The two most popular multi-gigabit cable modems on the market, the Motorola MB8611, and the Netgear CM2000 are almost identical in terms of their specifications. However, the Netgear CM2000 is notably more expensive than its counterpart. The difference lies within reliability and efficiency in design.
Since the technical specifications are so similar, you could easily find yourself confused between the two. Thus I’m comparing the Motorola MB8611 vs Netgear CM2000 to precisely pick out the differences and help you make the right choice.
To properly differentiate the two, we will need to go beyond just the hardware specs. I will run the comparison based on my personal experiences and tests on the products.
So, stick around till the end of this extensive comparison to find your ideal pick.
Motorola MB8611 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gig Cable Modem | Supports Any Router | Compatible for Tds, Comcast Xfinity Gigabit, Cox Gigablast, Spectrum, and More | 2.5Gbps Ethernet Port. | NETGEAR Nighthawk CM2000 | Compatible ISPs: Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, RCN, Optimum, Suddenlink, Mediacom, Sparklight, and WOW! |
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Table of Contents
Motorola MB8611 vs Netgear CM2000 – Comparison Table
Motorola MB8611 | Netgear CM2000 | |
Tech | DOCSIS 3.1 | DOCSIS 3.1 |
Channels | 32 x 8 | 32 x 8 |
Speeds | Up to 2.5 Gigabits | Up to 2.5 Gigabits |
Ports | 1 Multi-gigabit port | 1 Multi-gigabit port |
Link Aggregation | No | No |
Dimensions | 7.25 x 2.25 x 7.88 inches | 6.8 x 3.7 x 8.2 inches |
Design | Mesh side panels, slim body | Matte hard plastic, tall body |
Key Differences
As I’ve stated earlier, almost all of the specs between the two are identical. So, i will use my test results to differentiate the two cable modems.
Ethernet Ports and Wired Connectivity
Both of these cable modems feature only one multi-gigabit Ethernet port, which is capable of delivering speeds of up to 2.5 gigabits.
Since these only feature one LAN port, you will have to use a Wi-Fi router to be able to use other wired and wireless devices in your house. However, after connecting to a router, the Motorola MB8611 had a higher ping (response time) than the Netgear CM2000.
I did a bit of research as to why this happens, and it turns out it’s because of the poor firmware optimization on the Motorola modem. It struggles to rapidly process the data sent back from the Wi-Fi router, thus the delay occurs.
We could hope for a software update to fix it, but the last update was received a long time ago, so I wouldn’t say there’s much hope.
Ping matters the most during online games, web browsing, and high-resolution media streaming. However, gaming is what gets affected the most. So, if you are into online multiplayer games, you should consider the Netgear CM2000 more than its counterpart.
Design
The design of the two DOCSIS 3.1 supported modems is the most obvious differentiating factor. In terms of size, shape, aesthetics, and form factor, these two are vastly different.
The Motorola MB8611 features a more simple and minimal design. With its rounded corners, meshed side panels, and relatively small footprint, it easily blends in with the surrounding. It has colorful LED indicators on the front, which look really modern.
On the other hand, the Netgear CM2000 goes for a more futuristic look with its edgy design. It’s also quite larger than the Motorola and has a lot more edges and angles around the chassis. It has white LED indicators but logos don’t look attractive. This modem will definitely stand out in the room.
For me, I preferred Motorola’s design as it can fit in well with almost any desk and room setup. It also takes up less space, and the color complements the aesthetic theme. However, the choice is completely up to you.
Heat Dissipation
Here we see another notable difference between the two devices. The Motorola MB8611 has mesh side panels, which allow better air passage, resulting in better heat dissipation. In my tests, it stayed relatively cool even during heavy network activity.
On the other hand, the Netgear CM2000 has a solid chassis all around. There are very few gaps in the body. So, the modem did get warm under pressure. But there weren’t any performance issues.
Heat dissipation is especially important for these multi-gigabit modems. High speed data transfers will heat up the processor. So, keeping the modem cool is necessary for longevity.
Price
The price difference of the Motorola MB8611 and the Netgear CM2000 is probably the biggest deal-breaker for most people. Motorola’s modem is priced at $179, whereas the Netgear modem is priced at $277. Almost a $100 price gap.
Netgear CM2000’s higher price is quite hard to justify as the Motorola modem provides almost the same features and specs at a significantly lower price. So, if you’re on a budget, then we’d suggest you just go for the Motorola MB8611.
However, as I’ve talked about the latency issue, if you are a serious gamer and you want the most stable internet connection, spending that extra money and getting the Netgear CM2000 could be worth it for you.
Key Similarities Between Motorola MB8611 and Netgear CM2000
Even with such a significant price difference, most of the specifications between the two are similar.
Hardware and Technology
Since both of these have the same maximum speed of 2.5 gigabits, they use the same multi-gigabit processor, the BCM3390V. It is the upgraded version of the BCM3390, which is used in other modems that are 1 gigabit or lower such as the Netgear CM1000 and CM1200.
To support such high internet speeds, both of these modems support DOCSIS 3.1. They also feature backward compatibility with DOCSIS 3.0, ensuring maximum ISP coverage. However, to fully take advantage of multi-gigabit speeds, your ISP needs to support DOCSIS 3.1.
Both of the modems support the latest internet technologies such as IPv6. More similar features include low power mode, low latency mode, and turbo modes for gaming.
ISP Compatibility
With DOCSIS backward compatibility, these modems are eligible for most major cable providers, and both of them are certified by Comcast Xfinity.
They also support high-speed internet plans from Cox and Spectrum as well as other similar ISPs. However, it is important to note that not all ISPs deliver 2.5-gigabit plans. If you want to enjoy those speeds, look for an ISP that provides multi-gigabit plans.
Pros and Cons of Motorola MB8611
Pros
- Supports multi-gigabit internet plans
- DOCSIS 3.1 backward compatibility up to DOCSIS 1.1
- Clean and minimal design
- Retains safe temperatures
- Considerably cheaper high-speed modem
Cons
- Higher latency while gaming
Pros and Cons of Netgear CM2000
Pros
- Single Ethernet port support speeds of up to 2.5 gigabits
- Stable and reliable connection
- DOCSIS 3.1 backward compatibility up to DOCSIS 3.0
- Attractive and stand-out design
- Low latency gaming
Cons
- Tends to get warm under load
Who Should Buy the Motorola MB8611?
If I take into consideration the pros and cons of the Motorola MB8611, it would be ideal for:
- A budget-oriented high-speed cable modem
- Wide range of ISP support
- Multi-gigabit internet speeds
- A minimal and aesthetic appearance
- Homes with multiple wireless devices with heavy network load
Who Should Buy the Netgear CM2000?
Even though it’s more expensive while offering the same features, there are certain buyers for the CM2000. It would be the right pick for you if:
- You want the most stable, reliable, and solid internet connection
- Playing games competitively is something that you do
- You don’t need to connect your modem to multiple wired devices
- Your ISP provides speeds of up to 2.5 gigabits
- Budget isn’t a concern for you
WRAPPING UP
Both of these devices perform extremely similar to each other, and the performance is great for both of them. However, if you’re looking to play online games, or do work that requires low latency, go for the Netgear CM2000.
But if you don’t do any of those, you’re better off saving some money, get the Motorola MB8611.
With that said, I hope this comparison on Motorola MB8611 vs Netgear CM2000 will help you figure out the best choice for you.
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