Best Router & Modem For Time Warner Cable (TWC) For 2018

Congratulations! You have TWC as your ISP? Well, the next logical step is to choose the best router for Time Warner Cable and/or the best modem for Time Warner.

Just by buying your own router and modem, you can save on rental fees which could amount to $120/year! That just about can cover the costs of your own equip, depending on the router or modem you buy, all within a year.

You do get a standard modem and router or even a modem router combo when you subscribe with Time Warner’s internet plans, but just how effective are they for you?

Before you scratch your head and feel that you’re in over your depth, never fear - the BlueGadgetTooth team decided to look into the best modems and routers for Time Warner Cable (TWC), which would deliver on the speeds you actually pay for, while having a variety of features that would definitely make your life a lot easier.

Firstly, there are pros and cons to having separate modem and routers, as well as having a modem router combo.  Once you know what you’re looking for, the decision making becomes easier. We’ve listed our top picks – from our Editor’s Choice, to Runner ups, to High performance option and even that is budget friendly.

2-in-1 device: so you don’t have to worry if you configured your separate router and modem correctly – This leads to faster and better communication

Money saver: Buying only one device instead of two separate units leaves you with more cash in hand

Easier to troubleshoot and configure: you only have to worry about dealing with one device, instead of two

Less clutter: You have fewer wires to deal with, which is always a plus point

Automatic updates: Why worry about manual upgrades when it gets done automatically for you

Simpler set up process and better compatibility: Dealing with only one device means you don’t have to worry about setting up two separate devices and wondering how to make sure both are compatible with each other

Great for basic home users

Benefits Of Separate Units (Router + Modem) For Time Warner Cable (TWC)

Cheaper to upgrade the router or modem – routers evolve a lot faster than modems, so to upgrade your networking capability, you will only need to replace your router, instead of your modem as well. With a combo, you will have no option but to replace the entire combo unit.

More Control Over Firmware & Settings: You can tweak the advanced settings to get exactly what you are looking for from your router. You can even use third party firmware like Open WRT or DD-WRT to update your routers to get more out of your router.

Less Hassle with your ISP: Nobody loves dealing with ISP customer support simply because you have to run around in circles for ages before anything gets done. With a separate router and modem, you leave less responsibility with your ISP and depend on yourself to get things done.

Better wireless Performance: More control over your modem and router, and choosing your own model helps you get exactly what you are looking for to increase your wireless network performance.

Location: Instead of extending the reach with standard coax cables needed for your combo unit; you can place your router exactly where you want, with the help of Cat5 cable extenders.

If you’ve decided that modem router combo units are not your thing, you can simply choose from one of our selection of best routers for Time Warner Cable (TWC). To help make your life easier, we reviewed 5 routers and 2 modems for Time Warner Cable that would compliment any of the routers reviewed in this guide.

Best Routers For Time Warner Cable (TWC)

Best Modem For Time Warner Cable (TWC)

Time Warner Offers a Modem/Router Combo but

While Time Warner and Spectrum may offer a modem/router with their service but this isn’t always the best option to suit your needs.

In fact, depending on how you use your internet, you may find a modem router combo to be your best bet, and has the potential to save you money in the long run.

One of the biggest reasons people don’t like renting a modem/router is the simple fact that you will pay at least $10 dollars extra a month, that’s not counting a price increase whenever they feel like it, for a modem rental for the duration of the service, and then still have to go out and buy a router on top of that.

There are very few reasons to choose the modem/router that Time Warner offers unless you will be using their service very short term, usually for less than a year. Otherwise, you’ll find that you can purchase your own best router for Time Warner Cable to fit your needs, with savings accruing after a year or two of use, depending on initial cost. You’ll also find that you have the choice to select which device you find to be the best modem router combo or the best wireless router for Time Warner Cable.

