When comparing ZOOM 343 Mbps DOCSIS 3.0 8X4 Cable Modem (Model 5341J) vs NETGEAR CM600 Cable Modem, the Slant community recommends NETGEAR CM600 Cable Modem for most people. In the question“What are the best cable modems?” NETGEAR CM600 Cable Modem is ranked 2nd while ZOOM 343 Mbps DOCSIS 3.0 8X4 Cable Modem (Model 5341J) is ranked 3rd. The most important reason people chose NETGEAR CM600 Cable Modem is:
There are several benefits to modems that support DOCSIS 3.0. For starters, due to 24 download and 8 upload channels the NETGEAR CM600 can handle network congestion much better. Additionally, DOCSIS 3.0 enables this modem to combine multiple channels together into a single data stream. All in all, the NETGEAR CM600 is capable of supporting internet plans up to 250 Mbps, without any issues.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Easy configuration
Setting up the ZOOM Cable Modem is fairly easy. Simply attach a coaxial cable and ethernet cable to the ZOOM. After you have opened up a web browser to register the modem you are ready to go.
Pro Great warranty
A fantastic feature of the Zoom Cable Modem is that comes with a 2 year warranty. Zoom will either repair or replace the modem during the warranty period.
Pro Works with the biggest ISP's
While the ZOOM features limited support with smaller ISP's, major ISP's such as COMCAST, TWC, COX do support the ZOOM Cable Modem. As a result, you have some flexibility when choosing your ISP if you are in an area with several options.
Pro Support for DOCSIS 3.0
There are several benefits to modems that support DOCSIS 3.0. For starters, due to 24 download and 8 upload channels the NETGEAR CM600 can handle network congestion much better. Additionally, DOCSIS 3.0 enables this modem to combine multiple channels together into a single data stream. All in all, the NETGEAR CM600 is capable of supporting internet plans up to 250 Mbps, without any issues.
Pro Compatible with most ISP's
The major ISP's do support the NETGEAR CM600 and it is likely others do as well. This provides the owner great flexibility when choosing their ISP.
Pro Great modem for futureproofing
The NETGEAR CM600 features 16 downstream channels. As such, plans that are over 150 Mbps will really be able to take advantage of this router. This router can definitely be used down the road when even faster plans become available.
Cons
Con Noticeably more heat
Several personal reviews have complained about how hot this machine runs. In most cases, when a replacement was requested the new unit had no issues.
Con Reduced compatability with various ISP's
While the major ISP's do support this modem, reduced compatibility means limited flexibility when choosing alternative ISP's.
Con Poor Warranty
The NETGEAR CM600 features a limited 1 year warranty. For the price the warranty should be at least 2 years if not more.
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