Cox is the 4th top internet service provider in the US(source). The company is known to provide excellent internet connections across the nation.
Like all other ISPs, Cox offers rentals in exchange for a monthly fee. But the routers provided by them are nothing close to the high-quality routers available in the market.
Cox rentals are suitable only for basic tasks like browsing. For other activities like streaming, gaming, etc., you need a more powerful router. Another shortcoming is the monthly rental fee that you are charged for using a Cox router. Instead of spending all that money on an average router, you could invest it in a high-quality router of your choice.
If you have decided to get rid of your Cox rental, you are in the right place. We have reviewed 7 of the best router for Cox. These routers are not only better than Cox rentals, but they are also affordable. So without wasting any time, let’s take a look at the reviews below.
Table setup not completed.Best Router For Cox Reviews
We have prepared a list of routers that are compatible with Cox. If you are still stuck with your rental, it’s time to replace it with one of these high-performance routers. Go through the details and pick the one that is most appropriate for you.
#1. ASUS Wi-Fi 6 Router (RT-AX3000): Top Pick
- Maximum Range : 3000 Sq Ft.Power Supply: AC Input : 110V~240V(50~60Hz). DC Output : 19 V with max....
- The Next Gen WiFi Standard - Future proof your home network with the next-gen WiFi 6 technology,...
- Ultra-Fast Wi-Fi - RT-AX3000 supports 160MHz bandwidth and 1024-QAM, boasting a total network speed...
Asus RT-AX3000 is built for performance. If you are done paying rental fees every month, it’s time to upgrade your router with a powerful unit. And Asus RT-AX3000 can meet all your requirements.
Why is it Unique?
There are so many things that make the RT-AX3000 router better than other units within this price range. First of all, it can handle multiple devices at once. This unit is the perfect combination of advanced technology and premium hardware.
It delivers exceptional coverage of up to 3,000 sq. ft. After you install this router, you can enjoy uninterrupted internet service throughout your home. It can connect to every device from your living room to the backyard.
Due to its high speed, it ensures a smooth 4K streaming and online gaming experience. It provides up to 2.7x faster speed than the previous Wi-Fi generation. Plus, it is equipped with MU-MIMO and OFDMA technology.
It uses AiMesh technology to establish a stronger mesh Wi-Fi system with other AiMesh-compatible routers.
For safety, it has AiProtection Pro to protect all the connected devices on your home network.
Buyer’s Experience
The majority of buyers are pleased with this unit because of advanced parental controls that allow them to manage their kids’ internet usage.
It also includes a mobile app that helps you to customize and control every feature with ease.
Another thing that buyers find interesting is that it works with Alexa. This feature helps you to manage your router’s settings using voice control.
Lastly, they also find the setup process very easy. It takes just a few minutes to complete the setup process using the ASUS router app.
Pros
- It has an easy setup process.
- It includes parental controls.
- It works with Alexa.
- It can be controlled using a mobile app.
Cons
- It doesn’t work correctly with DHCP.
- It drops the connection sometimes.
Best Fit For
This router is ideal for users with high speeds internet plans. It is perfect for online gaming and 4K video streaming.
#2. TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Router (Archer AX6000): Best Overall
- High Speed WiFi 6 Interent Router: AX6000 Dual Band Wi-Fi speed boosted by 1024QAM deliver wireless...
- Highly efficient: OFDMA increases average throughput by 4x in high density scenarios, compared with...
- Long Range WiFi Coverage: 8 high-gain external antennas deliver a strong Wi-Fi signal throughout...
If you are planning to upgrade your Cox router, you can consider opting for TP-Link Archer AX6000. It is a next-generation AX Wi-Fi router that is built for performance.
Why is it Unique?
The Archer AX6000 router is built for greater capacity. It can support multiple devices with full efficiency. It is equipped with 802.11ax Wi-Fi with OFDMA and AX MU-MIMO for better performance.
