The Best Modem Router Combo for Gaming in 2024

I won’t babble about the importance of the internet blah blah blah – we already know that.

We also know that for online gaming, it’s not enough to have internet only.

We need high-speed internet for the best experience. And frankly, we need it to win. Else, this would probably be you while your teammates are trashing you for making all of you lose.

Lucky for you, modem router combos are here to save the day – and your game.

Quick Overview: Top 10 Best Modem Router Combos for Gaming

Before I dive deep into reviewing my best modem router combo picks, here’s a glance for your reference!

• Best Overall: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo
• Best Value: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80)
• Best Budget: TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit WiFi Router (Archer A6)
• MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2+ Modem
• TP-Link 16x4 AC1750 Wi-Fi Cable Modem Router
• TP-Link AC5400 Tri-Band WiFi Gaming Router (Archer C5400X)
• NETGEAR Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router C6250
• Motorola MG7700 Modem WiFi Router with Power Boost
• ARRIS SURFboard
• ASUS Modem Router Combos

Yes, there are familiar major cable internet providers on this list! Carry on reading for the more specific reviews on each model.

Thorough Reviews: Top 10 Best Best Modem Router Combo for Gaming

In this section, I’ll dive deeper into these ten (10) modem router combos. I’ll be sharing the features that stand out, benefits (pros), drawbacks (cons), and my overall thoughts.

Don’t worry, I’ll make this as simple to understand as possible!

Best Overall: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo

First on the list is the best overall modem router combo. It delivers terrific internet speed without being over the top expensive at the same time. A win-win!

Don’t confuse this with the other model with a built-in router for wi-fi – though I love that too. I’ll discuss that one later!

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Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Xfinity Internet Speed: up to 800Mbps
• Cox Internet Speed: up to 500Mbps
• Spectrum Internet Speed: up to 400Mbps
• 1800 square feet wireless coverage and 30 devices connected with AC1900 speed (up to 1900 Mbps)
• 4 (Four) Gigabit Ethernet ports
• 2 (Two) USB ports
• 32×8 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.1.
• Dual Band

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router:

• Compatible with all major cable internet providers
• Can replace your cable modem router (saves you money!)
• Fast and reliable wireless internet for an affordable price
• Different kinds of ports and connections for all-around and versatile use
• Can be used for multiple devices

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Though compatible with major cable providers, it still varies per state
• It may not be the best for heavy gamers
• Warranty support isn’t the best

My Overall Thoughts

I have to be honest that if you compare this with the more expensive modem routers, it won’t bring home the best modem router title.

However, if you look at the price – it’s almost 4x cheaper and it delivers the same purpose. You’ll experience a reliable internet connection that’s usable even for separate devices (up to 30!) within the area.

I also appreciate how it’s compatible with almost all of the major cable providers, unlike other models.

Best Value: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80)

I mentioned above there’s another NETGEAR model that has a built-in wifi router – and yes, this is it!

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Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and other major internet providers
• Up to 3,000 sq. ft. wireless coverage with dual-band WiFi 6 (AX6000) speed (up to 6Gbps)
• One 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port
• 4 (four) Gigabit Ethernet ports
• One USB 3.0 port
• DOCSIS 3.1 and 32×8 channel bonding
• Supports WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router:

• Fast speed internet connection (x5 than the normal one)
• More Ethernet ports
• Good for simultaneous streaming (can maintain fast internet speed)
• Cyber-security protection

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service
• Not compatible with a DSL modem
• Not always stable internet connection
• Expensive

My Overall Thoughts

For those looking for a good modem router combo that can perform with maximum speeds, you can’t go wrong with this option. The internet connectivity and bandwidth internet access are commendable.

But my favorite feature has got to be the cybersecurity feature they provide for your devices using the same network.

It’s no secret that your cable internet service can be prone to malicious attacks, but NETGEAR already offers the protection for you.

I think the extra buck is a worthy price to pay for your protection.

Best Budget: TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit WiFi Router (Archer A6)

Some of us don’t need a high-end modem router. If you only play light games and a fast enough internet speed will suffice, a budget modem router will do the trick.

