4.2Editor score
In this guide
A modem with telephony can combine cable internet service with traditional home phone lines, making it useful for Xfinity customers who want internet and voice in one box. The right model must support your provider, service tier, telephone features, and chosen WiFi arrangement while avoiding unnecessary equipment and compatibility surprises.
This guide compares ten cable modems based on telephony support, DOCSIS generation, maximum plan compatibility, Ethernet and phone ports, WiFi capabilities, and provider restrictions. It also distinguishes dedicated voice models from faster internet-only options, because high download speed alone does not guarantee that a modem can provide telephone service.
Each review explains where the modem fits, highlights the most useful capabilities, and calls out limitations such as provider lock-in, bundled-voice exclusions, or the need for a separate router. Ratings and product details reflect the supplied listings, while availability and service conditions can change as providers update supported equipment.
Top 3 Picks for Best Modem with Telephony
4.1Editor score
4.0Editor score
Top 10 Best Modem with Telephony in 2026 Compared
The table below compares all ten modems, emphasizing telephone support first, followed by DOCSIS capability, wired connections, WiFi, and provider restrictions. Products explicitly limited to internet-only service are included to clarify why they may not suit a buyer searching specifically for telephony.
1. ARRIS SURFboard SBV3202 – Best Budget Telephony Modem
The ARRIS SURFboard SBV3202 is a dedicated Xfinity cable modem with telephony support, earning a 4.2 rating in the supplied data. Its DOCSIS 3.0 platform is established and broadly available, while its two telephony ports make it a practical option for households that still want traditional Xfinity Voice service.
Pros
- Direct Xfinity voice support
- Two telephone connections
- Simple app-guided activation
- Supports 800Mbps plans
Cons
- No integrated WiFi
- Limited to Xfinity voice
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The strongest attraction is its focused combination of internet and phone functions. It is approved for Xfinity internet speed plans up to 800 Mbps and can be paired with a WiFi router for a complete home network. Setup follows a familiar path: connect the modem, download the SURFboard Central app, and follow the activation instructions.
Its limitations are equally important. It is designed for Xfinity Internet and Voice rather than a general-purpose cable provider lineup, and it includes no wireless radio. Buyers also need to confirm that their exact Xfinity service tier remains supported by this older DOCSIS 3.0 model.
This modem makes sense for an Xfinity customer whose plan fits within its supported range and who already has or plans to add a separate WiFi router. Among the products with confirmed voice support, it is the straightforward budget-oriented choice, while the CM1150V and CM2050V offer more advanced networking features.
Purpose-Built Xfinity Voice Support
Unlike internet-only models in this list, the SBV3202 is expressly intended for Xfinity Internet and Voice Service. Its two telephony ports provide the physical connections needed for supported telephone lines.
Simple Router-Based Home Networking
The modem does not include WiFi, so connecting it to a suitable router creates the wireless network used by phones, laptops, televisions, and other devices. This separation also allows the buyer to choose router features independently.
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2. Arris TM3402 – High-Speed DOCSIS 3.1 Telephony
The Arris TM3402A is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with telephony and a 3.4 rating. Its 32×8 channel bonding and 2×2 OFDM configuration place it in a more advanced technical class than the DOCSIS 3.0 options, making it attractive for eligible customers seeking both voice and faster cable capability.
Pros
- Advanced DOCSIS 3.1 bonding
- Includes telephone functionality
- Higher-tier cable performance
- Compact modem-only design
Cons
- Explicitly unsupported by Cox
- Lower customer rating
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The modem does not include wireless networking, which allows it to serve as a dedicated network gateway connected to a separate router. That arrangement can produce a cleaner, more customizable home network, especially for someone who already owns a capable WiFi 6 or WiFi 7 router.
The decisive concern is compatibility. The supplied listing explicitly states that the TM3402 is not supported by Cox Cable and warns buyers not to purchase it for Cox because major return costs may result. Its 3.4 rating is also the lowest among the ten products, so careful review of provider approval is essential.
Choose the TM3402A only after confirming that your cable provider supports the exact model and that your service includes compatible telephony. It offers advanced DOCSIS technology, but that advantage cannot overcome a provider incompatibility.
Next-Generation Channel Bonding
The 32×8 DOCSIS 3.1 design provides more downstream bonding capacity than the DOCSIS 3.1 alternatives in this roundup, while 2×2 OFDM supports upstream traffic handling within the same platform.
