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

Motorola MB8611 vs Netgear CM1000

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

Netgear CM1000 comes out ahead by a clear margin (2.7 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about users replacing older modems seeking reliability and ease of setup — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Standalone DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modems

Motorola MB8611

2.7

The Motorola MB8611 is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem offering fast internet speeds with a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port and support for up to 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels. Tech Reviews called it a great modem with backward compatibility and AQM for low-latency performance. However, some users have reported firmware-related stability issues, particularly with version 21.3.7, leading one user to switch to an Arris S34 after prolonged problems. It's approved for use with Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum. This modem is ideal for users seeking high-speed internet but may not be suitable for those requiring voice capabilities or who experience firmware instability.

Strengths

— 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for high-speed wired connections
— Fast DOCSIS 3.1 speeds with support for 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
— Backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0

Watch-outs

— No voice capabilities
— Has firmware issues reported by some users (specifically 21.3.7 firmware causing instability)

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Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Standalone DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modems

Netgear CM1000

3.9

$195.99as of Jul 7

The Netgear CM1000 is a solid DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that delivers reliable Gigabit-speed performance for users upgrading from older modems. Reviews consistently praise its ease of setup, durability, and significant speed improvements over previous models like the CM500 and CM600. Customer feedback highlights its compatibility with major ISPs including Comcast Xfinity and strong performance with 1Gbps plans. While some users noted the lack of included coaxial cable and a somewhat flimsy base, the modem is widely recommended for those seeking to replace rented ISP equipment and achieve better internet speeds.

Strengths

— Excellent performance with Gigabit-class internet plans
— Reliable and durable build quality
— Easy setup process with quick activation via ISP

Watch-outs

— Does not come with a coaxial cable
— Base is described as flimsy and modem can topple easily

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How they stack up

Motorola MB8611

The Motorola MB8611 supports 2.5Gbps Ethernet, unlike the Arris SB8200 which is capped at 1Gbps, but it's prone to firmware issues compared to the Netgear CM1000 which offers more stable performance. Unlike the Motorola MB8600, it doesn't support 6Gbps WAN speeds, and unlike the Arris SBG8000, it lacks integrated Wi-Fi.

Netgear CM1000

The Netgear CM1000 excels in build quality and ease of setup compared to the Arris SB8200, which has less durability. However, unlike the Motorola MB8600, it doesn't support WAN Link Aggregation, and unlike the Motorola MB8611, it lacks 2.5Gbps Ethernet capabilities.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Motorola MB8611	Netgear CM1000
Docsis Version	3.1	3.1 (3.0 30×8 compatible)
Max Download Speed	2,500 Mbps	1Gbps
Ethernet Ports	2.5Gbps Ethernet Port	1Gbps LAN, 1x Coax
Downstream Channels	32	32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
Upstream Channels	8	8 upstream channels
Dimensions	7.25"L x 2.25"W x 7.88"H	8.8 x 3.4 x 5.9in
Weight	—	.95lb (431g)

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