The Motorola MB8600 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem, catering to customers seeking high-speed internet connectivity without the additional burden of rental fees. This review delves into its features, performance, and overall value, providing a comprehensive analysis for those considering the MB8600 as their next modem purchase.
Quick Verdict
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
The Motorola MB8600 DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem is one of the best cable modems on the market. With support for multi-gigabit download speeds up to 6 Gbps, the MB8600 future-proofs your home network. The MB8600 is easy to set up out of the box and pairs seamlessly with a separate Wi-Fi router, mesh system, or ethernet switch.
If you need a reliable cable modem that delivers blazing-fast speeds, this Motorola modem is an excellent choice.
Pros and Cons
What We Liked
- High-Speed Internet Capability: Supports multi-gigabit speed tiers, ideal for Gigabit internet plans.
- Cost-Efficient: Eliminates rental fees, saving users an average of $168 per year.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with major service providers like Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum.
- DOCSIS 3.1 and 3.0 Support: Ensures top internet speeds for all cable services.
- Flexible Connectivity: Compatible with any Wi-Fi router and includes a 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet port.
- Proactive Network Security: Features a Broadcom chipset for advanced security.
- Active Queue Management (AQM): Reduces internet latency, enhancing online gaming and video conferencing experiences.
- 2 year warranty
What Can be Improved
- No Built-in Wi-Fi: Requires a separate router for wireless connectivity.
- Limited to One Ethernet Port: Only supports a single device connection via Ethernet.
- Compatibility Restrictions: Not suitable for fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services.
- Expensive upfront cost
- No telephone jacks for voice service
- Not compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services
See also: Choosing Between ARRIS SB8200 vs. Motorola MB8600: Which is Best?
Unboxing – What’s Inside?
The Motorola MB8600 comes neatly packed in a compact box. Inside the box you get:
- Motorola MB8600 cable modem
- Power adapter
- Ethernet cable
- Quick start guide
- 2 year warranty information
Specifications
- Dimensions: 7.25″L x 2.25″W x 7.88″H
- Weight: 1.09 ounces
- Connectivity Technology: Cable
- Ethernet Ports: 1 (10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet)
- DOCSIS: 3.1 and 3.0 32×8 capabilities
- Max download speeds: 6 Gbps
- Max upload speeds: 1 Gbps
Documentation/User Guide
- Quick Start Guide
- Safety and Warranty Information
Features – What We Found
Easy Plug-and-Play Setup
Setting up the MB8600 takes just a few minutes. Simply connect the coaxial cable from your cable provider to the modem input, plug in the power cable, and use the included ethernet cable to connect to your router or computer. That’s all there is to it!
The modem automatically configures itself to work with internet plans up to 6 Gbps. You just need to contact your cable provider to register the MB8600 with your account.
Future-Proof for Multi-Gigabit Speeds
With 32 downstream channels, 8 upstream channels, and DOCSIS 3.1 support, this Motorola modem can handle internet speeds well beyond the typical cable plans available today.
Most cable operators offer maximum download speeds up to 1 Gbps. But the MB8600 gives you plenty of headroom to take advantage of faster multi-gigabit plans as they become available.
Gigabit Ethernet Port
The MB8600 provides one Gigabit (10/100/1000) Ethernet port to connect to your router or computer. While the peak transfer rate is 1 Gbps, this modem can achieve well over 1 Gbps total throughput across all channels.
Certified for Major Cable Providers
Motorola’s MB8600 is certified compatible with Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and most other cable providers. Just be aware that it is not compatible with fiber, DSL, or satellite internet services.
Robust Security
Integrated security features on the Broadcom chipset protect your home network against denial of service attacks. The MB8600 also supports WPA3 encryption when paired with a compatible Wi-Fi router.
Enhanced Quality of Service
Advanced queue management (AQM) capabilities reduce latency while gaming, streaming, video calls, and using bandwidth-heavy applications. This results in a smoother internet experience overall.
Concluding Thoughts
The Motorola MB8600 is one of the best DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems money can buy right now. It delivers reliable connectivity and multi-gigabit speeds to help future-proof your home or office network. We think it’s a smart investment for several reasons:
- Saves up to $15 per month by eliminating cable modem rental fees
- Easy plug-and-play installation with any router
- Supports current gigabit plans and faster speeds down the road
- Robust security and advanced QoS features
- 2 year product warranty for peace of mind
If you need a high performance modem to keep up with faster cable internet speeds, the MB8600 fits the bill nicely. We highly recommend this future-ready model from Motorola.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MB8600 compatible with my ISP?
It’s approved for Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum, but not compatible with fiber optic, DSL, or satellite services.
Does this modem include a Wi-Fi router?
No, it does not have a built-in Wi-Fi router. You need to connect it to a separate router for wireless connectivity.
Can I connect multiple devices to the MB8600?
While it has only one Ethernet port for direct connection, multiple devices can be connected when paired with a Wi-Fi router.
What is the significance of DOCSIS 3.1?
DOCSIS 3.1 allows for higher internet speeds and greater efficiency, especially beneficial for Gigabit internet plans.
Are there any additional security features?
Yes, the modem includes a Broadcom chipset for enhanced security against denial-of-service attacks.
How does the AQM feature benefit me?
AQM (Active Queue Management) reduces internet latency, which enhances the experience of online gaming, video conferencing, and web browsing.
Will I save money using this modem?
Yes, by eliminating modem rental fees, users can save an average of $168 per year, depending on the ISP.
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