Key Takeaways
- Xfinity charges $15/month ($180/year) to rent their xFi Gateway. Buying your own compatible modem pays for itself within a year and gives you better control over your home network.
- DOCSIS 3.1 modems are strongly recommended for all speed tiers. Xfinity has been removing DOCSIS 3.0 devices from its approved list, and older modems will eventually lose support entirely.
- Your modem must match or exceed your plan speed. A modem rated for 600 Mbps will bottleneck a gigabit plan, so always check the speed rating before you buy.
Why Buy Your Own Xfinity Modem?
Comcast Xfinity charges $15 per month to rent their xFi Gateway modem/router combo. That adds up to $180 per year. If you subscribe to xFi Complete (which includes unlimited data and mesh Wi-Fi pods), the cost jumps to $25 per month ($300 per year).
Buying your own modem eliminates the rental fee entirely. Most standalone modems cost between $80 and $200, meaning the device pays for itself in well under a year. You also get the freedom to choose a modem that matches your exact speed tier and pair it with any router you want.
Before purchasing, always verify that the modem appears on Xfinity's official list of approved devices. Using an unapproved modem can cause activation issues or poor performance.
Understanding DOCSIS: What It Means for Your Modem Choice
DOCSIS stands for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification. It is the technology standard that allows your cable modem to communicate with your internet service provider. There are two versions you will encounter when shopping for an Xfinity-compatible modem.
DOCSIS 3.0
This is the older standard. DOCSIS 3.0 modems use channel bonding (like 8x4, 16x4, 24x8, or 32x8) to deliver speeds. An 8x4 modem tops out around 300 Mbps. A 32x8 modem can reach roughly 1 Gbps in theory, though real-world speeds are typically lower. Xfinity has been steadily removing DOCSIS 3.0 modems from its approved list, and these devices are expected to become obsolete in the near future.
DOCSIS 3.1
This is the current standard and the one Xfinity recommends for all customers. DOCSIS 3.1 modems use OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing) channels instead of traditional bonded channels, allowing for much higher speeds (up to 10 Gbps downstream in theory). These modems also offer lower latency and improved error correction. If you are buying a new modem today, DOCSIS 3.1 is the only version worth considering.
Quick Note: Modem vs. Gateway vs. Router
A modem connects your home to your internet provider through the coaxial cable in your wall. A router broadcasts Wi-Fi and manages traffic between your devices. A gateway (like the Xfinity xFi Gateway) combines both into a single unit.
Most of the modems on Xfinity's approved list are standalone modems, meaning you will need a separate Wi-Fi router. A few models on the list are modem/router combos with built-in Wi-Fi. The tables below note which devices include Wi-Fi.
Xfinity Compatible Modems by Speed Tier
The lists below are based on Xfinity's official compatible devices document, last updated March 2025. Modems marked as "Recommended" by Xfinity have been specifically tested for top performance and reliability on their network.
Tier 1: Plans Up to 400 Mbps
This tier covers Xfinity's entry-level plans, including Connect and Connect More (typically 75 to 300 Mbps). While some DOCSIS 3.0 modems still work at these speeds, buying a DOCSIS 3.1 modem future-proofs your investment if you upgrade your plan later.
DOCSIS 3.0 Options (Still Compatible but Not Recommended Long-Term)
| Model | DOCSIS | Max Speed | Wi-Fi | Voice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARRIS SB6183 | 3.0 | 373 Mbps | No | No |
| ARRIS SBG10 | 3.0 | 392 Mbps | Yes | No |
| Motorola MB7420 | 3.0 | 374 Mbps | No | No |
| Motorola MG7540 | 3.0 | 375 Mbps | Yes | No |
| Motorola MG7550 | 3.0 | 373 Mbps | Yes | No |
| Linksys CM3016 | 3.0 | 373 Mbps | No | No |
| Netgear C6230 | 3.0 | 562 Mbps | Yes | No |
DOCSIS 3.1 Options (Recommended for Future-Proofing)
Any DOCSIS 3.1 modem from the tiers below will also work perfectly with lower-speed plans. If your budget allows, skip the DOCSIS 3.0 devices and go straight to a DOCSIS 3.1 modem like the Hitron CODA or ARRIS SB8200. You will never need to upgrade again unless Xfinity moves to DOCSIS 4.0.
