Actiontec T3200
Score: 77/100
Netgear CM1000 Black
Score: 80/100Rankings
The Netgear CM1000 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem delivering up to 1.2 Gbps download speeds and broad compatibility with major US cable providers. Its single 1 Gbps Ethernet port and lack of link-aggregation limit scalability for multi-gigabit plans. Ideal for households on 500 Mbps-1 Gbps cable plans needing a reliable, future-proof modem.
The Actiontec T3200 is a premium dual-band xDSL gateway offering bonded VDSL2 up to 1 Gbps and high-speed Wi-Fi 5 performance. Its drawbacks include reliance on the older Wi-Fi 5 standard and potential compatibility limits with non-Windstream ISPs. Ideal for Windstream DSL subscribers needing gigabit wired connectivity and robust Wi-Fi for multiple devices.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 Mbps | 1,200 Mbpsbest | |
— | 304 Mbpsbest | |
4 portsbest | 1 ports | |
1 portsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.34 kgbest | — |
— | 0.25 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Maximum Download Speed (Mbps) | 1000 Mbps | 1200 Mbps |
Ports(1) | ||
Ethernet Ports (count) (ports) | 4 ports | 1 ports |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Dimensions (HxWxD) (mm) | 254x50.8x127 mm mm | 8.8x5.9x5.4 inches mm |
General(1) | ||
Provider Compatibility | Windstream | Xfinity, Comcast, Cox, Spectrum, Mediacom |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the T3200 for its high theoretical Wi-Fi throughput, robust bonded VDSL2 capability, and versatile connectivity options, positioning it as a strong choice for DSL subscribers seeking gigabit-class performance. However, they note the reliance on the older Wi-Fi 5 standard and the absence of real-world speed validation.
Pros include theoretical wireless throughput up to 2.3 Gbps, bonded VDSL2 for doubled bandwidth, and multiple Gigabit ports. Cons note that real-world speeds often fall short, Wi-Fi 5 is older than Wi-Fi 6, and DSL-centric design may limit non-Windstream compatibility.
Professional reviewers consider the CM1000 a reliable, future-proof DOCSIS 3.1 modem that delivers solid performance on 1 Gbps cable plans. They commend its straightforward setup, broad ISP compatibility, and elegant design, while noting its single-gigabit Ethernet port and lack of dual ports as drawbacks compared to higher-end competitors.
Everyday users praise the CM1000 for its plug-and-play simplicity, consistent gigabit-class speeds, and long-term stability, often rating it above 4.5 out of 5. Common themes include appreciation for easy ISP activation and noticeable speed improvements, balanced by complaints about its bulkier size and occasional provider-specific activation issues.
