In order to avail the most of your internet speed, it is important to invest in a good modem. ADSL modems are all the hype these days and rightfully so.
For some reason, not a lot of people understand what they are and how they help. To help the case, we've compiled all the information you need to know about ADSL modems, along with some great recommendations.
It can be a confusing job to pick a modem out of all the available options in the market. Therefore, we have suggested some of the very best products on the market. To find out more, keep on reading!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for ADSL Modems
- OUR TOP PICK: NETGEAR AC1600
- TP-Link Archer D7 AC1750
- NETGEAR 4G LTE Modem
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Linksys X2000
- TP-Link ADSL2+
Comparison Chart of the Best ADSL Modems
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
 | TP-Link Archer D7 AC1750
| |
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| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
Best Budget Option  |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
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| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
What is an ADSL Modem?
ASDL is short for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line, which is simply a method of transporting internet over your standard telephone lines. To simplify the definition, you can think it as a technology that is a part of DSL broadband communications used to connect to the internet.
It allows the transmission of data on existing phone lines at a higher bandwidth. Upon comparison to traditional modem lines, ADSL provides a continuous connection that is always on. You may wonder what the asymmetric part of the name means. Well, it means it uses most of its channel to downstream information and a very small part is allotted to receive information from the user.
What is the Difference Between DSL and ADSL Modems?
One of the major confusions people generally have is the difference between DSL and ADSL. Basically, DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line, which is the standard term for the services which provide you internet connection using phone lines and a modem. There are different types of DSLs, namely SDSL, VDSL, and ADSL. DSL provides you uninterrupted internet connection even while the phone is in use. The internet is high speed, however, it's only available if you live nearby the central office. The connection is noticeably slower the farther you move away from the central office.
ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line) is the service where the speed of data sent (upstream) and received (downstream) is not identical. In fact, they differ considerably. DSL is the generic term for services whereas ADSL is a more specific type of service.
How Do I Choose an ADSL Modem?
If you can't make much sense of the technical terminologies scribbled on modem packaging and need to know how to choose a modem, this section will provide you all the information you need. There are certain factors you need to look into while choosing a modem, which can make it a more promising purchase. These include:
Compatibility
One important thing to consider prior to investing in a modem is whether it is compatible with your internet service provider. Where modems are compatible with most ISPs, it's better to be sure that the particular product you invest in is, too.
Area Coverage
This refers to the area your modem/router covers. The area your device would cover depends upon the internal and external antennas it has. It's important to look into the device you buy to ensure it can cover the area of your house and not have any dead spots which lack an internet connection.
Security
Cybercrime is real and one would want to be protected against cyber-attacks. Therefore, it is better to look for a device that promises a better security plan. Your device should at least have WPA, or WiFi protected access, and SPI firewall protection.
Speed
It is important to know the speed your device provides and whether it is compatible with your speed plan. So, to prevent all the frustration that comes with slow internet speeds, delayed downloading, etc., it's best to look into your device's speed prior to investing in it.
Quick Take - Best ADSL Modems
In a hurry? Below are our recommendations for the best ADSL modems:
- NETGEAR AC1600
- TP-Link Archer D7 AC1750
- NETGEAR 4G LTE Modem
Review of the Best ADSL Modem
Here is a list of some amazing DSL modem devices. These are some of the best on the market and we've categorized them according to their standout quality. There is one for everyone on this list. We've discussed all there is to from the pros and cons to everything in between. So, keep on reading!
Best Overall:
NETGEAR AC1600
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were quite satisfied with the purchase they made. Most buyers commented that the range of the router was excellent and they experienced great download speed. The device looks great as well and most people commented it has elegant hardware.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for a couple of reasons. This product has great WiFi speed and coverage and would be wonderful for larger homes. Furthermore, it is easy to set up. Even if you are not a tech-savvy person, this device won't give you a hard time.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be great for people living in large homes as it has great internet speed and covers a large area. You won't have any dead spots around the house and will experience uniform network speed, which is rare.
Bottom Line
This product will prove to be an excellent investment for you, considering the coverage it provides. If your budget allows, you should definitely consider buying this product as it is a long-term investment that provides excellent results.
Runner-up:
TPLINK Archer D7 AC1750
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are extremely happy with their purchase. They deem it one of the best devices they've used. They find it to be the best option for a backup device when broadband connectivity is not available.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The market only has a few products that not only look great, but work just as well. This product is not only durable but is also reliable. Furthermore, the speed it offers is great for both downloads and uploads.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be great for those who take part in excessive gaming or web surfing as it has a great continuous reception. Furthermore, the dual-band allows it to both download and upload content reliably.
Bottom Line
All in all, it is a great product. You can't go wrong with this. It does everything it claims. Furthermore, it is very close to perfect, as not only does it look great, but it performs exceptionally, as well.
