This is our review of the best-approved modems for Optimum internet in 2023.
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 1 Optimum modems and routers](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Optimum-modems-and-routers.png)
As a Network Engineer, I have spent many hours researching and testing which modems are best for Optimum.
And I have concluded that the Arris Surfboard SB8200 is the best modem for Optimum.
Arris SB8200 - Editors Choice’s
Best Overall
- Type: Cable Modem
- Recommended for: Any Optimum Plan
- DOCSIS: 3.1
- Warranty: 2 years
- Chosen as: Best Overall
But everyone has different internet plans, homes, and preferences.
And therefore, I have reviewed the top 7 modems, so you can pick the best for your home.
Keep reading to learn them.
Top 7 Optimum Compatible Modems
Here are the best Optimum modems.
- Best Overall – Arris Surfboard SB8200 – Cable Modem
- Best Performer – Arris Surfboard S33 – Cable Modem
- Best Budget-Friendly – Netgear CM500 – Cable Modem
- Best Value – Netgear C7800 – Modem/Router Combo
- Best Premium Option – Netgear CAX80 – Modem/Router Combo
- Best Budget-Friendly – Netgear C7000 – Modem/Router Combo
- Best For Voice Service Arris TM3402 – Cable Modem
7 Best Optimum Approved Modems
IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
---|---|---|
Best Overall ![]() | Arris Surfboard SB8200
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Best Performer ![]() | Arris Surfboard S33
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Best Budget-Friendly ![]() | Netgear CM500
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Best Value ![]() | Netgear C7800
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Best Premium Option ![]() | Netgear CAX80
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Best Budget-Friendly ![]() | Netgear C7000
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Best For Voice Service ![]() | Arris TM3402
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Here are the 7 best Optimum compatible modems with the best one for your liking.
#1 Best Overall – Arris Surfboard SB8200
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 10 Arris Surfboard SB8200](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Arris-Surfboard-SB8200.png)
- Type: Cable Modem
- Recommended for: Any Optimum Internet Plan
- DOCSIS: 3.1
- Warranty: 2 year
- Chosen as: Best Overall
Pros
- Future-proof
- Works for plans up to 2000 Mbps
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Ethernet aggregation is a bit hard to use
The Arris Surfboard SB8200 is the perfect option for any Optimum customer looking to future-proof their modem.
First of all, the SB8200 will work for any Optimum cable internet plan. This is due to it being DOCSIS 3.1 with a max speed of 2000 Mbps.
This is also what makes it future-proof. Because when Optimum upgrades the internet to DOCSIS 3.1, you won’t have to get a new modem. And since DOCSIS 3.1 is backward compatible, it will work with DOCSIS 3.0.
The SB8200 also has something called ethernet aggregation. This allows you to combine two ethernet ports and create a single one with a max speed of around 2000 Mbps instead of 1000 Mbps. [1]
This is not super useful right now, though. Since Optimum doesn’t offer any plans exceeding 1000 Mbps. But it likely will be in the future.
However, I don’t recommend the SB8200 if you think you will change to fiber in the short-term future. Because the modem is an investment for the future.
Suppose you will get Fiber in a year or so. In that case, you should get a modem with the minimum requirements for your current internet plan (see table later in the article).
Overall, the Arris Surfboard SB8200 is a modem you can get and then ignore. Because it’s a value packet that will work for years to come.
Read the full review of the SB8200.
#2 Best Performer – Arris Surfboard S33
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 11 Arris S33](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Arris-S33.png)
- Type: Cable Modem
- Recommended for: Optimum 1000 Mbps
- DOCSIS: 3.1
- Warranty: 2 year
- Chosen as: Best Overall
Pros
- Future-proof
- Is compatible with plans up to 2500 Mbps
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Sometimes excessive
The Arris S33 is the best modem if you are looking for pure speed. Working with internet plans up to 2500 Mbps.
Optimum does not offer these speeds yet and would theoretically be enough to watch teen 8K movies simultaneously.
Such speeds are possible because the S33 has a 2.5G Ethernet port instead of the usual 1G port.
You can think about the S33 as a more advanced version of the SB8200. Faster, newer, and more future-proof.
But honestly, it can sometimes be a bit excessive. Because no matter how good your cable modem is, you will still get the internet speed of your internet plan.
Thus, I only recommend this for people who want the best of the best.
Read the full review of the Arris Surfboard S33.
