5 Best Fiber Optic Modems in 2023 [Versatile Options]

Fiber Optic connections don’t require a modem, they use ONT (Optical Network Terminal) for converting signals into different formats. In most cases fiber providers provide an ONT and all you have to do is get a Fiber router and pair it.

For some internet providers like Verizon, CenturyLink, you can get a Fiber optic gateway (2-in-1 device ONT + Router). It also makes sense if you don’t want a separate WiFi router or no longer want to rent the equipment from ISP.

However, there are several challenges to finding the best fiber gateway, including the lack of choices, detailed research, and complex terms. That’s why after testing 19 gateways that support fiber internet, I put together a list of quality options for 2023:

5 Best Fiber Optic Modems of 2023 [Gateways]

A good fiber-compatible modem router supports multiple networking modes, good speeds, a handful of Ethernet slots, and an excellent processing setup. Keeping these factors in mind, this list is handpicked to suit diverse user requirements and fiber service providers.

It is important to check for compatibility with your internet provider. The list comprises the top 5 fiber gateway devices which will connect to your ONT device.

1. Best For Verizon FiOS: Verizon G3100

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Verizon FiOS Home Router G3100

Modes: FTTP
Max Data Speed: Up to 2.5Gbps
Ports: 4 GigE + 1 Gig WAN + 1 MoCA 2.5 + 1 USB 3.0
Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 6

Not every fiber optic modem router can justify the ultra-fast speeds the ISP offers. The FiOS G3100 is different as it strikes the perfect balance between wired and wireless functionality, allowing you to get speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps easily. And as compared to the G1100, it promises almost twice the better coverage.

Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?

Firstly, the upper-speed limits of 2.5 Gbps make a compelling case. Provided Verizon has a modem-like setup, you can use the WAN port associated with the G3100 to get internet access. And the Wireless AX (Wi-Fi 6) standard ensures that the speeds are top-notch and throughput consistent.

Next is FTTP compatibility, allowing you to maximize internet speeds without losing packets. As far as ISP support is concerned, the G3100 is compatible with Verizon FiOS, preferably for internet plans of up to 2 Gbps.

Ports & Connectivity

As far as on-device ports are concerned, the G3100 is replete with 4 Gig ethernet to connect to more bandwidth-intensive devices like gaming consoles, smart TV, and more. Next is the MoCA cable, allowing you to make the most of the multimedia plans. Also, there is a standard WAN port for additional wired connectivity instances if and when needed.

Adding to this is the tri-band routing support, allowing you to switch bands automatically depending on the nature and proximity of the smart device. The 4 x 4 streams, relevant to both near (5GHz) and far (2.4GHz) bands, are great regarding the coverage — which is close to 3,000 Sq Ft.

Hardware & Performance

A multi-core processor is at the helm, supported by 512MB of RAM. The featured chipset adds a lot to the performance of this fiber modem router, especially when it comes to guaranteeing the best 4K streaming performances. The gaming latency is appropriately low, courtesy of the interference-immune hardware setup.

Design & Build

The G3100 is a good-looking, dome-shaped modem-router combo with white-colored, hardened plastic. Not to mention the solitary LED indicator in the front, followed by a heat-dissipating matter panel. The rear panel is all about the ports. As far as the aesthetics are concerned, the product measures 9 x 5 x 5 inches and weighs 3.60 pounds, to be exact.

Conclusion

The Verizon/Fios G3100 is one of the go-to fiber modem routers if you want to prioritize speed, coverage, and throughput over anything else. And the minimum gaming latency makes it a great bet for professional gamers seeking a top-notch internet setup.

Pros

High-speed ports
MoCA support
Aesthetic form factor
No overheating
Minimal gaming latency
Dedicated app support

Cons

Thick
Heavy

2. Best for CenturyLink Fiber: Greenwave C4000XG

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Greenwave C4000XG

Modes: GPON
Max Data Speed: Up to 2.5Gbs
Ports: 5 GigE + USB 2.0
Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 6

If G3100 from Verizon was inventive enough, the Greenwave C4000XG would certainly put a smile on your face. Also termed the Axon C4000XG, this fiber internet modem router boasts GPON support and Wi-Fi 6 wireless standard (built-in router), which is quite an upgrade over the C4000LG.

Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?

First of all, it is the 4-stream connectivity that steals the show. Coupled with Wi-Fi 6 standard, MU-MIMO functionality, and 1024-QAM powered throughput for faster downstream and upstream data transfers, the C4000XG hardly leaves a stone unturned to make things better for an office user. As far as raw internet speeds are concerned, you can get 2.5Gbps with ease.

As far as ISP compatibility is concerned, this device is good enough for Gig-level internet plans from CenturyLink. And yes, the 160 MHz channel width for the 5GHz band ensures that you get the best speeds, wired or wireless, at all times. Also, the supported GPON mode works better and is faster than any EPON model.

Ports & Connectivity

Depending on requirements, the C4000XG comes equipped with 4 standard Gig Ethernet LAN ports and a customizable WAN/LAN port. Plus, there is a USB port in play that lets you share data across networks.

Next comes the connectivity, which hinges on 4 x 4 streams, the ability to connect more than 200 devices at once. Plus, OFDMA support for organically bringing Quality of Service prioritization into the mix. As far as the range is concerned, this device can easily cover over 2500 Sq Ft of an area.

Hardware & Performance

Powering the C4000XG is a standard dual-core chipset from InterAptiv. And what’s exciting is that it works closely with 512MB of RAM. The hardware setup promises minimal gaming latency, excellent throughput, and lag-free UHD streaming. Also, you get 128MB of NAND flash memory to see you through those firmware updates.

Design & Build

This networking device measures 9.96 x 8.78 x 7.52 inches in dimensions. It weighs close to 2.90 pounds, assumes a heat-dissipating structure made of white plastic, and aesthetically feels like a bulked-up paperweight.

Conclusion

To sum it up, the CenturyLink C4000XG is the best fiber modem router gateway in terms of coverage, speed, and multi-device connectivity. And while the pricing might look a bit exorbitant, the QoS support and Smart connect band selection more than makes up for it.

Note: You can read my detailed review of the Greenwave C4000 series. I’ve discussed all three variants of the C4000 series in it.

Pros

5 Ethernet ports
QoS support
Smart automatic band selection
Wi-Fi 6 standard
Excellent near-band performance

Cons

No MoCA connectivity
Heavy

3. Best ONT Modem: Arris Windstream NVG343BQ

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Arris Windstream NVG343BQ

Modes: FTTP
Max Data Speed: Up to 1Gbps
Ports: 4 GigE + 1 USB 2.0
Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 5

Not many fiber gateways come with ONT support, a functionality that eliminates the need for a standard garage setup. If you are looking for such a device, the ARRIS Windstream NVG343BQ is a good option to go with.

Also, it trumps other dated devices from Arris by bringing in Fiber-to-the-Premise functionality and VDSL support.

Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?

Even though the Arris NVG343BQ lets you experience the best VDSL speeds, it ensures fiber internet compatibility, courtesy of FTTP support. The device lets you experience speeds of up to 1Gbps and exceptional wireless throughput, courtesy of its exciting stead as a fiber gateway and the Wi-Fi 5 standard.

As far as ISP compatibility is concerned, it works well with the 500 Mbps+ fiber plans from Windstream and CenturyLink. However, you can use the wired setup to attain Gigabit speeds.

Ports & Connectivity

Arris lets you enjoy the perks of four high-speed Ethernet ports, which you can use to connect the more demanding devices to the internet. And the OEM even throws in a USB port, an ONT port for the fiber to feed into your homes directly, and even a DSL/Broadband port to help you get the best of both worlds.

The Wireless AC (Wi-Fi 5) standard makes the internet quality feel fast and consistent, helping you with games and streaming. Plus, Beamforming support ensures that coverage of 1500 Sq Ft feels more than that on paper.

Hardware & Performance

The dual-core chipset makes interference a thing of the past. Instead, you can stream 1080p videos on multiple devices with relative ease. There is 128MB of built-in storage to help you handle updates and firmware issues.

