In search of a reliable cable modem for your Suddenlink Internet connection? Whether you’ve subscribed to the fastest 1 Gig or are on the mid-range Internet 500 or even the low-tier 200-300 Mbps plan, you’ll find the best device for your needs.
- Best for Suddenlink 1GB: Arris SB8200
- Best Runner-Up: Netgear CM1000
- Best Modem/Router Combo: Motorola MG7700
- Best for Internet 500: Motorola MB7621
- Best Budget Option: Netgear CM500
- Best For Basic Use: ARRIS SB6190
If you’re a new subscriber, Suddenlink and their support team would suggest you to rent a modem for a $10/monthly lease, but as per my 8 years of experience testing many ISP-rented devices and aftermarket modems, I feel that buying your own device will give you more control, features, and consistent speeds. It will also easily last the next 4-5 years. But then, not every device is guaranteed to work with any ISP.
That’s why finding a viable modem compatible with Suddenlink isn’t easy. I checked with their technical team and ensured that the models listed here are certified and approved to work with Suddenlink.
The 6 Best Modems & Combos For Suddenlink [After Testing over 17 Popular Devices]
As an ISP, Suddenlink spoils you with various choices. From as low as 50 Mbps to high-speed 1 Gbps internet, there is an internet plan for every need.
Keeping the plans, different use cases, and budgets in mind, I decided to review a handful of modems that work with Suddenlink catering to a day trader, gamer, WFH user, student, or anyone willing to experience seamless internet.
So, shall we begin?
1. Best for Suddenlink 1GB: ARRIS Surfboard SB8200
Are you subscribed to the Internet 1 Gig service pack? The SB8200 is a future-ready DOCSIS 3.1 modem to use with Suddenlink. It can handle gigabit download and upload speeds without any trouble.
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.1
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Ports: 2 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Internet 1 Gig
- Modem-Router Combo: No
If you wish to maximize your Gig-level internet plan, there isn’t anything better than the ARRIS SB8200. The top-notch networking standard makes it to the top of my Suddenlink modem list. However, the higher throughput separates it from the older SB6190, making the SB8200 a reasonably better upgrade.
Why is suited for Suddenlink?
The first important attribute has to be the DOCSIS 3.1 technology, making the SB8200 future-ready. This networking standard lets you use thicker transmission channels for faster data transfers. Minimal lags and latency are commonly followed by backward compatibility — meaning that this Suddenlink-certified modem can work with older DOCSIS versions.
The 32 x 8 channel bonding lets you experience uninterrupted throughput even during peak hours. Two Gig Ethernet ports allow you to set up high-speed connections, primarily with data-hogging devices like gaming consoles.
I tested the same with the said 1000Mbps plan and could get max download and upload speeds of up to 850Mbps and 33Mbps, respectively. However, the speeds can vary depending on your usage and location. Also, the mentioned speed limits are good enough for stock trading, video conferencing, gaming, and even streaming.
Design & Build
The SB8200 from Arris is a solid Suddenlink internet modem, best known for the wide heat vents, hardened plastic as the material of choice, and a four-LED setup (understand the lights & their meanings). The vertical layout measures 5 x 2 x 5 inches, and the device weighs 2 pounds, which is manageable.
Hardware & Other Features
512MB RAM and an ARM-powered multi-core processor powers the SB8200. The processing setup allows you to experience zero connection drops.
Other relevant specs include the pre-defined QoS support, bandwidth tuner for the advanced network section, and OAM diagnostic support, ensuring that the device has the firmware and other aspects updated at all times. Plus, OFDM/OFDMA support allows you to handle multi-Gig internet plans if and when they come.
Conclusion
Arris SB8200 is one of the best DOCSIS 3.1 modems for your intensive needs if you are a gamer or a Twitch streamer. Also, if you compare it with other Suddenlik-approved modems, the zero heating form factor stands out.
Want to learn more about this device? Check out my dedicated review of the Arris SB8200.
