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Known for its versatile range of products and reliable services, Optimum by Altice USA is the ideal internet service for homes and businesses. Optimum cable services are available to an estimated 12.9 million people in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Optimum also provides fiber optic broadband in select areas. And, about 1.8 million people are able to access its fiber service.

Optimum believes in making peoples’ lives simpler and more empowered—so it strives to make the fruits of innovative tech accessible for the American masses. Today, Optimum subscribers can benefit from high-speed internet that comes backed by a hybrid fiber-coaxial network. But, Optimum still keeps its price points affordable for most household budgets. Plus the provider does not restrict you with an annual contract.

However, any internet service needs a compatible model to work with it. And Optimum is no different. Even though internet providers routinely offer equipment of their own—on a rental basis or with an option to buy upfront at times—most ISPs do let you bring your own device(s). As a result, when your package expires, or you upgrade to a higher speed from the same or another service provider, chances are you won’t face the probability of paying a hefty modem rental fee. Your own up-to-date modem may be good to support higher speeds or run a different connection.  

So, for those looking forward to getting their hands on the Optimum services, it’s time to look for an Optimum compatible modem that would bring high-speed internet to your home.

An Overview of Optimum Internet Plans

Before we jump into the Optimum compatible modem list, let’s first take a quick look at what internet packages the provider offer does. So, for starters, know that you can use your Optimum internet service with any certified DOCSIS 3.0 modem. However, the quality, functionality, features and several other aspects must be taken into account when choosing the best compatible modem for Optimum Internet.

Optimum delivers a wide range of high speeds: In most service locations you come across a 300 Mbps internet package, which costs $39.99 month for 12 months. A 400 Mbps plan priced at $64.99 (For Life), and an impressive 1 Gig internet service that costs $69.99 a month (For Life), are also on the Optimum menu. Plus, there are several bundle options that include a combination of internet, cable TV and voice services. One such example is the Optimum Internet 300 Core TV package which comes priced at $74.99 for 24 months.

Why Do I Need to Buy a Modem with My Optimum Internet?

As we said earlier, like other ISPs, Optimum offers internet equipment with their packages. But that comes at a monthly rental fee. This arrangement is ideal for people who might have subscribed to the internet service for a short while. Or for those who are not the least tech savvy. But, for people planning to use the service for a longer period, or those who feel confident about troubleshooting problems on their own, it is cost-efficient to purchase their own device. You may have to invest some time and effort in finding the right one, but buying a modem for your Optimum internet package may be the wiser choice.

Let’s add a word of caution here though. Optimum provides 24/7 tech support to subscribers who use an Optimum-provided modem. And, the equipment is replaced if it malfunctions. When you BYOD, Optimum tech support, upgrade or replacement service is not applicable to your device.

Review of the Best Compatible Modems for Optimum Internet

Below is a detailed review of some high-quality modems manufactured by well-known brands such as ARRIS, Linksys and Motorola. A thorough look at device features and functions will help you decide which modem would suit your Optimum internet plan and budget the best. You must pick a modem that is compatible with your chosen Optimum plan. If that is not the case, you might experience disappointing intenret connectivity, and an unexpectedly low-speed result on the Optimum speed test. 

1- Motorola 16x4 Cable Modem Model MB7420

Since being compatible alone is not enough, this DOCSIS 3.0 certified modem by Motorola takes the lead in the market with its superior quality build and design. It is a cable modem that has a compact and lightweight design and can sit on your desktop vertically. Five LED indicators are incorporated into the design of this modem that helps you keep check on the status of various connection indicators—like upstream and downstream speed, and signal strength.

Not only is the modem compatible with Optimum Internet 300, it also works with other market-leading service providers such as Spectrum and Xfinity. The device can support up to 686 Mbps via 16 downstream channels, but it is recommended to pair it with speed plans up to 300 Mbps for optimal performance. The maximum supported upload speed is 123 Mbps, for which there are 4 upstream channels.

Motorola has a good name in the market for manufacturing and providing customers with some of the best quality products, and without doubt, this 16x4 modem is the perfect pick for your Optimum Internet 300.

Pros

  • LED indicators that add user-friendliness
  • Compatible with Optimum, Spectrum, Xfinity, and Suddenlink
  • 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet port allows any Ethernet capable device to be connected
  • Quick and easy set up with Quick Start
  • Backed by a 2 year manufacturer’s warranty

Cons

  • You will have to buy a Wi-Fi router device separately

2- Arris TM822G Touchstone

An all-black exterior with a lightweight construction makes Arris TM822G modem a low-profile, yet very reliable modem to complement your Optimum service. The device is compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 and earlier versions of the protocol. In addition to this, it has an 8x4 channel bonding, and 10/100/1000 Base-T Ethernet interface.