Design & Build

The black-colored slab of plastic comes with a matte form factor. Also, there are 4 LEDs to help you with the network status. Made of hardened plastic, this device measures 5 x 1.1 x 7 inches and weighs close to 3 pounds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you seek an ONT modem router combo that lets you enjoy xDSL or fiber optic internet, depending on availability, whilst minimizing overall setup grunt, the NVG343BQ is the device to choose.

For more details, do read the detailed review of Arris NVG343BQ.

Pros

Multiple ports
Sleek design
xDSL support
Over 20 non-overlapping channels

Cons

Not the best design
Not meant for high-speed Gig-level connections

4. Best for Fiber & DSL Connections: ZyXEL C3000Z

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ZyXEL C3000Z

Modes: FTTP
Max Data Speed: Up to 1Gbps
Ports: 5 GigE + 1 USB
Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi AC

If you are searching for a versatile device that supports both Fiber and DSL connections, ZyXEL C3000Z is a perfect choice. Compared to other ZyXel-series devices, the C3000Z offers better speed and comes equipped with a more innovative design.

Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?

I wouldn’t say that the C3000Z is the best fiber optic modem, but it does enough if the service provider has an ONT set up in close premises. With max speed limits of up to 1000 Mbps, mostly wired, and the dual-band wireless AC standard to cover most networking requirements, the C3000Z has almost every base covered.

As far as ISP and plan compatibility is concerned, you can pair this up with standard 200+ Mbps plans from CenturyLink.

Ports & Connectivity

The C3000Z comes equipped with 4 Gig ethernet ports with LAN connectivity. Plus, one convertible port lets you use it as LAN or WAN, depending on the functionality you seek. There is also a standard USB Port for sharing data and media across networks. And yes, the DSL/Broadband port is in play for plugging in the choice of connection.

Hardware and Performance

Even though the hardware specs aren’t specified, you can expect ZyXEL to offer a dual-core SoC and at least 256MB of RAM. The processor looks good enough based on HD streaming and online gaming performances. It helps the device cut through the congestion and ensures that gaming lag is reduced to a minimum.

Design & Build

The C3000Z assumes a vertical structure, comes in black and boasts several LED indicators for accurate status reporting. As far as design-specific elements are concerned, this networking gateway device measures 12.13 x 10.47 x 2.64 inches and weighs close to 2.30 pounds, which is a tad on the chunkier side. Regardless, as experienced personally, heat generation is next to nill.

Conclusion

The ZyXEL C3000Z might not be the most affordable fiber-compatible modem, but it does have enough speed and consistency to deserve a place on this list.

Pros

5 High-speed ports
Excellent design
Several LEDs
Consistent 5GHz speeds
Doubles as a DSL modem

Cons

Prioritizes DSL over Fiber
Pricey

5. Best Budget FTTH Modem: Arris NVG468MQ

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Arris NVG468MQ

Modes: FTTH, ONT
Max Data Speed: Up to 1Gbps
Ports: 4 GigE + 1 USB
Modem-Router Combo: Yes
Wireless Standard: Wi-Fi 5

Looking for an affordable fiber optic modem router device that even comes with MoCA functionality? Well, the Arris NVG468MQ is the right option to consider. Plus, it takes the lead over the Arris NVG34BQ when experiencing add-on MoCA 2.0 services.

Why is it suited for Fiber Optic Internet?

The NVG468MQ is everything you would want an affordable fiber-optic modem to be. Firstly, it boasts a wireless AC standard, making dual-band network access seamless and consistent. And even though the device promises 100Mbps of wireless internet support, you can use Gig speeds over wired connections.

Coming to the compatibility, the NVG468MQ works really well with Frontier and Verizon FiOS plans — mostly the ones that go up to 200 Mbps at most.

Ports & Connectivity

The NVG468MQ features a standard setup of ports, including 4 GigE slots for high-speed wired connections, one USB slot for data transfers and pairing accessories like printers, and the MoCA slot that requires a splitter to connect with the modem and even the Smart TV if needed.

Also, the dual-band Wi-Fi 5 standard makes way for consistent internet connections, good enough for most daily activities.

Hardware & Performance

You get a standard processor on this FTTH modem that cuts through interference and ensures lag-free HD streaming. And if you are into gaming, setting up a wired connection is a better bet.

