Netgear Nighthawk CM1200
Score: 80/100
Motorola B12
Score: 83/100Rankings
The Motorola B12 is a compact DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem delivering up to 2.5 Gbps downstream with QoS and LED indicators, perfect for multi-gigabit internet plans. Its single Ethernet port and lack of built-in Wi-Fi mean you'll need an external router for multiple devices. Best suited for users who already own a high-performance router and want a future-proof modem.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM1200 is a DOCSIS 3.1 desktop modem with integrated Wi-Fi 6, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, and USB 3.0, supporting up to 2 Gbps download via link aggregation. While it provides extensive connectivity, it still relies on a separate router for advanced networking and lacks 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports. It fits power users who need high-speed wired and wireless performance on gigabit-class plans.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2,000 Mbps | 2,500 Mbpsbest | |
— | 800 Mbpsbest | |
4 portsbest | 1 ports | |
1 portsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.553 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) | 2000 Mbps | 2500 Mbps |
Network(1) | ||
DOCSIS Standard | 3.1 | DOCSIS 3.1 |
Ports(2) | ||
Ethernet Ports (count) (ports) | 4 ports | 1 ports |
WAN Port Type | Coaxial | Ethernet |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Dimensions (HxWxD) (mm) | 10.3x3.4x6.1 inches mm | 5.5 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches mm |
Form Factor | Desktop | compact |
General(2) | ||
Provider Compatibility | Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum | Comcast Xfinity, Cox (up to 2 Gbps), Spectrum, RCN, Astound |
Warranty (years) (years) | 1 years | 2 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Retailer and editorial listings emphasize the CM1200's ability to handle the fastest cable tiers, citing its DOCSIS 3.1 chipset, four Ethernet ports for link aggregation, and advanced OFDMA/QoS features as strong points for power users and gamers. The consensus is that it offers a solid, future-ready solution for households upgrading to multi-gigabit plans, though reviewers remind buyers that a separate Wi-Fi router is still required.
Professional reviewers and retail editors consistently praise the Motorola B12 for its fast DOCSIS 3.1 performance, simple plug-and-play installation, and cost-saving potential compared to ISP-rented equipment. They note its future-proof design, broad ISP certification, and QoS capabilities as strong selling points for gamers and streaming enthusiasts.
Everyday consumers echo the professional sentiment, highlighting the modem's easy setup, reliable high-speed connectivity, and compatibility with their existing routers. The limited user feedback shows overwhelmingly positive experiences with few complaints, mainly centered on the lack of built-in Wi-Fi.
“easy to set up! Works well.”
