Home » Routers Compatible with Spectrum: 2023 Guide

Routers Compatible with Spectrum: 2023 Guide

Tired of slow and laggy WiFi connectivity? Your WiFi router may be to blame. If you’re using Spectrum internet then you should try looking for compatible routers for Spectrum. Each internet service provider is different so if you’re using a generic brand router, you may be downgrading the quality of your router. The best thing you can do for your spectrum internet is choosing Spectrum compatible modems and routers. There are even lists of Spectrum-approved routers that you can choose from.

Not just the internet speed, but not having a compatible WIFI router can also affect the reach and performance of the internet. You may suffer from several downtimes in a single day if your router is incompatible with your internet service. To make your shopping process easier, we’ve created this guide for routers compatible with Spectrum internet.

What to Look for When Buying a Modem or Router for Spectrum?

Buying your own router or modem-router combo can also help you save money as you won’t have to pay the monthly rental fee from Spectrum. Additionally, with your own router, you can choose your own specifications. It never hurts to have a technologically sound router.

Here are the things that you should look for while shopping for routers that work with Spectrum. 

Features to Consider:

  • The modem is compatible with Spectrum
  • The modem and/or router supports speeds greater than your plan
  • Your modem should have DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 technology
  • The router uses an 802.11ax,ac, or n WiFi Standard
  • The router should have Quality of Service (QoS), Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MU-MIMO), beamforming, or other latest technologies.
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List of Routers Compatible With Spectrum

1. ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 Modem: Best for Spectrum Plans

  • Max download speeds of up to 2,000 MBPS
  • DOCSIS 3.1
  • 32×8 channel bonding
  • 2 gigabit LAN ports
  • 2-year warranty

One of the best things about the SB8200 is that it offers DOCSIS 3.1 technology. To utilize this tech to your benefit, you’ll need to let your Spectrum internet service provider know that you need a 3.1 signal. Almost all the ISPs use a DOCSIS 3.0 signal, that’s why you’ll need to inform your spectrum provider that you need a 3.1 signal.

You’ll also need to do a bit more touch-ups to get this router working, such as switching your ordinary coax cable for one that’s compatible with DOCSIS 3.1. If you don’t like the customization you have to do, then you should know it’s all worth it for the lightning-fast speeds. It’s one of the top-rated routers compatible with Spectrum.

Pros of ARRIS SURFboard SB8200Cons of ARRIS SURFboard SB8200
Supports fast gig speedsYou may need to call Spectrum
Easy to set up and useNot the ideal router if you don’t want to customize

2. NETGEAR CM500: Top Spectrum Compatible Modems

  • Max download speeds of up to 400 MBPS
  • DOCSIS 3.0
  • 16×4 channel bonding
  • 1 Gigabit LAN port
  • 1-year warranty

While Spectrum offers a free modem with your internet service, it’s not a great option. Plus, if you love shopping for new tech, then you should take a look at NETGEAR CM500. The NETGEAR CM500 is a great modem as it’s easy on the price and offers good enough specs. 

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Not just that, the CM500 even comes with Quality of Service (QoS), so you can prioritize devices that need the additional bandwidth. So, if you’re a professional gamer, you can prioritize your devices over other devices.

Pros of CM500Cons of CM500
Offers the perfect balance between specs and costMax download speeds of 400 MBPS
Includes device prioritization

3. TP-Link Archer A20: High-End Spectrum Approved Router

  • Max download speed of up to 750 MBPS on 2.4 GHz band
  • Max download speed of up to 1,625 MBPS on 5 GHz band
  • 802.11 ac WiFi standard
  • 3 bands (2,4GHz and two 5 GHz)
  • WEP, WPA, WPA2 WiFi security
  • 4 Gigabit LAN ports
  • 2-year warranty

If you live in a house with devices all relying on high-speed internet, then the TP-Link Archer is a good option. The TP-Link Archer A20 is a high-end WiFi router compatible with Spectrum internet. 

Multiple bands help in prioritizing devices that need a strong connection on the primary 5GHz band while other devices can use the other 5GHz and 2.4 GHz, bands. 

The A20’s tri-band technology can be perfect for those who love to game, have home offices, and Stream content on a daily basis.  If you’ve got a gig speed plan, then your Archer A20 can support it. There’s a reason why the Archer A20 is one of the top-rated routers that work with Spectrum.

Pros of Archer A20Cons of Archer A20
3 bands for increased performanceTech support needs improvement
Perfect router for heavy usage homesThe price is a bit high

4. NETGEAR Orbi CBR750 Modem-router Combo: Best for Big Homes

  • Max download speed of up to 750 MBPS on 2.4 GHz band
  • Max download speed of up to 1,625 MBPS on 5 GHz band
  • 802.11i WiFi standard
  • Up to 2,500 sq. Ft WiFi range
  • 3 WiFi bands (2.4 GHz and 2 5GHz)
  • 128-bit AES encryption combined with PSK
  • 4 Gigabit LAN ports
  • 1-year warranty
  • DOCSIS 3.1
  • 32×8 channel bonding
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Every review that ever mentioned the Orbi mesh WiFi system has nothing but good things to say about it. It is one of the best routers compatible with Spectrum. During our review, we found out that Orbi’s tech is good enough to spread WiFi signals all over the home and even through floors. 

If you want a more reliable wired connection, the Orbi CBR750 also offers 4 LAN ports. Compare this to the Google Nest WiFi and the Orbi blows it out of the water. For wireless connections, Orbi offers 3 bands, the same as the Archer A20.

Pros of Orbi CBR700Cons of Orbi CBR750
3 bands for superior WiFi performanceTech support needs improvement
Great router for high internet usage homesOne of the most expensive routers on our list

5. ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AC5300: Gaming Routers That Work With Spectrum

  • Max download speed of up to 1,000 MBPS on 2.4 GHz band
  • Max download speed of up to 2,167 MBPS on 5 GHz bands
  • 802.11ac WiFi standard
  • Up to 5,000 sq ft WiFi range
  • 3 bands
  • WPA/WPA2-Personal, WPA/WPA2 Enterprise
  • 8 gigabit LAN ports
  • 3-year warranty
  • 2 USB 3.0 

If you love the tech that blows your mind, then this ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AC5300 is the ideal choice. If you don’t have an issue with the pricing, then this is probably the best WiFi router compatible with Spectrum you can buy.

Now for the features of the router, the Game Radar map shows the servers with the lowest pings so you can get the best possible performance. The game boost technology prioritizes your gaming device over other devices in your home. 

Similar to Archer A20, and Orbi CBR750, the Rapture also offers tri-band technology. This allows your gaming devices to use the 5GHz connection while other smart devices use the remaining bands.

Pros of Rapture GT AC-300Cons of Rapture GT AC-300
3 WiFi bands for improved performanceTech support needs improvement
Perfect device for internet heavy homesHigh price spectrum approved routers