This Wi-Fi router is designed to support your growing need for the internet. It offers super-fast speeds of up to 6 Gbps which makes it ideal for 8K streaming.
It has a unique feature called AX Wi-Fi Target Wake Time, which smartly schedules data transmission times to help your devices save power.
BSS color and OFDMA technology optimize packet delivery to reduce interference and wait time. Besides that, it also ensures greater efficiency.
It is equipped with 8 high-gain antennas to provide Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. On the other hand, Beamforming and Rangeboost technology channel the signal directly to your devices.
Buyer’s Experience
This router has received many positive reviews on Amazon. Buyers are fond of this unit because it has AX technology, which helps improve the overall performance of all the connected devices. Best of all it is also backward compatible with older devices.
Buyers can set up this router using the Tether app and Bluetooth in just minutes. With Alexa, they can control the device with just their voice.
Pros
- It provides long-range Wi-Fi coverage.
- It ensures smooth and stable connections.
- It has a lot of ports.
- It has advanced security features.
Cons
- It has poor customer service.
- It becomes unstable after regular use.
Best Fit For
If you want a router for streaming 8K/4K movies, this unit could be the best choice for you. It is also great for online gaming, VR, or other smart devices.
#3. Motorola MR2600 AC2600 Wi-Fi Smart Gigabit Router: Best Coverage
- The Motorola AC2600 router provides a high-speed intelligent router link between all your WiFi and...
- Connects via AC2600 dual band WiFi or Gigabit Ethernet to all your HDTVs, smartphones, game...
- Four external adjustable antennas provide concurrent 4X4 performance for both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz...
If you are looking for a router for greater coverage, then look no further because Motorola MR2600 AC2600 Dual-Band Router is what you need. It is a high-speed unit that links your local Wi-Fi and Ethernet devices for internet access.
Why it is Unique?
The MR2600 is built for speed and extended coverage even when you are far from your router. It connects via Gigabit Ethernet or dual-band Wi-Fi to all your devices.
It has four external antennas, which can be adjusted to catch stronger signals. Beamforming technology concentrates the Wi-Fi signal to each of your devices. This gives blazing-fast speeds, so you can enjoy your time on the internet without getting disturbed.
It is equipped with 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology that helps speed up your network for high-speed communication with multiple devices.
Buyer’s Experience
This router is packed with a range of features that makes it stand out from other devices within this range. The most notable features include Smart QoS support, guest network capability, a user-friendly firewall, IPv4 and IPv6 support, and a USB 3.0 port.
It also includes parental controls, so you can use them to limit internet usage for your kids.
It is provided with a 2-year warranty covering all manufacturing defects.
Pros
- It comes with a 2-year warranty.
- It offers extended coverage.
- It has Beamforming technology.
- It can handle multiple devices.
Cons
- It is expensive.
- It has poor customer support.
Best Fit For
With its extended coverage, it makes a good choice for large homes. It can be connected to a variety of devices, such as smartphones, HDTVs, PCs, tablets, game stations, and more. With this router, you can enjoy gaming and HD-quality streaming with ease.
#4. NETGEAR Nighthawk XR700 WiFi Router: Best For Gaming
- Minimize ping and maximize performance with six 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports for lag free, wired...
- Amp up your WiFi with cutting edge AD7200 Quad stream router that delivers speeds up to 7.2 Gbps. 60...
- Put your gaming traffic in a designated express lane with advanced Quality of Service, bypassing...
Netgear Nighthawk XR700 is the best router for gaming. This router combined with your fast Cox internet plan can give you the best gaming experience that you ever had. But before you think of investing in it, let’s take a look at its features.
Why is it Unique?
XR700 Pro Gaming Wi-Fi router is equipped with advanced software and premium hardware to optimize your network for the ultimate gaming performance.
It includes a Gaming Dashboard that includes all the tools you need to view real-time bandwidth utilization by your device. It also helps you to identify devices that can cause lag spikes.
