Head-to-head · Best Standalone DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modems

Motorola MB8600 vs Netgear CM1100V

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Motorola MB8600 comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.0 vs 2.6). The gap is mostly about users upgrading to Gigabit plans who want higher speeds — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Standalone DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modems

Motorola MB8600

3.0

The Motorola MB8600 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem offering up to 6Gbps speeds with a straightforward setup process. Reviewers noted its simple design and reliable performance, though some observed it runs hotter than competitors like the Arris SB8200 due to less effective cooling. It supports WAN Link Aggregation and works with major ISPs including Comcast Xfinity and Cox. This modem is ideal for users upgrading to Gigabit plans but may not suit those seeking premium build quality or minimal heat output.

Strengths

— Capable of DOCSIS 3.1 standard with 6Gbps top WAN speed
— Simple setup process with clear status lights
— Supports WAN Link Aggregation for improved connection

Watch-outs

— Uses less robust cooling design compared to Arris SB8200
— LED status lights can be too bright and require covering

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Ranked #6 in Best Standalone DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modems

Netgear CM1100V

2.6

$179.99as of Jul 7

The Netgear CM1100 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem designed for retail distribution, particularly at Costco. While it features two Ethernet ports that enable Link Aggregation for speeds up to 2 Gbps with compatible routers, most home users will only utilize one port. Reviewers note it's a middle-ground option between the basic CM1000 and feature-rich CM1200, offering good value for those wanting future-proofing without the business features of the CM1200. However, the extra ports can confuse average users who don't understand they're for Link Aggregation or Multi-IP support rather than direct device connections.

Strengths

— Supports DOCSIS 3.1 standard for high-speed internet
— Includes two Ethernet ports for Link Aggregation capability
— Compact design suitable for retail distribution

Watch-outs

— Only one Ethernet port can be used for standard home setups
— Requires specific router settings to utilize both Ethernet ports
— Not a router itself, needs separate Wi-Fi router for home use

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How they stack up

Motorola MB8600

The Motorola MB8600 offers higher WAN speeds up to 6Gbps compared to the Arris SB8200's capped 1Gbps, but it's less reliable in heat management than the Arris SB8200. Unlike the Netgear CM1000, it lacks the build quality and ease of setup, and unlike the Motorola MB8611, it doesn't support 2.5Gbps wired connections.

Netgear CM1100V

The Netgear CM1100V offers Link Aggregation capabilities, unlike the Arris SB8200 which is limited to 1Gbps, but it's less user-friendly than the Netgear CM1000. Unlike the Motorola MB8600, it doesn't support 6Gbps WAN speeds, and unlike the Motorola MB8611, it lacks 2.5Gbps Ethernet support.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Motorola MB8600	Netgear CM1100V
Docsis Version	DOCSIS 3.1, DOCSIS 3.0 32×8	3.1
Max Download Speed	6Gbps	2 Gbps
Ethernet Ports	1x 1Gbps LAN, 1x Coax	2 Ports
Downstream Channels	32	32 down channels
Upstream Channels	8 upstream channels	8 up channels
Dimensions	7.25 x 2.25 x 7.88 inches	11.2 x 7.3 x 1.9 inches
Weight	1.15 lbs	1.6 pounds

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