Combining a modem and router into a single device makes for less clutter (simplifies) your home or business/office network.
But more importantly, it's an easy path to escaping your DSL internet provider's modem/router monthly rental fee. Sure, the cost of a modem router combo might seem high than the rental fee, but it will surely pay for itself along the way.
This post will guide you through the basics of finding the best DSL modem router combo for your unique needs.
We\ve done a lot of analysis and comparisons between different modem-routers and settled on the following the top-rated models available on the market today.
Best DSL Modem Router Combo Reviews:
1. Motorola MG7700 24×8 Cable Modem Plus WiFi Gigabit Router
This is a great unit that comes with a sleek and compact build. It combines an AC1900 dual-band WiFi router with a DOCSIS 3.0 24×8 channel cable modem to allow you to simplify your network and enjoy high-speed internet.
The integrated cable modem is built for high performance. It works with high speed internet plans up to 400Mbps. And works with the top cable internet providers, including Xfinity by Comcast, Cox, and others.
It also features an equally high-performance router with dual-band WiFi capabilities to ensure you can connect more devices without slowing down your home WiFi.
With this router, you never have to worry about the limited WiFi range in your home. It comes with 3internal antennas with Anybeam technology to help enhance your wireless network range.
Additionally, it features PowerBoost technology, which amplifies your WiFi signal to the legal limit allowed in the US. These two technologies come together to provide you with the fastest, most robust technology over a really wide area.
The device comes equipped with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports to let you directly connect your Ethernet-enabled devices for faster wireless internet. It also features a Broadcom chipset to help boost the security of your network against unauthorized users.
With its compact design, this modem router will help you save space in your home. Its vertical design looks good in your home or office. The included rugged, lightning, and power surge circuits help keep your investment protected.
Highlighted features:- Supports IPv4 and IPv6
- Equipped with 3 internal antennas
- Compact, space-saving design
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Features Broadcom modem chipset
2. Netgear N300 WiFi DSL Modem Router (DGN2200)
This modem router from Netgear is ideal for both professional and personal internet use. It offers you Wireless-N internet speeds for online gaming, simultaneous downloads, voice, and music.
It comes complete with a built-in DSL modem that works with all major DSL internet service providers.
This modem router also boasts exceptional wireless capabilities. It supports 802.11 ac standard and 5G connectivity for faster and more robust wireless connections. It also comes equipped with beamforming+ technology to let you enjoy faster WiFi in your home or premises.
You'll love that this unit presents you with amazing customization capabilities, such as parental controls, access controls, etc., which you can easily regulate through the easy to use Netgear Genie App.
The Netgear modem router combo also comes updated with advanced network security implementations plus intrusion prevention systems to keep unauthorized access at bay. The integrated WPS function ensures your devices enjoy easy and secure connections.
Setting up this unit is fast and easy, thanks to the included smart wizard CD with a user-friendly graphical installation guide.
Highlighted features:- Built-in DSL modem
- Provides Wireless-N speed
- ReadySHARE for fast, easy sharing of files
- Dual-band WiFi capability
- Data transfer rates: up to 300Mbps
- Automatic Quality of Service (AQS)
- Features multiple USB ports
- Supports beamforming+ technology
3. TP-Link Archer D7 Wireless Gigabit ADSL2+ Modem Router
This is the best DSL router modem combo for you if you want something that offers you extended range coverage. It yields really powerful AC signals that reach all the corners of your house, ensuring excellent network coverage even for the biggest households. It even lets you connect multiple devices to your network without slowing the connection.
One of the key features of this unit is the4 gigabit Ethernet ports (a LAN/WAN port plus 3 gigabit LAN ports). These collectively qualify this unit for heavy traffic users who require reliable connections for demanding tasks like HD video streaming, online gaming, torrenting, conference calls, and more.
It also comes equipped with Acrher D7 dual functionality USB 2.0 ports to help you easily share resources like printers with other devices on the network. Sharing of files and media is also pretty easy with these ports.
