The best modems for Windstream on the market.
Windstream is a popular Internet service provider that offers high-speed broadband connection and supports DSL technology. Being one of the most reliable ISPs in the US, it’s compatible with many modems available on the market. If you want to buy the best modem for Windstream, you might face a difficult choice since there are too many features you need to consider. To help you with this, I have compiled this list of the most reliable models that support a speedy Internet connection.
Top 9 Best Modems for Windstream
- NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V - Our Choice
- ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 - Budget
- NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700 - Fast and stylish
- NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 - Powerful
- NETGEAR Combo C6250 - For games and streaming media
- ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 - Great speed
- Arris SURFboard AC1900 - DOCSIS 3.0
- Motorola MG7700 - Built-in Wi-Fi gigabit router
- Motorola MB8600 - Compact design
Read on to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of the best Windstream approved modems your money can buy. This company is known for providing high-speed Internet connection, which is why many manufacturers release models that are compatible with this ISP.
1. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V
Our Choice
Speed: up to 1900 Mbps | Connectivity: 4 gigabit Ethernet ports, 2 USB ports | Features: WEP, WPA/WPA2
- ✚ Up to 1800 sq ft Wi-Fi range coverage
- ✚ Allows connecting up to 30 devices
- ✚ High-speed connection
- ✚ Simple to setup
- ✚ A 2-in-1 model
- — Overpriced
Rating
If you are looking for the best modem for Windstream that can double as a Wi-Fi router, the Netgear C7100V is a smart option to consider. It allows you to connect to the Internet your computer, cable TV and other devices.
Since it costs $279.99, some users might be put off by the price, however, it’s a great value for the money. It delivers up to 1900 Mbps speeds and comes with a set of useful features that you are unlikely to find in more affordable models.
2. ARRIS SURFboard SBG10
Budget
Speed: up to 400 Mbps | Connectivity: 2 gigabit Ethernet ports | Features: SURFboard manager application
- ✚ Compact size
- ✚ Affordable price
- ✚ Simple to configure with the application
- — Only two Ethernet ports
Rating
The ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 is one of the most reliable Windstream compatible modems on this list since it always provides a stable Internet connection. Thanks to DOCSIS 3.0 support, this dual-band model delivers a high connection speed up to 400 Mbps.
You can use two Gigabit ports to connect your gaming console or Smart TV to the Internet. All the settings can be easily configured with the help of the SURFboard manager app.
3. NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700
Fast and stylish
Speed: up to 500 Mbps | Connectivity: 1 gigabit Ethernet port | Features: DOCSIS 3.0, DOCSIS 2.0
- ✚ Amazing design
- ✚ Reliable connection
- ✚ 38x8 channel bonding
- ✚ Simple to install
- ✚ Affordable price
- — Can’t be mounted on the wall
- — A single Ethernet port
This Windstream bonded DSL modem features an amazing design and comes in black color. It’s fitted with an LED display and 5 light indicators.
The NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700 delivers a speed of up to 500 Mbps, which will suffice for watching HD content from streaming services and playing games without any lags. This model has 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels. Due to this, you will be able to download large files in no time.
4. NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80
Powerful
Speed: up to 2 Gbps | Connectivity: one 2.5 gigabit Ethernet port, 4 gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 USB 3.0 port | Features: WPA / WPA2, OFDMA, 4x4 Multi-User MIMO, parental controls
- ✚ Wi-Fi 6 support
- ✚ Up to 3,000 sq ft wireless range
- ✚ Allows connecting over 45 wireless devices
- ✚ Parental controls
- — Costs too much
- — Takes up too much space
Rating
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 is a Windstream compatible DSL modem with Wi-Fi 6 support, which accounts for a high-speed wireless connection.
It comes with a set of advanced security options, is easy to configure and supports DOCSIS 3.1 for higher upload (1 Gbps) and download (10 Gbps) speeds. Its key advantage is that it allows you to connect over 45 devices at the same time.
5. NETGEAR Combo C6250
For games and streaming media
Speed: up to 1600 Mbps | Connectivity: 2 gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 USB 2.0 port | Features: WEP, WPA / WPA2, DOCSIS 3.0 technology, parental controls
- ✚ Up to 1500 sq ft Wi-Fi coverage
- ✚ Parental control feature
- ✚ For connecting up to 25 devices
- ✚ A DOCSIS 3.0 model
- — Only one USB port
Rating
If you don’t need to use a high-speed Internet connection but prioritize reliability instead, this modem for Windstream is a perfect option to consider. The NETGEAR Combo C6250 has an up to 1600 Mbps speed, 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels.
With it, you can connect to the Internet up to 25 devices within a 1,500 square feet range. To quickly configure all the settings, you can use its native Genie application. This modem comes with a single USB port, which enables you to connect it to a USB drive or NAS storage and share files via the network.