#3 Best Budget-Friendly – Netgear CM500
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 12 Netgear CM500](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Netgear-CM500-HT.png)
- Type: Cable Modem
- Recommended for: Optimum 300 Mbps or below
- Channel: 16×4
- DOCSIS: 3.0
- Warranty: 1 year
- Chosen as: Budget-Friendly
Pros
- Cheaper
Cons
- Not future-proof
- Slow
The Netgear CM500 is a good option for anyone with the Optimum 300 Mbps plan or below that wants to save some money.
You will find this modem in many reviews online and for a good reason. It’s a value packet that is enough for many people’s internet needs.
But as ISP’s such as Optimum move towards DOCSIS 3.1, it’s unclear how long this modem will be enough.
Thus, you should know that you might have to get a new modem sooner than expected if you get this modem.
But if you have a slower internet plan and are on a budget, it’s a good choice.
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 13 Link to Router Page](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Link-to-Router-Page.png)
Need a Router To Your Optimum Modem?
If you don’t get a modem/router combo, you might want a new router for your modem. Luckily, we got you covered in the best routers for Optimum.
#4 Best Value – Netgear C7800
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 14 Netgear C7800](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Netgear-C7800-Info.png)
- Type: Modem/Router Combo
- Recommended for: Optimum 500 Mbps or below
- Max Wi-Fi Speed: 513.64 Mbps
- DOCSIS: 3.1
- Warranty: 1 year
- Chosen as: Best Value
Pros
- Fast Speeds
- Decent range
Cons
- Lacks features
- High price
Note: This modem/router will not work everywhere. And thus, you need to contact Optimum and make sure it will work in your area before getting it.
The Netgear C7800 is a modem/router option for you with the Optimum 500 Mbps plan or below.
During testing, the C7800 averaged 513.64 Mbps, 309.15 Mbps from 25 feet, and 155.21 Mbps from 50 feet.
These results are pretty good, considering it’s an AC3200 Wi-Fi 5 router. Enough for a family of around five people to use the internet without any problems.
Range wise the Wi-Fi performed decently. Reaching around 80-90 feet, which is enough for an ordinary house.
The modem is DOCSIS 3.1, which makes it future-proof and technically enough for any Optimum plan.
The router is actually the limiting factor is this device. And is the reason I only recommend it for the Optimum 500 Mbps plan.
But you could, of course, use it with a faster internet plan if you want to.
The biggest con with the C7800 is that it lacks extra features on the router. For example, Parental Controls that allow you to control your kid’s activities online are missing.
Overall, the Netgear C7800 is a solid gateway that provides a lot of value for the money. Just don’t get it if you need the extra features.
Read the full review of the C7800.
#5 Best Premium Option – Netgear CAX80
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 15 Netgear CAX80](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Netgear-CAX80.png)
- Type: Modem/Router Combo
- Recommended for: Optimum 1 Gig or below
- Max Wi-Fi speed: 800+ Mbps
- DOCSIS: 3.1
- Warranty: 1 year
- Chosen as: Best Performer
Pros
- Future-proof
- Extremely fast
- Good range
Cons
- Lacks features (such as QoS and Parental Controls)
- Pricey
Note: This modem/router will not work everywhere. And thus, you need to contact Optimum and make sure it will work in your area before getting it.
The Netgear CAX80 is one of the fastest modem/router combos I have tested and will work for any internet plan up to Optimum 1000.
In testing, I, unfortunately, wasn’t able to test its max speed since the internet plan I had access to only reached 800 Mbps.
But it did reach 800+ Mbps from 5 feet and 583.15 Mbps from 25 feet. Both with the 5GHz band.
These results are some of the best I have ever got from a modem/router combo. And will be enough of a home of 7+ people to use the internet without any issues.
The biggest drawback with the CAX80 is the same as the C7800 – it lacks features.
Because it doesn’t have Parental Controls or QoS, which allows you to restrict your kid’s activities on the internet and prioritize applications on the network.
These are features I would expect on a modem/router combo this expensive.
Moreover, the CAX80 is honestly a bit excessive for anyone below the Optimum 500 Mbps plan.
Altogether, the Netgear CAX80 is best for you who want a modem/router combo and have a fast internet plan.
Read the full review of the CAX80.
#6 Best Budget-Friendly – Netgear C7000
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 16 Netgear C7000](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Netgear-C7000-HT.png)
- Type: Modem/Router Combo
- Recommended for: Optimum 300 or below
- Max Wi-Fi speed: 370.47 Mbps
- Channel: 24×8
- DOCSIS: 3.0
- Warranty: 1 year
- Chosen as: Budget-Friendly
Pros
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Shorter range
- Lacks features
Note: This modem/router will not work everywhere. And thus, you need to contact Optimum and make sure it will work in your area before getting it.