Previous users of this modem router love it for its robust security and high power efficiency. The separate guest network access further ensures a secure network.
Because this combo unit comes with an optimized configuration, you'll have an easy time setting it up in your home network. Its auto-detection intelligent feature automatically determines the connect connection type without requiring you to enter any connection details.
Highlighted features:4. MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2+ Modem + WiFi AC1600 Gigabit Router
This is a great modem/router option if you want to subscribe to the ADSL and VDSL services. It comes in a sleek body while offering you reliable performance, so you never have to complain about slow and unreliable networks again.
It features a built-in VDSL and ADSL modem. It's designed to work with all DSL speed packages. And it works with a variety of top DSL services providers, including Frontier, TDS telecom, Fairpoint, Windstream, and CenturyLink.
Like the other top-rated models on this list, this Motorola comes with up to 4 Ethernet ports to supply your devices with faster and stable wired connections.
You'll also appreciate that the minds behind this modem router put your network security and privacy as a top priority. This is evident from the device's firewall, WPA & WPA2 security, and Virtual Private Network (VPN) capability. Aside from that, it also supports IPv4 and IPv6.
Tied to this combo unit is a single band router that supports speeds of up to 100Mbps for your WiFi and Ethernet devices. The unit allows you to plug in a USB storage device to the USB 2.0 port for NAS (Network Attached Storage) supporting DLNA media sharing.
Regarding the design, this modem router has a space-saving design and will occupy pretty little shelf space. It's also incredibly easy to set up, thanks to the included quick start guide. The manufacturer's well-versed US-based customer support is always at your help if you need them.
Highlighted features:- Compatible with major DSL providers
- Integrates AC1600 WiFi Gigabit router
- Includes 4 Gig-E ports
- For USB 2.0 host port for NAS
5. NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 VDSL/ADSL Modem Router
Halfway our list of top DSL modem router reviews, we have another highly reliable modem cum router from Netgear. This a great option if you want to enjoy crazy high internet speeds of up to 1.9Gbps!
The modem cable integrated into this router supports ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+ and VDSL/VDSL2 types of services. And is compatible with the most popular internet service providers in the US.
It also integrates a modern router designed to offer you buffer-free gaming and streaming experience with its powerful dual-core processor. It offers you blazing speeds of up to 1.9 gigabits per second in addition to advanced QoS (Quality of service) to ensure you have a stable throughout.
The router utilizes high-power amplifiers, antennas, and beamforming+ technology to extend the coverage of your home network, eliminating the frustrating dead spots for good.
Sharing across your network just got easy with this modem router! It comes equipped with Ready SHARE USB functionality to let you wirelessly access and share content on the connected USB drive, wireless printers, etc. you can share just anything, from stored photos, music, streaming media, wireless printing, and so on.
You can start enjoying the cool features that come with this device in no time, thanks to its easy and straightforward installation and setup. You can easily manage your network remotely using NETGEAR's Genie app.
Highlighted features:- Up to 1.9Gbps data transfer rates
- Supports WEP, WPA, WPA2-PSK security protocols
- Compatible with top DSL service providers
- Dual-core processor for enhanced wireless performance
- Comes with 2 USB ports
- Beamforming+ technology extends wireless range
6. Zyxel C1100Z 802.11n VDSL2 Wireless Gateway
The Zyxel wireless gateway provides you with a reliable connection with a DSL service provider of your choice. As a combo unit, it comes with an N300 WiFi router to let multiple users connect wirelessly.
One of the top features you'll get when you order this wireless gateway involves remote management support to let CenturyLink remotely access the WiFi router. It comes integrated with CPE WAN management protocol, designed by Broadband Forum, to enable your ISP and modem to communicate with each other smoothly.
With this device, you'll also get up to 4 Ethernet ports to let your devices enjoy faster and uninterrupted wired connections. You can trust this unit to deliver wireless speeds of up to 300Mbps, translating to lag-free gaming and streaming experience.
Don't forget that the router can support multiple devices without slowing down the connection.
