Actiontec GT784WN
Score: 69/100
Arris SURFboard SB8200
Score: 75/100Rankings
The ARRIS SURFboard SB8200 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem delivering very high theoretical speeds and dual Gigabit Ethernet ports. It lacks built-in Wi-Fi and can run hot, with some users experiencing lag spikes and port issues. Best suited for households that already have a separate router and need a high-performance wired modem.
The Actiontec GT784WN is an all-in-one ADSL2+ modem/router offering 24 Mbps DSL speeds, 300 Mbps Wi-Fi N300 and four Ethernet ports. Its limitations include lack of gigabit Ethernet and single-band Wi-Fi, which may not meet modern high-speed needs. It is best for budget-conscious DSL users who need basic wired and wireless connectivity.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 Mbps | 10,000 Mbpsbest | |
— | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
4 portsbest | 2 ports | |
1 portsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.73 kg | 0.608 kgbest |
1 years | 2 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Maximum Download Speed (Mbps) | 24 Mbps | 10000 Mbps |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11n | None |
Ports(1) | ||
Ethernet Ports (count) (ports) | 4 ports | 2 ports |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.73 kg | 0.6078 kg |
Dimensions (HxWxD) (mm) | 177.8x33.02x172.72 mm mm | 133.35x130.30x44.45 mm mm |
Form Factor | Desktop, wall mountable | Modem |
General(2) | ||
Provider Compatibility | CenturyLink, Verizon, AT&T, Windstream | Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum |
Warranty (years) (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers describe the GT784WN as a reliable, all-in-one solution for DSL users, emphasizing its rigorous ISP compatibility testing, simple auto-configuration, and solid MIMO-based wireless performance. They commend its built-in firewall, parental controls, and cross-platform support, while noting the hardware is dated-single-band 802.11n and 10/100 Mbps Ethernet-making it less suitable for modern high-speed networks.
Everyday users generally praise the device for its easy setup, strong Wi-Fi coverage up to 2500 sq ft, and dependable wired ports, often saying it works better than ISP-provided gear. Recurring complaints focus on its inability to support cable or VDSL services, occasional ISP support friction, and the lack of battery backup or newer Wi-Fi standards.
Reviewers highlight the SB8200's ability to deliver true gigabit speeds on DOCSIS 3.1 networks, praising its dual Gigabit ports, solid build, and proven compatibility with Cox and Xfinity. They note the lack of built-in Wi-Fi as a trade-off and caution that real-world speeds depend on ISP provisioning, while occasional lag spikes are mentioned as a minor drawback.
Users consistently praise the modem's speed, ease of setup, compact design, and compatibility with major ISPs, but many complain about the unit running hot, occasional lag spikes, and Ethernet port failures that cause connectivity drops.
“Works reliably with AT&T DSL, Windstream (better range and signal than ISP units), and CenturyLink 20 Mbps; covers large 2500 sq ft homes; Ethernet works even with Wi‑Fi off; easy replacement for ISP gear.”
