Complete Arris Modem Lineup Compared: SB6190, SB8200, S33, G34, G36 & SBG7600AC2
Arris (now part of CommScope) makes some of the most widely used cable modems in the United States. With over 260 million SURFboard modems sold, you have probably owned or rented one without even realizing it. The challenge is that the lineup spans nearly a decade of technology, from older DOCSIS 3.0 modems to multi-gig DOCSIS 3.1 combos with Wi-Fi 6. This guide breaks down the six most popular Arris models in plain English so you can pick the right one for your internet plan.
Key Takeaways
- For internet plans under 600 Mbps, an older DOCSIS 3.0 model like the SB6190 or SBG7600AC2 will work, but DOCSIS 3.1 is more future proof.
- For gigabit plans, the SB8200, S33, G34, and G36 are all strong picks. The S33 and G36 add a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port for multi-gig plans up to 2.5 Gbps.
- Standalone modems (SB6190, SB8200, S33) pair with your own Wi-Fi router. Combos (G34, G36, SBG7600AC2) include the router built in.
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | DOCSIS | Max Plan | Ethernet Ports | Built-in Wi-Fi | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SB6190 | 3.0 (32x8) | Up to ~600 Mbps real-world | 1 x 1 Gigabit | No | Budget plans under 400 Mbps |
| SB8200 | 3.1 | Up to 2 Gbps (with link aggregation) | 2 x 1 Gigabit | No | Gigabit plans, reliability |
| S33 | 3.1 | Up to 2.5 Gbps | 1 x 2.5 Gigabit + 1 x 1 Gigabit | No | Multi-gig plans, gaming |
| G34 | 3.1 | Up to 1 Gbps | 4 x 1 Gigabit | Yes, Wi-Fi 6 (AX3000) | Gigabit plans, all-in-one setup |
| G36 | 3.1 | Up to 2.5 Gbps (1.2 Gbps ISP-approved) | 1 x 2.5 Gigabit + 4 x 1 Gigabit | Yes, Wi-Fi 6 (AX3000) | Multi-gig all-in-one setup |
| SBG7600AC2 | 3.0 (32x8) | Up to 800 Mbps | 4 x 1 Gigabit | Yes, Wi-Fi 5 (AC2350) | Budget combo for plans under 600 Mbps |
Arris SB6190: The Budget DOCSIS 3.0 Standalone
The Arris SB6190 is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem with 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels. On paper it supports up to 1.4 Gbps, but in real-world testing it typically caps out around 600 to 700 Mbps. It uses the Intel Puma 6 chipset, which has a known history of latency issues, though firmware updates have improved this. It has a single Gigabit Ethernet port and requires a separate Wi-Fi router. Best for plans under 400 Mbps where DOCSIS 3.1 is not required.
Arris SB8200: The Reliable Gigabit Workhorse
The Arris SB8200 is the most popular DOCSIS 3.1 standalone modem on the market. It uses the Broadcom BCM3390 chipset, which is considered the gold standard for DOCSIS 3.1 stability. The SB8200 has two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports, so it can theoretically reach 2 Gbps using link aggregation, but for most users it caps out at 1 Gbps. It is approved for Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, and is a strong choice for any standard gigabit plan.
Arris S33: The Multi-Gig Speed Demon
The Arris S33 is the modern successor to the SB8200. It has a dedicated 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port plus a secondary 1 Gigabit port, making it the right choice if your provider offers a 1.2 Gbps or 2 Gbps plan. It uses the same Broadcom BCM3390 chipset as the SB8200, so it has identical reliability with much higher headroom. The S33 is smaller and more modern looking, but it runs warmer due to its compact size. This is the modem to buy if you want to future-proof your network.
Arris G34: The Gigabit All-In-One
The Arris G34 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a built-in Wi-Fi 6 router in one device. It supports cable internet plans up to 1 Gbps and delivers wireless speeds up to 3 Gbps (AX3000). It has four 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired devices like gaming consoles, smart TVs, and desktop computers. The G34 is ideal if you want a simple, single-device setup and you do not need multi-gig wired speeds.