Design & Build

Despite the pedestrian design, the NVG468MQ doesn’t overheat. It is made of hardened, matte plastic, assumes a vertical structure, and weighs 2.49 pounds. Regarding dimensions, it measures 15.4 x 8 x 2.4 inches, which is sleeker compared to some of the other picks on the list.

Conclusion

If cost-to-ownership takes the front seat for you, I recommend getting the Arris NVG468MQ, as it doesn’t just come cheap price tag but lets you play around with bundled packs from Frontier and Verizon FiOS.

Pros

Affordable
Several ports
Fast USB for pairing a printer
MoCA 2.0 support

Cons

Basic design
Not meant for multi-gig plans

Things To Consider When Buying Fiber Internet Equipment

Now that you know which fiber optic modem or router modem combo to pick, here is a detailed guide to analyzing the attributes better:

Understand Your Requirements

The first question that comes to mind while picking a fiber-ready modem setup is the need for it. For instance, are you planning to pick one for your standard home use or for intensive loads like gaming?

Or, are you looking to get one for the office or to establish a network in any commercial space? Depending on user requirements, you purchase the networking device.

Like if you want something for your small home, the Arris NVG468MQ might be a good bet. However, the C4000XG from Greenwave is one of the top-rated modems for gamers, courtesy of the QoS support.

Compatibility with your ISP

ISP compatibility is the most important aspect to look at before spending your hard-earned money on modems that work with fiber connections.

Most gateway devices aren’t compatible with every ISP in the market. For instance, the powerful C4000XG works with CenturyLink, whereas the Arris NVG468MQ complements Frontier and Verizon FiOS.

Therefore, before investing, check out the ISP compatibility and pick only the one that makes sense to the area-specific service provider. And it is always better to pick one that covers most of the ISPs so you can move around and the device stays relevant.

Relevant Ports & Connectivity

If you have multiple bandwidth-hungry devices at home or office, including the Smart TV, PS4 or PS5, and more, I would recommend considering a device like the C4000XG, which offers multiple Ethernet ports, 5 to be exact.

However, if you want to pair an extender to the modem-router combo or standardize the usage, it is better to go for a device with one to two ports. That way, you can save some money as well.

Hardware & Design

A multi-core processor is a nice addition to any networking setup. Yet, you must keep your eyes open for at least 256MB of RAM. Networking devices as powerful as those used for large offices might even have a multi-core processor with 512MB of RAM.

Next, you have the design, which might be an important parameter to consider while investing in a new fiber-supported modem. If you often change your workplace, it is advisable to get something light. However, if you plan on keeping the device fixed at home or office, you might need to prioritize heat dissipation and durable aesthetics over anything else.

Special Features

If you are into additional features and more detailed evaluations, check for QoS functionality, USB ports for sharing data over the network, antennas relevant to the modem-router setup, etc. Depending on the availability of these specifications or lack thereof, the final price of the fiber-supported gateway device is determined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a special modem for fiber internet?

Actually, you don’t need a modem for fiber internet. You need a wireless gateway, also known as a modem router combo. But fiber optic gateways differ from the traditional router modem combos used for cable ISPs. So, you must check compatibility with your fiber provider before purchasing a device.

How do I connect my gateway to a fiber connection?

Every fiber connection setup runs down to your home or the nearest hub right into the ONT or Optical Network Terminal. The optical fiber from the hub is then fed into the PON port of the concerned modem, which is usually color-coded as blue or green.

What is the best gateway for fiber internet?

Many contenders for the best fiber optic gateway tag in the retail space exist. However, a good way to identify one is to look for price-to-value balance, ease of setting up, app-based support, and a higher number of ethernet ports.

Verdict

Each of these five fiber-supported wireless gateways lets you cater to specific user requirements. And despite this being a short list, if you are still confused, here are the use-case-specific segregation to help you choose:

If speed and number of ports are your primary concern, along with QoS functionality, the Greenwave C4000XG for CenturyLink is a perfect choice.
If you also want to keep doors open to DSL, the ARRIS NVG343BQ is the one to choose.
Finally, if you want something budget-friendly but without compromising on features, the ARRIS NVG468MQ seems like the device to go for.

Yet, you can always look at some of the other picks and get the suitable device that aligns with your requirements, needs, and budget.