Tier 2: Plans from 400 Mbps to 1 Gbps
This covers Xfinity's mid-range plans such as Superfast (400-600 Mbps) and Fast (around 800-1000 Mbps). You need a DOCSIS 3.0 modem with at least 24x8 channel bonding at this tier, but a DOCSIS 3.1 modem is the better choice.
DOCSIS 3.0 Options (Minimum 24x8 Channel Bonding)
| Model | DOCSIS | Max Speed | Wi-Fi | Voice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARRIS SB6190 | 3.0 | 859 Mbps | No | No |
| ARRIS SBG7400AC2 | 3.0 | 863 Mbps | Yes | No |
| ARRIS SBG7600AC2 | 3.0 | 925 Mbps | Yes | No |
| Motorola MB7621 | 3.0 | 845 Mbps | No | No |
| Motorola MG7700 | 3.0 | 860 Mbps | Yes | No |
| Netgear C7000v2 | 3.0 | 863 Mbps | Yes | No |
| Netgear CM700 | 3.0 | 935 Mbps | No | No |
| Linksys CM3024 | 3.0 | 874 Mbps | No | No |
| Linksys CG7500 | 3.0 | 857 Mbps | Yes | No |
| ASUS CM-32_AC2600 | 3.0 | 933 Mbps | Yes | No |
DOCSIS 3.1 Options (Best Choice for This Tier)
| Model | DOCSIS | Max Speed | Wi-Fi | Voice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARRIS SB8200 | 3.1 | 957 Mbps | No | No |
| ARRIS SB8200v2 | 3.1 | 936 Mbps | No | No |
| ARRIS SB8200v3 | 3.1 | 934 Mbps | No | No |
| ARRIS SBG8300 Recommended | 3.1 | 941 Mbps | Yes | No |
| ARRIS G18 | 3.1 | 934 Mbps | Yes | No |
| ARRIS G20 | 3.1 | 934 Mbps | Yes | No |
| ARRIS G34 | 3.1 | 934 Mbps | Yes | No |
| ARRIS T25 | 3.1 | 949 Mbps | No | Yes |
| Hitron CODA | 3.1 | 934 Mbps | No | No |
| Netgear CM1000v2 | 3.1 | 950 Mbps | No | No |
| Netgear CM1100 Recommended | 3.1 | 945 Mbps | No | No |
| Netgear CM1200 | 3.1 | 949 Mbps | No | No |
| Netgear CM2500 | 3.1 | 936 Mbps | No | No |
| Netgear CBR750 Recommended | 3.1 | 942 Mbps | Yes (Wi-Fi 6) | No |
| Netgear CAX30 Recommended | 3.1 | 949 Mbps | Yes (Wi-Fi 6) | No |
| Motorola MB8600 | 3.1 | 949 Mbps | No | No |
| Motorola MG8702 | 3.1 | 945 Mbps | Yes | No |
| ASUS CMAX6000 | 3.1 | 951 Mbps | Yes | No |
| Humax HGD310 | 3.1 | 943 Mbps | No | No |
Tier 3: Gigabit and Multi-Gigabit Plans (1 Gbps to 2+ Gbps)
This tier covers Xfinity's Gigabit, Gigabit Extra (1.2 Gbps), and 2 Gig plans. You need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port to take full advantage of speeds above 1 Gbps. A modem with only a 1 Gbps Ethernet port will cap your wired speed at roughly 940 Mbps regardless of your plan.
