Introduction
If you’re reading this, you’re probably looking for the best router for Cox Internet. It won’t be easy, however, because COX ISP has allowed a plethora of wireless routers on the market.
Yes, as long as your home has a Cox-approved modem, the vast majority of modern routers are compatible with Cox Internet service. This means that your Cox Internet subscription will require a Cox-compatible modem and a Cox-compatible router.
However, as a decent reviewer, it is my responsibility to inform you of alternatives for these two unique products. Yes, we can buy a combo device instead of two separate ones. In other words, we can buy the best router/modem combo that works with Cox. If you plan on purchasing both a modem and a router separately, the combo is a good option.
Don’t waste your money, and instead select the best routers for Cox Internet service provider if you’re unsure, want to get a router, or already have a modem.
If you’re looking for the best router for their internet plans, you’re probably not interested in renting Cox’s exclusive Panoramic WiFi Gateway. Because of the way, Cox maintains their internet services and because this ISP requires a modem to connect to the internet, you should select a router modem combo. As a result, the first step is to ensure that the device meets Cox’s specifications.
Then consider your internet plan. You want a solution that is at least as fast as your current plan, if not faster. It should be faster than your current plan as a precautionary measure.
Furthermore, if you like the idea of wireless connections, you’ll need a model with a lot of ethernet and USB ports, enough range to cover your entire house, or the ability to set up a mesh network for all-around access.
Cox is a fantastic ISP that offers excellent and dependable internet connections across the country. The main disadvantage of using a Cox connection is that you must pay a rental fee for using their modem.
You can avoid this by purchasing your own Cox-supported modem router, which will be more profitable for you in the long run. Having said that, we’ve selected a few of the best Cox routers that not only perform well but are also reasonably priced.
But, before you choose one from our list, keep the following features in mind:
DOCSIS version:
DOCSIS is simply a broadband standard that modems use. The most recent DOCSIS version available is DOCSIS 3.1, which allows the modem to support internet plans of up to 1 Gbps. DOCSIS 3.0 technology, on the other hand, is found in modems that support up to 200Mbps plans.
Wireless Standard:
Aside from the modem, you should also check the router’s wireless standard and speed. In the case of DOCSIS 3.0 modems, most routers support Wi-Fi 802.11ac standards, which is ideal for most Cox internet plans.
Data Transfer Rate:
If you need a fast internet connection, look into the router’s maximum data transfer rates. In our list, we have included routers with Wi-Fi speeds ranging from 1200Mbps to 1600Mbps and 1900Mbps to 3200Mbps. Routers that support high speeds are future-proof because you can upgrade your internet plan while still using the same router.
If you want to learn more about these products, we’ve included a separate buying guide that covers everything about modem routers. As a result, you should definitely read the “Buying Guide” at least once before purchasing a new router from our list.
Best Router for Cox 2023
ASUS RT-AX3000 Router for Cox
NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C6220
TP-Link AX10 (Budget-Friendly – Traditional Router)
ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 DOCSIS 3.0
Netgear CAX80 (Premium Option – Modem/Router Combo)
TP-Link 16×4 AC1750 Wi-Fi Cable Modem Router
NETGEAR Cable Modem CM500
Motorola MG7700 24×8 Cable Modem Plus AC1900
Arris SURFboard (16×4) Docsis 3.0 Cable Modem Plus
ASUS Modem Router Combo – All-in-One DOCSIS 3.0
The ASUS RT-AX3000 is an excellent choice for use with any of Cox’s internet plans in a typical home.
It tested at 889.41 Mbps from 5 feet away and 534.55 Mbps from 25 feet away, both using the 5Ghz band.
These are some fantastic discoveries that will allow a family of five or more to watch four 4K movies at the same time.
All tests are carried out with a Gigabit internet connection and a WiFi 6 capable device.
The point of the RT-weaker AX3000 is that its range is only about 80-85 feet.
Although not bad, it does not match its throughput performance.
However, it will be perfectly adequate for a typical-sized home.
Furthermore, the RT-AX3000 provides excellent QoS and parental controls.
This allows you to prioritize network data and limit your children’s online activities.
For example, if you have an important video call that you don’t want to lag, QoS can be useful.
Because you can then choose to prioritize video call data.
After that, regardless of what other users are doing, the internet will not lag.
Overall, the ASUS RT-AX3000 is one of the best-performing, low-cost routers I’ve tested.
When it comes to devices like routers and modems, Netgear is one of the most versatile brands on the market. Netgear has a router or modem in almost every category, depending on your budget.
Because of its attractive pricing and feature-rich specifications, this Netgear option ranks second on this list. When it comes to the WiFi Router Combo C6220, it is compatible with all major ISPs, including Cox.
Because it is built with 164 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0, this modem router supports internet plans from Xfinity up to 200Mbps, Cox up to 150Mbps, and Spectrum up to 100Mbps.
