NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router
Bottom line: The NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo ($219.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): Replaces both a rented cable modem and a router with one device; main trade-off: cable-only: no Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL, DirecTV, or DISH.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Replaces both a rented cable modem and a router with one device
- ✓ DOCSIS 3.1 with 32x8 channel bonding for multi-gigabit cable plans
- ✓ 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports with port aggregation support
- ✓ USB 3.0 port for network-attached storage or printers
Cons
- ✗ Cable-only: no Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL, DirecTV, or DISH
- ✗ 2,000 sq ft coverage limit leaves larger homes needing mesh
- ✗ Dual-band AX2700 only, no 6 GHz band for WiFi 6E devices
- ✗ NETGEAR Armor is a 30-day trial, then paid subscription
Manufacturer description
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 collapses two boxes into one: a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with 32x8 channel bonding and a dual-band WiFi 6 router rated AX2700 (2.7 Gbps combined). If you are still renting a gateway from Xfinity, Spectrum, or Cox, this NETGEAR combo replaces both your modem and your router with a single unit that sits under your desk instead of two. Coverage is specified at up to 2,000 square feet and 25 concurrent devices, which lines up with a typical apartment or small-to-midsize home where phones, TVs, consoles, and smart plugs all compete for airtime. Four Gigabit Ethernet…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem… using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the networking category. NETGEAR's networking lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for networking of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CAX30 work with my internet provider?
It works with major cable providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. It is not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH, or any bundled voice service. Confirm your plan with your provider before buying.
Do I still need a separate router with this modem?
No. The CAX30 is a combo unit that replaces both your cable modem and your WiFi router, delivering dual-band WiFi 6 at AX2700 speeds from the same box.
How much area does the WiFi cover?
NETGEAR specifies coverage up to 2,000 square feet and up to 25 concurrent devices. Larger homes or heavy smart-home setups may need additional mesh units or access points.
What ports does it have for wired devices?
Four 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports that support port aggregation, plus one USB 3.0 port for a storage drive. That covers a desktop, console, streaming box, and NAS without a separate switch.
Key Features
- Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT and T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirecTV, DISH and any bundled voice service.
- Coverage up to 2,000 sq. ft. and 25 concurrent devices with dual-band WiFi 6 (AX2700) speed
- 4 X 1 Gig Ethernet ports (supports port aggregation) and 1 USB 3.0 port for computers, game consoles, streaming players, storage drive, and other wired devices
- Replaces your cable modem and WiFi router
- DOCSIS 3.1 and 32x8 channel bonding
- NETGEAR Armor provides a powerful suite of tools to help keep you safe online, including enhanced protection against hackers, malware and identity theft, at home or on the go. Includes 30-day trial
Full Specifications
| Brand | NETGEAR |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Voltage | 12 volts_of_direct_current |
| Coverage | 2000 sq. ft. |
| Frequency | 5 GHz |
| Model Name | CAX30-200NAS |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Antenna Type | Internal |
| Connectivity | Wireless, USB, WiFi |
| Model Number | CAX30-200NAS |
| Built-In Media | Ethernet cable, Nighthawk® AX6/6 Stream WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (CAX30), Power adapter, Quick start guide |
| Control Method | App |
| Connection Type | Wired |
| Controller Type | App Control |
| Mfr Part Number | CAX30-200NAS |
| Number of Ports | 4 |
| Special Feature | 6 stream WiFi, One USB 3.0 port |
| Antenna Location | Business, Gaming, Home |
| Wi-Fi Generation | WiFi 6 |
| Security Protocol | WPA/WPA2/WPA3 |
| Full listing title | NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router - AX2700 2.7 Gbps - Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and More - Gigabit Wireless Internet |
Ready to buy?
NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30) DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem and WiFi 6 Router - AX2700 2.7 Gbps - Compatible with Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, and More - Gigabit Wireless Internet is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
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