Are you finally on board with an internet connection but only have Earthlink, CenturyLink, Frontier, and other DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) based service providers to work with? Or are you temporarily moving to a rural area where cable ISPs might evade your sights for a bit? In either case, you need a DSL modem.
Most DSL modems or modem-router combos offer mid-to-low tier speeds. And even if you can get one with excellent data rates, the far band routing component might not be up to snuff. Some might also lack enough ports, firewalls, and support for anything beyond ADSL, making it tough to find the best-performance DSL modem.
Worry not; I tested 14 DSL internet gateways for two months, measured them against several important aspects, and finally, here with a list of the 7 best options for 2024.
👉 Related reading: What Internet Speed Do I Need?
7 Best DSL Modems of 2024 [Doubles as Routers]
Note: DSL internet still requires a telephone line. So, consider DSL internet and the corresponding gateway devices only if you are okay with maximum data speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
In the next few sections, I shall review the top 7 modems that work with DSL providers and have been tried, tested, and put through a wide range of scenarios.
Most importantly, I have ensured that the list comprises the premium options with support for ADSL, SDSL, and VDSL, followed by some mid-rangers that only support one or even two relevant technologies. Finally, there are a few budget options for low-tier internet plans from AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier, etc.
1. Best Overall: ZyXEL C3000Z
- Technology: ADSL2, VDSL2
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 940 Mbps
- Ports: 5 Gig Ethernet
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Compatible DSL ISPs: CenturyLink, TDS, Frontier, and Windstream.
ZyXEL C3000Z is easily the best-suited DSL gigabit modem on the list, courtesy of its affinity towards high-speed VDSL technology and routing capabilities. I even compared it with the older C110Z, I realized that the former is a better bet, owing to the 5G capabilities.
Speed & Channel Bonding
Despite this modem promising maximum data rates of up to 940 Mbps, you would be lucky to get 100 Mbps, and that too for the bonded VDSL2 support. However, if you are on low-tier plans from CenturyLink, Frontier, and others, this gateway device can help you assume speeds close to 80 Mbps, consistently enough.
What works even better is the availability of the GPON slot that lets you upgrade to a fiber internet connection if and when available.
Ports & Connectivity
The C3000Z comes equipped with four Gig ethernet ports and a basic WAN port, capable of functioning as the 5th Ethernet port when needed.
This functionality allows you to connect this combo directly to smart devices that are more bandwidth-intensive than others. On top of that, a USB port allows you to share data across the network.
Connectivity-wise, this modem-router combo boasts a dual-band interface, allowing you to reach max speeds of up to 400 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and almost 30 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. However, if you have the fastest possible DSL plan to rely on, you can consider getting higher speeds with wired connections.
Design & Build
The C3000Z weighs 2.23 pounds. Dimension-wise, it measures 12.2 x 10.39 x 2.56 inches, making it a reasonably desired gateway device.
Hardware & Performance
The integrated hardware module lets you achieve DSL bonding, CBRS compatibility, and support for LAN subnets and static IPs. Also, you can pair it with any smart device to manage the network remotely.
Conclusion
Overall, ZyXEL C3000Z is the best all-around DSL modem around, capable of achieving exceptional speeds without letting the security-specific guard down. Also, the privacy quotient, including ethernet firewalling and WPA2 safeguard, makes it stand out from other options.
Pros
- High wireless throughput
- Supports VDSL2 bonding
- Remote management
- Covers close to 2000 sq ft with ease
- 5 Ethernet ports
Cons
- Far band speeds aren’t consistent
- Costly
2. Best VDSL Modem: CenturyLink C3000A
- Technology: ADSL and VDSL
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 940 Mbps
- Ports: 5 Gig Ethernet Ports
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Compatible DSL ISPs: CenturyLink, TDS, and Windstream.
In addition to the latest DSL technologies and bonding support, C3000A from CenturyLink also boasts a wide range of indicators for keeping you updated regarding the network conditions.
Speed & Channel Bonding
Coming to the speeds, this modem can close in on 100Mbps with VDSL bonding support. For the basic internet plans, i.e., the 40 Mbps internet from CenturyLink, the C3000A can help you reach close to 35 Mbps. Not just that, you can use this modem with other ISPs as well, including AT&T, Frontier, and more.
Ports & Connectivity
This modem throws in five Gigabit Ethernet ports with one capable of doubling down as a WAN port if you plan to connect a secondary router to this gateway device.
Plus, there is a basic USB port to work with, followed by an integrated router, which boasts dual-band support and even the near band throughput of up to 500 Mbps, provided the ISP offers relevant DSL plans.