It allows you to limit the amount of bandwidth received by devices to prevent your game from lagging or disconnecting.
Buyer’s Experience
The XR700 is a powerful gaming router that can meet all your gaming network needs. It optimizes network performance, stabilizes ping, and reduces lag spikes to give you the best internet experience. It is because of these reasons that it has received high ratings from users.
Buyers also love this router as it allows them to prioritize gaming devices by allocating bandwidth to each device. Users can also control the download and upload speed per device.
Pros
- It is a powerful router.
- It reduces game lags.
- It has an attractive build and design.
- It comes with a gaming dashboard.
Cons
- Some users claim that wired ports don’t work properly.
- It drops the connection.
Best Fit For
This is the best Wi-Fi router available for gamers. It includes Geo-Filter that helps you to fix gaming lags by reducing the distance to servers or other players. If you are serious about gaming, you should opt for this router.
#5. TP-Link Wifi 6 AX1500 Smart WiFi Router (Archer AX10): Best Affordable
- OneMesh Compatible Router - Form a seamless WiFi when work with TP-Link OneMesh WiFi Extenders.Power...
- Wi-Fi 6 Router: Archer AX10 comes equipped with latest wireless technology WiFi6 featuring OFDMA...
- Next-gen Dual Band router - 300 Mbps on 2. 4 GHz (802. 11n) plus 1201 Mbps on 5 GHz (802. 11ax)
For budget buyers, TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Smart Wi-Fi Router could be the best option. Despite the low price tag, it offers incredible performance and speeds up to 1.5 Gbps.
Why is it Unique?
With this router, you can enjoy next-generation speeds up to 1.5 Gbps. It is built for faster and more enjoyable online gaming, 4K streaming, and more.
Archer AX10 can handle multiple devices without causing congestion. It uses OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology, which work together to manage the flow of data to multiple devices and reduce lags.
It is equipped with a 1.5 GHz Tri-Core processor that easily handles demanding activities to give you a more enjoyable experience.
Buyer’s Experience
Many buyers opt for this router because it gives extended coverage. The four antennas and the Beamforming feature work together to direct signal strength toward connected devices for more reliable coverage.
The best thing about this unit is that it is compatible with all Wi-Fi-enabled devices. It also has an easy setup, so you don’t have to spend hours getting it started.
Pros
- It is affordable.
- It is easy to set up and manage.
- It is compatible with a large number of devices.
- It can handle bandwidth-intensive activities.
Cons
- It has poor customer care service.
- Some users claim that it offers unreliable connections.
Best Fit For
This unit is ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities like 4K video streaming, transferring large files, online gaming, and more. It is also compatible with a range of devices, including AX phones, laptops, and other devices.
#6. NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-band Mesh WiFi 6 System (RBK752): Best Value
- Coverage up to 5,000 sq. ft. and for up to 40 devices. Extend coverage up to 2,500 sq. ft. with each...
- Fast AX4200 Gigabit speed with WiFi 6 technology for uninterrupted streaming, HD video gaming, and...
- Connects to your existing cable modem, and replaces your WiFi router. Compatible with any internet...
Orbi RBK752 from Netgear makes the perfect choice for large homes. With this tri-band mesh Wi-Fi system, you can enjoy excellent coverage throughout your home.
Why is it Unique?
The Tri-Band Wi-Fi System is built with the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology that makes it better and more powerful. It gives you a better smart home experience with incredible Wi-Fi coverage.
It ensures strong Wi-Fi connections in every room. It can also handle bandwidth-intensive activities for all your devices.
It provides coverage up to 5,000 sq. ft. and can connect to 40 devices. It has Gigabit speed and Wi-Fi 6 technology for uninterrupted HD streaming, web conferencing, and online gaming.
It can easily connect to your existing cable modem, and replace your router.
Buyer’s Experience
This is an impressive tri-band mesh router system that is praised by most users. You can easily plug-in game consoles, computers, and other devices.