Pros
- Two Ethernet ports
- Durable form factor
- Link aggregation
- Future-proof tech
- Zero overheating
Cons
- Pricey
- Link aggregation support depends on the plan
2. Best Runner-Up: Netgear CM1000
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.1
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Ports: 1 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Internet 1 Gig
- Modem-Router Combo: No
Are you interested in a feature-packed networking device from Netgear? You can immediately grab the Netgear CM1000, which makes it to the 2nd spot riding on the DOCSIS 3.1 wave. And if you compare it with the older CM700, the CM1000 seems like a powerful upgrade, courtesy of the additional downstream and upstream channels and better peak speeds.
Why is it suited for Suddenlink?
The DOCSIS 3.1 technology makes quite an impression, offering 32 x 8 channels for faster transmission. The featured channel bonding is further bolstered by 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA support — a feature that supports faster peak-hour transmissions. And to top it all off, the CM1000 is backward compatible and can work with older DOCSIS devices.
One Ethernet port with Gig capabilities allows you to pair with the 1 Gig internet plan. As for the speeds and throughput, you can expect a wired capping of 900Mbps for downloads and almost 50Mbps for uploads. And trust me when I say that the speeds are more than enough for the gamer in you, provided you choose to connect the console directly to the modem.
Design & Build
The vertical plastic-clad structure deserves special mention. Also, several heat-dissipating vents keep the throttling to a minimum. There are 5 LEDs in play, followed by a flat and robust base. Regarding the dimensions, the device measures 8.8 x 5.4 x 5.9 inches and weighs only 0.84 pounds.
Hardware & other Features
The multi-core chipset keeps congestion out. Powered by 256MB of RAM, the device is more than capable of handling multiple transmission requests. The 128MB flash memory helps keep the firmware handy. Adding to the processing prowess is the integrated QoS functionality for better traffic prioritization, OFDM support for additional networking juice, and multi-ISP compatibility.
Conclusion
If you are interested in a reliable and speed-focused Suddenlink gigabit modem, the Netgear CM1000 comes across as the best option, courtesy of the OFDM support. As compared to other products around, it is the processing setup that sets it apart from the rest.
Want to know anything specific about the device? Check out the dedicated Netgear CM1000 review.
Pros
- DOCSIS 3.1 support
- Powerful processing setup
- Heat-dissipation friendly design
- Excellent speeds
- OFDMA support
Cons
- Single ethernet port
3. Best Modem/Router Combo: Motorola MG7700
Don’t want to purchase two separate networking devices? Rather interested in a modem router combo that works with Suddenlink? Motorola’s MG7700 is what you should consider!
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 24 x 8
- Ports: 4 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Internet 500
- Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Not everyone subscribes to the gig internet plan. Motorola MG7700 comes across as the best modem router combo to get for Suddenlink. It features a couple of Gig Ethernet ports and a great WiFi range. And as compared to the dated MG7540, the MG7700 is an excellent upgrade, owing to more consistent connections, courtesy of the 8 additional downstream channels.
Why is it suited for Suddenlink?
With DOCSIS 3.0 standard, MG7700 might not be the most future-proof modem to use with Suddenlink. It indeed is a great value-for-money purchase.
Plus, it lets you handle plans up to 800Mbps. The 24 x 8 channel bonding support takes care of high-speed internet requirements as there are still adequate channels to get the data through, even at peak hours. And yes, it can work with legacy home devices, courtesy of backward compatibility.
This device best suits students and WFH employees trying the Internet 500 plan. I tested the same, only to get download and upload speeds of up to 480Mbps and 20Mbps, respectively. Since it is a combo device, you can access four high-speed ethernet ports.
And each port lets you transmit 1000Mbps of data, provided you are using a Gig internet plan. So, if you’re into long stretches of online meetings, leisurely online gaming, and other relevant activities, MG7700 can be a great pick. Also, it promises an overall wireless throughput of 1900Mbps, followed by a coverage scope of almost 2,000 Sq Ft.