The device comes in a vertical compact design which not only looks great in your home but also helps save space. And since it combines the router and modem in a single box, it also helps simplify your network.
The built-in dual firewalls will give you peace of mind knowing that no intruders or unauthorized users can easily access your network.
Highlighted features:- Supports 802.11n technology
- 5dBl antennas for extended range
- Duilt-in dual firewalls for security
- Ethernet ports for wired connections
- Remote management support
7. Zoom Telephonics ADSL WiFi Modem/Router
Zoom Telephonics ADSL WiFi modem router offers you an all-in-one solution for accessing the internet and sharing the connection among all the wireless and wired devices in your home or office.
The modem-router comes equipped with a total of 4 Ethernet ports plus 802.11n wireless technology to provide you with internet access for as many as 253 internet devices, including computers, smart TVs, tablets, and more.
In terms of performance, this modem/router can support up to 27 downstream rates and up to 2.7Mbps upstream coming from your DSL service provider. Moreover, the device is compatible with ADSL 2/2+, allowing your devices to access faster ADSL speeds.
Because it supports IPv4 and IPv6, it also offers you flexible WAN addressing.
This built-in cable modem can work as ADSL, ADSL 2+, or Annex M modem. It's compatible with the most popular US-based DSL service providers.
You'll easily set up this device using any web browser. And once set up, it brings to play wireless security, firewall, DoS protection, and other advanced security features to help safeguard your network.
In case you already have a modem, you can easily configure this device to work as a router only. The intuitive graphical user interface lets you easily and quickly configure this modem router as a bridge.
Highlighted features:8. NETGEAR DGND3700 ADSL Modem Router
We also rate this Netgear wireless dual band gigabit modem router as the best DSL wireless modem. It sports a powerful dual core processor to ensure you get a robust and reliable network.
The modem router combo offers you concurrent dual band technology to help minimize slow speeds associated with wireless networks and ensure top speeds. This makes it an ideal combo unit for the most demanding applications, like streaming HD video, multiplayer gaming, and more.
We also can't fail to mention that this device facilitates easy sharing of storage and resources such as a printer. This is made possible by the two USB ports for ReadySHARE USB storage, which let you enjoy fast and easy shared access to external USB storage devices.
Other great features include live parental controls for a safe internet experience, guest network access to offer separate access and access restriction for guests using your network, secured push n connect, and broadband usage meter.
Installating this modem router is probably the easiest part. You simply connect it to your PC and open a browser of your choice to install it. The device works with all major ADSL internet service providers.
Highlighted features:9. Linksys X2000 Wireless-N Router with ADSL2+ Modem
The X200 wireless modem router takes up the second last spot on our DSL modem router reviews. The hi-tech device offers you a reliable way to connect to the internet without necessarily using a separate router and modem devices. It lets you securely connect all your WiFi-enabled devices, including computers, printers, and more.
The combo comes with a built-in DSL modem with a DSL jack to let you directly connect to a DSL internet and get connected to the internet.
We also like that this router/modem is built to deliver reliable wireless coverage at high speeds of up to 300Mbps. It comes armed with802.11n wireless technology to ensure a powerful wireless network and a reliable range. You'll appreciate the MIMO antenna technology that offers broad coverage and ensure you can enjoy a fast wireless network anywhere in your house.
Managing your network becomes an easy task with this Linksys X200 router/modem combo. It lets you easily create a guest network access account, use parental controls to limit access time and filter web content, measure your connection speed with a broadband speed meter, easily access advanced network settings, perform regular automated update checks.
Your network security is also well taken care of in this router modem. It offers you advanced security features such as WPA2 wireless encryption and an integrated firewall to help keep your network protected from hackers and other unauthorized users.
Highlighted features:10. Actiontec Verizon DSL Wireless N Modem and Router
The Wireless N modem router closes our list of the top-rated DSL modem router combos. It's one of the best-performing models from Actiontec's feature-filled DSL modems. Equipped with wireless N technology, this unit will offer you a highly reliable wireless network in your home.