6. ARRIS SURFboard SB6190
Great speed
Speed: up to 1.4 Gbps | Connectivity: 1 gigabit Ethernet port | Features: DOCSIS 3.0 technology
- ✚ Impressive speed
- ✚ 32 downstream, 8 upstream channels
- ✚ DOCSIS 3.0 support
- ✚ Expensive
- — A single Ethernet port
Rating
The ARRIS SURFboard SB6190 is a Windstream Internet modem that comes with a set of the newest options and provides a stable connection. If you want to find an affordable DOCSIS 3.0 model, look no further as the Arris SB6190 costs only $84.25.
You can connect several devices to the Internet without experiencing any lags. The download speed reaches 1.4 Gbps, while the upload speed is 400 Mbps. You won’t face any difficulties when connecting this modem and configuring its settings. It’s suitable for home and office use.
7. Arris SURFboard AC1900
DOCSIS 3.0
Speed: up to 400 Mbps | Connectivity: 4 gigabit Ethernet ports | Features: DOCSIS 3.0
- ✚ Can be connected in no time
- ✚ DOCSIS 3.0
- ✚ Inexpensive
- ✚ Four Gigabit Ethernet ports
- — No USB support
Rating
The Arris SURFboard AC1900 is a Windstream high speed modem that supports DOCSIS 3.0 and delivers a speed of up to 400 Mbps. Just like other similar models, it’s fitted with four Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Thanks to 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, this modem has impressive speed, which allows you to stream video content and download large files more quickly.
8. Motorola MG7700
Built-in Wi-Fi gigabit router
Speed: up to 1000 Mbps | Connectivity: 4 gigabit Ethernet ports | Features: DOCSIS 3.0
- ✚ Impressive speeds
- ✚ Power boost feature for better performance
- ✚ DOCSIS 3.0 support
- ✚ Nice design
- — Occasional disconnection and performance drops
Rating
If you are looking for a reliable Windstream modem router combo, you won’t find a better option than the Motorola MG7700. 8 downstream and 24 upstream channels ensure that you will enjoy a high connection speed of up to 1000 Mbps.
Besides, this model features 4 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports that allow you to connect to the Internet from Windows and Mac devices.
9. Motorola MB8600
Compact design
Speed: up to 6000 Mbps | Connectivity: 4 gigabit Ethernet port | Features: DOCSIS 3.0, DOCSIS 3.1
- ✚ A stylish design
- ✚ DDoS protection
- ✚ Compact
- ✚ Simple to connect
- — Occasional connection drops
Rating
Regardless of the ISP you choose, you will enjoy amazing connection speeds thanks to DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 3.0 32x8 support. The Motorola MB8600 is a reliable modem with a Broadcom chipset that protects your devices from DoS attacks.
Besides, this model has a special full-band capture tuner that makes it more energy-efficient and allows you to enjoy higher download speeds.
IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V Our Choice |
| CHECK PRICE → |
![]() | ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 Compact |
| CHECK PRICE → |
![]() | NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700 Fast and Stylish |
| CHECK PRICE → |
How to Choose the Best Modem for Windstream?
Popular Brands
On the market, you will find many famous companies that release reliable cable modems, such as Motorola, Netgear and Arris. It’s better to purchase a modem from a famous brand since such models are more reliable and usually come with a warranty.
Type
Windstream supports DSL and fiber connection, which is why you need to think about what type of connection you have before selecting a modem.
Faster Wi-Fi Speed
It’s also important to consider what you are going to do online. You can access the Internet to browse social networks, stream HD videos or play online games. Choose a Windstream wireless modem that supports the speeds that you need. For instance, it’s better to purchase a 16-channel model if you need it to get the total speed of 300 Mbps. Standard models might not support high speed, which is why it’s crucial to learn more about the specs of your modem beforehand.
More Control and Security
While many people disregard online security features when making their choice, it’s better to ensure that your modem has decent privacy settings. Some models allow you to set access rights or limit the number of people that can access your network simultaneously. If you purchase a more expensive modem, it might have such advanced features as an in-built VPN, parental control and other options that will keep your connection safe.
Ethernet Ports
On this list, you will find Windstream supported modems fitted with up to 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports. If you want to buy a modem with a USB port, make sure to select an option that supports this type of connection. Such models are perfect for those who don’t want to spend much time connecting their devices and adjusting all the settings.
FAQ
- • Do I need to buy a new modem to use Windstream?
No, you can use your old modem if it’s compatible with this ISP. If you have an ADSL modem, the DSL connection speed will reach 12MB. If you aren’t sure whether your modem is supported, make sure to contact Windstream to check.
- • Do cable modems support DSL?
You will need to purchase a DSL modem for this. If your Internet service provider supports only a cable connection, make sure to buy a modem that supports it.
- • Which connection type supported by Windstream is better, cable or DSL?
In some locations, Windstream provides a cable connection. Most likely, you will use a DSL connection that is much better in terms of speed. However, you are unlikely to need a high-speed connection for most regular tasks.
- • Is DSL or cable connection more reliable?
A cable connection allows you to access the Internet through a cable TV network. You will be connected to the network via a coaxial cable. In theory, a cable connection should be faster than a DSL one. However, the overall speed will be lower since you will need to share bandwidth with other people.