Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 vs Arris SB8200: The Ultimate Cable Modem Showdown
What To Know
- Two of the most popular and highly-rated cable modems on the market are the Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 and the Arris SB8200.
- If you need the fastest possible speeds and the latest features, then the Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 is the better choice.
- If you’re on a budget or if you don’t need the fastest possible speeds, then the Arris SB8200 is a great choice.
In the world of high-speed internet, cable modems are essential devices that connect your home network to the internet. Two of the most popular and highly-rated cable modems on the market are the Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 and the Arris SB8200. Both modems offer impressive speeds and features, but which one is the better choice for your needs?
In this detailed comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between the Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 and the Arris SB8200, examining their specifications, performance, features, and more. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about which cable modem is right for you.
Specifications
| Feature | Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 | Arris SB8200 |
| — | — | — |
| DOCSIS Standard | 3.1 | 3.0 |
| Maximum Download Speed | 1 Gbps | 940 Mbps |
| Maximum Upload Speed | 350 Mbps | 132 Mbps |
| Number of Ethernet Ports | 4 Gigabit | 2 Gigabit |
| Dimensions | 10.5 x 6.5 x 2.5 inches | 6.5 x 4.3 x 1.2 inches |
| Weight | 1.5 pounds | 1.1 pounds |
Performance
The Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem, which means it supports the latest and fastest cable internet speeds. It can theoretically achieve download speeds of up to 1 Gbps and upload speeds of up to 350 Mbps. In real-world testing, the CM1100 has been shown to deliver consistent speeds that are close to its theoretical maximum.
The Arris SB8200 is a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, which means it supports slightly slower speeds than the CM1100. It can theoretically achieve download speeds of up to 940 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 132 Mbps. In real-world testing, the SB8200 has also been shown to deliver consistent speeds that are close to its theoretical maximum.
Features
Both the Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 and the Arris SB8200 offer a range of features to enhance your internet experience.
Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 Features:
- Gigabit Ethernet Ports: The CM1100 has four Gigabit Ethernet ports, which provide fast and reliable wired connections to your devices.
- Beamforming+: Beamforming+ technology helps to improve the range and signal strength of your Wi-Fi network.
- OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access): OFDMA technology allows multiple devices to connect to the modem simultaneously without experiencing lag or interference.
Arris SB8200 Features:
- Gigabit Ethernet Ports: The SB8200 has two Gigabit Ethernet ports, which provide fast and reliable wired connections to your devices.
- Intel Puma 6 Chipset: The SB8200 uses the Intel Puma 6 chipset, which is known for its high performance and reliability.
- IPv6 Support: The SB8200 supports IPv6, which is the next-generation internet protocol.
Compatibility
Both the Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 and the Arris SB8200 are compatible with most major cable internet providers in the United States. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your provider to make sure that the modem you choose is compatible with their network.
Pricing
The Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 is typically priced around $150, while the Arris SB8200 is typically priced around $100. Both modems offer excellent value for money, but the SB8200 is a more affordable option for those on a budget.
Which Cable Modem is Right for You?
The Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 and the Arris SB8200 are both excellent cable modems that offer fast speeds and reliable performance. However, there are a few key differences between the two modems that may make one a better choice for you than the other.
If you need the fastest possible speeds and the latest features, then the Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 is the better choice. It supports DOCSIS 3.1, which means it can achieve download speeds of up to 1 Gbps. It also has four Gigabit Ethernet ports, which provide fast and reliable wired connections to your devices.
If you’re on a budget or if you don’t need the fastest possible speeds, then the Arris SB8200 is a great choice. It supports DOCSIS 3.0, which means it can achieve download speeds of up to 940 Mbps. It also has two Gigabit Ethernet ports, which provide fast and reliable wired connections to your devices.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: What is the difference between DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1?
A: DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest and fastest cable internet standard. It supports download speeds of up to 1 Gbps and upload speeds of up to 350 Mbps. DOCSIS 3.0 is the previous standard, and it supports download speeds of up to 940 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 132 Mbps.
Q: How many devices can I connect to a cable modem?
A: The number of devices you can connect to a cable modem depends on the number of Ethernet ports it has. The Netgear Nighthawk CM1100 has four Gigabit Ethernet ports, while the Arris SB8200 has two Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Q: Do I need a router to use a cable modem?
A: Yes, you need a router to connect your devices to the internet. A router creates a Wi-Fi network that your devices can connect to.