1. Netgear Nighthawk DOCSIS 3.0 WiFi Cable Modem Router For TWC (C7000)

Cool name aside, NETGEAR’s Nighthawk AC1900 comes in as the editor’s choice due to its all in one capabilities, simple and fast set up, and high ratings. The modem router combo unit is certified for Time Warner and Spectrum, and also serves as your wireless router. While the initial price may be hard to swallow for some users, it would take less than 20 months to pay off versus the indefinite cost of leasing for that amount of time. It offers simple installation, and it has outperformed several similar models when it comes to range and speeds.

INSTALLATION

Most users have found this device to be incredibly easy to install, with simple instructions geared towards your particular ISP. Most people haven’t needed to contact their provider for assistance, aside from a request for MAC address from provider. The genie app offered by NETGEAR is also an asset to the installation process.

PERFORMANCE

The Nighthawk offers excellent wireless range throughout large homes and winding apartments alike. There have been few reports of lost signal, or bogged down coverage when several devices are connected. This router is also rated for Time Warner’s high speed internet, and has outperformed similar devices on the market.

CONFIGURATION

The device isn’t designed for much customization which makes it an ideal solution for those who have little interest in the tech side of receiving their internet connection. It rarely needs updates, and is ready to go out of the box.

BEST USE

This device offers a wireless hub for your whole household, whether a tiny home or sprawling 2,500 feet home. An added USB plug allows you to hook your printer into your wireless setup, meaning you can print from anywhere. This is a great unit for those who simply want to have internet connectivity with an easy setup without having to configure any particular controls.

2. Motorola 16x4 High-Speed Gateway with Wi-Fi Router For Time Warner Cable 

Motorola is a well known name in the world of technology, and it’s 16x4 High Speed Gateway does not disappoint. It boasts speeds of up to 686Mbps, making it a suitable match for Time Warner’s internet speed. With high performance Wi-Fi capabilities, the signal reaches the legal limit for coverage. Aesthetically, the unit is sleek and unobtrusive, designed to stand vertically, taking up only a tiny footprint in your home.

INSTALLATION

The installation is fairly quick and easy for this device, with some users able to set it up entirely on their own, while others have had to call their ISP with the MAC address. Time Warner Cable offers an activation program, and most people report it taking less than ten minutes to install, regardless of tech skill level.

PERFORMANCE

This unit shines when it comes to performance, with many users reporting that it has significantly exceeded the speeds of units they used prior to this one. This Motorola router allows for the speeds that you pay for, and offers a program to see just how fast you are going. The connection is consistent and strong.

CONFIGURATION

This unit can be connected to just about any device that needs an internet connection, from smart phones and tablets to smart televisions, gaming consoles, and computers whether running on a wired or wireless connection.

BEST USE

This unit is one of the best routers for Time Warner Cable if you want to use all the high speed internet you’re paying for, without being bogged down. Most users have reported higher speeds when using this router modem combination for Time Warner, coming from a variety of other high quality units. If you’re gaming, streaming, and working from home, this unit won’t disappoint.

3. NETGEAR AC1600 (16x4) WiFi Cable Modem Router (C6250) DOCSIS 3.0 

Best Router For Time Warner Cable - Editor's Choice

The cost isn’t the only reason to buy this highly rated unit, it offers fast speeds, simple setup and decent range for smaller homes and apartments.

INSTALLATION

NETGEAR offers a product that offers simple installation to get users up and running quickly. They offer extensive guides to help users of all backgrounds take their internet setup into their own hands. Their genie app helps with the process, and Push ‘N’ Connect allows for wireless connectivity at the push of a button.

PERFORMANCE

With Wifi speeds up to 300Mbps, this device has most basic users covered when it comes to speed. Even during peak times, there is no slow down. HD gamers and video streaming is enhanced as a result of the unit being gigabit wired. For the average sized home, the wireless coverage is ample, and users report continuous coverage.