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Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Dual-band router
• Up to 1200 Mbps high-speed internet connection
• Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports
• MU-MIMO technology (5GHz band)

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router combo:

• Direct wired connection (yes, even if it’s non-wifi devices)
• Multiple devices simultaneously at maximum speed
• Works on parental control and guest mode
• TP-Link Tether app (you can control it even if you’re not near the modem router combo)
• AFFORDABLE!

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Not for heavy gaming or use
• Wi-fi speed and reach as wide-ranged

My Overall Thoughts

Well, this one is straightforward.

It’s affordable, so don’t expect it to work at blazing speeds or with the most stability. It’s a decent wireless router that can give you a decently fast internet connection.

If you’re expecting to get heavy uses out of this while fully knowing the price, then you’re not on the right track, friend! Let’s be fair to our trusty TP-Link router-modem combo.

MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2+ Modem

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If a DSL modem is what you’re looking for, then consider this one from Motorola. Since NETGEAR is a cable internet provider, they’re often not compatible with DSL.

Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Combines a VDSL2/ADSL2+ Modem with a full-featured AC1600 WiFi Gigabit Router
• 4-gigabit ethernet ports
• AC1600 WIRELESS
• Firewall
• WPA/WPA2 wireless security, IPv4 and IPv6 support
• Virtual Private Network (VPN) capability.
• USB 2.0 host port for Network Attached Storage (NAS) which supports DLNA Media Sharing.

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router combo:

• Quick internet speeds to all WiFi and Ethernet devices
• Can plug a USB storage device into the USB 2.0 host port
• No chaotic wires!
• Easy to set up and install
• Good customer service

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Expensive
• Needs a little bit of maintenance

My Overall Thoughts

To be honest, I was debating whether or not this one from MOTOROLA or NETGEAR should bag the Best Value award.

While both are expensive, they prove to be a worthy price to pay for the modem router combo quality and fast internet speeds they provide. The thing is, not everyone uses a DSL connection – so this plays a role in which router fits your current connection setup best.

For people who don’t use cable internet, I would immediately suggest that you go for this.

I have to give it to this router-modem combo for gaming. It’s one of the best modem routers that work well even at maximum speed.

TP-Link 16x4 AC1750 Wi-Fi Cable Modem Router

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Of course, TP-Link also has pricier modem routers. But I appreciate how it’s still on the affordable side.

Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Wireless Router (1750 Mbit/s Wireless Signals Speed)
• 2.40 GHz Ism Band
• 5 GHz Unii Band
• 6 X Antenna (6 X Internal)
• 4 X Network Port
• 2 USB Ports
• Gigabit Ethernet Ports

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router combo:

• Good warranty and customer services
• Faster internet connection

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Not the best for heavy gaming
• Not the fastest internet access

My Overall Thoughts

TP-Link doesn’t disappoint when it comes to providing good internet speeds at reasonable price ranges. For that price tag, you can already get gigabit ethernet ports and decent service provider service.

The wireless power boost is commendable too! Hats off to TP-Link!

TP-Link AC5400 Tri-Band WiFi Gaming Router (Archer C5400X)

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And of course, the most expensive router-modem combo from TP-Link on this list also gives us impressive internet speeds.

Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Voice control
• Dual-band
• Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Gigabit Ethernet
• Gigabit Ethernet ports
• Leading-edge 1.8 GHz 64 bit Quad-core CPU and 1G RAM accelerates the loading
• 8 Gigabit LAN ports and 1 Gigabit WAN port, with Link Aggregation
• AC5400 Tri-band Wi-Fi over one 2.4 GHz (1000Mbps)
• Two 5 GHz bands (2167Mbps), dedicate one band to prioritize traffic
• MU-MIMO and Airtime Fairness

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router combo:

• Intended for gaming
• Multiple devices still work even in farther distances
• Advanced security
• Good with prioritizing traffic

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Useless if your main modem router loses connection
• Complaints of faulty modem router combo units

My Overall Thoughts

This specific model is impressive. I’ve seen its wireless power boost and, to tell you the truth, this modem router combo for gaming is overall impressive.

But beware of faulty units. There were a lot of complaints about losing full bandwidth internet access despite everything working well. It’s best to purchase your modem and router from trustworthy sources.

Another downside is that since it doesn’t have built-in wifi, once. your main cable internet service provider loses connection, this one’s practically useless too.