It includes 3 Gigabit Ethernet ports on the router and 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports on the satellite.
With the Orbi mobile app, you can complete the setup process in no time. The app helps you to manage Wi-Fi settings, monitor data usage, test internet speed, and much more.
It also has the NETGEAR Armor cybersecurity protection for all your home devices. It will protect your devices from malware, virus, and data theft.
Pros
- It comes with 1-year limited warranty.
- It is suitable for large homes.
- It has advanced cybersecurity features.
- It supports multiple 8K/4K streaming.
Cons
- It is very expensive.
- It offers average speed.
Best Fit For
It is ideal for multiple 8K/4K UHD streaming videos, online gaming, web conferencing, and more.
#7. NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Built-in WiFi 6 Router (CAX80): Best Noiseless
- Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. NOT...
- Coverage up to 2,500 sq. ft. and 30 concurrent devices with dual-band WiFi 6 (AX6000) speed (up to...
- 4 X 1 Gig Ethernet ports and 1 x 2.5 Multi-gig LAN or internet port (supports port aggregation) and...
If budget is not a constraint, you can consider opting for Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 Cable Modem-Router Combo. It is a premium option that is designed to give you the best internet experience.
Why is it Unique?
It is a next-generation WiFi 6 router equipped with DOCSIS 3. 1 standard to ensure blazing-fast speeds. It has four times more capacity than other routers. It can easily handle multiple devices without causing congestion or lagging. With this powerful router, you can save router rental fees every month.
Another feature that is worth mentioning is the NETGEAR Armor Protection powered by BitDefender. It ensures complete protection for your devices from viruses, malware, and cyber-attacks. It offers a 30-day free trial.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers are fond of this unit because it is compatible with multiple devices. Not just that, but it also works with several ISPs, including Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum, and more.
This unit is built for ultimate speed and has a coverage area of up to 3,000 sq. ft.
It includes one 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, one USB 3.0 port, and 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for fast-wired connections to your devices.
Pros
- It is a modem/router combo.
- It provides great coverage.
- It has advanced security options.
- It is easy to set up.
Cons
- It is very pricey.
- It is a bit bulky.
Best Fit For
If you want a fast and reliable Cox modem/router combo, this is for you. It works with a range of devices and is ideal for demanding online activities like HD streaming, online gaming, web conferencing, and more. The good thing is it is compatible with many different ISPs.
Factors You Should Consider Before Buying The Best Router For Cox
If you are tired of paying monthly rentals for your Cox routers, it’s time to replace them with your router. However, finding the best router for Cox can be a daunting task, especially if you do not know.
If you are not very aware of the important aspects and features related to routers, we will explain them to you in this buyer’s guide below.
1. Speed
Speed is the most crucial thing when it comes to buying a router. Before making your final call, you must check the wireless data transfer speed of the router.
In the case, of a modem/router combo, you also have to confirm whether the modem supports the speed of your internet plan. For example, if you are using a 200Mbps plan, you should buy a modem/router combo that supports 200 Mbps. Otherwise, you won’t be able to utilize the full potential of your modem. You should always match your router with the speed of your internet plan.
2. Number of Bands
There exist both dual-band and single-band routers. While the former uses a 2.4 GHz band and an additional 5 GHz band, the latter has worked only with a 2.4 GHz band.
For those who don’t know the 2.4GHz band provides a wider coverage but it is not suitable for handling high speeds. On the other hand, the 5GHz band carries more bandwidth but has lesser coverage. So if you have a high speed internet plan, it is better to opt for a dual-band router. This will give you both coverage and speed.
3. Connectivity Ports
Connectivity ports matter the most when you have a PC set up at home. No matter how good your wireless connection is, you will always want a wired connection for your PC setup. This is because it is more stable, reliable, and faster.
Check the number of ports available on the router. You need to choose a router based on your requirement. You must also make sure that the ports are Gigabit Ethernet ports as they support up to 1 Gbps bandwidth. If you want to share files by connecting your hard drive, then the router must also have USB ports.
