While most internet and phone companies provide their own modems, you still have to pay for the unit’s purchase and maintenance, along with its additional service costs every once in a while. A smart alternative to these modems is to invest in a DSL modem of your own, one that is better and faster than the one set up by your local internet provider.
Thanks to the groundbreaking advancements in technology, these devices are easily available at affordable prices, so you don’t need to purchase or rent company-provided DSL modems.
The following are some of the best DSL modem router combos available today, so you find one which best suits your needs!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for DSL Modem Router Combos
- OUR TOP PICK: ARRIS Surfboard (16x4) DOCSIS 3.0
- NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: ARRIS Surfboard (8x4) DOCSIS 3.0 AC1600
- NETGEAR Cable Modem C6250
- MOTOROLA MG7540 16x4 AC1600
Comparison Chart of the Best DSL Modem Router Combos
IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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Our Top Pick |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews | |
Best Budget Option |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews | |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
What is a DSL Modem Router Combo and What is it Used For?
DSL basically stands for Digital Subscriber Line. It works on copper lines by using frequencies not used by phone calls. In principle, a DSL modem is used to describe a modem that is connected to a single computer, through a USB or Ethernet port. A great leap from dial-up technology, DSL offers faster speeds and allows users to connect online while enabling them to use their landline phone at the same time.
While cable-based modem connections are commonly used in urban areas, DSL modems are more suitable for rural or developing townships due to the lack of infrastructure. However, the internet speed is lower than the cable modems.
Are All DSL Modem Router Combos The Same?
There are several different types of DSL, but the main three include:
ADSL
The most popular and commonly used DSL type, the Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line grew rapidly in the 2000s and was a big upgrade from dial-up. The DSL is called asymmetrical because the upstream speeds are usually extremely slower than the downstream speeds.
VDSL
While the Very High Bit-rate Digital Subscriber Line is the fastest type of DSL available today, it’s not as common as ADSL. Able to achieve speeds up to 60Mbps downstream, VDSL uses a configuration that reduces the distance the signals need to travel.
However, VDSL only works well for users located close to the exchange. If you’re away from the exchange, you might experience signal deterioration, which may consequently result in poor reliability and speeds.
SDSL
In Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line, both downstream and upstream speeds are the same. As businesses often need solid upstream speeds, this DSL type is more common in business environments than average homes.
How to Choose a DSL Modem Router Combo
Since there are so many modems available today, choosing the right one is no easy task. Here are some things you should consider before making your purchase:
Compatibility
The first thing you need to do is see whether the DSL modem you’ve selected is compatible with the DSL service being used, the connection protocol, and your ISP. It’s advisable to do some research and learn more about the type of connection you have. You can also talk to your ISP about the recommended modem type.
Attributes
Make sure that the modem you choose has a fast Ethernet port and at least one RJ-11 DSL port. It’s also advisable to purchase one with a reset button and LED lights, so you can easily tell whether the connections are running properly or if they’re active. Virtual private network pass-through capabilities and an integrated firewall are also important features to look out for.
Speed
A modem’s connection speed is one of the most important things you should consider before purchasing one. While most quality modems deliver 200Mbps download speeds, make sure you select one which guarantees at least 100Mbps.
Quick Take -Best DSL Modem Router Combos
In a hurry? Below are the best DSL modem router combos:
Review of the Best DSL Modem Router Combos
Due to the wide variety of models available today, choosing the best one is an extremely daunting task. To help you make the right decision, here are reviews of the best DSL modem router combos.
Best Overall:
ARRIS Surfboard (16x4) DOCSIS 3.0
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most ARRIS Surfboard users were happy with their purchase and were particularly impressed by its broadcasts. Customers stated that the unit takes up very little space and is extremely easy to set up. A few users even said that the unit almost doubled their internet speed. However, some buyers were dissatisfied with the model and found its range to be a bit short.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The ARRIS Surfboard stands out to us because of the long list of useful features it offers. Equipped with 16 downstream and four upstream channels, the unit maximizes your Cable ISP service offerings. Boasting DOCSIS speeds up to 686 Mbps and a dual-concurrent 802.11ac Wi-Fi, the unit is further designed to support both IPv6 and IPv4.
Who Will Use This Most
Since the ARRIS features Wi-Fi speeds up to 1600 Mbps and DOCSIS download speeds up to 686 Mbps, it is the perfect option for low-bandwidth homes who want to save monthly rental fees. Its solid performance further ensures satisfaction for most home internet customers who don’t want to pay for high-speed service.
Bottom Line
The ARRIS Surfboard is certainly worthy of first place on our list. The unit is equipped with plenty of excellent features and is extremely easy to install and use. The placement of the coaxial cable could be improved, but if you want a small, reliable modem/router combo, then the ARRIS Surfboard is a perfect choice.
Runner-up:
NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the people who invested in the NETGEAR Nighthawk were satisfied with the product and stated that it was much faster than the other models they had used. Users also said that it’s a low-maintenance unit and is extremely easy to set up. However, some buyers were extremely dissatisfied and reported that the signal repeatedly drops throughout the day.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Since the NETGEAR is the runner-up on our list, there are quite a few reasons why it stands out to us. Firstly, the unit provides 1800 sq. ft. wireless coverage and ensures fast, reliable Wi-Fi performance for up to 30 devices. Secondly, it gives fast, wired connections to your game box, computer, storage drive, printer, and other devices. Lastly, since the modem supports WPA/WPA2 and WEP wireless security protocols, it is extremely secure and safe to use.
