You’ve been hearing a lot about the importance of using a router to improve your home WiFi, but you’re not sure which one to buy.
It can be confusing trying to figure out which router is best for your needs, especially when there are so many options on the market.
Edon Lazaj have done the research for you and found the optimum approved routers that will give you the strongest and most reliable WiFi signal in your home.
Top 8 Best optimum approved routers
Arris SB8200 (Cable Modem Editor’s Choice)
- DOCSIS 3 1 Cable Modem best for cable internet speed plans up to 2 Gbps. Note, a 2nd IP address is required from your cable internet provider to reach 2 Gbps.
- 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3 0 bonded channels, 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3 1 channels
- Two 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Not compatible with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink or other DSL or Fiber internet providers
- Cable internet service required; Does not inlcude Wi-Fi and does not support cable digital voice service
Pros
Approved for use with Optimum
Cons
One of the more expensive modems on the market
Arris S33 (Best Cable Modem Performer)
Brand: ARRIS
Internet service provider: Suddenlink, Xfinity, Cox, Mediacomm, Spectrum
Connectivity Technology: Ethernet
Compatible Devices: Router, Personal Computer, Ethernet connected devices
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 5.14 x 1.8 x 4.74 inches
- MULTI-GIG NETWORKING: The SURFboard S33 has a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port as well as an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port for a second network cable internet service. Wi-Fi is not included, and cable digital voice service is not supported.
- DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is certified for cable internet services with speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps (32 downstream x 8 upstream). Bonded DOCSIS 3.0 channels, 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM 3 1 DOCSIS channels
- Connects to any existing Wi-Fi network to provide lightning-fast internet access.
- Compatible with major cable Internet providers in the United States, including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and others.
- Stop renting your modem and save money on monthly modem expenses!
Pros
Approved for use with Optimum
Works with major cable providers
Cons
More expensive than some other modems
Netgear CM1000 (Best For Those Who Need Speed)
Netgear CM500 (Cable Modem – Low-Cost)
Brand: NETGEAR
Internet service provider: Optimum, Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum
Connectivity Technology: Wired
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 4.88 x 7.28 x 2.36 inches
Total Ethernet Ports: 1
- You can save up to $168 per year in equipment rental fees by replacing your cable modem with the Model CM500.
- Spectrum (up to 400Mbps), Xfinity (up to 200Mbps), and Cox provide different speeds (up to 150Mbps).
- Compatible with any WiFi router: To support all of your wireless devices, connect any WiFi router to this modem’s Ethernet port.
- One Gigabit Ethernet port connects to your computer or a separate WiFi router.
- Technology for modems: Designed with 16×4 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0 in mind.
Pros
Approved for use with Optimum
Cons
One of the more expensive modems on the market
TP-Link TC7650 (Best For Those Who Need Speed)
Netgear C7800 (Most Affordable Modem/Router Combo)
Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Brand: NETGEAR
Compatible Devices: Phone, Tablet, WiFi-Enabled Devices, Media Streaming Devices, Computer, PC, Mac, Gaming Consoles
Control Method: App
- Compatible with all major cable internet providers and capable of up to 2Gbps internet speed. Spectrum and Cox (up to 1Gbps) are currently certified, as is Xfinity (up to 800Mbps). These service providers’ future speeds may vary over time. Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service are incompatible.
- Reduce monthly renting costs: The Model C7800 replaces your cable modem and Wi-Fi router, saving you up to USD 168 a year in equipment rental fees.
- Get up to 3000 square feet of wireless coverage and 45 AC3200-connected devices (up to 3200 Mbps)
- Four Gigabit Ethernet ports and two high-speed USB 3.0 ports provide quick wired connectivity to your computer, printer, game console, storage drive, and other devices.
- Technology for modems: Designed with 32×8 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.1 in mind.
Pros
Approved for use with Optimum
Cons
One of the more expensive modems on the market
Netgear CAX80 (Premium Modem/Router Combination)
Brand: NETGEAR
Internet service provider: Optimum, Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum
Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, WirelessItem
Dimensions LxWxH: 11.73 x 10.16 x 2.91 inches
Max Download Speed (Mbps): 3200
- This modem/router combo supports all major cable internet providers and provides up to 2Gbps of internet speed. It is also compatible with any WiFi router.
- The four Gigabit Ethernet ports and two high-speed USB 3.0 ports provide quick wired connectivity to your computer, printer, game console, storage drive, and other devices.
- The Netgear CAX80 is a premium modem/router combo that is designed with 32×8 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.1 in mind. It is approved for use with Optimum and works with major cable providers.
- The only downside to this modem/router combo is that it is one of the more expensive options on the market.
Pros
Approved for use with Optimum
Works with major cable providers
Cons
More expensive than some other modems/routers combos
Netgear C7000 (Affordable – Modem/Router Combo)
Brand: NETGEAR
Internet service provider: Optimum, Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum
Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, Wireless
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 11.73 x 10.16 x 2.91 inches
Max Download Speed (Mbps): 700
- The Netgear C7000 is a affordable modem/router combo that is designed with 16×4 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0 in mind. It is approved for use with Optimum and works with major cable providers.
- The four Gigabit Ethernet ports and two high-speed USB 3.0 ports provide quick wired connectivity to your computer, printer, game console, storage drive, and other devices.
- The only downside to this modem/router combo is that it is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, or any bundled voice service.