Design & Build
The C3000A is a standard, plastic-clad device with dimensions fixed at 13.19 x 10.08 x 2.52 inches. This product also brings forth a ventilated chassis and a durable stand to keep it from tripping.
Hardware & Performance
A standard dual-core processor is housed within, translating into IPv6 functionality, QoS support, static IPs, and consistent internet speeds. Plus, there are standard security safeguards, with WPA/WPA2 standards and network firewalls being the obvious ones.
Conclusion
Overall, if you are in the market for TDS compatible DSL modem, especially one which might be able to get you the best data rates without attenuation, the CenturyLink C3000A is certainly one to invest in. Compared to other options, the C3000A is a more durable inclusion.
Pros
- Built-in router
- Easy to set up
- VDSL bonding for maximizing speeds
- WPA2 safeguard
Cons
- Costliest modem of the lot
3. Best Security Standards: Actiontec GT701D
- Technology: ADSL, ADSL2+
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 100 Mbps
- Ports: 1 10/100 Ethernet
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Compatible DSL ISPs: AT&T, Verizon, Qwest, CenturyLink, and Frontier.
Actiontec GT701D offers an excellent cost-to-ownership ratio as a modem used for DSL connections. While there are several good things about this modem, the web scheduling and blocking functionality make it a good enough choice for homes with kids in them.
Speed & Channel Bonding
Firstly, you cannot expect this modem to reach cable-like speeds. But then, the ADSL2+ technology lets you get close to 30 Mbps of downstream throughput if you opt for low-tier and mid-tier internet plans from AT&T and CenturyLink.
Coming to the utilities, you can expect this modem to be good enough for faster downloads and video streaming.
Ports & Connectivity
As far as the port setup is concerned, you get one Ethernet slot capable of maxing out at 100Mbps. But then, Actiontec brings in Flow control functionality to significantly improve the wired throughput.
Also, when it comes to routing, this dual-band combo exhibits decent download speeds of up to 25 Mbps. In addition to that, you get access to auto-handshaking support to make the ADSL flavors work in tandem, followed by packet routing functionality to achieve better speeds even during peak hours.
Design & Build
Honestly speaking, this is one of the better-looking options on the list in terms of aesthetics. The dimensions are set at 4.23 x 1.57 x 3.15 inches, making it one of the handiest devices to work with, especially if you move your internet equipment quite frequently.
Hardware & Performance
Regarding the processing setup, this state-of-art DSL-supported modem features a Broadband-grade communication processor that can effectively work with diverse ADSL modems.
Plus, the chipset makes room for traffic-shaping protocols, upgradeable firmware, and advanced NAT features with support for port forwarding, DMZ, and more.
Conclusion
Overall, the Actiontec GT701D is one of the most balanced DSL-compatible modems, which stands out when device security is concerned, courtesy of the Stateful firewall support and the ability to thwart DoS attacks with perfection.
Pros
- Excellent security safeguards
- Ultra-fast processor
- Port forwarding support
- Congestion-free network access
Cons
- Only other Ethernet port
- Not meant for top-tier connections
4. Best for Voice Connectivity: CenturyLink C2100T
- Technology: ADSL, VDSL2, and more
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 940 Mbps
- Ports: 5 Ethernet + 2 VoIP
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Compatible DSL ISPs: CenturyLink and TDS.
Nothing beats having a modem-router combo that even excels when IP telephony is concerned. If finding such a DSL device sounds difficult, I want you to consider CenturyLink C2100T.
Also, compared with the C1100T, this modem looks like a much better bet, courtesy of its support for some of the more advanced DSL flavors like ADSL2+ and VDSL2.
Speed & Channel Bonding
The C2100T is compatible with every DSL internet plan, courtesy of the existing ADSL, ADSL2+, and even the diverse VDSL and VDSL2 flavors.
As far as speeds are concerned, you can reach 940Mbps as the peak level, but with a 100Mbps CenturyLink plan and even a mid-tier AT&T DSL internet package, you can expect this device to return close to 80Mbps, consistently enough.
Ports & Connectivity
Regardless of the multiple bells and whistles, the port arrangement steals the show, with the Prism TV Technicolor modem featuring 4 outright Ethernet ports followed by one WAN/LAN port and two VoIP slots for making use of IP telephony services. There is also an HPNA slot around if you want to explore the perks of intercoms.
This device also functions as a dual-band router, allowing you to access wireless functionality across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. However, the speeds for the same are capped at 8 Mbps and 25 Mbps, respectively, for a 40 Mbps plan.
