instructions. Once you’ve connected it to your Wi-Fi router, you’ll be good to go.
Similarly, the Motorola MB8600 is easy to set up, and you can connect it to any Wi-Fi router you like, including mesh routers like eero, Google Wi-Fi, and Orbi. All you need to do is plug in the device, connect it to your router, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Customer Support and Warranty
When it comes to customer support and warranty, both modems offer excellent service. The ARRIS Surfboard S33 provides dedicated customer support, with live chat and phone support available from 8 am to 1 am EST. The product ships with a 2-year limited warranty from ARRIS, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that you’re covered if anything goes wrong.
Similarly, the Motorola MB8600 comes with a 2-year warranty, and you can contact their customer support team if you have any issues or questions. Their website provides plenty of resources, including setup guides and FAQs, to help you troubleshoot any issues.
Price
When it comes to price, the ARRIS Surfboard S33 and the Motorola MB8600 are both excellent options that offer good value for money. The ARRIS Surfboard S33 retails for around $200, while the Motorola MB8600 is priced at around $150. Both modems will help you save money on cable modem rental fees in the long run, and they offer excellent performance and speed.
The Bottom Line
Both the ARRIS Surfboard S33 and the Motorola MB8600 are excellent cable modems that offer fast speeds, reliable performance, and easy setup. The ARRIS Surfboard S33 is an excellent choice for those who need a cable modem that supports multi-gigabit networking and comes with a 2.5-Gigabit ethernet port.
On the other hand, the Motorola MB8600 is a great choice for those who need a modem that supports all cable internet services and provides excellent proactive network security.
Ultimately, the choice between these two modems comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Both are excellent options that offer great value for money, and you can’t go wrong with either one.