ARRIS S33 and the Motorola MB8611 are formidable contenders in the battle for the best internet connection at home.
Likewise, high-speed internet has become as essential as electricity in our homes, and choosing the right modem can significantly impact your online experience.
Both modems promise to deliver top-notch internet speeds and come with the advanced DOCSIS 3.1 standard, but they also have unique characteristics that set them apart.
From Ethernet ports to ISP compatibility and special features, we’ll help you understand which modem could be the best fit for your specific needs and internet lifestyle.
In this blog post, we’re going to compare the ARRIS S33 and the Motorola MB8611 side by side, examining their features, performance, and overall value.
Arris S33 vs Motorola MB8611
Both ARRIS Surfboard S33 and the Motorola MB8611 are evenly matched in price, DOCSIS standard compliance, maximum internet speeds, customer ratings, and additional benefits such as cost savings from rental fees, a 2-year warranty, and free support from the USA.
However, there may be a unique value proposition between both products. Let’s get into the features and reviews.
Feature Comparison: Arris S33 vs Motorola MB8611
| Feature | ARRIS Surfboard S33 | Motorola MB8611 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $159 | $159 | Equal |
| DOCSIS Standard | 3.1 | 3.1 | Equal |
| Max Internet Speeds | Up to 2.5 Gbps with the 2.5 Gbps port | Up to 2.5 Gbps with the 2.5 Gbps port | Equal |
| Ethernet Ports | One 2.5 Gbps port and one 1 Gbps port | One 2.5 Gbps port | Arris s33 |
| ISP Compatibility | Major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity, and others | Comcast Xfinity, Cox Gigablast, Spectrum | Arris s33 |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Motorola MB8611 |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computers, Routers, Ethernet-connected devices | Personal Computer | Arris s33 |
| RAM | 1GB (512MB x 2) | 512MB | Motorola MB8611 |
| Special Features | 2.5 Gbps port for faster speeds and future-proofing | Active Queue Management (AQM) for reduced latency and better app performance | |
| Additional Information | Extreme cost savings by avoiding rental fees, 2-year warranty, and free support from the USA | Extreme cost savings by avoiding rental fees, 2-year warranty, and free support from the USA | Equal |
Speed: The ARRIS S33 stands out with its dual Ethernet ports, offering a 2.5 Gbps port alongside a 1 Gbps port, which provides greater flexibility for connecting multiple devices.
Compatibility: The ARRIS S33 also has broader ISP compatibility and supports a wider range of compatible devices, making it a versatile choice for users who prefer various home networking setups.
Ethernet Ports: ARRIS S33 Offers one 2.5 Gbps port and an additional 1 Gbps port. On the other hand, Motorola MB8611 Comes with a single 2.5 Gbps port. So ARRIS S33 is preferred for those who want an extra Ethernet port for additional connectivity
WiFi Connectivity: The Motorola MB8611 only provides Wi-Fi connectivity, which could be a decisive factor for users who prefer the convenience of wireless. ARRIS doesn’t have this feature.
Active Queue Management: The MB8611 also boasts Active Queue Management (AQM), which can enhance app performance by reducing latency, particularly beneficial for activities like gaming and streaming. The Feature is not available in ARRIS S33.
Who Can Buy?
- ARRIS S33: Ideal for users looking for a modem that can support a range of devices with varying connectivity needs, especially those with multiple devices that would benefit from an additional Ethernet port.
- Motorola MB8611: Suitable for users who prioritize reduced latency for applications and may also benefit from Wi-Fi connectivity in addition to Ethernet.
In summary, the ARRIS S33 seems to be a versatile choice for users with a variety of devices and the desire for extra Ethernet connectivity, while the Motorola MB8611 caters well to users focused on application performance like gamings and who may appreciate the Wi-Fi option in addition to Ethernet.