Provider Approval Comes First
Cable modems must be approved for the provider and service area in which they will operate. The explicit Cox warning makes direct confirmation with the internet and telephone provider essential before purchase.
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3. NETGEAR CM1150V – Best Overall Modem with Telephony
The NETGEAR CM1150V is the strongest overall fit for this guide because it combines confirmed Xfinity Voice support, two telephone lines, and a DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 platform. Its 4.1 rating reflects a capable product with broad wired connectivity rather than a wireless all-in-one system.
Pros
- Balanced voice and internet features
- Four wired Ethernet ports
- Link aggregation support
- Works with any WiFi router
Cons
- Requires separate WiFi router
- Limited to supported Xfinity plans
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Four Gigabit Ethernet ports provide ample room for a router, desktop, printer, game console, and other wired devices. Two of those ports can use link aggregation with a compatible router and switch to create a 2 Gbps connection, which is a useful advantage for more demanding local networks.
The modem does not include WiFi, so it is not a single-box solution. It also uses the older DOCSIS 3.1 approach rather than the newer mid/high-split designs shown by the CM2500, CM3000, and CAX30. Nevertheless, its supported Xfinity plan range extends to 800 Mbps, and its voice features include caller ID, three-way calling, and call forwarding.
For an Xfinity subscriber who wants telephone service, two lines, several Ethernet connections, and the option to retain a preferred WiFi router, the CM1150V offers the most balanced package in the guide. It is the recommendation to compare first when voice remains important but multi-gig service is not required.
Telephony and Networking Together
The CM1150V supports up to two Xfinity telephone lines while providing a modern DOCSIS 3.1 internet platform. That combination makes it more relevant to this guide than faster internet-only modems.
Flexible Wired Connections
Four Gigabit ports reduce the need for a separate switch in many homes. The two-port link aggregation option adds an advanced path for compatible routers, networks, and high-bandwidth local transfers.
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4. ARRIS SURFboard SVG2482AC – Best Integrated WiFi Telephony
The ARRIS SURFboard SVG2482AC combines a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, AC2350 WiFi router, and digital voice support. It carries a 4.2 rating and stands out as the most convenient confirmed voice option in the guide for buyers who want fewer separate network boxes.
Pros
- Modem and WiFi combined
- Direct voice service support
- Four Gigabit Ethernet ports
- App-based network management
Cons
- Older WiFi 5 standard
- Xfinity-focused compatibility
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The built-in AC2350 router offers dual-band wireless connectivity, while four 1 Gbps Ethernet ports support a mixture of wired and wireless devices. The SURFboard Central app assists with activation and offers real-time device monitoring, parental controls, and network customization.
As an AC2350 model, its WiFi is based on the older WiFi 5 generation. That may be sufficient for a modest home, but households seeking the latest wireless features, wider multi-gig Ethernet options, or modern DOCSIS 3.1 mid/high-split performance may prefer a newer setup.
The SVG2482AC is a sensible pick for an Xfinity customer who values voice and wants integrated WiFi without buying a separate router. It supports internet plans up to 800 Mbps and uses two telephony ports for digital voice, combining convenience with enough wired flexibility for many homes.
One Box for Cable and WiFi
Combining the cable modem and AC2350 router simplifies installation and avoids a separate wireless box. It is particularly helpful for households that do not need the newest WiFi standard or multi-gig router features.
Voice and App Management
Two telephony ports support the listed digital voice function, while the companion app provides setup guidance, device visibility, time limits, and network controls from a convenient interface.
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5. Hitron CODA56 – Fastest Internet-Only Alternative
The Hitron CODA56 is an internet-only DOCSIS 3.1 modem with a 4.4 rating, the highest among the products supplied. It supports plans up to 2.5 Gbps and includes a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, but it does not provide telephony and therefore does not directly satisfy a traditional voice-service requirement.
Pros
- Highest rating in roundup
- Supports very fast plans
- Broad cable compatibility
- Backward DOCSIS 3.0 support
Cons
- No telephone service
- No built-in WiFi
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Its compatibility list includes major cable providers such as Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, subject to confirmation of the exact plan and network. It is backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 and intended for modern cable systems, not fiber, DSL, satellite, or fixed wireless service.
A separate WiFi router is mandatory. Without one, only a device connected by Ethernet can use the modem, and achieving the listed multi-gig performance may require a router with a suitable 2.5 Gbps port. That adds equipment and setup complexity compared with an integrated modem-router.
This is a compelling option for a household that has already moved away from home telephone service and wants a fast, modern cable gateway. It should not be selected by someone specifically seeking telephony, despite its strong rating and internet performance.