Arris G36: The Multi-Gig All-In-One
The Arris G36 is the bigger sibling to the G34. It adds a dedicated 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port on top of the four 1-Gigabit ports, and the modem chipset supports plans up to 2.5 Gbps (though most ISPs currently approve it up to 1.2 Gbps). Wi-Fi 6 (AX3000) coverage is the same as the G34. If you want one device to do everything and you have a multi-gig plan or expect to upgrade soon, the G36 is the strongest all-in-one option in the Arris lineup.
Arris SBG7600AC2: The Older Wi-Fi 5 Combo
The Arris SBG7600AC2 is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem with a built-in Wi-Fi 5 (AC2350) router and four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports. It is approved for cable plans up to 800 Mbps and is compatible with Cox and Xfinity (it is not currently approved for Spectrum). Wireless speeds reach up to 2350 Mbps over dual-band Wi-Fi. If you have a slower plan and just want a simple all-in-one device that works, this is a budget-friendly option, but the G34 is a better choice for most buyers shopping today.
How to Choose the Right Arris Modem
Start with your internet plan speed. If you have anything under 400 Mbps, a DOCSIS 3.0 modem like the SB6190 or SBG7600AC2 will save you money. For any plan at gigabit speeds or higher, you need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem like the SB8200, S33, G34, or G36. Next, decide if you want a standalone modem with your own router (better performance and longer lifespan) or a combo device that handles everything in one box (simpler setup). For multi-gig plans, only the S33 and G36 have the 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port required to avoid bottlenecking your speed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which Arris modem is the best for gigabit internet?
For a standalone gigabit modem, the Arris SB8200 is the most reliable choice. If you want an all-in-one device with Wi-Fi 6 built in, the Arris G34 is the gigabit combo to buy. Both support speeds up to 1 Gbps and are approved by Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum.
What is the difference between the Arris G34 and G36?
The G34 and G36 are nearly identical in size, design, and Wi-Fi 6 performance. The main difference is that the G36 adds a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port and can handle multi-gig internet plans up to 2.5 Gbps, while the G34 tops out at 1 Gbps. If you have a multi-gig plan or expect to upgrade, choose the G36.
Is the Arris SB6190 still worth buying in 2026?
The SB6190 is best for budget cable plans under 400 Mbps. It uses the older DOCSIS 3.0 standard and the Intel Puma 6 chipset, which has a history of latency issues. For most new buyers, a DOCSIS 3.1 modem like the SB8200 or S33 is a better long-term investment.
Do Arris modems work with Spectrum, Xfinity, and Cox?
Yes. The SB6190, SB8200, S33, G34, and G36 are all approved for Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum. The SBG7600AC2 is approved for Cox and Xfinity but not Spectrum. Always confirm with your specific provider before purchasing, since approved modem lists can change.
Do I need DOCSIS 3.1 if I do not have gigabit internet?
Not strictly, but DOCSIS 3.1 is more future proof. It provides lower latency, better security, and supports faster plans if you ever upgrade. DOCSIS 3.0 modems still work for plans under 600 Mbps but are being phased out by many providers, including Comcast Xfinity for higher tiers.
What is the difference between a modem and a modem router combo?
A modem connects your home to your internet provider. A combo device (also called a gateway) includes both a modem and a Wi-Fi router in one unit. Standalone modems like the SB8200 and S33 give you better performance and flexibility because you can choose your own router. Combos like the G34, G36, and SBG7600AC2 are simpler to set up but harder to upgrade later.
Can I save money by buying my own Arris modem?
Yes. Most internet providers charge between $10 and $15 per month to rent a modem, which adds up to $120 to $180 per year. Most Arris modems pay for themselves within the first year of ownership, and many last five years or longer.