CONFIGURATION

Easy to set up and configure from the genie app, this device also offers a Guest Network Access which allows your guests to have separate access to your wireless connection. It boasts simplicity and user friendliness, but many people have reported difficulty in setting up parental controls.

BEST USE

This router that is approved by Time Warner Cable is ideal for the average home or apartment, offering speeds that are great for both simple internet browsing, and for high definition video streaming. For a family, the added controls from the genie app allow for monitoring and controlling the unit from wherever you are, and know that your data is secure with the addition of an additional and separate guest network. As long as you don’t require anything particularly fancy, this unit will serve its purpose at an affordable price.

This router provides the best value for money.

4. ARRIS SURFboard SBG7580AC Modem Router For Time Warner Cable

High Performance Router For Time Warner Cable (TWC)

The ARRIS SURFboard will have you surfing the net before you know it. This well known and popular modem router combo for Time Warner Cable has been on the market for 20 years, constantly improving and evolving for the times.

INSTALLATION

Despite taking a little longer with Time Warner to recognize this device than other providers, the set up is fairly simple and it fully integrates. You’ll need to talk to the ISP to get everything up and running, but that is really the only speed bump when it comes to installing it.

PERFORMANCE

When compared to units available through Time Warner, this router blows them out of the water with speeds, with some reviews of even tripling what they had with a leased router. It also offers full house coverage, high download speeds and little to no lagging during gaming and streaming. Many people who use the SURFboard end up buying them in the future, though they boast longevity. You actually have access to the speeds you pay for when you use this modem.

CONFIGURATION

For those with a tech background, this is considered to be one of the best options for a combo unit. It is optimized for speed, and has even boasted speeds significantly better than that of separate modems and routers. It has proved time and time again to be a top of the line product.

BEST USE

This modem router that is approved by Time Warner Cable will bring you wireless where you haven’t had wireless before. Its speeds will let you stream movies in one room while your kids are gaming in high def in the other room with no hiccups along the way. This unit is designed for performance, and it will become a staple to your internet connection needs in no time.

Arris SURFboard SBG7580AC is a high performance router for Time Warner Cable.

5. NETGEAR AC1750 Smart WiFi Router Dual Core Processor - Router Only

Best (Router Only) For Time Warner Cable

While the benefits of a combination modem router are plenty, sometimes you’ll find you just need a Wi-Fi router. And that’s where the NETGEAR AC1750 Router comes into the picture. If you already have a modem that works with your Time Warner Cable, then this little router will serve your wireless needs.

INSTALLATION

Quick and easy, as close to plug and play as you can get. Whether you had a modem already or are using one provided by your ISP, you basically just have to plug this into power and to the modem and you’re ready to go. The instructions are easy to follow, and NETGEAR has the genie app to guide you along the way.

PERFORMANCE

When compared to some of the combo units on the market, the range on this router can almost double. You won’t have to worry about any dead zones in your home, even if it is 5,500 square feet. It’s also great if you have several devices that you’ll be connecting to it, you‘ll find limited instances of having to reboot. It offers fast upload speeds and streams music, video and games without a hiccup.

CONFIGURATION

As long as it is compatible with your modem, most users experience little difficulty configuring this router that is approved by Time Warner Cable (TWC). The fact that it stands alone from the modem gives you more control over updates, and monitoring systems than some of the combo devices on the market.

BEST USE

If you need a long range for your wireless, without experiencing any lag along the way, this router will exceed your expectations. Large homes have benefitted from using a separate router as a way to get the best whole house coverage. If you plan on setting up custom controls and personalizing your system, this is the best router for Time Warner Cable that will give you the most flexibility in that department.

This monotony of black on this sleek tower modem is broken by a few well designed LEDs that indicate the status of the modem. TheMB7460 boasts of a compact design, created to minimalize shelf space usage and if you’re a need for speed person, this modem may just be the one you’re looking for.