One of the features that make this combo a great option for you involves the built-in 802.11n technology. This allows you to connect at high speeds of up to 300Mbps, which makes up to 6x faster than the previous generations' top speeds. Keep in mind that this wireless technology is fully backward compatible, so all your older devices will seamlessly connect with this modem router.
It also boasts smart MIMO antenna technology, which helps extend the range of your wireless signal while at the same time getting rid of those dead spots in your home network coverage.
The built-in DSL modem supports ADSL2+ with excellent speeds of up to 24Mbps downstream to support IPTV services.
The combo will also ensure your network stays secure and free from attacks by hackers as it comes equipped with WPA/WPA2 wireless encryption in addition to a fully customizable firewall. The included parental control function will help you filter web content for your young ones.
Above all, this modem router combo is designed for quick and set up, so you'll have your broadband connection up and running in a matter of minutes.
Highlighted features:- 300Mbps high speed internet
- Full-rate ADSL 2/2+ modem
- Built-in 802.11n technology
- Supports WPA\WPA2 wireless encryption
- High-grade firewall boosts network security
- MIMO smart antenna for increased range
What Is A DSL Modem Router Combo?
A DSL modem router combo simply refers to a device in which both the modem and router are built into a single unit.
If you plan to use DSL internet services in your home, then you need to have both a modem and a router.
The work of a DSL modem is to connect to the internet through a telephone cable, where analog internet signals get transmitted through the telephone lines and into your house.
Once the signals reach your house, the analog signals then get converted into digital internet signals that your internet devices can understand. The conversion of these signals from analog to digital is known as demodulation. The same modem also modulates the signals from your internet devices to the internet (i.e., digital to analog signals).
A router then connects to the modem to help supply the internet signals to the rest of your internet devices, including computers, tablets, smart TVs. It can do so through wired Ethernet cables or wirelessly through WiFi.
Thus, a DSL modem router combo offers both the functions of a modem and router...it connects to your telephone line internet and uses the built-in router to supply all the internet devices in your home.
Why Get A DSL Modem Router Combo?
Buying the best DSL wireless modem router combo comes with a couple of benefits that we'll quickly outline below for you...
Helps you save money
One of the mains reasons why you should consider getting a modem router combo is that it helps you save money. DSL service providers usually give out their modem and routers at a monthly fee.
Getting your modem router device can help you save on this rental fee. While buying a device may seem expensive than renting at first, it will surely pay for itself over time. Additionally, buying a combo unit might help you save some cash compared to buying a separate router and modem.
Helps you save space
Another top benefit of buying a combo unit I that it helps reduce clutter and simplify your network.
Unlike in the case of a separate router and modem where you'll be installing two devices, a combo unit means you'll be installing a single device in your home or office and save space. Modern combo devices feature a compact, vertical design which further meets your space-saving needs.
Easier installation and setup
A combo unit is much easier to set up than a separate modem and router. You have one less line and device to worry about.
You will be dealing with fewer lines and cables, use only one power outlet, and do the configuration for only one device. Also, a single device means you'll be troubleshooting a single device when your internet runs into problems.
As a beginner, you'll find the combo units easier to install and setup as you won't need to get into advanced router settings.
Enhanced compatibility
This one is closely tied to our previous benefit...when you're dealing with a modem cum router device, you're simply dealing with a single device, and you'll likely zero compatibility issues.
When you have fewer compatibility issues, you'll experience a smooth and fast configuration and troubleshooting process.
ISPs control updates
Using a combo unit also means giving up some control of the network equipment to your ISP. They will get to decide the perfect software for your combo unit.
The DSL service providers can also push firmware updates they believe will works best for your unit, based on customer feedback and known security threats.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A DSL Modem Router Combo?
In this section, we'll outline the key factors to consider when getting your first DSL modem router combo.
Type of DSL
The DSL internet services are offered in three main types. It's important to keep in mind what type of DSL service your ISP provides to ensure you get a modem router compatible that's compatible with the service.