Design & Build
The MG7700 comes in silver and assumes a vertical structure. This plastic-clad combo device comes with an adequate number of heat-dissipating vents. Also, it measures 2.50 x 8.5 x 9 inches and weighs close to 1.60 pounds. Not to mention that there are seven status-indicating LEDs to make life simpler for you.
This combo comes equipped with three internal, high-gain antennas to help with the improved transmission. On top of that, you get access to built-in lightning protection, enabling you to stay protected even during power outages.
Hardware & other Features
There is a multi-core chipset coupled with 256MB of RAM. The featured processing unit transmits data without lag or latency. It also comes equipped with IPv6 and IPv4 compatibility for better configuration. An evolved security suite includes VPN pass-through support, parental control, attack protection, and more.
Conclusion
Motorola MG7700 is one of the better router modem combos for Suddenlink. And it is the 1300 Mbps worth of near-band throughput that makes it an excellent pick for home automation. Also, if you compare this with other products, the utility completes the MG7700 stand out.
For more information, read my comprehensive review of Motorola MG7700.
Pros
- A decent collection of LEDs
- 4 ultra-fast Ethernet ports
- Advanced security safeguards
- Multi-ISP compatibility
- 2000 Sq Ft long WiFi coverage
Cons
- Only 24 downstream channels
- Not the best far-band throughput
4. Best for Internet 500: Motorola MB7621
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 24 x 8
- Ports: 1 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Internet 500
- Modem-Router Combo: No
If you are looking for a good-looking, standalone modem from Motorola only, you should consider investing in the MB7621 model. While the specs sheet aligns with any mid-range product, it still fares better than the older MB7420, which features 16 downstream channels instead of 24 on this one!
Why is it suited for Suddenlink?
What works in favor of this model is the DOCSIS 3.0 technology followed by 24 x 8 channels for sending through downstream and upstream traffic. Regarding the overall speed limits, the MB7621 is capped at 650Mbps, making it good enough for the 500 Mbps plan from Suddenlink.
There is one Gig Ethernet port to set up wired connections, followed by the reset and power on/off switch. Despite featuring a gigabit port, you can’t use it for a gig internet plan owing to hardware-specific limitations. Besides that, MB7621 is also approved by a handful of ISPs, including Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, and Sparklight.
Design & Build
Regarding aesthetics, MB7621 is one of the better-looking products, weighing 1.9 pounds and measuring 7.9 x 7.2 x 2.2 inches. Plus, you can purchase the same in black while being wowed by the vertical layout and the inclusion of 5 accurate LEDs.
Hardware & Other Features
Motorola ensures you access a standard Broadcom processor and a decent chunk of RAM. The dual-core chipset minimizes the response times and provides minimal latency and zero connection drops.
Conclusion
The mid-range price tag and the speed capping at 650Mbps make Motorola MB7621 the best choice for the Internet 500 service package. Plus, the aesthetic presence sets it apart from some of the other models on this Suddenlink modem list.
Also, check my full review of the Motorola MB7621.
Pros
- Stellar aesthetics
- 24 downstream channels
- High-bandwidth transmission
- In-built surge protection
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Lacks Voice support
- 32 downstream channels could be better
5. Best for Internet 300: ARRIS SB6190
If you don’t indulge in heavy streaming, gaming, or latency-concerned activities, SB6190 is a good modem for Suddenlink. Note that it features an Intel Puma 6 chip for which many users faced performance issues.
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 32 x 8
- Ports: 1 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Internet 300
- Modem-Router Combo: No
For those interested in a sub $100 modem to pair with a 300 Mbps connection for basic web browsing needs, Arris Surfboard SB6190 is better than an ISP-rented modem. Despite being priced less, it covers the basic speed-specific loopholes with 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels.
Why is it suited for Suddenlink?
The DOCSIS 3.0 standard is of immense help as it allows the device to exhibit 32 x 8 channel bonding support. Eight upstream channels also allow SB6190 to promise upload speeds of up to 20Mbps for the 5GHz band when connected to a router.