NETGEAR Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router C6250

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As I’ve already mentioned, internet provider NETGEAR has another wi-fi router that made it to this list.

Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Compatible with cable provider plans for up to 300 Mbps
• Delivers up to 1600 Mbps wireless connection speed
• 2-gigabit ethernet ports
• 1 USB port
• Built-in wi-fi router
• Wi-fi speed and coverage up to 1500 sq. ft. with 25 devices
• 16×4 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0.

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router combo:

• Already has a built-in wifi
• Can connect to different types of devices (gigabit ethernet cable, USB ports, etc.)
• Engineered with commendable technology
• Stable connection in near ranges

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T, Century Link, DSL modem providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service.
• Some complaints of Virtual Private Network (VPN) not working
• Difficult to set-up

My Overall Thoughts

NETGEAR products are promising and having tried some of their modem router combos myself, I can attest to the commendable wi-fi speed they provide.

What sucks though is their customer service as an internet service provider. Reviews online would likewise agree that their service support is a bit difficult to handle.

So take that as it is. I’ve included the products in this list as I do think they make good modem router combos with ethernet ports and all that, but there are just drawbacks to consider overall.

Motorola MG7700 Modem WiFi Router with Power Boost

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The power boost in the name already tells us this is one of the best modem and router combos – and I agree!

Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Fast 24×8 DOCSIS 3.0 cable Modem
• Built-in AC1900 Dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) Wi-Fi Gigabit Router
• 4-gigabit ethernet ports
• Power boost Wi-Fi amplifiers
• Firewall security
• Maximum speed 1000 Mbps

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router combo:

• Incredibly fast wireless routers speed
• Multiple ethernet ports
• Can handle different devices
• Affordable for what it is

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Not compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services, available from Verizon, AT&T, Century Link, Frontier, etc.

My Overall Thoughts

Motorola does a great job in providing us with the best modem router combos in the market. If they have an expensive DSL model, they also have one that suffices cable service interface specifications.

I believe it’s pretty straightforward, and the price is already a generous amount for the features that Motorola is giving us. Thanks, Motorola!

ARRIS SURFboard

This one from Arris is a little similar to Motorola, and the price is not bad as well.

Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• DOCSIS Cable Modem
• AC2350 dual-band Wi-Fi
• 1 port Gigabit Ethernet port
• Wi-Fi Router (no cable digital voice service)
• 32 downstream & 8 upstream channels
• Up to 600 Mbps

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router combo:

• Compatible with major U.S. Cable Internet Providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, etc.
• Can be controlled using the wi-fi router app – SURFboard Manager App
• Affordable

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Not compatible with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink or other DSL or Fiber internet providers

My Overall Thoughts

While I also appreciate this SURFboard modem router, the Motorola router combo for gaming gives better worth considering the similar price range.

The former claims to handle up until 600 Mbps while Motorola, 1000 Mbps. That’s a 400 Mbps difference which is almost the capacity of one cheaper modem router, don’t you think?

But overall, this one is not bad. It does the job well, and you get everything they promise for modem router combos.

ASUS Modem Router Combos

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Last but not the least, we have another modem router on the expensive side.

Features that Stand Out

These are my favorite features:

• Certified by Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox
• All in one DOCSIS 3.0 32×8 cable modem + ac2600 wifi router (4×4)

Benefits Worth Mentioning

Here are the pros of this modem router combo:

• Provides full bandwidth access to the internet and expansive wireless coverage
• 4x gigabit ethernet ports
• 2x USB 2.0 ports for your non-wifi devices
• Intended for gaming in HD and streaming

Drawbacks to Consider

These are some cons to take note of:

• Expensive
• Not the best firmware

My Overall Thoughts

No modem router combo is perfect, but this is one of the best modem router combos to date despite some bugs here and there – but that’s generally unavoidable.

The downside is, the bugs can be bothersome. And in the long run, it will wear down your modem unit for sure.

Buying Guide: Find the Best Modem Router Combo for Gaming

I love acronyms, so here’s an easy one to remember for you! In choosing a modem router, it’s best to go for the one that will fit your needs.

Remember this: C.A.M.P.S.

Compatibility

The most important of all is that your modem router should be compatible with your main internet service provider plus the type.

Know if what you have are cable or DSL providers, and get a compatible modem. Otherwise, it won’t work.