The three main types of DSL services include:
- ADSL: ADSL stands for Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line and is the most sued type of DSL service. It offers you way better upload than download speed. This DSL was later upgraded to ADSL2 and ADSL2+
- VDSL: this is a Very High Digital Subscriber Line. It's is the fastest of all the DSL connections and can offer you downstream speeds rated at up to 60Mbps.
- SDSL: An abbreviation for Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line, the SDSL offers you the same downstream and upstream speeds. This makes it the best option for business.
Internet Service Provider (ISP) compatibility
You also need to keep in mind that not all ISPs provide DSL services. Also, not all ISPs that provide DSL services will let you use your own modem/router device.
So, make sure to contact your service provider to know if they'll let you use the new device. If they give you the go-ahead, be sure to buy the right one that's compatible with their services.
WiFi standard
We also advise you to check the WiFi standard that comes with your unit's built-in router.
The latest modem/routers feature either wireless N or wireless AC speeds. The former (wireless 802.11n) came out in 2007 while the latter (802.11ac) came out later on in 2013.
The wireless AC offers you higher speeds of up to2600Mbps and has better features and capabilities than wireless N technology, making it more popular.
For wireless N, you can expect speeds of up to 450Mbps. It still enjoys wide usage due to its reasonable price point.
Internet speed
You'll also need to take into account the internet speeds supported by the modem router you choose. We've just mentioned above the expected data transfer rates for various WiFi standards, so we won't go into that again.
However, keep in mind that the internet speed depends on your ISP and the device in use. In other words, it's unlikely you enjoy the actual rate advertised for the router modem you buy.
Security and privacy
Hackers are always on the move looking for their next target, and you don't want to be their target. It's important to ensure that the modem router combo you go with comes equipped with the latest in security technology to ensure no unauthorized users can access your files.
Ensure the built-in router features the latest wireless security encryptions (WEP and WPA/WPA2) for the maximum security of your wireless network. A modem with Broadcom chipset also enhance your network
Additional features that enhance your security and privacy, including a guest access network, which lets you create a separate network for your guests and parental controls to let you filter web content.
- Ethernet ports: a modem router combo with Ethernet ports will let you directly connect your devices to it for faster and more stable wired internet connections.
- Antennas: antennas help increase your wireless signal range. The more antennas, the better. Amplified antennas work even better. And flexible antennas let you easily adjust them to get the best signal reception.
- Beamforming technology: this helps boost your wireless network signal, so it reaches the farthest end of your house and eliminate dead zones.
- File sharing: look for a modem/router with USB files that allow for easy sharing of files and storage across your home or business network.
Additional features:
Q: How do I know if a DSL modem router is compatible with my ISP?Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I boost my DSL WiFi signal?The simplest way to find out if your combo unit will work with the ISP of your choice is to look up the ISP's website for info on the compatible modems. Alternatively, you can make a call to them and ask them whether your modem will work with their DSL services.
- Using a WiFi booster/extender
- Ensure the Ethernet cable is connected to the right port (labeled WAN or internet)
- Use power line adapters to amplify the connection
- Change the wireless channel
- Switch from single to the dual-band, if your device allows
- Ensure your device's configuration matches what your ISP requires
The easiest way to boost your DSL wireless signal to centrally position the modem router so that the signal can be spread evenly. Other ways you can boost your WiFi signal include:
Final VerdictAbsolutely! You need up to 5Mbps download speed for you to enjoy Netflix in your home. Even the most basic DSL modem router unit can deliver such data transfer rates, making DSL is 100% suitable for use with Netflix.
While a DSL modem is designed to work with a landline or telephone line to connect to the internet, the cable modem is designed to connect to a cable box to supply your home with internet.
A modem router combo gives you a chance to save money, simplify your network, and save space in your home or office. We have just offered you some of the best DSL modem router combo units you can find on the market today to help you enjoy all the benefits that come with this type of device. Grab one of these devices today and enjoy faster DSL internet in your home without worrying about paying your ISP rental fee for modem/router every month.
