Buying a modem for home use depends on your requirement. There are different factors that you can consider when buying the best modem for your home.
Types of Modem
Firstly, cable modems are divided into two types – the standard modem and the modem + router combination.
We recommend a standard modem for most houses. It is less expensive and offers more features than a modem router. Also, you may need to change only one device if a high-tech router enters the market.
But, on the downside, a modem router saves you from more wires. You can find many high-tech modem routers on the market with an easy-to-install setup. It saves space for you and supports any futuristic devices.
DOCSIS Protocols
DOCSIS, also known as the DOCSIS Protocol, is a primary standard.
While DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest version, it offers ultra-fast internet speeds around 10Gbps. But, regular users can work perfectly with a DOCSIS 3.0 modem as it offers 1 Gbps and a faster connection.
Here, buying a DOCSIS modem is about its compatibility with Internet Service Providers. Very few ISPs offer 1Gbps speed over a DOCSIS 3 0 modem. So, it is better to use a DOCSIS 3 1 technology as it is also backward compatible, which works with ISPs responsive to DOCSIS 3.0 only.
Channels
Try to purchase compatible modems that support a minimum of eight download channels and four upload ones (8 x 4 modem channels).
But, you must know that the DOCSIS 3.1 channels are faster than those of DOCSIS 3.0. So, if you switch to the latter modem, do not focus on the number of channels you previously had.
Download Speeds
You can select downloading speeds as per your need. But, of course, more is better. On a basic scale, the average download speed in the US is 64.17 Mbps. While ISPs are switching to higher Gigabit internet speeds, consider 1Gbps as the main catch.
Compatibility
Remember – not all ISPs approve every modem. So, you must check the compatible ISPs beforehand. The best way is to contact customer service directly.