Are you a loyal CenturyLink customer or thinking of getting CenturyLink for your family’s internet needs? Then investing in a good and reliable modem is key, especially if you want to get the best from any of CenturyLink’s internet plans with Wi-fi.
Unfortunately, CenturyLink, like most internet service providers out there, will always tell you that the best modem to pair with any of the company internet plans with Wi-Fi is the one you buy or rent from them.
And guess what, many users tend to buy into this narrative because it seems to make things easier. But you know what else is better? Buying your own modem. Getting your own modem gives you more options, plus you tend to get exactly what you need.
Without mincing words, renting a modem can get expensive really quickly, especially considering that internet service providers like CenturyLink charge customers around $10 per month or $120 per year to use a CenturyLink modem. But if you decide to invest in a modem that is compatible with CenturyLink, you could end up saving big in the long run, as you wouldn’t have to be paying monthly modem rental fees.
So whether you’re looking for a modem with top of the line technology or just want to save on your monthly internet bills, we have got you covered. Stay with us as we take you through a list of some of the best CenturyLink compatible modems.
Table of Contents
Where should you begin?
Before we dive into exploring the best modems on the market right now, you want to make sure you’re using a CenturyLink compatible modem. Not just that, you’ll also want to make sure that your preferred modem comes with exciting features and delivers internet speed that meets the needs of your households.
Another thing you want to check is the price. While it makes a lot of sense to invest in a CenturyLink compatible modem, try not to go overboard to get a super expensive modem, especially if you are on a budget and looking to manage your monthly internet bills.
Good for you, we have taken time to review some of the best CenturyLink compatible modems you can get at an affordable price, to make the process easier for you. Stay with us as we will get into all of that details shortly.
Choosing the best modem for CenturyLink: What you should consider
With many modems and routers available on the market today, choosing a good CenturyLink compatible modem can be quite tricky and challenging, to say the least. But not to worry, we have you covered, as we have put together some amazing factors you should consider when shopping for the perfect CenturyLink modem that ticks all your boxes.
So you must keep these factors in mind when you go shopping for the best DSL modem for CenturyLink. That said, here is a list of factors you should consider when shopping for the best CenturyLink modems.
- Compatibility: The first thing you want to look out for when shopping for a CenturyLink modem is “compatibility.” Trust us when we say you don’t want to buy a good modem and later find out that it isn’t compatible with your preferred internet service provider- CenturyLink. To this end, you have to double-check to make sure your preferred modem is on the list of CenturyLink compatible modems.
- While shopping for a good modem, keep in mind that there are various types of DLS services including, SDSL, VDLS, ADSL, and HDSL. To make sure you are on the right track, please confirm with your ISP by checking the company’s modem specification. Also, check to see the list of modems recommended by your preferred ISP.
- Usage: Asides from compatibility, usage is another factor you should carefully consider before you invest in any CenturyLink compatible modems. Now the million-dollar question is how much usage are you looking to get out of your DSL modem for CenturyLink? Are you looking to use many devices with your preferred modem? If yes, then it would make a lot of sense to go for a modem with ethernet connections instead of one with a USB port. And this isn’t to say modems with USB ports aren’t great. It just means that as far as usage is concerned, ethernet-based modems give users a better option.
- Modem speeds: Speed is of the essence when shopping for a suitable modem for CenturyLink. Suppose you have basic internet requirements like surfing through your favorite websites or checking your emails for updates. In that case, your internet requirements will significantly differ from people that require a high performing modem that lets them play their favorite games online or stream their favorite movies in HD. To this end, try to get a high-performing modem that enables you to take advantage of CenturyLink’s high-speed internet services.
- Modem lifespan: This is a very important factor you should consider when shopping for a CenturyLink compatible modem. Given the continued advancement in technology and the fact that that technology is easily updated, you don’t want to buy a modem to find out a few months later that it is obsolete and can no longer meet your internet needs. That’s why you should opt for a compatible CenturyLink modem that is up to date or one that comes with regular firmware updates.
- Price: It’s one thing to find a good and compatible CenturyLink modem and another to get a modem that is affordable. Except of course you have the money to splash, it’s important to go for a modem that is fairly priced. Thankfully, there are lots of options on the market today, so you are most likely going to get an affordable modem that ticks all your boxes. At the end of the day, you want to go for a modem that doesn’t drive your bills through the roof, especially after paying for your monthly internet subscription.
- Built-in Wi-Fi: For people who are not interested in ethernet or USB based modems, you can opt for modems with built-in Wi-Fi technology. Although they have their pros and cons, they are super convenient to use. And the best part is that they make connections seamless and smooth.
