Both Motorola MB8600 and MB8611 modems are relatively modern and come with the fastest cable modem standard of DOCSIS 3.1, which can provide the fastest internet speeds with the support of Gigabit internet.
Although there are internet service providers that still do not provide support for it, both devices are backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0.
With similar networking capabilities and subtle differences in the spec sheets, it is obvious to become overwhelmed when choosing between the two modems. After intensive research and studying expert opinions, we put before you a MB8600 vs MB8611 comparison.
Table of Contents
Motorola MB8600 vs MB8611-Comparison Table
Motorola MB8600  | Motorola MB8611  | |
Tech | DOCSIS 3.1 | DOCSIS 3.1 |
Channels | 32 x 8 / 2 x 2 | 32 x 8 / 2 x 2 |
Maximum Data Transfer Rate | Up to 3.8 Gbps | Up to 6.0 Gbps |
RAM | 512MB | 512MB |
Link Aggregation | Yes | No |
Ports | One 1Gbps Ethernet ports | One 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port |
Dimensions | 7.88 x 7.25 x 2.25 inch | 7.88 x 7.25 x 2.25 inch |
NAND | 128MB | 128MB |
Compatible ISPs | Cox, Comcast, Sparklight, Spectrum, Midco, Optimum, WOW!, Mediacom | Cox, Suddenlink, Comcast, WOW!, Mediacom |
Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem Review
The Motorola MB8600 is one of the most popular and highly sought-after cable modems in the market for good reasons! To start with, it is one of the latest new-gen devices that supports DOCSIS 3.1. With ultra-fast internet speed, the modem is also a beauty with a modern and sleek design.
Compatibility
It is also favored due to its wide range of compatibility. It is supported by almost all leading internet service providers such as Spectrum, Tds, Comcast, Xfinity, etc. Moreover, since Motorola has made a significant contribution to developing new DOCSIS standards, it is safe to expect that the modem will work without issues.
Its compatibility is further cemented, thanks to the DOCSIS 3.1 support. You see, like all modern technologies, this too shall become a common standard among all cable ISPs soon enough. Being backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 makes the MB8600 a future-proof choice as gigabit internet services are becoming popular.
Bandwidth
Another impressive feature of the Motorola MB8600 is its consistent bandwidth. The device is sure to provide lag-free internet access and super-fast download speeds for its fastest cable modem standard. We mention it repeatedly as it is genuinely an incredible advancement that can allow you to enjoy exceptional wireless speeds.
It can provide impressive internet speeds compared to a regular cable modem, irrespective of where it is placed within a network. Overall, the modem is powerful and good enough to give you a reliable internet connection, with incredible download speeds and upstream speeds for the DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem.
Ports
It should be noted that the MB8600 has a refreshed version which is modified to have just 1 Gigabit Ethernet port. Previous models came with four ports and a single WAN port. Although it is not widely used, the ethernet ports still exist on some variants under a yellow tape that can be accessed. The WAN port is a coax cable port.
Performance
It should not be stated separately that the MB8600 has excellent performance. The technology used by Motorola in this cable modem is far better and advanced than most of its competitors. Also, did we mention that it is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem? It can safely be said to be one of the best performing gigabit modems in the market.
Setup
The MB8600 can be easily set up with just a few steps; connect the coax cable in the Gigabit Ethernet port, switch the modem on, wait until the signal light turns green, and connect a desktop/laptop computer to the LAN port. Depending on your service provider, you can activate the device yourself or send them the MAC address.
With all that being said, you can now have a moderately clear picture of what makes the Motorola MB8600 an ideal and reliable modem. It could be a handy addition to your game station or for smooth video streaming on your smart TV!
Advantages and Disadvantages of MB8600
Even though the MB8600 is a well-built modem with solid features, it has its advantages and shortcomings.
PROS
- Impressive performance with incredible internet speeds
- Functional status LED lights
- Supports DOCSIS 3.1, also compatible with older versions
- WAN Link Aggregation support and multi-IP support
- Compatible with almost every internet provider
CONS
- Although it has the technology to support multi-gigabit internet speeds, the maximum support is limited due to 1Gbps ports
Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem Review
The Motorola MB8611 is one of the fastest modems in the market. With blazing fast gigabit internet speeds along with the modern standard of DOCSIS 3.1, the modem is a strong contender for being among the best of its kind. It shares a lot of similarities with the Motorola MB8600, including the design.
Compatibility
Just like its sibling model, the MB8611 is backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0. It also supports a huge number of devices and almost every leading internet service provider, such as Comcast Xfinity, Cox, etc. Also, thanks to it being a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem, the device is future proof, further enhancing its compatibility.
Bandwidth
The Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 proves to be an excellent modem when it comes to providing consistent bandwidth. With low latency, minimal packet loss, and low ping times, high speed internet can be accessed at all times. Its 2.5Gbps ethernet port can reach a maximum speed of 6Gbps if DOCSIS 3.1 is available.
Ports
It has 1 2.5Gbps ethernet port and a WAN port for coaxial cable. Although this is disappointing, one port is just enough to get the job done in most home applications. The MB8611 makes up for it with the multi-gigabit port, a slightly rare option among most competitors.