| Model | Max Speed | Wi-Fi | Voice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARRIS S33 Recommended | 2.33 Gbps | No | No |
| ARRIS S33v2 | 2.32 Gbps | No | No |
| ARRIS S33v3 | 2.32 Gbps | No | No |
| ARRIS S34 | 2.32 Gbps | No | No |
| ARRIS G36 Recommended | 2.37 Gbps | Yes (Wi-Fi 6) | No |
| ARRIS G54 | 2.34 Gbps | Yes | No |
| Hitron CODA56 Recommended | 2.33 Gbps | No | No |
| Netgear CM2000 Recommended | 2.33 Gbps | No | No |
| Netgear CM2050V Recommended | 2.33 Gbps | No | Yes |
| Netgear CM3000 | 2.33 Gbps | No | No |
| Netgear CAX80 Recommended | 2.36 Gbps | Yes (Wi-Fi 6) | No |
| Motorola MB8611 | 2.33 Gbps | No | No |
| Motorola B12 | 2.32 Gbps | No | No |
| Motorola MT8733 | 2.33 Gbps | Yes | Yes |
| Motorola MG8725 | 2.33 Gbps | Yes | No |
| Ubiquiti UCI | 2.32 Gbps | No | No |
Xfinity Voice (Phone Service) Compatible Modems
If you have Xfinity Voice (home phone service), you need a modem that specifically supports telephony. Standard modems will not work with the voice service. The following modems on Xfinity's approved list support voice:
| Model | DOCSIS | Max Speed | Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARRIS T25 | 3.1 | 949 Mbps | No |
| ARRIS SBV2402 | 3.0 | 835 Mbps | No |
| ARRIS SBV3202 | 3.0 | 940 Mbps | No |
| ARRIS SVG2482AC | 3.0 | 856 Mbps | Yes |
| Netgear CM2050V Recommended | 3.1 | 2.33 Gbps | No |
| Motorola MT7711 | 3.0 | 864 Mbps | Yes |
| Motorola MT8733 | 3.1 | 2.33 Gbps | Yes |
Next-Gen Speed Tier (Enhanced Upload Speeds)
Xfinity has introduced a "Next Gen" speed tier in certain markets that offers significantly faster upload speeds (up to 200 Mbps or more) compared to the standard 10-35 Mbps uploads on most cable plans. Only specific modems are approved for this tier. If you are in an area where Xfinity offers enhanced upload speeds, you will need one of the following devices:
| Model | Max Down | Max Up | Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hitron CODA | 934 Mbps | 456 Mbps | No |
| Hitron CODA56 | 2.33 Gbps | 455 Mbps | No |
| Netgear CM2500 | 936 Mbps | 456 Mbps | No |
| Netgear CM3000 | 2.33 Gbps | 486 Mbps | No |
| Netgear CBR750 | 924 Mbps | 471 Mbps | Yes (Wi-Fi 6) |
| ARRIS G20 | 934 Mbps | 447 Mbps | Yes |
| ARRIS G34 | 934 Mbps | 472 Mbps | Yes |
| ARRIS G36 | 2.32 Gbps | 419 Mbps | Yes |
| ARRIS G54 | 2.34 Gbps | 474 Mbps | Yes |
| ARRIS S34 | 2.32 Gbps | 444 Mbps | No |
| Ubiquiti UCI | 2.33 Gbps | 474 Mbps | No |
Already Bought Your Modem? Here Is How to Activate It
Once you have your new modem in hand, activation is straightforward. We put together a step-by-step walkthrough covering the Xfinity app method, browser-based activation, and what to do if automatic activation does not work. Read our full Xfinity modem activation guide here.
Our Top Picks by Use Case
Best Overall Modem for Most Xfinity Customers
ARRIS S33 -- This is the most popular standalone DOCSIS 3.1 modem on the market, and Xfinity specifically recommends it. It supports speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, includes a 2.5G Ethernet port, and works with every Xfinity plan from basic to gigabit. It typically costs around $150-200 and pays for itself in under a year compared to the rental fee.
Best Budget Modem
ARRIS SB8200 -- If you are on a mid-range plan (up to 1 Gbps) and want to spend less, the SB8200 is a well-proven DOCSIS 3.1 modem with dual 1 Gbps Ethernet ports. It has been on the market for several years, which means refurbished units are often available at lower prices.