Though most modem brands will claim they’re compatible with major providers, it’s best to inquire first before purchasing. There are cases where certain states don’t belong to the provider’s list.

Ample Range

Next is the range of your connection. The best modem router will be one that has ample reach regardless of the space.

You’d want a modem that can provide your devices the connection they need even if the area you’re in is wide.

Must Be Secure

Some modems are more secure than others in terms of firmware and security measures – but most of them have it.

The thing with weak security is that once malicious hackers get to your wi-fi, your other devices that are connected to the same network are also at risk.

There are also some instances when neighbors would connect to your router without permission, this would slow down your connection drastically.

So take the extra steps and find one that can keep up with the security measures you need.

Ports

Ports are important because they will determine the type of control and connection you’ll use. As we’ve discussed above, some have Ethernet ports, some are purely wireless, some have USB ones.

If you need or prefer a specific type of connection, I suggest checking the number and kinds of ports that your modem has.

Speed

Last but never least, the speed, of course.

This is the reason why you’re here in the first place because you want better speed. All modem routers promise fast speed – and they’re technically true.

But depending on the factors above – compatibility, range, security, and ports – the stability will be affected too. So on top of the specs that your modem has, also consider other factors for the best experience.

Top 10 Best Modem Router Combos: Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs] [Q&A]

To help you further, I’ll address some of the FAQs and clarifications that I often see regarding this topic.

What Exactly Are Modem Router Combos?

A modem and a router have two separate functions.

• A modem is a unit that connects your home network to the actual internet.
• A router is a unit that connects your devices so they can all be connected to the same internet network.

So combining these, you get modem-router combos! Think of it as a 2-in-1 device for your internet needs.

What Modem Do Gamers Use?

Almost everything I’ve listed here is used by (but not limited to) gamers – NETGEAR, Motorola, TP-Link. Which one you should get will depend on your gaming intensity.

• If you’re a light gamer, the affordable ones are more than sufficient even for non-gaming purposes.
• For serious gamers who need modems that run at blazing speeds, then the expensive ones will be the better choice.

Is A Modem-Router Better Than Just A Modem or Just A Router?

Well, it’s more about convenience. Bear with me, but I think this is a good comparison.

It’s like a 2-in-1 coffee where you get two purposes in one go. But of course, the determinant of which is better depends on the type of usage you need.

If you’re eyeing to buy a brand new internet setup, then getting the combo would be a smarter choice. You no longer have to get two of them separately.

But let’s say you already have one or the other, then it’s not a problem to just stick to your old modem and get a new router or vice versa. You have to be wary of the compatibility, but that’s about it.

Is 1200 Mbps Considered Good for Gaming?

To set things into perspective, 5-8 Mbps is generally enough for social media use, Zoom webinars, and such. Small businesses can thrive at 12 Mbps. 100 Mbps is already more than sufficient for a household with multiple devices.

So, yes, 1200 Mbps is an excellent speed for gaming and 4K HD resolutions! 500-1000 Mbps is the usually recommended speed, so adding in that 200 will make you unstoppable.

Best Modem Router Combo Summary [TL;DR]

That was a long read, wasn’t it? I’ll list down the overview of my top 10 picks here again for your reference.

• Best Overall: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo
• Best Value: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80)
• Best Budget: TP-Link AC1200 Gigabit WiFi Router (Archer A6)
• MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2+ Modem
• TP-Link 16x4 AC1750 Wi-Fi Cable Modem Router
• TP-Link AC5400 Tri-Band WiFi Gaming Router (Archer C5400X)
• NETGEAR Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router C6250
• Motorola MG7700 Modem WiFi Router with Power Boost
• ARRIS SURFboard
• ASUS Modem Router Combos

I chose the top 3 winners for these factors: C.A.M.P.

• Compatibility
• Ample Range
• Must Be Secure
• Ports

More than speed, it’s important to consider other factors that will help your modem router fit the circumstance you have.

Even if the internet claims a modem brand to be the best, if it doesn’t answer your needs, it’s useless!

Conclusion

I hope you learned a lot through this article. Looking for the right modem router can be tricky – since users on the internet have varying opinions.

I suggest assessing your surroundings first before buying one, and you can always come back to this guide for your reference!