Who Will Use This Most
Thanks to its DOCSIS 3.0 capabilities, the NETGEAR Nighthawk is the perfect option for individuals who want to achieve faster download speeds. Designed for cable provider plans up to 400Mbps speed, the model allows you to enjoy seamless HD video streaming and high-speed online gaming.
Bottom Line
The Nighthawk C7000 is surely one of the fastest modems available today. Designed with range-boosting Beamforming+ technology, the model ensures quicker and stronger internet connectivity. However, some users reported receiving defective products, and the port forwarding may not work.
Best for the Money:
ARRIS Surfboard (8x4) DOCSIS 3.0 AC1600
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users stated that the ARRIS Surfboard is fast and extremely easy to install and use. Customers also said that the model had consistent speeds and they did not experience any lag while streaming and gaming (Xbox One) at the same time. However, some buyers reported a buggy user interface and found that their unit failed after a few months.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The ARRIS Surfboard primarily stands out to us because of the value of money it offers. Comprising of a Dual-Band concurrent 802.11ac Wi-Fi access point, a DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem, and 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports, this combo offers three products for the price of one. The model also supports the latest Internet standard and ensures maximum Wi-Fi coverage and performance.
Who Will Use This Most
This ARRIS Surfboard is the perfect option for anyone who wants to upgrade to a modem router without spending too much. Ideal for Internet plans up to 100 Mbps; the model allows you to enjoy seamless gaming and video streaming.
Bottom Line
To put it simply, the ARRIS Surfboard AC1600 certainly deserves a place on our list of top picks. Providing speeds up to 1600 Mbps, the Ethernet router ensures flexible and high-speed wired connectivity. However, you might need to restart it frequently.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most customers who invested in the NETGEAR C6250 were extremely happy with their decision and were shocked at how easy it was to set up the modem. Users also stated that they got fast, consistent speeds and this product was much faster than other models. However, some buyers did not like its large size, and some even reported receiving a defective unit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The NETGEAR C6250 stands out to us because of its ease of use. Thanks to its Push ‘N’ Connect feature, you can easily add devices to the Wi-Fi network with the push of a single button. The simple browser-based installation further makes router installation extremely easy using a tablet, computer, smartphone, or iPad.
Who Will Use This Most
This model is perfect for gamers who are looking for something affordable and reliable. Since the dual-band box provides 2.4GHz Wi-Fi speeds for all connected gadgets, the unit allows gamers to enjoy faster downloads, high-speed online gaming, and seamless streaming with reduced buffering and lag.
Bottom Line
All in all, the NETGEAR Cable Modem C6250 is surely one of the best modems available today. Along with being extremely easy to set up and use, the unit ensures fast and reliable Internet access. However, it might not be the ideal option for larger homes.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most people who purchased the Motorola MG7540 were impressed by the range and availability it offered. Customers reported noticeably faster speeds and said that the unit was extremely easy to install and activate. However, some users stated that the model needed to be reset frequently to maintain adequate speed. Some buyers also reported receiving defective products which stopped working after a few weeks.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Motorola’s innovative technology is what makes it stand out from the crowd. The model’s AnyBeam implicit beamforming directs the wireless signal towards the wireless devices, consequently increasing range and speed. Meanwhile, DFS enables the use of low-traffic wireless performance, which reduces interference from neighbors. All in all, both DFS and AnyBeam enhance wireless performance and ensure a fast, robust Wi-Fi connection with excellent coverage.
Who Will Use This Most
The Motorola MG7540 is designed with the wireless speeds, networking support, and range needed for Internet video, high-performance networking, and multimedia in a home or office.
Bottom Line
One of the best modems available on the market, the Motorola MG7540 ensures a faster and more reliable Internet connection. While the model is fast and easy to set up, it does not have a USB port, which might prove to be a problem for some.
Pros and Cons of DSL Modem Router Combos
While a DSL modem sounds like the perfect option, the unit has some drawbacks as well.
Advantages
Below are the main advantages:
Money-saving
Usually, you need to rent a modem from your ISP. By purchasing your own modem/router, you can get rid of the rental fee charged every month by your ISP. Along with saving money on the rental fees, you’ll also save money on a router. By purchasing a combo product, you’ll only have to pay for one device.
Save Space
A modem router combo allows you to cut one link from your network, providing you with a much simpler network overall. In other words, you have one less device to worry about. Furthermore, with the physical reduction of one device, you’ll have more space for the other units you have in your home or office.
Increased Compatibility
As the router and modem are part of the same device, you’ll experience no compatibility issues. This helps with everything from making troubleshooting a much simpler process to making the entire set up easier.
Disadvantages
Below are the main disadvantages:
Less Choice
If you want to purchase a state-of-the-art router with the latest features, then a DSL modem router combo isn’t the right way to go. While there are some good combos available, you won’t get an MU-MIMO or a tri-band router.
Replacement Issues
If your device breaks down, you’ll have to replace both the router and the modem. However, if you purchase a separate modem and router, you’ll only have to replace the broken device, and you can keep the working one. Similarly, if you want a router with the latest features, you’ll either have to purchase two separate devices or purchase a new modem router combo.
Conclusion
When it comes to modems and routers, every individual has their own taste and preference. For large homeowners and business outlets, it’s advisable to overlook the budget and choose a wide range and high-speed router. Single users can purchase low-level routers as they deliver enough speed to fulfill a single person’s needs.