As for the speeds, SB6190 allows you to reach 290Mbps of download speeds, as tested on the 300Mbps plan from Suddenlink. Although Arris claims to support over 800 Mbps plans, I would still recommend using it with low-end plans, as you wouldn’t be getting more for the Gigabit plan unless you set up wired connections.
Plus, there is one Ethernet port to work with, provided you want to set up a wireless router or rely on wired connections for getting Gig-level speeds on your PC.
Design & Build
The aesthetics are pretty streamlined, with SB6190 making way for a 0.75-pound heavy chassis and overall product dimensions reaching 6.4 x 2 x 8.7 inches. However, I was most impressed with the matte black, plastic-clad chassis that exhibits a heat-dissipating design and makes way for 4 accurate LEDs.
Hardware & Other Features
The SB6190 is more like a standard DOCSIS 3.0 modem for Suddenlink, with the slightly underwhelming Intel Puma 6 chipset driving the proceedings. On the other hand, the performance is not so excellent for gaming enthusiasts and Twitch streamers. In my testing, it worked fine for basic internet browsing, TV streaming, and running a couple of smart home gadgets.
Conclusion
The ARRIS SB6190 balances price and utility, especially regarding the number of channels and networking technology. This makes it a suitable Suddenlink Altice modem to pair with its 300Mbps connection. So, it’s the cost-to-ownership ratio that makes it a better choice as compared to other products on the list.
You may also read the full review of the ARRIS SB6190.
Pros
- 32 x 8 channel bonding
- 4 status LED lights
- Good looking structure
- Affordable price
Cons
- Intel Puma 6 chipset
6. Best for Internet 200: Netgear CM500
If you’re a student or a homemaker searching for an affordable modem that works with Suddenlink, CM500 would be my go-to recommendation.
- Technology: DOCSIS 3.0
- Downstream/Upstream: 16 x 4
- Ports: 1 Gig Ethernet
- Suitable Service Plan: Internet 200
- Modem-Router Combo: No
Suddenlink ensures several low-speed internet plans for the professional stuck at home. Starting from the 200Mbps plan to the ones with bandwidth capped at 150Mbps, 100Mbps, and even lower, low-tier plans are best handled by the Netgear CM500.
Why is it suited for Suddenlink?
As discussed in the dedicated Netgear CM500 review, it comprises 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels for high-speed data transmission. The existing channels, followed by the availability of DOCSIS 3.0 technology, ensure an extended speed capping of almost 300 Mbps.
You can easily pair this Netgear modem with any basic internet plan from Suddenlink, provided you are not into streaming FHD content over multiple devices. The device handles every basic web-related task, including surfing, chatting, video conferencing, and P2P downloads.
I tested this device’s speeds by connecting it to a standard Wi-Fi AC router. With the 200Mbps plan active, I could churn out download speeds of up to 180Mbps on the 5GHz band.
Hardware & Other Features
The CM500 houses 128MB RAM and a standard ARM processor to keep latency and response time minimal. Regarding actual performances, I was impressed to see that the CM500 could handle multiple HD streams without breaking a sweat.
Design & Build
This black-colored product measures 7.28 x 4.88 x 2.26 inches and assumes a standard form factor while weighing close to 0.6 pounds. Plus, the well-ventilated ensures zero overheating and allows 5 LEDs and a standalone Gig Ethernet port.
Conclusion
The auto-sensing support for the Ethernet-based setup makes this one of the better options on the list. However, if you are strictly looking for Suddenlink-supported modems, the affordable price point justifies its presence on the list.
Pros
- QoS priority support
- Pocket-friendly
- Good design
- 5 LED indicators
- Auto-sensing over the wired port
Cons
- Good for only low-speed plans
Things To Consider When Buying
Now that you have looked closely at modems that work with Suddenlink, it’s time to dive deeper into the factors and the associated buying guide. And I hope that this buying guide helps you make more informed decisions.