Design & Build
Regarding design and aesthetics, this modem measures 10.6 x 10.6 x 2.6 inches and weighs close to 2 pounds. Despite the heft, the device remains cool, courtesy of the well-ventilated form factor.
Hardware & Performance
With a dual-core processor at the helm, the C2100T is one of the most promising modems on the list for speed, consistency, and throughput.
Also, if you can use bonded VDSL flavor, the existing hardware setup even allows you to experience low-latency gaming.
Conclusion
If you plan on setting up a small-scale office with internet connectivity, wireless access, and support for IP telephony, the CenturyLink Prism TV Technicolor C2100T scales beyond other bonded DSL gateways by a significant margin.
Pros
- VoIP support
- 5 Ethernet ports
- Wide range of reliable LEDs
- Bonded VDSL support for speeds close to 200Mbps
Cons
- No 5G speeds
- 2.4GHz speeds are subpar
5. Best Wi-Fi 6 Gateway: GreenWave C4000LG (Renewed)
Are you okay with a renewed product? If yes, C4000LG shall get you great value and features. Plus, it's backed by a 90-day replacement/refund policy.
- Technology: ADSL, VDSL, and more
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 3Gbps
- Ports: 5 Gig Ethernet
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Compatible DSL ISPs: CenturyLink.
Did you know Wi-Fi 6 speeds are achievable with a DSL modem router combo? It might be the right time to try out the GreenWave C4000LG single-line modem-router combo if you are still doubtful.
What stands out is the Smart Connect functionality that works alongside the Dynamic QoS support for better traffic prioritization.
Speed & Channel Bonding
Coming to raw data speeds, this modem is good enough for all the DSL internet plans from a wide range of service providers like CenturyLink, AT&T, and more.
I tested the same with a 940 Mbps plan from CenturyLink and was able to churn out over 600 Mbps over a wireless network and almost 900 Mbps over a wired connection.
Ports & Connectivity
There are 4 Gig ethernet LAN ports in play, followed by a single WAN/LAN convertible slot. Plus, the DSL port is quite responsive and compatible with all the xDSL flavors, including fallback to ADSL and VDSL2 technologies.
Coming to the routing capabilities of this device, you get a performance that is at least 3 times better as compared to a Wi-Fi AC router. Also, the maximum wireless speeds for 2.4GHz and 5GHz are capped at 600Mbps and 2.4Gbps, respectively.
Not just that, this device boasts OFDM functionality for connecting to multiple devices with ease. Also, the wireless AX technology is backward compatible to support Wi-Fi AC devices.
Design & Build
The C4000LG is a sturdy device that weighs 1.54 pounds and measures 8.30 x 5.64 x 4.68 inches. While the dimensions align with expectations, I was happy with the perfectly ventilated layout.
Hardware & Performance
The InterAptiv chipset has a lot going for it regarding processing capabilities. Clocking at 800Mhz, this SoC is one of the better networking bets, working alongside the offload engine for quicker transmissions.
Plus, the processing setup makes way for Dynamic QoS, beamforming support for better coverage, and minimal gaming latency.
Conclusion
Overall, the GreenWave C4000LG is the fastest DSL modem on the list, which stands apart from the rest, courtesy of the pre-optimized, high-gain antennas and advanced security safeguards in WPA3 and guest network support.
To learn more, check out my complete review of the GreenWave C4000 series.
Pros
- Powerful routing capabilities
- OFDMA support for minimal latency
- Support for 160MHz transmission band
- WPA3 security
- 5 Gig ports
Cons
- Overkill for slow connections
- Not the most promising interface
6. Best Value for Money: Actiontec GT784WN
- Technology: ADSL2+
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 300 Mbps
- Ports: 4 10/100
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Compatible DSL ISPs: Frontier, AT&T, EarthLink, and Windstream.
Actiontec (GT784WN) is one of the more promising modems around that doesn’t complicate services and only offers ADSL and ADSL2 flavors to the user.
Despite the ability to support mid-tier DSL plans, this modem-router combo is surprisingly good at keeping latency to a minimum.
Speed & Channel Bonding
Regarding speeds, this Actiontec modem is capped at 300Mbps, depending on the DSL plan you choose to pair it with. Also, you can pair this modem with a wide range of service providers, including AT&T, CenturyLink, and more.
Ports & Connectivity
Coming to the port setup, you get access to 4 ethernet ports, with each supporting a maximum throughput of 100 Mbps. The xDSL port supports ADSL flavors and even complements the Wireless N standard, with the existing routing capability supporting up to 300 Mbps on the 5 GHz band.
Design & Build
From an aesthetic point of view, this device comes packed with several bells and whistles, including the laminated chassis and rounded edges. Coming to the dimensions, this product from Actiontec measures 6.8 x 1.3 x 7 inches.