Best for the Money:
NETGEAR 4G LTE Modem
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers find it to be an excellent device. They believe it works very well and is highly reliable. The signal strength is great and the coverage area is commendable, as well. It has become a user favorite for all the right reasons.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This stands out to us primarily for providing such great value for money. The market hardly has many devices that offer this many features along with such reliability in this price range. Thus, it is one of the best products on the market.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be great for those who have certain budget restrictions and can't invest in a crazy expensive product. This is a reliable and durable alternative that offers all the excellent features you are looking for. Thus, there is no reason left to splurge on this type of product.
Bottom Line
This product is an excellent investment. It's great that it doesn't cost much, whereas it offers some excellent features you would find in many higher-end products. It isn't just affordable but also great in functionality.
Best ADSL Modem Router Combo:
Linksys X2000
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers were greatly impressed with the performance of this product. They find it to be one of the most reliable devices in the market, which speaks volumes about it. The durability, reliability, and wireless connectivity greatly impressed its users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for having excellent WiFi coverage and speed. It truly is the best ADSL modem router combo you can get your hands on. The installation is no fuss and easy. Plus, the results are worth the investment.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be great for anyone but especially for those in search of a device with broader coverage. It has great area coverage and connectivity, and thus, it is perfect for larger homes.
Bottom Line
This is another great product you can't go wrong with. It is an excellent investment. The brand it comes from is reputable and the pros of the product outweigh the cons. Plus, with its broad coverage, you can get a strong internet connection all around the house.
Best Wired ADSL modem:
TP-Link ADSL2+
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers find it to be a great investment. They recommend this product for its broad area coverage and high-speed performance. It definitely is one of the most appreciated units by users. They also like its design and durable build.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for promising great value for your money and providing excellent service. It doesn't only look great but functions very well and at a great price range. It offers various features and functions that work extremely well. It is an extremely reliable device and offers advanced security features that protect it from any cyber harm, which is rare for devices in this price range.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a highly multi-functional product and would work great for everyone. It is also great for house use, regardless of the size, given its broad coverage. This would work well for small businesses, too.
Bottom Line
This product is an excellent investment and will benefit you greatly. It isn't just great to look at but also functions beautifully. The functionality, in conjunction with the design and exceptional looks, make it an excellent investment.
Advantages and Disadvantages of ADSL Modems
If you're still torn between whether you want to invest in an ADSL modem, perhaps, looking at its advantages and disadvantages will help you decide. Let's take a look at them!
Advantages
- If speed is what you're most concerned about, then your troubles are solved with an ADSL modem. It provides a high-speed connection which is greater than what is provided by dial-up internet.
- It is much more convenient than you think. ADSL uses the existing infrastructure as it transmits data through phone lines which you already have. You don't have to go through any process of getting new wires installed.
- It provides great value for money. There are no fluctuations in the cost you pay, which is fixed and needs to be paid monthly. Since no added infrastructure is needed, you don't need to pay for extra wiring or anything.
- You can use the phone and internet at the same time. It's not as if using the phone would disturb your internet connection as the voice and data operate in separate bands. This means you can surf the web and download all you want without fearing any dropped connections.
Disadvantages
- Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line, or ADSL, has a different capacity of upload and download speed, as the name suggests. The fact is it has faster download speed than upload speed. Furthermore, as far as speed is concerned, it works better when it is close to the central ISP's office. The speeds can vary according to the time of the day.
- It isn't available everywhere. Furthermore, a home ADSL line is shared amongst 50 people and a business line is shared amongst 20. The number of people can be a cause behind the fluctuation of a network, especially if you're living further away from the ISP's central office.
Conclusion
By now, you have a better insight into the product you're looking for, how to choose the perfect device, and its advantages and disadvantages.
All the products we suggested are some of the very best on the market and you can't go wrong with them. However, if you want to keep looking, it's important you keep in mind the factors we mentioned to choose the best ADSL modem and you won't be confused while making the purchase.
There are many variables when purchasing a modem and it would differ from person to person according to their needs.
People Also Ask
There are certain things that tend to confuse people when they are looking into an ADSL modem. Thus, catering to that, we took the liberty of answering some of your most commonly asked questions. Hopefully, this section will give you better insight and resolve any confusion. Let's take a look at the questions!
Can I Use an ADSL Modem fas a Cable Modem?
The kind of modem you purchase depends upon your internet service. DSL and ADSL use phone lines to transmit internet connection whereas a cable modem would use the same line used for your home TV connection. Therefore, an ADSL modem would not be compatible with cable internet. Cable modem and ADSL modems are not interchangeable, and each requires a different internet service provider.
Is ADSL Better Than DSL?
ADSL is a type of DSL broadband communication technology. There are other types of DSL as well, such as VDSL and SDSL. But ADSL is perhaps the most requested by the people. This provides you a constant connection, even when the phone line is being used. Furthermore, ADSL receives and sends data at different speeds as compared to DSL, which has a uniform speed for both.
Is ADSL the Same as Broadband?
ADSL is a type of DSL broadband communication. It uses different speeds to receive and send data which is why it is called asymmetric. It is highly requested by people for this reason.