The Netgear C7000 is a good budget gateway for anyone with the Optimum 300 Mbps plan or below.
During testing, it reached 370.47 Mbps from 5 feet, 132.82 Mbps from 25 feet, and 70.11 Mbps from 50 feet. All using 5GHz band.
These are decent results that are acceptable considering the price. Enough for a family of 3-5 to use the internet without any problems.
The modem is DOCSIS 3.0 with 24×8 channels. This makes the modem enough for around 600 Mbps.
So if you have a wired device connected to it, you can get around 600 Mbps if your internet plan provides it.
The drawback with the C7000 is that it lacks extra features on the router. It’s more forgivable on this one since it is a cheaper option, but I would still like to see something.
Overall, the Netgear C7000 is suitable for someone with a slower internet plan that’s not looking for futureproofing.
#7 Best For Voice Service Arris TM3402
![7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List] 17 Arris TM3402](https://networkshardware.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Arris-TM3402.png)
- Type: Telephone Modem
- Recommended for: Any Optimum Internet Plan
- DOCSIS: 3.1
- Warranty: 2 years
- Chosen as: Best Telephone Modem
Pros
- Future-proof
- One of the few modems that work with Optimum Voice
Cons
- Often out of stock
- Could be cheaper
The Arris TM3402 is the best cable modem for you looking for a Voice modem compatible with Optimum.
I haven’t tested this device but from looking around it’s clearly the best modem for Optimum Voice service.
It’s also DOCSIS 3.1 and will thus work for any Optimum internet plan.
The problem with the TM3402 is that it’s hard to get a hold of. Because it is one of the few voice modems compatible with Optimum that isn’t old and slow, it has a high demand.
Below you can check if it is available at the Arris store or at Amazon.
Complete List of All Optimum Approved Modems
Here is a list of all modems that are “officially” approved for Optimum. Even though any modem with DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 with at least 16×8 channels should work.
As you will find, not all modems recommended above are from the list. But they are all chosen after talking to an Optimum technician, so they should work.
Here is the list and its sources. [2, 3, 4, 5]
Brand | Model # | With Router | Channels | DOCSIS | Puma Chipset | VoIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TP-Link | TC7650 | No | 24x8 | 3.0 | No | No |
Netgear | CM500 | No | 16x4 | 3.0 | No | No |
Netgear | CM600 | No | 24x8 | 3.0 | No | No |
Netgear | CM700 | No | 32x8 | 3.0 | Yes | No |
Netgear | CM1100 | No | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | No |
Arris | SB8200 | No | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | No |
Arris | CM8200 | No | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | No |
Arris | TM1602 | No | 24×8 | 3.0 | Yes | Yes |
Arris | TM1672 | No | 24×8 | 3.0 | No | Yes |
Arris | TM3202 | No | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | Yes |
UBEE | UBC1322 | Yes | 32×8 | 3.1 | No | Yes |
Arris | SB6183 | No | 16x4 | 3.0 | No | No |
Puma Chipset is a bad chip linked with latency issues. Even though much of its problems are being fixed, I would recommend avoiding modems using it.
It might be the case that there are some modems with 8×4 channels that will work for you. But this will not be the case in all areas.
What to Consider Before Buying an Optimum Approved Modem
Here are the things you should especially consider before buying the best Optimum certified modem possible. For a more general guide, check out the modem buying guide here.
Approved & Compatible With Optimum
Finding which modem is compatible with Optimum was hard. But after a lot of research, I managed to get in contact with an Optimum technician.
He explained that for a modem to work with Optimum, it needs to be a cable modem with 16×8 or more channels and be DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1.
He further stated that even though any brand should work, he recommends Arris or Netgear.
I also found that the Motorola MB8600 had begun having problems in some areas. So even though any brand should work, I also recommend getting Arris or Netgear for Optimum.
There are also some lists circulating around, which I have placed above.
DOCSIS
DOCSIS is the standard cable modems use to deliver data to your home.
Today, basically all modems are either DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1. The difference is that DOCSIS 3.1 is newer and faster while DOCSIS 3.0 is cheaper. [6]
For Optimum, you can get either.
Even though you can get either, I recommend getting a DOCSIS 3.1 modem for Optimum.
The reason for this is that this will future-proof your modem for when either you get a faster internet plan or Optimum upgrades their networks.
You should, however, perhaps not get DOCSIS 3.1 if you are changing to fiber soon.
