If you’re looking to upgrade your home internet setup to achieve top internet speeds, you might be considering purchasing a cable modem. Two popular options are the Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000.
Both of these cable modems offer high-speed internet capabilities and are compatible with popular cable service providers. In this article, we’ll compare the two products and help you determine which one is best for you.
Quick Comparison Between MB8600 vs Netgear CM1000
Last update on 2024-12-29 at 17:06 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Feature | Motorola MB8600 | Netgear CM1000 |
|---|---|---|
| DOCSIS version | 3.1 and 3.0 32×8 capabilities | 3.1 |
| Cable providers | Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum |
| Maximum speed | 1 Gbps | 1 Gbps |
| Built-in router | No | No |
| Ethernet ports | 1 x 10/100/1000 Gigabit port | 1 x 1 Gigabit port |
| Rental fees | Up to $168/year savings | Up to $168/year savings |
| AQM | Yes | Not specified |
| Network security | Broadcom chipset | Not specified |
Note: AQM stands for Active Queue Management, a feature that reduces Internet latency and enhances the performance of interactive applications.
Internet Speed
The first and foremost factor to consider while choosing a cable modem is its internet speed capabilities. Here’s how Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000 compare in this aspect:
- Motorola MB8600: This cable modem is built with DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 3.0 32×8 capabilities, which provide top internet speeds for all cable internet services. Wirecutter recommends this model as the best cable modem for people using Gigabit internet plans.
- Netgear CM1000: This cable modem is also DOCSIS 3.1 compatible, and supports internet speeds up to 1Gbps, making it a suitable choice for users with high-speed internet plans.
Verdict: Both cable modems are built to provide high-speed internet connectivity, but the Motorola MB8600 has an edge in terms of compatibility with all multi-gigabit speed tiers.
Compatibility with Cable Providers
Another crucial factor to consider is the compatibility of the cable modem with different cable providers. Here’s how Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000 compare in this aspect:
- Motorola MB8600: This cable modem is approved by Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum, and is compatible with all speeds including Comcast Gigabit services and Cox Gigablast. However, it is not compatible with RCN or any fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services available from Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others.
- Netgear CM1000: This cable modem is compatible with all major cable internet providers, including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, and Cox, with internet speeds up to 1Gbps. However, it is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, or any bundled voice service.
Verdict: Both cable modems are compatible with major cable providers, but Motorola MB8600 is compatible with more cable providers, including Charter Spectrum, which is not supported by the Netgear CM1000.
Cost Savings
One of the major advantages of owning a cable modem is that it eliminates the need for monthly rental fees charged by cable providers for renting their modems. Here’s how Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000 compare in terms of cost savings:
- Motorola MB8600: This cable modem can help you save up to $168 per year in cable modem rental fees (savings are shown for Comcast Xfinity and vary by cable service provider).
- Netgear CM1000: This cable modem can also help you save up to $168 per year in equipment rental fees.
Verdict: Both cable modems offer significant cost savings by eliminating monthly rental fees charged by cable providers.
Ethernet Connections
Both the Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000 come with 1 Gigabit Ethernet port, allowing you to connect to a computer or separate Wi-Fi router. The MB8600 also offers a 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet port, allowing you to connect any single device with an Ethernet port, including a router, Windows or Mac computer, HDTV, or game station.
Additional Features
The Motorola MB8600 includes a broadcom chipset that provides advanced security from denial-of-service attacks and an Active Queue Management (AQM) system that significantly reduces internet latency on both DOCSIS 3.1 and 3.0 services, resulting in faster page loads for all web traffic and enhanced interactive applications like online gaming and video conferencing.
The MB8600 also includes a full-band capture digital tuner to enhance speed and save energy. In contrast, the Netgear CM1000 does not include any additional features beyond its high-speed internet capabilities.
FAQs
What is the main difference between Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000?
The main difference between the two cable modems is that the Motorola MB8600 supports both DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 3.0 32×8 capabilities, while the Netgear CM1000 only supports DOCSIS 3.1.
Which cable providers are supported by both cable modems?
Both Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000 are compatible with major cable internet providers such as Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum.
Can I use these cable modems with a fiber optic or DSL internet connection?
No, these cable modems are not compatible with fiber optic or DSL internet services. They are designed specifically for cable internet services.
Does the Motorola MB8600 or Netgear CM1000 come with a built-in wireless router?
No, both cable modems do not have a built-in wireless router. You will need to pair them with a separate Wi-Fi router to provide wireless connectivity.
What is the maximum internet speed supported by the Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000?
The Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000 both support internet speeds up to 1 Gbps (Gigabit per second), which is suitable for multi-gigabit speed tiers.
Which cable modem is recommended by Wirecutter for people using Gigabit internet plans?
The Motorola MB8600 is recommended by Wirecutter as the best cable modem for people using Gigabit internet plans.
Can I save money by using either of these cable modems instead of renting one from my cable provider?
Yes, both cable modems can save you up to $168 per year in cable modem rental fees, depending on your cable service provider.
Final Thoughts
Overall, both the Motorola MB8600 and Netgear CM1000 offer excellent high-speed internet capabilities and are compatible with popular cable service providers. However, there are some differences to keep in mind when choosing between the two.
If you need Gigabit internet speeds and are using Comcast Xfinity, Cox, or Charter Spectrum, the Motorola MB8600 may be the best option for you. However, if you don’t need Gigabit speeds and are using any major cable internet provider, the Netgear CM1000 is a great choice.
In any case, both cable modems offer significant savings on monthly rental fees and allow you to pair with any Wi-Fi router you’d like.