Actiontec GT784WN
Score: 69/100
Netgear CM500
Score: 68/100Rankings
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.
The NETGEAR CM500 is a compact DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem delivering up to 680 Mbps download and 132 Mbps upload with advanced QoS and broad ISP compatibility. Its main trade-off is the lack of built-in Wi-Fi and a single Ethernet port, limiting flexibility for higher-speed or wireless-only setups. Ideal for budget-conscious households on mid-tier cable plans that already have a separate router.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
24 Mbps | 680 Mbpsbest | |
— | 132 Mbpsbest | |
4 portsbest | 1 ports | |
1 portsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 18 Wbest |
| ↓ lower better | 0.73 kg | 0.648 kgbest |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Maximum Download Speed (Mbps) | 24 Mbps | 680 Mbps |
Ports(1) | ||
Ethernet Ports (count) (ports) | 4 ports | 1 ports |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.73 kg | 0.648 kg |
Dimensions (HxWxD) (mm) | 177.8x33.02x172.72 mm mm | 60x185x124 mm mm |
General(1) | ||
Provider Compatibility | CenturyLink, Verizon, AT&T, Windstream | Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, Cablevision |
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.
Professional reviewers consider the CM500 a reliable, entry-level DOCSIS 3.0 modem that excels on cable plans up to 600 Mbps, thanks to its 16×4 channel bonding, IPv6 support, and easy ISP activation. However, they caution that its speed ceiling and lack of Wi-Fi make it less suitable for users seeking future-proof gigabit performance.
Everyday users generally praise the CM500 for its straightforward setup, solid wired speeds for streaming and gaming, and the savings from avoiding ISP rental fees. The most common criticism centers on the absence of built-in Wi-Fi and the limitation of only one Ethernet port.
“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.”