In terms of router performance, it is a single-band router that supports Wi-Fi data transfer rates of up to 1200Mbps, making it an excellent router for home networks. In fact, it can connect up to 20 devices simultaneously.
Fortunately, the coverage area is approximately 1200 square feet, so there will be no wireless dead zones in your home.
If you want performance but are on a tight budget, the TP-Link AX10 is the router for you.
During testing, it achieved 351.81 Mbps at 25 feet and 651.97 Mbps at 5 feet.
They both make use of the 5GHz spectrum.
Given that it is a less expensive option, this performance is excellent.
All Cox plans up to and including the Ultimate 500 are ideal.
The AX10 has a range of about 80 to 90 feet, which is adequate for a typical home.
Particularly if placed closer to the center of the house.
The router’s disadvantage is its lack of additional functionality.
Both QoS and parental controls are available, but both are quite limited.
Because parental controls can only block URLs and keywords, not themes.
Furthermore, QoS cannot be applied to apps; only devices can.
As a result, the functionalities are quite limited and difficult to use.
The TP-Link AX10 is a good choice for someone who wants a low-cost performance but does not need additional features.
If you’re looking for a modem router combo for your office, ARRIS modem routers are one of the best options to consider because the company is well-known for producing dependable and feature-rich devices.
Because of its high build quality and reasonable pricing, this SURFboard modem router deserves to be ranked fourth on this list. The SBG10 is an excellent modem router for under $100.
It’s worth noting that it has 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, allowing it to support cable internet plans of up to 400Mbps. As a result, if you have a Cox subscription, this DOCSIS 3.0 modem router will not let you down.
It does, however, include an AC1600 dual-band Wi-Fi Router with wireless speeds of up to 1600 Mbps. Furthermore, there are two Gigabit Ethernet ports on the back of the device in case you want to connect to your PC or laptop via a wired connection.
Aside from that, the device’s setup is a breeze thanks to the SURFboard Manager mobile app support.
I recommend that you use the CAX80 as the gateway for Cox Gigablast 940 Mbps internet packets.
Unfortunately, I was unable to test it at full speed because the internet plan I had access to only allowed for 800 Mbps.
However, even at 5 feet, it managed to reach 800 Mbps. Other speeds measured from 50 and 25 feet were 298.47 Mbps and 583.15 Mbps, respectively. All of them use the 5GHz band.
This is an outstanding modem/router combination that can support more than a dozen simultaneous 4K streams.
The CAX80 has an excellent range, with a maximum range of 90 to 100 feet.
This will suffice for all but the largest residences.
The main disadvantage of the CAX80 is its lack of additional functions. It lacks parental controls and quality of service.
Furthermore, it’s a bit much for you with a plan lower than the Ultimate 500 Mbps plan.
Overall, the Netgear CAX80 is a high-performance gateway that is ideal for you if you have a busy home network and the Cox Gigablast 940 Mbps plan.
Although TP-Link is best known for selling the most affordable and high-quality modem and router devices on the market. We’ve chosen one of its premium offerings to highlight in this list for you.
To begin with, you will undoubtedly appreciate its design and build quality, as it appears to be no less expensive than any flagship router on the market. In terms of features, it has 16 downstream and 4 upstream channels, allowing it to deliver up to 680Mbps download speeds over wired connections.
In terms of wireless speeds, it is capable of reaching up to 1750Mbps Wi-Fi speeds, with the 2.4GHz band offering 450Mbps and the 5GHz band handling the remaining 1300Mbps.
TP-Link provides 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports as well as 2 USB ports on the back of this modem router. Furthermore, it supports Cox internet plans up to 300 Mbps, as well as other leading ISPs such as Comcast, Spectrum, and others.
Netgear is one of the best brands to go with if you already have a router and want to upgrade to a new modem.
The NETGEAR Cable Modem CM500 is one of the most reasonably priced modem alternatives for your Cox internet connection, so you should look into it.
It is the most adaptable modem option available because it works flawlessly with any Wi-Fi router.
The maximum speed that this DOCSIS 3.0 modem can provide is 400Mbps, but only if you have a Spectrum connection.
If you need a modem for regular home use, the Cox connection’s 150Mbps plans are adequate.
Furthermore, this modem includes a single Gigabit Ethernet connector that can be used to connect to your PC or a Wi-Fi router.
Motorola has yet another premium option to discuss. If you liked the previous Motorola product we discussed, you’ll love this one even more.
The Motorola MG7700 has 248 channel bonding, which means the connection will be extremely stable, as you would expect from a premium router modem.
Despite being a DOCSIS 3.0 modem, it supports all cable plans up to 650Mbps and delivers speeds of up to 1000Mbps. That being said, it’s an excellent choice if you have a high-speed Cox connection.