Motorola MD1600 Modem Router Combo
If you’re on the market for a good and reliable DSL modem for CenturyLink, you’ll not be disappointed to give the Motorola MD1600 a try. Not only is this modem super affordable, but it also boasts of lots of fantastic features that will not disappoint. That said, let us take a look at the performance and features of this tremendous modem.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Motorola MD1600 is in a league of its own. And even though this modem is among the most pocket-friendly modem on the market currently, its performance is not in doubt. We love the fact that the Motorola MD1600 is built to deliver speeds up to 100Mbps. So if you have always wanted a modem that provides superior internet speed, this is the one for you.
The Motorola MD1600 works perfectly with either ADSL2+ and VDSL2 service. Fitted with an AC1600 Gigabit router, this powerful modem gives you everything you’re looking for and more. Tested in a 2-story and a 2000 square foot building, this modem’s signal strength was consistent without any dead spots.
Top features
The Motorola MD1600 modem comes fitted with a USB 2.0 port, which lets users attach a USB external device. Not just that, it also supports DLNA Media Sharing.
Featuring a sleek and compact design, the Motorola MD1600 can be concealed if you want or can be put out in the open for everyone to see.
To make installation hassle-free, this modem comes with an easy to navigate setup wizard, allowing you to have your modem up and running without any headache. And should you run into any trouble, keep in mind that Motorola has a great customer service team who work round the clock and are always available to walk you through any issues you may be having.
Besides a uniquely built-in router, this powerful modem features four Gigabit Ethernet ports, a robust firewall, AC1600 wireless, VPN capability, provides support for IPV4 and IPV6 as well as WPA/WAP2 wireless security.
Speed
Speed is where the Motorola MD1600 stands out. With this powerful modem, you’ll enjoy speeds up to 100Mbps. While there are modems on the market that claim to deliver speeds up to 1000Mbps, there are no service providers that can provide that level of transfer speed, so it doesn’t make any sense to rely on that kind of modem.
Pros
- Impeccable transfer speed
- Setup wizard makes installation hassle-free
- Works seamlessly with either ADSL or VDSL
- Provides support for USB 2.0
Cons
- Missing USB 3.0 ports
Netgear D6400-100NAS DSL Modem Router
The sleek and compact design of the Netgear D6400 makes it a superb choice for people looking for a modem that isn’t bulky and perfectly fits their homes or offices. Its glossy surface and its compact size make it look super attractive.
If you have a blend of old and new devices in your home, you’ll love the Netgear D6400 modem, as it is designed to broadcast on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz. This makes it a brilliant option, especially if you’re interested in high-speed internet connection.
Performance
In terms of performance, the D6400 is a class act, and it is absolutely worth the money spent purchasing it. While it falls behind the Nighthawk, a better model, internet users looking for a modem that delivers decent internet speed will not be disappointed to give this modem a try.
The icing on the cake is that this fantastic modem is both attractive and affordable, so you wouldn’t have to dig too deep into your savings to get one.
While the 2.4GHz band didn’t deliver top speeds, we were able to get speeds up to 100Mbps and more when we switched to the 5GHz band. Even at 25 meters away, the speed from this modem remained consistent, this makes it perfect for both small and medium-sized homes.
For avid movie lovers and gamers, you’ll be happy to give this modem a try as it lets you stream your favorite movies and play your favorite games without any headache.
Top features
The Netgear D6400 has everything you’re looking for and more. More so, the Netgear Genie app is second to none. With cool tools like parental control, this modem allows you to remotely manage and monitor your home network.
Although it is missing the USB 3.0, we love the fact that it comes with 2x USB 2.0 ports. It also comes with 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports along with an internal antenna to boost internet connection. We love the fact that it offers guest network features, which lets users protect the security and privacy of their home network.
Speed
Although this modem may not be the best in terms of speed, yet still, it delivers decent internet speeds up to 1600 Mbps. This makes it great for people who just want to surf the internet and keep up with their favorite movies and shows.
Pros
- Two years warranty
- Stable internet connection
- Sleek, attractive, and compact design
- Dual-band
Cons
- Missing USB 3.0 ports
- Speed can be improved
Actiontec GT784WN ADSL Modem Router
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable DSL modem for CenturyLink, this is the one for you. Featuring some incredible features, this exciting modem will meet all your internet needs.
Fitted with a powerful firewall, this modem will keep your laptops and other devices protected from malware.
Its intuitive setup wizard makes installation a breeze. With 802.11n wireless standard, this modem doesn’t just deliver top internet speeds, it is also compatible with some of your older devices. This means you wouldn’t have to stop using your old devices simply because you upgraded your modem.
Performance
Although this modem is budget-friendly, its performance is not in doubt. We tested just how much it could handle and we can confidently tell you that we were impressed.
Even if you connected four smartphones, three laptops and have your Xbox 360 linked at the same time, you’ll not experience a lag or drop in performance.
Its auto-setup feature makes it a dream for people who are not so tech-savvy, and that’s because the machine can set up itself with no much help.
Features
This 300 Mbps wireless modem and router features a four-port switch system. Plus, it is also compatible with other older wireless standards. With a high-grade firewall system and parental control features, you can easily set up this modem to work just as you want it to.
