The best compatible routers for Spectrum internet service

It’s easy to find a compatible modem and router for Spectrum services. 

For Spectrum internet customers, a network-approved modem is included with your plan at no additional charge. You can purchase your own modem if you really want to, but it won’t save you any money on your monthly Spectrum bill. 

Because of this, most Spectrum customers use the provided Spectrum modem. However, you do need to either rent a pre-configured Wi-Fi router from Spectrum or use your own. Renting a router from Spectrum costs $5/mo.*

Pro Tip: Check out our Spectrum provider internet guide to find out if Spectrum is right for you!

If you decide you want to use your own Spectrum modem, router or gateway (a modem and router combo), make sure whatever you pick is compatible with your Spectrum internet service.

*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Speeds may vary. As of 05/21/20.

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Best routers for Spectrum

Spectrum doesn’t maintain a list of network-approved routers and they won’t provide technical support to any router you purchase yourself. However, based on the type of routers you can rent from Spectrum, you will need:

• An 802.11ac router 
• A dual-band wireless-AC connection 

Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that whatever router you choose is compatible with your modem and speed tier to ensure you’re getting the speed you’re paying for at home. And keep in mind, a router can deteriorate over time, so if your current router is over five years old, it may be time to invest in a new one to ensure that you’re getting the internet speeds you are paying for.

That said, don’t let this intimidate you from purchasing your own router. An average router costs under $100, with some base models even costing less than $50. Therefore, even if you have Spectrum service for less than two years, you can potentially save upwards of $20. And those savings increase the longer you maintain your Spectrum service.

Recommended Wi-Fi routers for Spectrum internet service

Best Spectrum modems 

A Spectrum modem is included with all Spectrum internet plans, but you can still elect to provide your own modem. Be aware that Spectrum-compatible modems are authorized for specific speed tiers. Check your Spectrum plan agreement or contact Spectrum customer service to find out what tier you’re paying for, then view the Spectrum-approved modems below. 

Some of the modems on this list, like the Netgear C6250, are actually modem-router combos, which means you can get away with just one device. Using a modem or router that’s not authorized for your speed tier could result in slower internet speeds or a weaker connection.

Check out more info in our ultimate internet router guide and find answers to all your broadband questions at the Resource Center.

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Written by:

Lisa Iscrupe

Writer, Broadband & Data Content

Lisa uses years of experience in sales and customer service for internet-TV providers to inform her writing on broadband. Her work has been referenced by CNN and other national sources. … Read more