NETGEAR
NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000-1AZNAS)
Bottom line: The NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem ($249.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): Mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1 unlocks Xfinity 2Gbps down and 200Mbps up tiers; main trade-off: modem only, so you must supply your own WiFi router.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1 unlocks Xfinity 2Gbps down and 200Mbps up tiers
- ✓ Handles cable plans up to 2.5Gbps download and 1Gbps upload
- ✓ 2.5Gig port pairs directly with a multi-gig router port
- ✓ Two Gigabit ports support link aggregation for up to 2Gbps
Cons
- ✗ Modem only, so you must supply your own WiFi router
- ✗ U.S. use only, no support for international cable networks
- ✗ 2.5Gbps ceiling needs a multi-gig router to be realized
- ✗ Mid/high-split speed tiers are not yet available in every service area
Manufacturer description
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CM3000 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem built for the mid/high-split networks that unlock the fastest tiers cable ISPs currently sell. It supports plans up to 2.5Gbps down and 1Gbps up, and it is the piece most people are missing when their gigabit-plus plan never quite delivers advertised upload speed. Mid/high-split support is what lets it reach tiers like Xfinity's 2Gbps download and 200Mbps upload, and NETGEAR lists compatibility with all major US cable providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. This is a modem only, so you pair it with your existing router. Plug a…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split 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 CM3000 work with Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox?
Yes. NETGEAR lists the CM3000 as working with all major US cable providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. Confirm your specific speed tier on your provider's approved-device list before activating.
Does this modem include WiFi or a built-in router?
No. The CM3000 is a cable modem only and works with your existing WiFi router as a separate unit. NETGEAR recommends pairing it with a WiFi 6E, WiFi 7, or Orbi system.
What is mid/high-split and why does it matter?
Mid/high-split is the cable technology that unlocks the fastest current DOCSIS 3.1 upload tiers, such as Xfinity's 200Mbps upload. Without a mid/high-split modem, those tiers cannot be accessed.
What speeds does the CM3000 support?
It supports cable plans up to 2.5Gbps download and 1Gbps upload. Use the 2.5Gig port with a multi-gig router, or bond the two Gigabit ports via link aggregation for up to 2Gbps.
Will buying this modem actually save money over renting?
NETGEAR states owners save on ISP rental fees. At the current listed price, that puts the break-even point near the first year of ownership.
Key Features
- Mid/high-split DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem delivers up to 2.5Gbps of download speeds and 1Gbps of upload speeds, works with your existing WiFi Router (separate unit)
- Specifically engineered for today’s fastest DOCSIS 3.1 cable internet speeds that can only be accessed with mid/high-split technology, such as Xfinity’s 2Gbps download speeds and 200Mbps upload speeds. Works with all major US internet providers
- Blazing-fast download speeds powers your digital lifestyle with enhanced speed, capacity, efficiency, and response times
- Impressive 10x faster upload speeds delivers seamless multi-family gaming, video conferencing and uploading large files—simultaneously. Plus provides easy remote access to your home security cameras and NAS files
- For the ultimate in performance, link a NETGEAR WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 router or Orbi system (separate existing product) to this CM3000 cable modem
- Be ready for future Internet speeds with much higher performance levels
Full Specifications
| Brand | NETGEAR |
|---|---|
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer, Router, Laptop |
| Product Dimensions | 9.21"L x 8.74"W x 4.8"H |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
| Internet service provider | Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox |
| Full listing title | NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000-1AZNAS) – Approved for Today’s Fastest Speeds - Works With all Cable Providers, Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps |
Ready to buy?
NETGEAR Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.1 Mid/high-Split Cable Modem (CM3000-1AZNAS) – Approved for Today’s Fastest Speeds - Works With all Cable Providers, Incl. Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox - Cable Plans up to 2.5Gbps 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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