Pros
Approved for use with Optimum
Cons
Not compatible with all providers
Arris TM3402 (Cable Modem for Voice Service)
Brand: ARRIS
Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, Wireless
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 5.1 x 2.4 x 8 inches
Max Download Speed (Mbps): 600
- The Arris TM3402 is a cable modem that is designed for voice service. It is approved for use with Optimum and works with major cable providers.
- The four Gigabit Ethernet ports provide quick wired connectivity to your computer, printer, game console, storage drive, and other devices.
- The only downside to this modem is that it is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, or any bundled voice service.
Pros
Approved for use with Optimum
Works with major cable providers
Cons
Not compatible with all providers
Arris Touchstone TM1602A
Brand: ARRIS
Internet service provider: Cox_communications
Connectivity Technology: Ethernet
Number of Ports: 5
Data Transfer Rate: 960 MHz
- Compatible with Time Warner Cable, Charter Communications, Spectrum Communications, Optimum Cable, Cablevision, and Other US Cable Internet Service Providers Embedded Multimedia Terminal Adapter & 16×4 Channel Bonding (E-MTA)
- Includes 2 Primary VoIP Telephone Lines + 1 Gigabit Ethernet Port DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem Supporting Wired Download Speeds Up to 960Mbps
Pros
Embedded Multimedia Terminal Adapter
16×4 Channel Bonding
2 Primary VoIP Telephone Lines + 1 Gigabit Ethernet Port
Cons
Not compatible with all providers.
And next Edon Lazaj instructs you Complete List of All Optimum Approved Modems.
Complete List of All Optimum Approved Modems
As you can see, not all of the modems mentioned above are on the list. However, they were all chosen after speaking with an Optimum technician, so they should all work.
Here is the list, along with its sources.
| Brand | Model # | With Router | Channels | DOCSIS | Puma Chipset | VoIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | TC7650 | No | 24×8 | 3.0 | No | No |
| Netgear | CM500 | No | 16×4 | 3.0 | No | No |
| Netgear | CM600 | No | 24×8 | 3.0 | No | No |
| Netgear | CM700 | No | 32×8 | 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 | 16×4 | 3.0 | No | No |
What to Think About Before Purchasing an Optimum Approved Modem
Speed
The first thing you should consider is the speed of the
Modem
Optimum offers speeds up to 3200 Mbps, so you’ll want a modem that can handle that speed.
Compatibility
Not all modems are compatible with all providers. You’ll want to make sure that the modem you purchase is compatible with Optimum.
Price
Modems can range in price from around $50 to over $200. You’ll want to consider your budget when making your purchase.
Features
Some modems come with features like built-in WiFi or multiple Ethernet ports. Consider which features are important to you and make sure the modem you purchase has them.
Warranty
Most modems come with a one-year warranty. Some have longer warranties, but those tend to be more expensive. Consider how long you want the warranty to be and make sure the modem you purchase has that coverage.
How to Setup an Optimum Modem
1. Unplug the power cord from your current modem.
2. Connect the power cord to your new Optimum approved modem.
3. Plug the power cord into an outlet and turn on your modem.
4. Wait for the lights on your modem to stop blinking.
5. Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your modem and the other end to your computer.
6. Open a web browser and go to optimum.net.
7. Enter your Optimum ID and password.
8. Follow the prompts to complete the setup process.
9. Once you’ve completed the setup process, you can begin using your new modem!
Troubleshooting Optimum Modems
If you’re having trouble with your Optimum modem, there are a few things you can try.
1. Restart your modem by unplugging it from the power outlet and then plugging it back in.
2. Check to make sure all of the cables are securely connected.
3. Make sure your modem is in an area with good ventilation.
4. If you’re still having trouble, you can contact Optimum customer support for help.
What is Information Optimum Company?
Optimum is a cable television provider that offers digital cable television, high-speed Internet, and VoIP telephone service. It is owned by Altice USA, which is the second largest cable television provider in the United States.
Optimum serves customers in the states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. It has approximately 4 million customers.
What is Plans of Optimum Internet?
Optimum offers a variety of Internet plans to meet the needs of its customers. It offers both traditional plans with speeds up to 100 Mbps and fiber-optic plans with speeds up to 940 Mbps. The company also offers a variety of bundles that include TV, Internet, and VoIP service.
| Download Speed | Cable Modem | Modem/Router Combo | Voice Modem |
| 300 Mbps | CM500 | C7000 | TM3402 |
| 500 Mbps | SB8200 | C7800 | TM3402 |
| 1000 Mbps | S33 | CAX80 | TM3402 |
F.A.Q optimum approved routers:
Can I use my own router with optimum?
Optimum does not currently allow customers to use their own routers. However, they do offer a variety of modems and routers that are approved for use with their service.
What routers do optimum use?
Optimum uses a variety of routers, including the Actiontec GT784WNV, Arris SB6183, and Netgear N600.
Are routers free with optimum?
No, routers are not free with Optimum. However, the company offers a variety of modems and routers that are approved for use with their service.
Can I buy a modem instead of renting from Optimum?
Yes, you can buy a modem instead of renting from Optimum. However, you’ll need to make sure that the modem you purchase is compatible with Optimum’s service.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a new router, be sure to check out the list of optimum approved routers. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for your needs. That’s why we put together this list of approved routers—to help make your decision easier. And don’t forget; if you have any questions or need help choosing a router, our experts are here to assist you. Thanks for reading!