Multi-Gig by Design
The 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port gives the CODA56 useful headroom for high-speed cable tiers. Actual results still depend on the provider's plan, network conditions, and the capabilities of the connected router.
Know the Exclusions
This unit is limited to cable internet and cannot serve fiber, DSL, satellite, or fixed wireless connections. More importantly for this guide, it has no telephone functionality.
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6. NETGEAR CAX30 – Feature-Rich Modem Router Without Voice
The NETGEAR CAX30 is a combined DOCSIS 3.1 modem and AX2700 WiFi 6 router with a 4.1 rating. It offers a modern all-in-one option for cable customers, but the supplied information explicitly states that it is not compatible with bundled voice plans.
Pros
- WiFi 6 included
- Broad provider compatibility
- App-based management
- Four wired connections
Cons
- Bundled voice plans unsupported
- Only two wired ports
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Its dual-band WiFi 6 network is advertised to cover up to 2,000 square feet and support more than 25 connected devices, although actual results depend on the home's layout and construction. Four Gigabit Ethernet ports provide wired options, and the Nighthawk app assists with setup, speed tests, device pausing, and guest networks.
The listed provider support includes Xfinity internet plans up to 800 Mbps, Spectrum up to 1 Gbps, and Cox up to 1 Gbps. It cannot replace a modem used with Xfinity Voice, making the wording of its compatibility particularly important for anyone shopping by the phrase modem with telephony.
Choose the CAX30 for fast cable internet and modern whole-home WiFi without a separate router. If maintaining traditional telephone service is the goal, choose one of the expressly voice-capable models instead.
Modern WiFi in One Unit
AX2700 dual-band WiFi 6 is a meaningful upgrade from the older AC2350 system in another voice-capable product. It may suit users who prioritize wireless convenience and do not need telephone lines.
Security and Management
The modem-router includes WPA3 encryption, firewall protection, and denial-of-service attack prevention. The Nighthawk app also supports remote management and guest-network setup.
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7. NETGEAR CM2050V – Best Premium Telephony Modem
The NETGEAR CM2050V is the premium telephony choice in this roundup, carrying a 4.0 rating and supporting Xfinity Internet, Voice, and plans up to 2.5 Gbps. It is one of the few products listed that combines high-tier internet potential with two telephone lines.
Pros
- Telephone plus multi-gig speed
- 2.5Gbps Ethernet port
- Two phone lines
- Works with modern routers
Cons
- No integrated WiFi
- Xfinity-focused service support
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Its dedicated 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port can feed a modern WiFi 6, WiFi 7, Orbi, or other suitable router. Voice features include caller ID, three-way conference calling, and call forwarding, giving the product a well-rounded combination of communication and connectivity functions.
It has no wireless capabilities of its own, and it is limited to the United States and compatible Xfinity service. Its DOCSIS 3.1 implementation is newer than the CM1150V's but does not claim the mid/high-split upload performance of the CM2500 or CM3000.
The CM2050V is ideal for an eligible Xfinity household that wants future-oriented multi-gig internet and still relies on two telephone lines. Pairing it with a capable router costs more in hardware complexity than an integrated unit, but that separation gives the household better control over its wireless network.
Multi-Gig With Telephone Support
Few options in this guide support both Xfinity Voice and plans up to 2.5 Gbps. That combination makes the CM2050V especially relevant to households unwilling to abandon traditional calling features.
A Router-First Home Network
Connecting a WiFi 6, WiFi 7, or mesh router to the 2.5 Gbps port keeps the modem focused on internet and voice delivery. The result is a modern network with room for high-bandwidth local and internet traffic.
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8. NETGEAR CM3000-1AZNAS – Advanced Mid/High-Split Internet
The NETGEAR CM3000-1AZNAS is a DOCSIS 3.1 mid/high-split cable modem with a 4.2 rating. It supports major providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox, but it is explicitly limited to internet service and is not compatible with bundled voice.
Pros
- Advanced split-spectrum technology
- Broad major-provider support
- 2.5Gbps wired connection
- App-based management
Cons
- No bundled voice support
- Separate router required
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Its mid/high-split platform is designed to improve both download and upload performance, making it relevant to gaming, video conferencing, and large file transfers. A 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port provides the primary connection to a suitable router, while two additional 1 Gbps ports can support link aggregation on compatible equipment.