Best Modem/Router Combo
Netgear CAX80 -- If you want a single device that handles both your modem and your Wi-Fi, the CAX80 combines a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a Wi-Fi 6 router. It supports speeds up to 2.36 Gbps and is Xfinity Recommended. This eliminates the need to buy and manage two separate devices.
Best for Xfinity Voice Customers
Netgear CM2050V -- The only Xfinity Recommended modem on the current list that supports both voice service and multi-gigabit speeds (up to 2.33 Gbps). If you have Xfinity home phone service, your options are limited, and this is the top choice.
Best for Next-Gen Upload Speeds
Netgear CM3000 -- If you are in a market where Xfinity offers enhanced upload speeds, the CM3000 delivers the fastest upload performance on the approved list (up to 486 Mbps) along with multi-gigabit download speeds.
Tips Before You Buy
Check your plan speed first. Log in to your Xfinity account or check your latest bill to confirm your plan's download speed. Match your modem to that speed tier or higher.
Buy new from a reputable retailer. Xfinity specifically recommends purchasing modems new. Used or refurbished modems can have activation problems if the previous owner did not properly deregister the device from their account.
You still need a router. Unless you buy a modem/router combo, you will need a separate Wi-Fi router to broadcast wireless internet throughout your home.
Return your rented equipment. After activating your new modem, return the Xfinity xFi Gateway to an Xfinity store or ship it back. Get a receipt and keep it. Xfinity has a documented history of continuing to charge modem rental fees after equipment has been returned.
Verify the rental fee is removed. Check your next bill to confirm the $15/month modem rental charge has been removed. If it has not, call 1-800-XFINITY (1-800-934-6489) with your return receipt to have it corrected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What modems are compatible with Xfinity internet?
Xfinity maintains an official list of approved third-party modems. As of March 2025, there are over 60 compatible models from brands like ARRIS, Netgear, Motorola, Hitron, ASUS, Linksys, and Ubiquiti. The full list is available on the Xfinity support site and is updated periodically. Only modems on this list can be activated on the Xfinity network.
Do I need a DOCSIS 3.1 modem for Xfinity?
You do not strictly need one for lower-speed plans, but it is strongly recommended. Xfinity has been removing DOCSIS 3.0 modems from its approved list, which means older modems may lose support at any time. A DOCSIS 3.1 modem works with every Xfinity speed tier and will not need to be replaced if you upgrade your plan.
How much does Xfinity charge to rent a modem?
Xfinity charges $15 per month ($180 per year) for their standard xFi Gateway rental. The xFi Complete plan, which adds unlimited data and mesh Wi-Fi pods, costs $25 per month ($300 per year). Buying your own modem eliminates the $15 rental fee entirely.
Can I use my own modem with Xfinity and still get unlimited data?
Yes, but unlimited data costs $30 per month as a standalone add-on when you use your own modem. With the Xfinity xFi Gateway rental, unlimited data is bundled into the $25/month xFi Complete plan. Depending on your usage and whether you actually need unlimited data, owning your modem may or may not save you money once the data plan cost is factored in.
What is the best modem for Xfinity gigabit internet?
The ARRIS S33 is widely considered the best standalone modem for Xfinity gigabit and multi-gigabit plans. It supports DOCSIS 3.1, offers speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, and includes a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port. Xfinity lists it as a Recommended device. The Hitron CODA56 and Netgear CM2000 are also strong multi-gig options.
Will Xfinity activate any DOCSIS 3.1 modem?
No. The modem must appear on Xfinity's official approved device list. Not all DOCSIS 3.1 modems are Xfinity-compatible. Before purchasing, check the list on the Xfinity support site or use their online device compatibility tool to verify.
What happens if I use a modem that is too slow for my Xfinity plan?
Your internet speed will be limited by the modem, not by your plan. For example, if you pay for a 1 Gbps plan but use a modem rated at 400 Mbps, your actual speeds will max out around 400 Mbps. You will still be paying the full price of the faster plan without receiving the speeds you are paying for. Always match your modem's speed rating to your plan speed or higher.
