What to know
- If you are looking for the best possible performance and are willing to pay a bit more, the Motorola MB8600 is the better choice.
- However, if you are on a tighter budget or do not need the absolute fastest speeds, the Arris Surfboard S33 is a great option that offers a good balance of performance and value.
- Whether you choose the Arris Surfboard S33 or the Motorola MB8600, you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality cable modem that will provide you with fast and reliable internet access.
When it comes to choosing a cable modem, two brands stand out: Arris and Motorola. Their respective models, the Arris Surfboard S33 and Motorola MB8600, are among the most popular on the market. But which one is right for you? This comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision.
Performance
Both the S33 and MB8600 are DOCSIS 3.1 modems, meaning they support the latest cable technology. This translates to blazing-fast internet speeds of up to 1 Gbps. However, the MB8600 has a slight edge in terms of performance. It features a faster Intel Puma 7 chipset and supports both 32×8 and 16×4 channel bonding, while the S33 only supports 32×8. As a result, the MB8600 may provide slightly faster speeds in areas with high-speed cable internet plans.
Features
The S33 and MB8600 offer a comparable range of features. Both have four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to connect multiple devices to the internet. They also support IPv6, which is essential for future-proofing your home network. Additionally, both modems have built-in DOCSIS 3.0 backward compatibility, ensuring they will work with older cable plans.
One notable difference between the two modems is their channel bonding capabilities. As mentioned earlier, the MB8600 supports both 32×8 and 16×4 channel bonding, while the S33 only supports 32×8. This means that the MB8600 can take advantage of more channels from your cable provider, potentially resulting in faster speeds.
Design and Build Quality
The S33 and MB8600 have distinct designs. The S33 is a compact and sleek modem with a matte black finish. It has a subtle LED indicator that glows blue when the modem is online and red when there is an issue. The MB8600, on the other hand, is a larger and more angular modem with a glossy black finish. It features a more prominent LED display that provides detailed information about the modem’s status.
In terms of build quality, both modems are well-made and durable. They are both designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use and have been tested to meet industry standards.
Price
The S33 and MB8600 are priced similarly, with the S33 typically being slightly cheaper. However, it is important to note that prices may vary depending on the retailer and your location.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for the best possible performance and are willing to pay a bit more, the Motorola MB8600 is the better choice. However, if you are on a tighter budget or do not need the absolute fastest speeds, the Arris Surfboard S33 is a great option that offers a good balance of performance and value.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose the Arris Surfboard S33 or the Motorola MB8600, you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality cable modem that will provide you with fast and reliable internet access. Both modems are well-made, feature-rich, and offer excellent value for their price.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which modem is faster, the Arris Surfboard S33 or the Motorola MB8600?
A: The Motorola MB8600 is generally faster than the Arris Surfboard S33 due to its faster chipset and support for both 32×8 and 16×4 channel bonding.
Q: Do both modems support IPv6?
A: Yes, both the S33 and MB8600 support IPv6.
Q: Which modem has a better design?
A: The design of the S33 and MB8600 is subjective. The S33 is more compact and sleek, while the MB8600 is larger and more angular.