User Requirements
Before picking any cable modem to pair with Suddenlink, you must be sure about its usage. For instance, if you are a day trader or even a student who prefers online lecture streaming, an Internet 400 plan makes sense. You might get a DOCSIS 3.0 standard instead of spending much more on a DOCSIS 3.1 standard.
Also, if you prefer a standalone modem, you might have a future upgrade in mind. In that case, something like a CM1000 makes sense. However, if you plan on saving some money, a combo like Motorola’s MG7700 might not be such a bad option.
If you prefer wired connections over wireless, finding a device with more than other Ethernet ports seems basic. And for telephone access, you need voice requirements, a suitable device with necessary ports, and the relevant Suddenlink internet bundle plan.
Speed & Channel Bonding
Next, you have the speed-based requirements, which can go as high as 1Gbps for office setups, live streaming, gaming, and setting up large homes wirelessly or can be anything between 500Mbps to 50Mbps, depending on the needs.
You can select the perfect Suddenlink-certified modem to do the job for you. If you have multi-gig or gig-specific speed requirements, it might be time to get one with 32 x 8 channels. Or, if you want to future-proof the device further, 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA support also makes sense. You can work with the 1 Gig internet plan from Suddenlink.
For Internet 400 or any other plan on the lower side, 24 x 8 channel bonding support, as offered by DOCSIS 3.0 tech, might suffice. However, getting a Gig ethernet port and backward compatibility would be advisable to improve things.
Hardware & Design
Not many people focus on hardware and design when picking one. However, if you aren’t mindful of the design and build quality, you might end up experiencing throttling and overheating. First, getting a device with at least a dual-core ARM processor and 256MB RAM is necessary to help you cut through the interference.
As for the design, heat vents are a must, followed by a stable form factor and a portable yet sleek design. That way, it becomes easier to carry the networking devices around. Also, if you face network outages, get a device with several LED lights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can! If you are an existing customer or going to be one, Suddenlink allows you to set up your own internet equipment. However, looking for Suddenlink-authorized modems is suggested to avoid any trouble. You can consider the featured models as they’ve been tested and certified.
A few cable modems (and combos devices) work perfectly with Suddenlink. However, Arris SB8200 would be my top pick. It is a standalone device supporting bonding DOCSIS 3.1 and 32 x 8 channels. Its amazing speed capacity makes it an ideal choice for most Suddenlink internet subscribers.
All of the SuddenLink internet plans offer decent speed, but the one with the highest feature-to-price ratio would be the Internet 500 plan. It provides a fantastic download speed of up to 500Mbps. It is sufficient for playing online games and streaming content in Full HD.
Cable Amplifiers boost the cable signals from the company’s server to the house. Usually, these are good enough for 2-3 devices, but if you plan to connect them to more devices, you must use a Cable Amplifier. Otherwise, you will not need one.
Suddenlink doesn’t support external modems with a phone jack and requires you to use their own telephone adapter (eMTA). So, for VoIP connections, you’ll have to rent their equipment.
Verdict
I have covered all modems compatible with Suddenlink, from cheap to expensive, minimalistic to high-tech. Now, all you need to do is figure out the plans you will use it for in the present and the future.
However, if you’re still confused, let me help you choose the suitable device for your needs:
- If you want the latest specifications, high-speed capabilities, and a future-proof device, the ARRIS SB8200 is my go-to recommendation. It has everything you’d expect from a high-end cable modem.
- If you don’t want to invest much yet need a reliable modem-router combo, my pick, in this case, would be the Motorola MG7700. It is highly suitable for mid-range internet plans.
- If you’re on a low-speed internet plan like Internet 200, the Netgear CM500 should be your ideal choice. It offers good specifications and performance at an affordable price.
You must do some future planning because data rates are bound to increase, and if you do not pay attention, your internet equipment will become outdated soon. So, to secure the investment, I recommend getting a slightly more powerful option than you need.