This modem is recommended by Arris for internet plans 300 Mbps fast. Albeit, it is stated to offer adequate Gigabit support.

Considering its top-notch features, 2 telephone ports and the capacity to support ultra fast internet, it makes a great product. The modem is approved by Optimum, but also works with internet services from Mediacom , WOW!, Suddenlink, Wave, and RCN

Pros

  • Great for Optimum 300 plan
  • Recommended for home usage of 2 telephone ports
  • Flexible 8x4 channels with excellent throughput
  • Durable build
  • Multiple battery pack options
  • A good budget option

Cons

  • Lacks Wi-Fi router feature so you will have to purchase a Wi-Fi router device separately

3- ARRIS SURFboard® SB6190

If you are a subscriber of Optimum Internet 400, this another popular product by ARRIS will be the perfect pick for you. It is compatible with Optimum of course, and also Cox, Xfinity, and Spectrum. But, it is not compatible with DSL or Fiber internet providers like AT&T, and CenturyLink. Although it is recommended for plans as fast as 400 Mbps, the device can handle speeds up to 600 Mbps with ease.

This modem comes with an Ethernet port to connect with your Wi-Fi router. It displays simple LED status indicators which give it a user-friendly interface. Looking at the speeds it can support, the device is an ideal pick for streamers who love real-time HD video, and VR gamers alike.  

Pros

  • Compatible with major cable service providers
  • 32 downstream and 8 upstream bonded channels
  • Can support DOCSIS speeds up to 1.4 Gbps
  • 2 year limited manufacturer’s warranty

Cons

  • Lacks Wi-Fi router capability. You will have to purchase a separate device for a Wi-Fi network
  • Does not support cable digital voice service.

4- Linksys DOCSIS 3.0 8x4 Cable Modem (CM3008)

The Linksys DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem is one of the compatible modems for Optimum Internet. Its most notable feature is that the device is available in a range that supports 3 different speed levels. You can easily choose the one that best fits your chosen Optimum internet plan. This variety supports downstream speeds up to 343 Mbps (good for Optimum 300), 686 Mbps (good for Optimum 400), and 960 Mbps (good for Optimum Gigabit). As for maximum upstream speed, it supports up to 120 Mbps.

The modem is equipped with Intel Puma 5 chipset that ensures high speed downstream and upstream performance. It also features a simple and quick plug-and-play setup feature that makes things easier for everyone.

Pros

  • Supports a variety of speeds
  • Suitable options available for all Optimum internet plans
  • 8x4 bonded channels for optimal performance
  • Quick and easy setup

Cons

  • Does not have wireless router capability. So, a separate device is required if you need to connect devices wirelessly

Wrapping it up

Pick an Optimum internet plan that best matches your usage and purpose. A slow speed internet is not enough for homes where multiple family members have to connect their devices at a time. Additionally, online gaming and extensive streaming also requires reliable, consistent high-speed internet. 

And, if you are tech-savvy and see yourself using cable broadband for a good while, we’d say you opt for BYOD when you subscribe to an Optimum internet plan. A powerful modem compatible with your service provider plan is key to squeezing the most juice from your connection. The good news is there are several compatible modems for Optimum in the market—from trusted names in the industry. So, if you wish to save an estimated $100 a year in modem rental fee, go ahead and pick a budget option. 

Remember it is necessary that you know which speed tier would work for your digital needs, before you subscribe to an Optimum internet plan. It is easy to get tempted by higher speeds that you never would utilize. We’d recommend you contact  Optimum Customer Service at 1-844-520-8978 for pro advice about Optimum internet plans that may work for you. Optimum bundles also offer Latino networks in with its TV service. The Spanish speaking can inquire about their options from Española Optimum Customer Service.

 

FAQ

1.      What modems are compatible with Optimum?

Most DOCSIS 3.0 cable modems are compatible with Optimum Internet. Even though many brands have a line of products compatible with Optimum, Arris comes highly recommended.

2.      Can I use my own modem with Optimum?

You can opt for either a rental-based modem by Optimum, or you can buy your own and use it with one of their internet packages. Just make sure the modem you purchase is compatible with your internet speed.

3.      Can I have 2 modems with Optimum?

You can have two modems if you want, but you would require a second coaxial cable wall outlet for it, unless you choose to bridge them. With that said, it would be recommended you stick to one good modem with a powerful router device to establish an in-home network. 

4.      Can I replace my Optimum modem?

If you already have a rental modem from Optimum, replacement and upgrade of device is taken care of. But, if  you have your own device(s), be careful during the replacement process. You’d would not want to end up with an incompatible device.