Hardware & Performance
The multi-core chipset stands out, boasting quick connections and the ability to handle HD streaming without lags. The security safeguards standard out along with auto-configuration support for the wired connections.
Conclusion
To summarize, the Actiontec (GT784WN) is a sub $200 modem-router combo on the list that should be purchased over other productions, courtesy of the excellent wireless coverage and best-in-class near-band speeds.
Pros
- Excellent security safeguards
- Top-notch ADSL speeds
- Minimal latency
- Aesthetic form factor
Cons
- Lacks VDSL flavors
- Lacks a USB port
7. Cheapest DSL Modem: ZyXEL P660HN-51
- Technology: ADSL and ADSL2+
- Max Data Speeds: Up to 300 Mbps
- Ports: 4 10/100
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
- Compatible DSL ISPs: CenturyLink.
ZyXEL ADSL 2+ (P660HN-51) is a standard ADSL modem that doesn’t get all fancy with the features and delivers consistent speeds more than anything else.
Also, when compared with the GT701D from Actiontec, this product from ZyXEL is a better ADSL modem-router combo with better wireless capabilities.
Speed & Channel Bonding
This modem from ZyXEL is good enough for 40Mbps and 100Mbps plans from CenturyLink. Apart from that, you can even use this resourceful gateway device with AT&T internet plans.
Ports & Connectivity
There are 4 ethernet ports in play, each capable of reaching max speeds of up to 100Mbps. Plus, there is a standalone xDSL port with support for ADSL2+ connections.
In addition to the wired setup, this device also boasts 802.11n wireless support, with access to 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
Design & Build
Coming to aesthetics, this modem weighs 0.83 pounds and measures 1.57 x 5.2 x 7.4 inches in dimensions. Plus, it has a balancing stand and a towering, well-ventilated design.
Hardware & Performance
This modem from ZyXEL brings in a multi-core chipset that ensures the lowest possible latency, provided you can pair it with a mid-tier internet plan.
Coming to the performance, the processing setup translates into multi-VPN support, packet filtering tech, and stateful firewall support.
Conclusion
The ZyXEL ADSL 2+ (P660HN-51) is one of the better modem-router combos that scale beyond the rest, courtesy of the commendable Wireless N support and other features, including advanced NAT, Dynamic DNS, and more.
For more specific details, check out the ZyXEL P660HN-51 review.
Pros
- Consistent ADSL speeds
- Reliable firewalling capabilities
- High-speed 5GHz access
- Pocket friendly
- QoS functionality
Cons
- Doesn’t include VDSL flavors
- 2.4GHz speeds leave a lot to be desired
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, for DSL internet, you would need a modem with a functional DSL port. This port looks a lot like the one that fits in the rear panel of the telephone. However, the DSL connection supported by the modem might vary depending on the amount you are willing to shell out.
DSL connections, relevant to modems, involve internet access offered by the standard telephone lines and the twisted-pair cable. DSL modem functionality mostly comes with routing support to convert DSL lines directly into ethernet or wired connection and then to wireless access.
Cable modems have ports for plugging in coaxial cables that are high-speed copper-aluminium cables to send across high-speed voice, video, and internet. DSL modems have DSL ports that leverage telephone lines and support speed less than cable modems.
Cable modems are good enough for gaming and streaming, whereas DSL devices are more suitable for basic online tasks like video downloading.
Yes, DSL modems are still relevant and manufactured, as there are certain areas where cable and fiber connections are still inaccessible. This is where you need a DSL-compatible modem. Plus, certain DSL modems even come with GPON support for accommodating fiber in the future.
No, they aren’t bad. Instead, they are still good enough to get you decent internet speeds, which are at par with mid-tier cable internet plans.
Verdict
DSL internet connections are slowly getting replaced by cable and Fiber networks. However, for regions that still have DSL support, each of the 7 reviewed devices can be a good buy, depending on your preferences.
And, to make things easier, I have prepared a mini list focusing on use cases.
- If you want to experience Wi-Fi 6 speeds without compromising on the maximum data rates, the GreenWave C4000LG seems like a better bet. Remember that it's a refurbished product and is backed by 90 days guarantee.
- In case you seek versatility more than anything else, the CenturyLink Prism C2100T is the best option to invest in, courtesy of two VoIP ports.
- Finally, if saving money is your priority, I recommend the Actiontec GT701D for its sub $100 price tag.
While each of these use cases and the corresponding devices make sense, you are also free to pick any other modem-router gateway from the list based on the DSL internet plan you are currently using and also the price-specific preferences.
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