Suppose you are switching to fiber in a year, then you should get a minimum requirement for your internet plan (see table under “speed”).
DOCSIS 3.1 Pros
- Faster
- Lower latency
- Future-proof
DOCSIS 3.0 Pros
- Cheaper
- Often enough
Channels
If you choose to get a DOCSIS 3.0 modem, you also need to consider the channels.
For a modem to be Optimum-approved, you need between 16×4 and 32×8 channels.
The first number stands for its downstream channels and the second for its upstream channels, with more channels equaling more speed.
When picking a modem, you should consider what speeds you need and choose a modem where the channels fit your plan.
See the table under speed for some help.
Speed
Optimum has three main internet plans. These are the Optimum 300, the Optimum 500, and the Optimum 1 Gig plan. All have download speeds that are equal to the numbers in their names.
When getting yourself a third-party Optimum-approved modem, it needs to support high enough speeds.
Otherwise, the modem will bottleneck your internet, and you won’t get the internet speed you are paying for.
Here is a table with what DOCSIS and channels are compatible with what Optimum plan.
Optimum Plan | DOCSIS | Channels |
Optimum 300 | 3.0 or 3.1 | 16×4 or more |
Optimum 500 | 3.0 or 3.1 | 24×8 or more |
Optimum 1000 | 3.1 | N/A |
Some argue that you can use a DOCSIS 3.0 modem with 32×8 channels with an Optimum 1000 plan. And it might work, but I would not recommend it.
Modem/Router Combo or Separate
When getting yourself a modem, you need to decide if you want a modem with an inbuilt router or a separate router.
Both options have their pros and cons, but as a Network Engineer, I recommend separate devices.
The reason for this is that separate allows for higher performance and more customization. Furthermore, it also makes it possible to only change one of the devices if it breaks or needs an upgrade.
This is not to say that modem/router combos (gateways) are inferior. They do offer an easier setup and take up less space.
Separate Pros
- Better performance
- Can change one device instead of both
- More network control
Combo Pros
- More convenient
- Often easier setup
- Cheaper upfront cost
If you want a more in-depth overview, check out Gateway vs. Separate Modem & Router.
Optimum Voice Service
For Optimum Voice service, Optimum makes it very hard for consumers to get their own modem.
They say it’s because of technical reasons, but my opinion is that it’s because they want to rent more devices.
Whatever that’s the truth is up for debate. But even though Optimum has made it hard, it is possible.
Here are all the Voice modems that are approved for the Optimum Voice service.
Brand | Modem # | Channels | DOCSIS | Puma Chipset |
Arris | TM1602 | 16×4 | 3.0 | Yes |
Arris | TM1676 | 16×4 | 3.0 | Yes |
Arris | TM3402 | 32×8 | 3.1 | No |
UBEE | UBC1322 | 32×8 | 3.1 | No |
The TM804 and TM822 might also work. But as they do not meet the channels requirements and are old – there is no guarantee.
The UBEE UBC1322 is the only gateway, but unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find any place to buy it.
Rent Vs. Buy Devices From Optimum
The cost of renting a modem from Optimum is $10.00-$20.00 per month. [7]
This fee adds up to nearly $120-$240 per year. This is enough to get yourself a high-quality modem every year.
Therefore, I recommend most people buy a third-party modem. Because it’s simply cheaper in the long run.
Nevertheless, there are reasons for renting. If you, for example, are switching to fiber soon, it might be cheaper to rent for a couple of months instead of buying.
Since Fiber Optic internet doesn’t use cable modems. But for most people, buying will be a lot cheaper in the long run.
If you have a hard time deciding, check out our guide on Rent Vs. Buy Modem & Router.
How To Install A Optimum Modem
This is how to install an Optimum Modem.
- Pick a location with good air circulation. So the modem doesn’t overheat. If you have a gateway, also try to place it in the middle of your home. Do this to avoid any Wi-Fi dead spot.
- Then connect the Coax cable and power cord to your modem. Also, connect it to your router if you have one.
- After that, you can activate your modem here. Sometimes you also might have to call Optimum customer service and ask them to register the modem. They will ask for the MAC ID on the bottom of the modem.
For a more in-depth guide, read our article on how to set up a modem with Optimum.