PERFORMANCE

​When it comes to performance per watt, the MB7460 really comes up tops. With higher internet tiers becoming available to us folks, it makes sense to make an upgrade and buy the best modem for Time Warner. The installation process was super simple; all that is needed is to finish the set up process and to inform Comcast so that the modem can be added to their database. All in all, the set up process should set you back by ten minutes.

In addition to this, the modem maintains a relatively warm temperature and does not over heat, which is a problem in many modems. You will notice that your pages load much faster and your programs boot up much faster as well. The 16 upstream channels are definitely a huge plus, with the full band tuner finding the best channel with the least amount of traffic so that your data flows faster.

SPEED

​We actually got higher than the speed we were subscribing for. Instead of getting a measly 192Mbps, we actually started receiving 288Mbps, close to actual advertised speeds on Speedtest, while on the TWC Maxx Internet Plan. The speed seems to remain consistent with this modem, and no resets were required.

BEST USE

​The Motorola MB7420 is a great option for those who have access to higher tier internet plans, with speeds topping 50Mbps and above. If you have many devices that need to be connected without dropped connections, or even are an avid gamer and need a reliable modem to get connected either wired or wireless (via a router), this should be your top choice.

7. Arris SURFboard 6190 Cable Modem

Capable of taking you to Gigabit speeds, the ARRIS SB6190 is like a step into the future, without having to pay an expensive one way ticket there. It has 32 x 8 channels and if you’re wondering if this is overkill, read on. Not only does it look visually appealing, the impressive download speeds, 2 year warranty, stable connectivity and simple set up process makes the SB6190 one awesome power packed deal!

PERFORMANCE

By having 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels, you will find that your network is faster, smoother with fewer lags or interruptions. The installation process is fairly simple; you may have to call Comcast to get your MAC address added.

SPEED

​The Arris SB6190 is an utter speed demon. From getting only 132Mbps with our old modem, the speeds jumped to 210Mbps download with 14Mbps upload.

BEST USE

​Due to the high number of bonded channels, the Arris SB6190 is perfect for HD online gaming, streaming HD videos or even having multiple devices connected at the same time. Basically, you can do whatever your heart desires when you have the SB6190, considered by the BlueGadgetTooth team to be amongst the best routers for Time Warner. File transfers are a breeze with the SB6190.

Advantages of Buying Your Own Router for Time Warner Cable

It may seem easier to just add ten dollars a month to your cable bill to lease a router, rather than shelling out upwards bunch of money upfront to purchase your own, but when it comes down to using the best router for Time Warner Cable (TWC), you’ll find a better value and service in owning your own. Not only when it comes to cost, but when it comes to personalization and getting full use of a product for which you already pay.

When you set up your contract with your ISP, you select what speed will best fit your needs. Most modems or routers that are provided with your service don’t even allow you speeds that align with what you are paying for, mainly because they aren’t the highest quality product on the market. Why lose out on speed you are paying for, just to save some money upfront? Not only this, but even if you were receiving the full speeds you were paying for, you still have no control over rental fees. They can continually increase, while you continually pay for them month in and month out. When you own your own router that is compatible with Time Warner Cable, the savings start accumulating in as little as a year.

Benefits of Buying Your Own Router For Time Warner Cable

The biggest benefit of buying your own is having the ability to choose the product that best fits your needs. If you have a big house and you need a large range, then you are able to buy a product that will offer the best coverage for your square footage. You’re also able to better customize your products, and optimize them for your use. Parental controls are often better when you have you own device, and you can set up your network in a way that will best suit the needs of everyone in your household.

Doing just a little research to find out the best modem router for your Time Warner needs can save you a lot of money, time and frustration in the long run. Taking a little time upfront will save you from having to upgrade a little ways down the road after you find that there is no wifi signal in any of your third floor bedrooms, or that your movies spend more time buffering than they do playing.

