Xfinity is not only the largest but the most popular cable internet service used in almost every other American household. Xfinity offers Xfinity TV, Xfinity Internet, and Xfinity Phone services in 41 states.
Xfinity predominantly uses a hybrid fiber-coaxial network for its internet services. But when it comes to Xfinity-compatible routers, do you know which one is the best for you?
What is the Difference Between DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1?
Xfinity Internet primarily offers cable internet, as shared earlier. For this very reason, you need a DOCSIS cable modem. That said, if you are like most people who are completely unaware of the two different DOCSIS technologies, then it’s time that you learn the difference between them.
DOCSIS is an abbreviation for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification. It is a certification and interoperability standard for cable technology developed by the CableLabs research and development collaboration in the cable television industry.
One of the most crucial aspects of a cable internet connection is the modem, and knowing the DOCSIS standard is essential to make an informed choice.
The most notable improvement between DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1 is the increased maximum download speed from 1 Gbps to 10 Gbps made possible by DOCSIS 3.1. But there’s more here, so stay with us.
Here are the basic differences between DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1:
| Differing Aspects | DOCSIS 3.0 | DOCSIS 3.1 |
| Downstream Capacity | 1 Gbps | 10 Gbps |
| Upstream Capacity | 200 Mbps | 1-2 Gbps |
| Channel Bonding | 8×4, 16×8, 24×8, 32×8 | 32×8 |
What is DOCSIS 3.0?
When compared to DOCSIS 2.0, DOCSIS 3.0 is a major improvement. Despite its age, the technology is still widely used by cable internet providers to deliver internet connections.
While DOCSIS 3.0 cable modems may be more widely available and less expensive, DOCSIS 3.1 modems are required for use with any high-speed internet service. There is no reason not to choose a DOCSIS 3.0 device if the speeds it supports are sufficient for your needs.
What is DOCSIS 3.1?
Currently, the most recent DOCSIS version in use is 3.1. The speed is ten times that of DOCSIS 3.0. The public rollout of DOCSIS 4.0 has not yet occurred despite the announcement; hence, DOCSIS 3.1 is the fastest and most stable version currently available.
Cable modems with DOCSIS 3.1 support higher data rates than those with DOCSIS 3.0. DOCSIS 3.1 is superior for high-speed Internet services because it supports speeds up to 10 Gbps. A DOCSIS 3.1 modem will work with your current plan and any future plans for greater speeds, making your current internet connection future-proof.
Number One Xfinity-Compatible Routers
Now that we have broken the technical terminologies for you, let’s look at the top Xfinity-compatible routers:
TP-Link Archer AX73
Customers of Xfinity who want the “whole package” (fast speeds, large coverage area, and a plethora of useful features) without breaking the bank could opt for the TP-Link Archer AX73.
Any Xfinity package up to and including Superfast (800 Mbps) can take advantage of this connection speed. It’s also a viable alternative for those with ultrafast connections (1000 Mbps).
The Archer AX73 also has some of the greatest available router features. It includes excellent parental controls, Quality of Service (which lets you prioritize devices on the network for increased performance), and a fantastic app to manage it all.
At what cost, though? You can get it for $179.99. As you can anticipate, for something of this standard, it is a little expensive. However, the value you receive far exceeds the cost. It’s a great fit for Xfinity customers with the fastest tier of service.
TP-Link Archer AX90
When it comes to routers compatible with Xfinity, the Archer AX90 is highly recommended. This Xfinity-compatible WiFi router’s 8 external beamforming antennas made it easy to cover a space of up to 2,500 square feet and connect 10 devices at once.
With its 1.5 GHz quad-core processor, the Archer AX90 can transmit speeds of up to 4804 Mbps through tri-band WiFi 6 at 160 MHz on the 5 GHz band. Because it works with any internet service provider, it would be the perfect router for the Xfinity Gigabit plan.
When it comes to Xfinity routers, the Archer AX90 is highly recommended because of its reliability and speed. Having WiFi 6 with tri-band capability is useful if you need to connect several devices. It has more effective network security as well but is priced at $205.34.
NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000
Even though it’s pricey, the Nighthawk C7000 made our list of the best Xfinity-compatible modem-router combos.
You save money by not having to purchase a separate modem and router when upgrading from your Xfinity xFi Gateway. Once you’ve configured the Nighthawk C7000, you won’t need a separate modem or router. Also, this router is Xfinity certified.
The C7000’s built-in 24×8 channel bonding reveals its maximum possible download and upload speeds via the internet. The C7000, in this scenario, is capable of transfer rates of up to 960 Mbps. With dual-band and beamforming technology, this modem/router bundle is ideal for 400 Mbps Xfinity connections at just $192.
Arris SURFboard SBG10
Although it supports dual-band networks, there are no obvious antennas on the device, making this a very high-end router option.
While this is one of the more affordable choices, priced at $90.36, it still offers a number of useful features. The Arris SURFboard SBG10 combines a wireless router, a modem, and an Ethernet router with 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports into one convenient device.
While it can carry data at speeds of up to 400 Mbps, the Arris SURFboard SBG10 is otherwise extremely slow. Despite its slower speeds, the combination of 16 upstream and 4 downstream channels guarantees constant communication.
The SURFboard Manager software is not just user-friendly and Xfinity-certified, but you can also use it for setup.
Motorola MT8733
Despite its high price – $321.74, the Motorola MT8733 is a highly sought-after gigabit cable modem router combo. The reason is that the gadget incorporates a WiFi 6 router and 2 phone lines in addition to supporting DOCSIS 3.1.
On paper, this gadget appears to have no flaws. But is it truly worth the high asking price?
The device’s DOCSIS 3.1 modem features 32 bonded channels, the largest number available in modern modems. The total number of downstream channels is 32, whereas the upstream total is only 8. Because of channel bonding, it can handle rates in the multi-gigabit range. The throughput is proportional to the channel bonding strength.
The router is an AX6000 with dual bands. “AX” stands for “WiFi 6,” while “6000” indicates the transfer rate. If you combine the two bands, you can receive download rates of up to 6,000 Mbps.
There is theoretical support for speeds of up to 4,800 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 1,200 Mbps on the 2.4GHz channel. The Gigabit package from Xfinity is ideal for the telephony cable modem router and is Xfinity certified.
How to Choose an Xfinity-Compatible Router?
Although we have shared the top Xfinity-compatible routers, you should still consider two very important things when picking the right router, such as:
Data Transfer Speed
Make sure your Router is compatible with the bandwidth package you’re getting from a service like Xfinity before making your purchase.
A router with a connection speed of 6 Gbps will unquestionably outperform one with only 1 Gbps. You may utilize the internet at higher speeds and even improve your connection in the future with this.
Network Bands
When purchasing a new router, it’s crucial to check the network bands, particularly if your house or place of business has a gigabit connection. Almost all gigabit routers support both 2.4 and 5 GHz network bands, as only the 5 GHz band provides such high over-the-air transfer speeds.
However, you’ll need to resort to the slower 2.4 GHz network for far-flung gadgets, so it’s not the best choice for a ranging connection.
All in All
Well, there you are!
Xfinity Internet services should work with the vast majority of routers. However, you can refer to this guide if you want to be extra safe. We hope you now understand the difference between DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1.
Moreover, you should also know what to look out for when shopping for an Xfinity-compatible router. The good news is Xfinity offers professional customer service for all your questions and concerns. You can always call Xfinity customer service at 844-207-8721 to inquire about Xfinity-compatible routers or even go to the My Device Info on their official site to find out. Good luck!