It also has an AC1900 Wi-Fi 5 router, which delivers fantastic wireless speeds of up to 1900Mbps via its dual-band network. Furthermore, to provide you with the best Wi-Fi experience possible, technologies such as Power Boost, Beamforming, and MU-MIMO support Wi-Fi connection stability.
In fact, this router modem has four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to enjoy incredible cable speeds.
Next on the list is yet another great modem router combo from ARRIS’s SURFboard lineup that you should consider if your internet usage is high on a regular basis.
Although this modem router is on the pricey side, its build quality and incredible wireless speeds more than makeup for it. If you’re worried about the modem, it has a DOCSIS 3.0 modem, just like the previous SURFboard modem router we discussed.
The good news is that you can get download speeds of up to 686Mbps from this cable modem by using any of the 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Aside from that, it has one of the best AC1900 dual-band routers, which works brilliantly with such a powerful modem. While the 16 downstream and 4 upstream bonded channels provide the best internet connectivity, the dual-band router’s extensive coverage allows you to enjoy wonderful speeds in every corner of your home.
Furthermore, you can easily set up and manage your device with the SURFboard Manager app.
Although ASUS is not primarily a router brand, it does produce some fantastic routers that are ideal for gamers, not only in terms of performance but also in terms of design.
We like the design of this modem router because it is quite attractive, and the four external antennas make it appear even more advanced. This unit includes a DOCSIS 3.0 328 cable modem as well as an AC2500 Wi-Fi 5 router, which is an excellent combination to have, especially if you use the internet frequently.
As a result, you should definitely use the four Gigabit Ethernet ports on the back of this modem router.
Because it is a dual-band router, you can enjoy fast wireless speeds on the 5GHz band, while the 2.4GHz band provides excellent coverage of approximately 5000 square feet. It’s ideal for streaming 4K content or playing online games because it can reach cable speeds of up to 1.3 Gbps.
It also supports 3G/4G sharing, file sharing, and printer sharing thanks to the two USB ports on the back.
Factors to Consider before Purchasing the Best Router for Cox
If you use Cox’s internet services, you must be tired of having to pay a monthly leasing fee for the modem and router. However, if you build your own modem router, you can save a lot of money.
Having said that, we’ve already covered a few of the best modem-router combos for Cox’s internet service. If you’re not familiar with router features and elements, we’ll go over them all in our buying guide. If you’re having trouble deciding which router is best for you, you should read this buying guide all the way through.
Speed
When purchasing a modem-router combo, one of the most important features to look for is speed.
In this case, you must determine whether the modem, in addition to the router’s wireless data transmission capacity, can support the speed of your internet plan. Because Cox offers a variety of internet packages, if you select a 200 Mbps package, you should purchase a modem router that can handle at least 200 Mbps. Otherwise, you won’t be able to fully utilize the modem.
Number of Bands
Wireless signals in Wi-Fi routers are transmitted via network bands. Single-band and dual-band routers are frequently available at a lower cost. Single-band routers use only one frequency band, 2.4GHz. Dual-band routers have a 5GHz band in addition to the 2.4GHz band.
The 2.4GHz band typically supports moderate speeds but has a greater range, whereas the 5GHz band is exactly the opposite. Despite having less coverage, the 5GHz frequency frequently has higher bandwidth.
As a result, if you have a good internet package and a dual-band router, using Wi-Fi when you are close to the router will result in faster rates.
If you want a better and faster Wi-Fi experience, dual-band routers are preferable to single-band routers.
Coverage Area
If you are purchasing a router for your home office, you may not need to check the coverage area as thoroughly. However, if you’re looking for a router to use at home, the coverage area of the router is critical. You can quickly check the router’s coverage area and compare it to your home’s coverage area to determine which router is best for you.
We have included a number of options in the list with respectable coverage areas ranging from 1200 square feet to 5000 square feet. It’s critical to remember that selecting a router with a larger coverage area than the actual region where you’ll be using it will help you get better signal range without experiencing wifi dead zones.
Connectivity Ports
If you have a PC at home, you should think about the router’s connectivity ports. Even if the router’s wireless connectivity is strong, any PC user will prefer a cable connection because it is more dependable, stable, and fast.
As a result, you should always check the availability of the router’s Ethernet ports. Ensure that the ports are Gigabit Ethernet ports, which can handle up to 1Gbps of traffic.
However, having USB ports on the router is required if you want to exchange data over the network by connecting your hard drive or a printer device in your office.
Additional Features
When it comes to modem router extra features, look for cutting-edge technologies such as Beamforming, Power Boost, Parental Controls, MU-MIMO, and so on. All of these modern features and technologies contribute to the increased stability and dependability of the connection.
