Are all cable modems created equal?

[MattShepherd]

I'm moving, and the ISP that looks best from my vantage point doesn't rent cable modems, but sells them for $100. If I brought my old cable modem (or bought one on the cheap), would it do the same job as the one they're selling? Do cable modems have graphics-card levels of difference, or are they more like keyboards in terms of one size more or less fitting all?

 

[Someone Somewhere]

If your old one is DOCSIS 3.0, you should be fine.

 

[TheAshigaru]

The DOCSIS version is probably the most important aspect associated with a modem. The most recent version is DOCSIS 3.0. In general this has to do with the kind of speed you'll be able to get from your ISP. If you look on Amazon or Newegg, the cheaper modems usually are DOCSIS 2.0 compatible, whereas the more expensive ones use 3.0.

You will have to check with your new ISP for details on specific modem compatibility. Most of them should have a list of compatible modems on their website so you can check if the one you currently have will still work. Finally check the bundle you're looking at getting and see if they have any specific recommendations for the modem (like which version of DOCSIS you need).

 

[rgd1101]

I'm still using my own DOCSIS 2.0 modem on the Comcast DOCSIS 3.0 network at home.

 

[Someone Somewhere]

I believe that in some cases you can't get as high speeds, or they get a bit upset as it means you're using up more spectrum than you otherwise would be.

There's not much by way of cable here, so I'm largely playing it by ear.

 

[rgd1101]

yep, just yesterday, they call again to tell me that. It not maxing out on my speed anyway since I not paying for the their higher tier.

 

[manofchalk]

I wouldnt say its like a graphics card where very roughly performance and price scale linearly with each other. Networking equipment says what it can do on the box (say Gigabit Ethernet, dual band WiFi) and that's what it does. What you get for spending more is typically reliability, features and support unless your jumping price tiers and getting just outright higher end equipment.

That being said, modems that ISP's give out (that are self-branded anyway) are usually pretty rubbish in my experience. So I recommend having an aftermarket modem/router.