Provider confirmation remains necessary because the supplied details state that mid/high-split availability must be checked. The modem has no WiFi, so it functions best with a separate WiFi 6 or WiFi 7 router or mesh system rather than as a simple all-in-one device.
This is an excellent high-speed internet option for a customer who no longer needs traditional phone service. It is not a fit for someone searching for a modem that directly supports an Xfinity Voice line, despite the CM3000 name appearing in a wider Nighthawk family.
Faster Upload Potential
Mid/high-split DOCSIS technology is especially useful where the provider offers higher upload tiers. It can improve responsiveness for cloud uploads, calls, gaming, and remote access compared with older downstream-focused designs.
Check Split Availability
The modem is only useful at its intended speeds when the local provider supports mid/high-split service. Buyers should confirm that their address and plan qualify before ordering.
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9. NETGEAR CM3000 – Best Upload-Focused Internet Modem
The NETGEAR CM3000 is an internet-only modem with a 4.3 rating and standout multi-gig specifications. The supplied information lists up to 2.5 Gbps download and 1 Gbps upload performance through mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1 technology.
Pros
- High upload capability
- 2.5Gbps primary port
- Link aggregation support
- Strong provider compatibility
Cons
- Cable internet only
- Bundled voice unsupported
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Its port arrangement includes one 2.5 Gbps Ethernet connection and two 1 Gbps connections. Link aggregation can combine the latter with a compatible router for higher aggregate wired speed, while the primary port supports fast connections to modern networking equipment.
The unit works with Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox and is backward compatible with DOCSIS 3.0. However, it is cable-only, does not support DSL or fiber, and cannot handle bundled cable-voice plans. A separate router is also required because wireless connectivity is not included.
The CM3000 is a strong recommendation for gamers, creators, remote workers, and households uploading large files where the provider supports the necessary tiers. If traditional telephone service remains mandatory, use one of the expressly voice-capable models instead.
Upload Speed for Busy Homes
The listed upload capability can benefit video conferences, cloud storage, remote access, and simultaneous uploads. Real-world performance still depends on the internet plan and the provider's local network.
Modern Wired Architecture
The combination of a 2.5 Gbps port and two Gigabit ports supports both direct high-speed connections and aggregate setups. Pairing it with a current WiFi router produces a flexible network without unnecessary wireless hardware.
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10. NETGEAR CM2500 – Fast Cable Modem Without Voice
The NETGEAR CM2500-1AZNAS is a mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a 4.3 rating. Its listed specifications include up to 2 Gbps downloads and 1 Gbps uploads, giving it strong potential for fast cable plans and upload-intensive activities.
Pros
- High download and upload rates
- Works with major cable providers
- Link aggregation capability
- Flexible router pairing
Cons
- Xfinity Voice unsupported
- No integrated WiFi
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The modem supports major U.S. internet providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. Two Gigabit ports can use link aggregation with compatible equipment, and the unit is designed to pair with a NETGEAR WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 router or Orbi system for whole-home wireless coverage.
It is not compatible with Xfinity Voice plans, which is the decisive limitation for this particular shopping category. It also has no built-in WiFi and does not support fiber, DSL, satellite, or fixed wireless connections.
Buyers focused purely on speed should consider the CM2500 alongside the CM3000 and Hitron CODA56. Buyers who need telephone service should instead compare the SBV3202, TM3402A, CM1150V, SVG2482AC, and CM2050V, subject to provider approval.
High-Speed Cable Headroom
Mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1 enables faster downloads and substantially higher uploads than conventional DOCSIS 3.1 designs, provided the local service supports those speeds.
Router Choice Matters
A WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 router allows the cable connection to be distributed with current wireless capabilities. Link aggregation adds another route to greater aggregate speed when the router and local devices support it.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Modem with Telephony
Selecting a modem with telephony starts with your internet and telephone provider, followed by the service tier, required phone features, wireless needs, and Ethernet requirements. Checking these details before comparing technical specifications prevents an otherwise capable modem from becoming incompatible with your service.
Provider and Service Compatibility
In short: ask your provider whether the exact model and service combination are supported before buying.
Telephone Line Requirements
In short: verify line count and calling features, not just the word telephony.
DOCSIS Speed Generation
In short: match DOCSIS capability to your actual service tier and local network availability.
Internet and Voice Plan Limits
In short: confirm both your maximum internet tier and telephone bundle eligibility.
WiFi Integration
In short: choose integrated WiFi for simplicity or a modem-only design for control.
Ethernet Port Selection
In short: count wired devices and check router support before choosing the port layout.