Aside from that, most people find setting up a modem router to be a difficult process. If you get a router that supports a specific mobile application, the setup procedure becomes easier and less difficult for everyone.
DOCSIS
As you may be aware, Cox provides a variety of internet services, some of which have speeds of up to 1Gbps. If you have a plan with a maximum download speed of 200 Mbps, any DOCSIS 3.0 compatible modem will work perfectly. However, the most recent DOCSIS version is 3.1, which is faster and more reliable.
As a result, if you sign up for any Cox Gigabit internet package, you must use a modem that supports the DOCSIS 3.1 standard. Even if you don’t have a gigabit plan, you can still get a DOCSIS 3.1 modem because they are typically backward compatible. Furthermore, if you decide to upgrade your internet package in the future, you won’t have to buy a new modem.
FAQs
What is a Router for Cox?
Cox Communications, like the majority of internet service providers, sells proprietary equipment to customers who sign up for internet plans (ISPs). You may receive a modem or a modem router depending on your plan.
Cox offers high-speed and fiber internet in addition to five custom gateways and modems tailored to the various internet plans they offer. It’s also worth noting that Cox uses a modem to connect a customer’s local area network (LAN) to internet service.
As a result, customers who subscribe to high-speed internet have the option of using a third-party modem or Cox’s modem-router combination device. Customers should also select a modem-router combo device if they want to connect to wireless networks.
Although Cox allows customers to use external routers, those routers must meet certain technical requirements. The same is true for Google Fiber, Frontier Fios, and Xfinity routers; they must meet specific requirements to be compatible.
Current and prospective Cox customers can check the Cox website to see which modems and modem-router combos are compatible with which internet services. You will not be charged a monthly rental fee if you use a third-party modem/modem-router combination, as other ISPs do. You will also be solely responsible for identifying and resolving any equipment issues.
Why You Should Buy a Router for Cox?
Even though the monthly fees for renting a modem and router appear to be small, they add up over time. More importantly, the majority of routers provided by ISPs are of poor quality. So, if you want to get the most out of your Cox Internet service, upgrading to a better third-party modem-router set is a good idea.
Is a Router for Cox Worth Buying?
You Don’t Want to Pay the Rental Fees:
A Cox modem-router gateway cost $12 per month at the time of publication. While $12 per month may not seem like much, the costs add up over the course of a year or even several years.
You Want a More Robust Router:
Better quality of service (QoS), improved MU-MIMO, and beamforming is not featured commonly found in ISP-provided routers. Customers who do not want to experience slowness, buffering, or throttling will typically benefit more from a third-party router.
You Want a Future-proof Router:
Nothing is more frustrating than paying for a service that you can’t use because your router is slower than your internet plan. Choosing a router that not only supports faster speeds than your current plan but also has more robust functionality ensures that your router will not frustrate you if and when Cox speeds up your plan.
How Long Will a Router for Cox Last?
Whether you use a Cox-approved modem or gateway or a third-party wi-fi router, you can expect to get three to five years of daily use out of a router before it needs to be upgraded. This usually happens as a result of newer equipment becoming obsolete as a result of technological advancements in internet connectivity.
Of course, if you’re experiencing connectivity issues, such as being unable to connect wirelessly at all or experiencing excessive latency or buffering, it’s time to replace your wireless router.
How to Choose a Router for Cox?
When purchasing a third-party solution to access Cox’s internet services, keep in mind that in most cases, a modem-router combination will be required. Furthermore, Cox’s internet service is only compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1 modems. Other selection criteria would be comparable regardless of the ISP you use.
Is it better to buy your own router?
Usually, the answer is yes. Keep in mind that you will be paying a monthly rental gateway fee for the duration of your Cox internet package. Most of the time, users can find a high-quality router that is also reasonably priced between $50 and $200. Regardless of the initial cost, keep in mind that it is only one time.
If you sign up for an internet service for several years and rent the necessary equipment, you can buy a router more than once.
Conclusion:
As a result, if you’ve read this far, you’ve probably seen all of the top routers for Cox that we’ve listed for you. We attempted to mix up and include all of the best routers in various price ranges in the list so that you can find a great router for yourself based on your budget.
Because we included all of the key characteristics of each item, you can quickly compare and select the best product from the list. If you’re having trouble deciding on a router, the purchase guide can help. If you were asked to choose the top three options from the list, we have a few solid suggestions for you:
Because it is compatible with almost all ISPs, including Cox, the NETGEAR Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo C6220 is the best option if you are not a heavy internet user and need something affordable.
It provides 1200 Mbps wireless network access in a 1200 sq. ft. coverage area and is compatible with cable plans up to 200 Mbps.
If you need a faster modem router, consider the ARRIS SURFboard SBG10 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem & AC1600 Dual Band Wi-Fi Router, which supports cable plans up to 400 Mbps and offers rates up to 1600 Mbps.