Speeds
When it comes to speed, the Actiontec GT784WN is lacking a bit and that’s because it runs on only 2.4GHz range. Compared to other top range models that offer 5GHz, this modem doesn’t just level up.
That aside, you can still browse the web and stream your favorite movies and shows with no problems. Also, you can either connect through wired or wireless connection while enjoying speeds as high as 300 Mbps.
Pros
- Superior firewall and advanced security features
- Offers modem router combo
- Compatible with old wireless standards
- Setup wizard for easy installation
Cons
- Missing USB socket
- No support for 5GHz
CenturyLink Prism TV Technicolor C2100T
Are you looking for a compact and brilliant modem that is reliable and delivers exactly as promised? Say no more as the new CenturyLink Prism TV modem has everything you’re looking for and more.
From performance to speed and other exciting features, the CenturyLink Prism TV Technicolor C2100T isn’t lacking.
Performance
Although this modem isn’t pricey, its performance exceeds our expectations. Fitted with a 2.4GHz band, this modem delivers satisfactory internet speeds that let you keep up with your favorite movies and show. To add to that, it also comes with a 5GHz band with superior internet speed. We love the fact that this modem is devoid of performance lag and interruptions.
Features
Being a modem router combo, this modem ensures you get connected to the web without any hassle. Using a TR-069, users of this modem can easily monitor and manage their devices remotely without any headache.
In terms of connectivity, this modem offers lots of options. There is the Gigabit Ethernet WAN port and the 5th Gigabit LAN port. So depending on what you want, this modem has you covered
Speed
Thanks to this modem, users will see internet speeds up to 300Mbps. While it may not be up to the GB speeds on Fiber, it still gets the job done.
Pros
- Compact and sturdy design
- Easy to set up
- Excellent security
- Decent internet speeds
Cons
Because it is a modem router comb it, you’ll be at a loss should anything happen to it.
Netgear Nighthawk D7000 Wi-Fi Router
When it comes to internet accessories, Netgear has been on top of its game. From its highly intuitive Genie App to readyCLOUD feature and extreme speed, the Netgear Nighthawk modem is one you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
Performance
This modem is prepped to deliver speed beyond your expectations. The modem’s signal strength is robust and reliable. Whether you just want to surf your favorite websites or stream your favorite movies and shows in HD, rest assured that this modem will deliver exactly as promised.
Features
For Apple fans, this modem will tick all your boxes and that’s because it comes with a built-in iTunes server. Not just that, it also comes with a ReadySHARE USB port that offers superior speeds. What this means is that you can stream your personal media anytime within your home.
If you’re looking for reliable internet speed and powerful antennas that let you surf the internet even from a far range, you’ll be happy to give this modem a try. And that’s because it comes fitted with an 802.11ac band and Beamforming feature that improves internet connection.
Speed
Fitted with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, this modem will deliver speeds up to 1900 Mbps. This makes it suitable for browsing, streaming, and gaming.
Pros
- Great customer support
- Modem router combo
- Easy setup and installation
Cons
- You’ll need to download the Netgear Genie App
- No warranty
Zyxel C1100Z VDSL2 Wireless Gateway
Not ready to break the bank for a reliable modem? Get this super price-friendly modem and enjoy the same performance you’ll get with top of the line modems out there.
Performance
Whether you live in a small apartment or in a storied building with many rooms, rest assured that this powerful modem will deliver excellent internet connection that lets you stream all of your favorite movies and shows without a hassle.
Plus, we love the fact that the setup process isn’t difficult. Even if you aren’t tech-savvy, you can have this modem up and running within a few minutes.
Features
This incredible modem is built to deliver speeds up to 300 Mbps. What this means is that you can effortlessly surf the web and stream your favorite shows in a heartbeat. And because it runs on the 802.11n wireless standard, it can automatically detect any CenturyLink network configurations.
You’ll also be thrilled to know that this modem can be monitored and managed remotely using TR0069. In addition, it also offers support for IPV6.
Speed
Like we earlier mentioned, this modem uses VDSL2, which is the latest DSL technology. With this technology, this modem can deliver internet speeds up to 300 Mbps.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to install
- Delivers speed up to 300Mbps
Cons
- Does not provide support for 802.11ac wireless standard
- No support for USB 3.0
- Can do better with speed improvement
Frequently asked questions
Is it best to use your own modem or router?
Getting your own modem or router may be a tad expensive at first, but overall, it will save you the cost of paying monthly rental fees.
Will any router work with my modem
While you can use any router of your choice, you have to make sure that your preferred modem is compatible with your ISP.
When should you replace your modem?
By now, you’ll agree that technology is changing with the speed of light. To this end, it is advisable to change your modem every four to five years.
Conclusion
Finding the best CenturyLink compatible modem isn’t so difficult. Plus, we have made things easy for you by listing the top 6 on the market currently. Go through the list, and we are sure you’ll find one that is worth giving a try.