4. Coverage Area
If you want a router for your personal office space, the coverage area doesn’t matter much. But if you want a router for your home, then you must check the coverage area it offers. You must choose a router depending on the total area of your home.
Most modern routers have a coverage area of 1200 sq. ft. to 5000 sq. ft. But the point is that you should always choose a router with more coverage area than the actual home area. This will ensure better signal range and thus, eliminate any wireless dead zones.
5. Additional Feature
You must also check out the additional features offered by the router, especially if you are getting a modem/router combo. By additional features, we mean advanced technologies like power boost, beamforming, MU-MIMO, parental controls, etc. All these features are provided to make the connection more reliable and stable.
Apart from that, many people struggle to set up their modem router. But if you get a router with a dedicated mobile app, the setup process becomes much easier.
5. DOCSIS
If you are planning to get a modem/router combo, then you also need to check the DOCSIS version of the unit. Cox can work with both DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1. However, there’s a huge difference between the two standards. DOCSIS 3.1 is the latest standard and is much faster. Plus, it has lower latency.
On the other hand, DOCSIS 3.0 doesn’t support faster internet speeds. It may be a cheaper option than DOCSIS 3.1, but it is not suitable for faster internet plans. So if you want to enjoy a better internet connection, you should opt for DOCSIS 3.1. It not only offers better performance, but it is also future-proof.
How to Check Your Router is Compatible with Cox?
When buying a router for your Cox internet plan, you need to make sure that it is compatible with your ISP.
Any router with a WAN port is compatible with Cox. The good thing is this feature is available in almost every router.
But for modem/router combos, things become a little complex because they need to be approved by Cox. In other words, it needs to be a part of Cox’s approved list of routers.
Cox Communications Internet Plans
Cox offers an internet plan for every need. Their speed ranges from 10 to 940 Mbps. Compared to other ISPs, Cox offers better speeds and performance. It also uses coaxial cable technology to ensure reliable internet service.
If you are a Cox internet subscriber, you can upgrade your plan anytime to enjoy better speeds.
Like every other ISPs, Cox offers multiple internet plans, so you can choose anyone based on your budget and requirement.
Here are the details of Cox internet plans and prices:
- Internet Starter: $44.99 per month for 25 Mbps
- Internet Essential: $65.99 per month for 50 Mbps
- Internet Preferred: $83.99 per month for 150 Mbps
- Internet Ultimate: $99.99 per month for 500 Mbps
- Gigablast: $119.99 per month for 940 Mbps
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Does Cox allow you to use your router?
Ans: Cox offers monthly rentals. But you can replace it with your router as long as it is compatible with your ISP. Also, you will need both the router and modem.
Q2. What routers are compatible with Cox?
Ans: Any router with a WAN port is compatible with Cox. But things get complicated for modems or modem/router combos. That’s because they need to be approved by Cox.
Q3. What is the difference between a router and a modem?
Ans: Both the router and modem are two important components of the internet. While a modem connects your home network to the Internet, a router allows your devices on the same network to communicate with one another and access that Internet connection.
Q4. How many ports does a router have?
Ans: A home router usually has four LAN ports. It means it can host a network of up to four wired networking devices.
Q5. What are the main functions of a router?
Ans: A router helps to connect two or more packet-switched networks or sub-networks. It has two primary functions. Firstly, it manages traffic between networks by forwarding data packets to their targeted IP addresses, and secondly, it allows multiple devices to use the same Internet connection.
Final Words
With a powerful router, you can make the most of your Cox internet connection. For fantastic performance and speed, you should choose from the routers mentioned in the post. These are some of the best-selling units on Amazon. They are trusted by several users and have affordable pricing. Hopefully, you will find the router you want on this list.
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I am Editor, in charge of designing content for Routers Network. I aspire to use my experiences in marketing to create reliable and necessary information related to Networking.