Performance
As you may have guessed, the Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 does its job perfectly. With super-fast upload and download speeds, the modem also features an active queue management system. Whether online gaming, video conferencing, or video streaming, the modem is sure to give consistent bandwidth.
Setup
The experience of installing and setting up the MB8611 is very similar to its sibling model. No technical knowledge is required. The modem can be set up in just 3 steps; connecting the coaxial cable in the WAN port, switching it on, and connecting it to a computer!
Now that we more or less know about the MB8611, the modem is a substantial upgrade over its sibling, the Motorola MB8600. But how big is the difference? Is the extra price of the MB8611 justified? Find out as we head to a detailed comparison between the two.
Advantages and Disadvantages of MB8611
A lot of people debate on whether the MB8611 is a good upgrade over the MB8600. Here are its advantages and disadvantages:
PROS
- Exceptional performance and reliable internet access
- Highly resistant to power surges
- Ultra-fast 2.5Gbps ethernet port
- Modern standard of DOCSIS 3.1, also supports older versions
- Excellent compatibility with nearly every internet provider
CONS
- Only 1Gbps port; deal breaker for users with multiple IP devices
- Not as cost-effective as its cheaper sibling
Key differences between MB8611 and MB8600
Although there are a lot of similarities, they differ from each other in the following aspects:
Ports
The Motorola MB8600 comes with multiple ethernet ports, while the Motorola MB8611 has just one 2.5Gbps port. When it comes to speed, the latter provides much faster upload and download speeds. Whereas the former can support more LAN devices.
Data Transmission Speed
Although this is not a concern to regular users, for raw data transfer, the MB8611 is capable of up to 6000 Mbps speed, while the MB8600 maxes out at 3800 Mbps.
Wired Speed
Without a doubt, the Motorola MB8611 excels when it comes to the raw performance of its multi-gigabit ethernet port. Moreover, it also ensures minimal latency with its active queue management system. Although the difference is not significant, the Motorola MB8600 does slightly fall back in terms of performance.
With the key differences out of our way, the following section will cover a list of the pros and cons of both devices. Keep reading and be the judge of which is the better modem!
Which One Should I Get?
The price difference between the Motorola MB8600 and the Motorola MB8611 is not too much. But the differences in their features set them apart for different application scenarios. So, which one should you get?
Let’s start with narrowing down the potential consumers of the MB8600.
If you have to connect multiple static IPs and need to connect a WiFi router, a game station, etc., to it, your only option would be the MB8600 as the other model has only 1 ethernet port. It also excels in cases where multiple ISPs are used together.
The MB8600 is also the ideal choice for larger scale setups, e.g., in cases where you would have to set up a big LAN coverage, such as a dorm room. It is also ideal for online gaming as it does not slack in performance.
On the other hand, the MB8611 can give you much better internet speeds. It is ideal for corporate purposes where a high rate of data transfer is required. Moreover, the model also ensures minimal streaming latency.
But since it has just 1 port, the number of devices that can be connected is strictly limited. Also, for regular users, the price difference between the two models may not seem justified.
In simple words, the true power of the MB8611 can only be seen when ISPs offer gigabit internet services, which will definitely take time as people still rely on 100mbps and 150mbps connections.
Other Factors to Consider
One of the biggest drawbacks of the Motorola MB8600 is its 1Gbps ethernet port. As faster internet speeds are becoming more and more common, the 1Gbps limit will seem to be slow in no time. Some ISPs are already offering 1200+ MBPS connections, meaning that the device becomes obsolete despite having the technology.
Another problem that most users face is that the link aggregation support is quite difficult to avail. Technical knowledge is required to set it up, and users often end up messing up their internet access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Motorola model routers good?
Motorola modems are highly compatible with major cable internet providers. Even their low-priced models can produce powerful signals capable of penetrating walls. Also, the overall internet speed and user convenience are much better than most routers out there. Their offered price is quite unbeatable in the market.
Do I need a router with Motorola MB8600?
Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem is compatible with WiFi routers of most brands.
How long do Motorola modems last?
Depending on your usage and maintenance, you can expect up to 5 years lifetime before the model needs replacement.
How do I reset my Motorola MB8600?
Locate the Reset button on the back of your modem. Press and hold the button for 30 seconds, and then release it. That should reset the system. It will remove the configuration and start a fresh connection from the ISP.
Is the Motorola MB8611 compatible with Comcast Xfinity?
Along with Cox Charter Spectrum services, the model is also compatible with Comcast Xfinity.
Which is better, MB8611 or MB8600?
In terms of speed, MB8611 leads the race with its 2.5Gbps of ethernet port speed, which assures much better performance for its faster speeds. For multiple ports, MB8600 is the winner.
WRAPPING UP
Both Motorola MB8600 and MB8611 modems are great choices for those who need the DOCSIS 3.1 high speed internet. But some of us have budget constraints, personal preference over one another, choice of the internet speed allocation, etc.
So, accumulating all the facts together, both modems are good. Especially the new DOCSIS 3.1 standard is common in both modems, which will make them future proof.
If you want to get the highest speed and don’t care much about connectivity and ports, Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 is the clear winner here. For price and multiple ports connectivity, the MB8600 model stands out to be the best even compared with other modems in its class.
I hope this in-depth article on Motorola MB8600 vs MB8611 was able to give you some great insights. Determine your preference and budget to make the right buying decision.
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