Optimum Internet Plans
Depending on what plan, different modems in the list fit you. Here you can see the internet plans and what modem and gateway I recommend for each one. [8]
Download Speed | Cable Modem | Modem/Router Combo | Voice Modem |
300 Mbps | CM500 | C7000 | TM3402 |
500 Mbps | SB8200 | C7800 | TM3402 |
1000 Mbps | S33 | CAX80 | TM3402 |
Optimum Company Information
Optimum, also known as Altice USA and formerly known as Cablevision, provides internet, telephone, and television service to 21 states in the United States. [9]
It is the fifth-largest cable provider and ninth-largest television provider in the US, with most customers in New York.
Founded in 1973 under the name Cablevision. it Changed its name in 2015 to Altice USA.
Alice USA doesn’t only provide internet access through Optimum but also owns Suddenlink. Both of which it plans to rebrand under the Altice name.
My Verdict
After much research and talking to an Optimum technician, I concluded that the Arris Surfboard SB8200 is the best cable modem for most Optimum customers.
This is because it’s a well-priced modem that will provide your home with a reliable internet connection for years to come.
35 thoughts on “7 Best Optimum Compatible Modems in 2023 [Full List]”
Hi Andreas,
We have 1G Optimum service with voice (TV, Internet, and voice bundle) in the NY/NJ area. Looking to replace rental equipment. We want to use the Arris Surfboard SB8200 as our cable modem and the TM1602A to maintain the telephone service. Will this setup work? A Mesh wifi router will complete the system.
Thanks in advance for any help.
Hi Lou,
Thanks for your comment.
Yes, this should work without any issues.
Thank you for the prompt reply. Will try it out and provide status here.
Hi Andreas,
About a month ago I tried my luck with an Arris TM3402 (supposedly certified for Optimum though they won’t admit it) since I had their 1Gb internet and their voice service. That experience was not a good one. Although the on-line activation process was relatively straight forward and the modem worked it never got anywhere near 1Gb, or 500Mb or even 200Mb. It settled somewhere between 20-30Mb which was way less than even my ancient TM822 provided by Optimum could do. After spending a 2-3 hrs a day with Optimum support for a week I gave up and went back to the original TM822 which is capable of some 270Mb. I have seen multiple sources – yours included – suggesting the Arris TM3402 is the correct modem for Optimum 1Gb service with voice, including some Amazon reviews from buyers who supposedly got it to work. I’d be willing to take a chance on another TM3402 (maybe the original one was defective, who knows…). What do you think ? Is there any trick to the activation process to “wake up” the modem to the fact the service is provisioned for 1Gb ?
Hi Radu,
I’m sorry to hear that the TM3402 didn’t work for you.
It might very well have been a defect unite or some other error. I assume you tried hard resetting it, but other than that, it is not much one can do. You could try to log into the control panel and check the log. There you might find some error messages that might help you.
For what you can do next it’s up to you. My guess is that you got a defect unite, so I would probably try again with another TM3402.
Let me know how things go!
It was the modem. The new one arrived and after following the same on-line registration process it worked right away at a bandwidth close to what I know my Optimum service is provisioned for. I guess it was just bad luck to get a defective unit the first time.
Many thanks.
Good to hear Radu!
I am running an isp rental Arris TM1602 with an Optimum 300 internet plan. I am planning to upgrade to the Optimum 400 plan and outright purchase a modem to save the rental fee. I am currently using and planning on continuing use of an Orbi 2-node mesh router. I am considering the Netgear CM1000 and am curious if you have any thoughts on this model? After reading your article however, I am considering the SB8200. Thanks in advance…I appreciate this blog!! -Ni
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your feedback!
For Optimum, I would definitely get the SB8200 over the CM1000. Because sometimes the CM1000 doesn’t work for Optimum internet.
Just note that the SB8200 doesn’t have voice support as the TM1602 has. If you don’t have Optimums voice service it doesn’t matter, but if you do it does.
Hi,
I have Optimum 1 Gig internet/tv only no voice. I see you recommend the
Arris S33 as a modem. What router do you recommend to go with it?
I live in a high rise very densely populated cement walled building in NY and am so tired of substandard Altice equipment and rental charges.
Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
It’s me again (SL) sorry, what do you think about the ARRIS SURFboard SBG8300 DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit Cable Modem & AC2350 Dual Band Wi-Fi Router?
Hi SL,
For the routers, I recommend you check out our article on the best routers for Optimum.
Regarding the SURFboard SBG8300 DOCSIS 3.1, I haven’t tested it, so it’s hard for me to say.
But from what I have heard, it’s pretty decent. The thing is that since it has an AC2350 (which is pretty slow), it won’t be able to deliver you anything close to Gigabit speeds on Wi-Fi.
