Best Xfinity routers reviewed

If you’ve researched a new Xfinity internet service, you may have noticed an unexpected equipment rental charge added to the cost of service. At first glance, an extra $13/mo.* may not seem like much of an expense, but internet service fees can quickly add up if you’re not careful. One of the best ways to eliminate some of those fees and save on your monthly bill is to invest in your own router or 2-in-1 gateway device.

How we choose the best routers for Xfinity

If you’ve ever shopped around for a new router, you know that there are an overwhelming number of options. So how did we narrow it down to five of the best Xfinity compatible routers? In short, we looked at a few key criteria: supported speeds, price, value, features and customer reviews. Keep reading for more information about these top-rated Xfinity routers.

Our Xfinity router suggestions:

• Best budget 2-in-1 modem and router: Motorola MG7540
• Best budget router: TP-Link Archer A8
• Best performing 2-in-1 modem and router: Motorola MG7700
• Best value mesh system: TP-Link Deco S4
• Best 2-in-1 modem and router for Xfinity Gigabit Pro plan: ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300

Best budget 2-in-1 modem and router: Motorola MG7540

The Motorola MG7540 is an affordably priced modem and router that’s recommended for Xfinity plan tiers beneath 300 Mbps. On the plus side, it’s easy to set up and comes with Motorola’s two-year warranty. However, the Xfinity plans below 300 Mbps might be some of the company’s more inexpensive internet plans, so we realize that some people might find the Motorola MG7540 a bit too pricey. Just keep in mind that this is a modem and router combo, so you won’t need to buy extra equipment.

On Amazon, this modem and router combination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,000+ ratings. Customers liked the easy installation process and its sleek and compact design, which is a bonus for people who want to save space or have fewer wires visible in their homes.

Best budget standalone router: TP-Link Archer A8

The TP-Link Archer A8 is best suited for plans under 600 Mbps download speeds, so it would work great with the Xfinity Blast! Plan and below. This router is great if you’re looking to buy on a budget. On the downside, it uses the older standard of Wi-Fi 5, but customers still rave about its high speeds.

The TP-Link Archer A8 consistently receives excellent reviews from customers. It has an average rating of 4.5 stars with customers mainly praising its easy installation, great value and Wi-Fi signal.

Best performing 2-in-1 modem and router: Motorola MG7700

The Motorola MG7700 is a top-rated modem and router combo that delivers great speeds and is reliable for everyday internet users. The MG7700 has internet speed compatibility of up to 800 Mbps and has great value for the speed it offers. While it may seem pricey, purchasing this modem and router combo eliminates the need for a standalone modem or router and could pay for itself within a year, saving you money and space in your home.

Based on Amazon reviews, Motorola customers seem to be quite happy with their 2-in-1 modem and router purchase. The product has a 4.3-star rating from 10,000+ global ratings and is an Amazon best-seller. While much of the feedback is positive, some buyers said that they’ve had issues with the Wi-Fi range of the Motorola MG7700. 

Best value mesh router: TP-Link Deco S4

The TP-Link Deco S4 offers great coverage for a great price. This mesh system provides coverage of up to 5,500 sq. ft. This could be a great option if you have a multi-level home or simply desire more even coverage. On the plus side, you can always increase your coverage with this mesh system by adding another unit.

The TP-Link Deco S4 is a #1 bestseller on Amazon with a 4.5-star rating. Customers love its easy setup and great Wi-Fi coverage, but some have claimed to have issues with the app and the system’s setup process.

Best 2-in-1 modem and router for the Gigabit Pro plan: ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300

If you have Xfinity’s Gigabit Pro Plan, you’ll need a heavy-duty router that can handle the plan’s 3,000 Mbps download speeds. Fortunately, the ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300 is up to the task, rounding out our best Xfinity list. While this 2-in-1 modem and router combo might seem expensive, keep in mind that it has the ability to support cable internet plans up to 4,000 Mbps. It’s one of the few Comcast-compatible options that is approved for the provider’s Gigabit plans.

Despite the steep cost, Amazon customers have typically liked the ARRIS Surfboard SBG8300, giving it an average of 4.3 stars from 2,100+ reviews. But there are also several complaints about the product, with some people claiming that they had problems with dropped signals and general connectivity.