How Do You Know If Your Router Is Compatible With Time Warner

Now that you see the advantage of owning your own router or router modem combo, you have to figure out which options are compatible with Time Warner Cable. The five options we listed above are some of the best routers and best modem router combos for Time Warner Cable, but that doesn’t mean you have to limit yourself to just them.

Compatibility Factors to Consider

The two major factors to take into consideration when determining which router is best compatible with Time Warner Cable is the ISP requirement, which are what Time Warner requires, and the DOCSIS Standards, which are the Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification. It’s easy to determine what the Time Warner standards are, their website lists most devices that are compatible with their specifications. These are going to be the devices that they are familiar with and likely the easiest to install. But just because it isn’t listed doesn’t mean it won’t be compatible, you just have to do a little extra research on the specific device you have interest in to see if it will work.

DOCSIS Standards

When it comes to DOCSIS, that determines what your speed is for uploading and downloading. Depending on your plan, you may be able to use an older or slower level of DOCSIS, as it ranges from 1.0 to 3.1 in speed. If you’re going to be needing a lot of high speed internet, and your ISP plan is set up for such, you’ll want a modem capable of DOCSIS 3.1, if you’re only going to be utilizing it for simple browsing and such, a slower version should work just fine.

Once you’ve decided on a unit, make sure you have it when Time Warner Cable comes to set up service. While they typically don’t offer service on units that they haven’t provided, most will make sure everything is at least working before they leave, and may even help you set it up for a small fee if you don’t know how to do it yourself. There are many different solutions for best modems for Time Warner Cable. If you don’t know much about technology and setting up a home network, it is easiest to just buy a unit that is listed on their site as compatible.

How Much Money You Save On Rental Fees

There are many considerations to take when determining how much money you save by owning a router or modem, ranging from unit lifespan, to how long you plan to be with Time Warner Cable. If you’re planning on moving in less than a year or so, it will probably be more cost effective to rent a unit, unless you are certain you’ll have Time Warner Cable at your new home. You don’t want to invest in a unit that may not be compatible with a future ISP. If you’re planning on staying at your current address indefinitely, it is a wise investment to own your own modem and router.

When it comes to lifespan of a unit, the one benefit of leasing one is that when it dies, they’ll replace it for you, and you’ll continue paying your monthly fee for it for as long as you have service. But with higher end units typically running around the $200 mark, and lasting upwards of five years with good care, that can be a savings of over $400 over that duration. That doesn’t even take into consideration that the rate for leasing will likely rise over that span of time. If the lease fee goes up after two years to $12, those savings could increase to nearly $500! Even lower end units, costing approximately $100, typically last at least two years, which is a savings of $140 dollars over that span.

The longer your unit lasts, the more savings you will incur. That’s why it is important to take care of your unit to make sure it lives to its full potential. Make sure it receives ample air flow, and if you see dust building up on it, use a can of compressed air to clean it out. Consider powering it off when you aren’t using it, and take care when plugging and unplugging USB cords, and Ethernet cables. These simple tricks will give you the best lifespan of your unit, saving you hundreds of dollars over the course of its life.

Final Words - Wrapping It Up

Home is where your Wi-Fi automatically connects, so you want to make sure that happens without a hitch. Deciding on the best router for Time Warner Cable doesn’t have to be a hassle. Knowing the savings that come along with buying a unit rather than renting through Time Warner can make the initial cost of buying a unit upfront less painful. Considering what is most important to you for what you seek out of your ISP and internet connection can help you decide which one to buy.

It may be easy to accept the terms of leasing because it is simple, and it’s just as simple for Time Warner to increase the rate to lease every few years. Keep in mind how quickly you’ll pay off your modem-router combination versus leasing one indefinitely. The internet is a permanent fixture in modern society, so don’t tie yourself down to leasing when you can own your own device.

With the information you’ve learned from reading this guide, you should have no problems deciding the best modem for your Time Warner Cable internet connection. You’ll be surfing the net at high speeds in no time with the help of this information.