So for your circumstances, I think getting a separate router is better.
Just ordered 100mbs plus 1 line telephone and hooked up an Arris TM822R. It works fine.
Yeah, I have heard it works in some areas.
Thanks for sharing Scott!
I recently contacted Optimum about a modem and was recommended any DOSCIS 3.1. After purchasing a Motorola M88611 and then contacted tech support to provision it. This couldn’t happen. Over the course of 3 nights we tried until the next tech support person told me Motorola DOSCIS 3.1 modems do NOT work on the optimum network & that Optimum does not support DOSCIS 3.1 …… yet. This kind of ironic as Arris is owned by Motorola! At this time I’ve given up and returned to my inferior optimum modem.
Wow Lawrence,
I knew Optimums tech support was often wrong, but this takes the cake.
Both of them are wrong!
First, Optimum does support DOCSIS 3.1 basically all over the country. But they do not support just any DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
Specifically, they support the Arris Surfboard SB8200. Which is your safest bet when it comes to Optimum compatible modems.
So, if you want to have another go, try that one. Don’t let Optimum win!
Hi.
i have 100 Mbps Speed with Optimum.
i picked up an Arris Motorola model SB6180 docsis 3.0 Cable Modem.
will the model SB6180 work well with Optimum ?
Hi Dave,
Optimum is very tricky when it comes to modems, so it’s hard to know. If you already have it, you can try it.
But if you have the option, I would rather get the SB6183. It’s on the Optimum-approved modems list, so it should work (even though you never know with Optimum).
Wish I could be of more help, but as I said, Optimum is unclear about modems. If you have problems and just want something that works your safest bet is the SB8200.
thank you for sharing with us, I think this article truly stands out : D.
Thanks, Luke. Really appreciate your comment 😀
Would you be able to recommend a good / premium wireless router?
Hi Ken,
I would recommend you check out our article on the best routers for Optimum for some good wireless routers.
Hi Andreas:
I have Optimum 1 Gig plan with a UBC1326 Modem/Router combo and need to improve the poor coverage throughout the house. Based on this site’s info and your response to comments, it seems replacing my current equipment with the SB8200 Cable Modem + NETGEAR Orbi Mesh RBK853 would be a good option. Any thoughts would be welcome. Thanks!
Greg
Hi Greg,
Yes, that would be a great setup for an Optimum 1-Gig plan. You could also get the Netgear Orbi RBK752 if you want to get away a bit cheaper. That said, depending on how busy your network is, the RBK853 might be better.
Did you make a recommendations for a fiber modem? Just got optimum fiber and want to buy a modem ASAP.
Hi Lance,
For Optimum fiber, you don’t need a cable modem, but rather only a router. Check out our article on the best routers for Optimum for some options.
Hello , I’m planning to purchase the arris surf modem what router should i use with this ?
Hello Beatriz,
It really depends on your circumstances, and thus I recommend you check out our article on the best routers for Optimum. Just make sure not to get a modem/router combo from the list.
I just upgraded to 1 GB internet . I have google nest router and I’m looking to buy a new modem. I need a new modem for speed. I see that you recommend the ARRIS S33 modem. Would the google nest router and the ARRIS S33 work well together for speed ? And would you recommend any other modem for speeds up to 1000gb ?
For speeds up to 1000 Mbps, I recommend either the S33 or the SB8200. The SB8200 is a safer option for Optimum, but either should work.
As for the router, from my testing, I found the Google nest router a bit slow for a Gigabit plan, so you might end up paying for bandwidth you don’t use. It’s not a must, but I would upgrade my router if I were you. Likely to the ASUS RT-AX88U. But for some more options, check out our article on the best routers for Optimum.
Hello. I have Optimum Internet service and Voice. I use an Arris A1602 modem and a Optimum supplied router, Sagemcom 5260. If I upgrade to the SB8200 will I lose Voice service?
Hi Marc,
That is correct, If you only use the SB8200 you will not be able to use your voice service.
What you could do, is to get the SB8200 for your internet and continue to use the Arris A1602 for your phone service. All you need to do for this is a coax splitter and to contact Optimum so they can set it all up.
If this sounds too complicated you can always get the Arris TM3402 which is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem with voice support compatible with Optimum.
Hi Thanks for all the advice..What do you think would be a good Modem/Router with Voice??
Hello Jose,
The only modem/router with Voice approved by Optimum is the UBEE UBC1322. The thing is that I haven’t found any place to buy it, so I’m afraid you might have to rent if you want a modem/router combo for your voice service.
thanks