Should you rent or purchase your Xfinity equipment?

Buying a modem and router or a combination gateway device from a third-party can be a beneficial option for Xfinity customers looking to cut back on their annual internet bill. Check out some pros and cons of renting Xfinity equipment compared to buying your own.

Rental vs. purchase of Xfinity equipment

Thinking equipment rental may be more beneficial for you? Learn more about whether or not you should buy or rent router and modem equipment from your internet service provider.

What to look for in an Xfinity modem and router

If you’ve decided on purchasing your own equipment, there are a few features you’ll want to look out for to ensure that once you buy, you’re happy with your Xfinity internet performance. 

1. DOCSIS Technology – “Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification” or DOCSIS is used to transfer data quickly over the coaxial cable used for a cable TV and internet connection. This technology has evolved from the initial 1.0 version to today’s fastest DOCSIS 3.1 version.
2. Maximum speed capability – If you purchase Xfinity’s Gigabit Pro plan, which comes with speeds up to 3,000 Mbps, you’re going to also want to purchase equipment that’s capable of handling speeds that fast. Your modem can hinder your internet speeds no matter what plan you’re paying for.
3. Channel bonding – If you’re familiar with internet traffic, modem channels are like lanes on that highway. The more channels your modem has, the more internet traffic it can handle without issue. The NETGEAR C7000 – 1AZNAS, for example, has 32×8 channel bonding. That means it dedicates 32 channels to downloading data and 8 channels to uploading, which is perfect for Xfinity’s fastest speeds.
4. Security – Make sure your router uses a password with nothing less than WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. Your home internet network can be the first virtual door to your entire home security system. 
5. App-based management – Many routers on today’s market come with apps that can simplify setup and network management. From these apps, you can monitor the users on your home Wi-Fi and be updated when your router needs software updates.

Need a faster internet plan?

Xfinity’s fastest plan can support download speeds of up to 3,000 Mbps. If you’re looking for something faster, then you should start evaluating other providers. Check out our internet provider reviews to find out which companies serve your area and compare their plan options.

The bottom line

Although you aren’t required to buy your own router or cable modem with Xfinity, there are several benefits of doing so. First, investing in new equipment can help speed up your internet. It can also increase the security of your home network. And while purchasing your own modem or router might cost more upfront, you’ll typically break even within a year or two when compared to renting. 

But keep in mind that your equipment is only part of the equation. If you don’t have a fast and reliable ISP plan, then it won’t matter how good your modem or router is — even if you have the top modem or best router for Xfinity.

Thinking about upgrading your internet plan? Take a look at our top provider picks and find the right one for you.

For a full list of equipment with Xfinity services, see Xfinity’s list of compatible modems and routers to search equipment by speed, brand and DOCSIS version. Looking for more information about other internet providers available near you? Call us to speak to an internet expert today or stay connected to our Resource Center for the latest news.

Shop Xfinity Internet, TV, and Phone plans

Xfinity offers a variety of plans for internet, TV and phone.

Order online

or call us today: (844) 451-2720 (844) 451-2720

Written by:

Camryn Smith

Associate Writer

Camryn Smith is an Associate Writer with Allconnect.com. She specializes in writing about the broadband industry and helping consumers navigate complex internet service purchasing decisions…. Read more

Edited by:

Robin Layton

Editor, Broadband Content

Read bio

What to read next

Read more

• Featured
  Best Xfinity routers reviewed Camryn Smith — 6 min read
• Featured
  Everything you need to know about Internet Essentials by Comcast Erin Gobler — 3 min read
• Featured
  The hidden Xfinity fees on your bill (and what they really mean) Taylor Gadsden — 3 min read

Latest

• Monday, March 27, 2023

  All you need to know about streaming TV

  Joe Supan — 6 min read

• Friday, March 24, 2023

  Safety online: A guide for people with autism spectrum disorder

  Joe Supan — 8 min read

• Thursday, March 23, 2023

  2023 report: Internet users are gobbling data by the half-terabyte

  Robin Layton — 4 min read