Setup and Management
In short: account for provider activation and any additional router setup before installation.
Uploaded Speeds and Future Headroom
In short: prioritize upload headroom when your household creates and sends substantial data.
How to Use and Care for Your Modem with Telephony
Install the modem in a central, ventilated location near the incoming cable connection. Connect the coax line and any required telephone equipment, then connect the Ethernet cable from a LAN port to the modem or compatible WiFi router. For a modem-only model, finish router setup before expecting wireless devices to connect.
Complete the provider's activation process using the activation portal or the modem's approved management app. Follow the prompts for internet and telephone service, create secure WiFi credentials if the device includes a router, and test both calls and internet access. If the provider lists a different activation sequence, follow its current instructions.
Keep the modem away from direct heat, enclosed spaces, and excess electrical noise, and avoid rearranging connected cables during troubleshooting. Check for diagnostic lights, review app alerts, and use factory reset only as a last step because it removes local settings. Periodically update router firmware and revisit provider compatibility notices when service plans or supported equipment lists change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which of these modems explicitly supports Xfinity Voice?
The ARRIS SURFboard SBV3202, NETGEAR CM1150V, ARRIS SURFboard SVG2482AC, and NETGEAR CM2050V are the listed models explicitly described as supporting Xfinity Internet and Voice. The CM1150V supports two lines with enhanced features, while the CM2050V pairs voice with multi-gig plan support. Confirm the exact model with Xfinity before ordering because supported configurations can change.
Does every cable modem in this roundup provide telephone service?
No. The Hitron CODA56, NETGEAR CAX30, CM3000-1AZNAS, CM3000, and CM2500 are internet-only products with no bundled voice support. Several also require a separate WiFi router. They are included to compare faster internet options, but they do not meet a requirement for traditional telephony.
Do I need a separate router with every telephony modem?
The SBV3202, CM1150V, and CM2050V are modem-only designs and require a separate WiFi router for wireless access. The SVG2482AC includes an AC2350 router, so it can provide WiFi directly. Even with an integrated model, you can usually connect another router, but using one at a time avoids overlapping networks and confusing device management.
What is the difference between DOCSIS 3.1 and mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1?
Both use DOCSIS 3.1 technology, but mid/high-split designs can support much higher upstream speeds in addition to faster downloads. That is valuable for video conferencing, cloud backups, and large uploads. The benefit only appears when the local provider offers the necessary mid/high-split service and when the modem is connected to a suitable router.
Can a modem rated for 2.5Gbps work with a slower internet plan?
Usually yes, because a capable modem can operate at speeds allowed by the customer's plan. The maximum service tier is a ceiling rather than a requirement. The provider must still support the modem, and actual speed can be limited by the plan, network conditions, wired devices, and router capabilities.
What should I check before buying the Arris TM3402A?
First, confirm that your cable provider supports the TM3402A for your address, service tier, and telephone package. The supplied product information specifically warns that it is not supported by Cox and may result in return costs if purchased for that provider. A direct compatibility check is especially important for this model.
Is link aggregation useful in a typical home network?
It can be useful for high-speed local transfers between compatible computers, NAS devices, and network storage, particularly with a CM1150V, CM3000, or CM2500 setup. Ordinary web browsing and streaming rarely require it. The router, switch, devices, and configuration must all support aggregation for the option to work.
How do I set up a modem with telephone service?
Start by connecting the coax cable, telephone equipment, and router or Ethernet connections. Then use the provider's activation process and the manufacturer's app or browser interface to complete internet and voice setup. Test a call and the internet connection, and contact the provider if service fails to activate because modem approval and account provisioning must align.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Modem with Telephony
The NETGEAR CM1150V is the most balanced overall option for a buyer who genuinely needs Xfinity telephone service, offering two lines, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, DOCSIS 3.1, and link aggregation. The ARRIS SBV3202 serves as a more basic alternative for eligible Xfinity customers, while the CM2050V represents the premium choice for combining voice with multi-gig service.
Prioritize provider approval, exact plan compatibility, and telephone requirements before considering speed. Internet-only models may deliver more advanced performance, but they cannot satisfy a genuine bundled-voice requirement. If integrated WiFi matters, examine the SVG2482AC; if router flexibility matters more, use a modem-only model and choose the wireless system separately.
Finally, verify current model support, service availability, activation requirements, and retailer availability directly with your provider and manufacturer. These details can evolve as cable networks move toward faster tiers and providers update their approved equipment lists, making pre-purchase confirmation essential.