What To Know
- The Motorola MG7700 has a clear advantage with four Gigabit Ethernet ports compared to the single port on the Arris SURFboard G34.
- The Arris SURFboard G34 is a budget-friendly option with excellent performance, while the Motorola MG7700 provides more features and connectivity options for a slightly higher price.
- The Arris SURFboard G34 has a slight edge in download speed, but the difference is negligible in real-world usage.
In the realm of home networking, cable modems reign supreme as the gateway to the internet. Two standout contenders in this arena are the Arris SURFboard G34 and the Motorola MG7700. Both modems offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the superior choice for your internet needs? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each modem, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for various usage scenarios.
Specifications: Arris SURFboard G34 vs. Motorola MG7700
| Feature | Arris SURFboard G34 | Motorola MG7700 |
| — | — | — |
| DOCSIS Standard | 3.1 | 3.0 |
| Maximum Download Speed | 1.0 Gbps | 960 Mbps |
| Maximum Upload Speed | 350 Mbps | 350 Mbps |
| Number of Gigabit Ethernet Ports | 1 | 4 |
| Number of Phone Ports | 0 | 2 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 12.1 x 5.9 x 1.6 in | 11.4 x 6.3 x 2.3 in |
| Weight | 1.2 lbs | 1.6 lbs |
Performance: Arris SURFboard G34 vs. Motorola MG7700
Download Speed: The Arris SURFboard G34 boasts a slightly higher maximum download speed of 1.0 Gbps compared to the Motorola MG7700’s 960 Mbps. However, in real-world scenarios, the difference is negligible, especially for most home internet plans.
Upload Speed: Both modems offer a maximum upload speed of 350 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for typical online activities such as video conferencing and file sharing.
Latency: Latency, which measures the response time of the modem, is crucial for gaming and other real-time applications. While neither modem provides specific latency figures, user reviews indicate that both perform admirably in this regard.
Features: Arris SURFboard G34 vs. Motorola MG7700
DOCSIS 3.1: The Arris SURFboard G34 supports the latest DOCSIS 3.1 standard, which offers theoretical speeds of up to 10 Gbps. However, most cable internet providers do not yet offer such high speeds, making this feature somewhat future-proof.
Gigabit Ethernet Ports: The Motorola MG7700 has a clear advantage with four Gigabit Ethernet ports compared to the single port on the Arris SURFboard G34. This allows for multiple wired devices to connect simultaneously at full Gigabit speeds.
Phone Ports: If you still use a landline phone, the Motorola MG7700’s two phone ports may be a valuable feature. The Arris SURFboard G34 does not have any phone ports.
Compatibility: Both modems are compatible with major cable internet providers in the United States, including Comcast, Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox. However, it’s always recommended to check with your provider for specific compatibility information.
Price: Arris SURFboard G34 vs. Motorola MG7700
The Arris SURFboard G34 typically retails for around $100-$150, while the Motorola MG7700 is priced slightly higher at $150-$200. The price difference is primarily due to the additional features and Gigabit Ethernet ports on the Motorola MG7700.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Arris SURFboard G34 and the Motorola MG7700 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
Arris SURFboard G34:
- Ideal for homes with gigabit internet plans and limited wired devices
- Future-proof with DOCSIS 3.1 support
- Affordable and compact
Motorola MG7700:
- Suitable for homes with multiple wired devices and landline phones
- Provides faster wired connectivity with four Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Slightly more expensive than the Arris SURFboard G34
Final Verdict: Arris SURFboard G34 vs. Motorola MG7700
Both the Arris SURFboard G34 and the Motorola MG7700 are excellent cable modems that offer reliable and high-speed internet connectivity. The Arris SURFboard G34 is a budget-friendly option with excellent performance, while the Motorola MG7700 provides more features and connectivity options for a slightly higher price. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual requirements and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which modem is faster, the Arris SURFboard G34 or the Motorola MG7700?
A: Both modems offer comparable download and upload speeds. The Arris SURFboard G34 has a slight edge in download speed, but the difference is negligible in real-world usage.
Q: Can I use either modem with my existing cable internet provider?
A: Yes, both modems are compatible with major cable internet providers in the United States. However, it’s always advisable to check with your provider for specific compatibility information.
Q: Which modem has better latency?
A: While neither modem provides specific latency figures, user reviews indicate that both perform well in this regard. Latency is more dependent on the quality of your internet connection and other factors, such as distance from the cable node.
Q: Can I use the Motorola MG7700 as a Wi-Fi router?
A: No, the Motorola MG7700 is a cable modem only and does not have Wi-Fi capabilities. You will need a separate Wi-Fi router to establish a wireless network.
Q: Which modem is better for gaming?
A: Both modems offer low latency and high speeds, making them suitable for gaming. The Arris SURFboard G34’s DOCSIS 3.1 support may provide a slight advantage in the future as internet speeds increase.
