Router + Modem Combo Picker (ISP Locked)

Officially approved modem + router combo that unlocks your full gigabit (or multi-gig) plan. Takes real available data and gives you a great recommendation every time.

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• Best for those purchasing a router and modem combo and want to ensure they utilize their ISP's full internet potential.

Takes the primary/most common variables into account such as ISP, house size, and internet speed. The obvious limitation here is the fact we cannot possibly list out all of the small ISP's out there or the localized ones so we kept choices to the most common, but the ISP has the smallest impact on the tools decision making, so if you don't see your ISP, just pick one, or test a few and see how your outputs vary.

Here is a sample output for someone on Comcast/Xfinity Gigabit internet living in a large multi family home.

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Recommended Modem + Router for Xfinity/Comcast Gigabit Plan

For Xfinity's Gigabit plan, it’s crucial to select a modem and router (or mesh system) that can handle high speeds and provide coverage throughout a large, multi-story home. Here’s a recommended setup:

Modem

Model: NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200
Current Price: Approximately $169.99

Key Features:

• Supports speeds up to 2 Gbps.
• DOCSIS 3.1 technology for ultra-fast internet.
• 4 Ethernet ports for wired connections.

Router/Mesh System

Model: ASUS ZenWiFi AX6600 (XT8)
Current Price: Approximately $349.99

Key Features:

• Tri-band mesh system that covers up to 5,500 sq ft.
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology for improved speed and efficiency.
• Easy setup and management through the ASUS app.

Setup Tips

1. Placement:
   • Position the modem at a central location in your home for optimal signal distribution.
   • Place the mesh nodes on different floors to eliminate dead zones.
2. Connection:
   • Connect the NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 to your coaxial cable input and power it on.
   • Connect the router (ASUS ZenWiFi) to the modem via Ethernet cable (from the modem’s LAN port to the router’s WAN port).
3. Configuration:
   • Use the ASUS app to set up your network name (SSID) and password.
   • Ensure firmware on both devices is updated to the latest version for security and performance.
4. Testing:
   • After setup, run a speed test using a wired connection to ensure you're receiving your expected speeds.
   • Test Wi-Fi coverage in various areas of your home to ensure full coverage.
5. Optimization:
   • Regularly check for device firmware updates.
   • Consider using QoS (Quality of Service) settings on the router to prioritize bandwidth for specific devices or applications.

By following this recommendation, you’ll ensure that your home is equipped to handle the demands of a Gigabit internet plan with excellent coverage and speed.

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The Tool Collective team are a group of tech/gaming gearheads so we know a thing or two when it comes to getting the right internet/WiFi set up. We also know how annoying it is when you have internet problems, so here's a good tool for those wanting to ensure they make the best router and modem choice for their home.

Made with The Tool Collectives signature model. We layout all factors required to make the best possible decision for this particular question and construct the inputs and choices accordingly. We then build a custom system prompt that incorporates logic if needed and clear output criteria. We then use an AI engine to power the tool, resulting in expert human crafted responses, designed by real enthusiasts.

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