DOCSIS 3.0 vs 3.1: Which is better for your internet? – CNET
Your cable internet, whether it comes from Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox, or one of the many regional cable ISPs, comes to your home via coaxial cable. From there, your cable modem, a DOCSIS device, translates the incoming and outgoing data, creating the internet connection you use for everything you do online.
DOCSIS stands for “Cable Service Data Interface Specifications,” the key there is “data over cable service.” It’s the interface standard that defines how your modem does its job of passing cable Internet signals. Modern cable modems are compatible with DOCSIS 3.0 or 3.1.
As the numbers suggest, the two modem versions are similar. However, there are some differences between the two that can help you determine which one is best for your home.
What is the difference between DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1?
Despite the mere one-tenth difference in versions, DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1 modems vary in performance, price, and availability. Here’s a quick look at the benefits and advantages of each.
Benefits of DOCSIS 3.0 modem
- Price: DOCSIS 3.0 cable modems are generally less expensive than their 3.1 counterparts.
- Availability: You will likely have more options, including used or refurbished units, when purchasing a DOCSIS 3.0 modem.
Benefits of DOCSIS 3.1 modem
- Speed: DOCSIS 3.1 cable modems support higher speeds than DOCSIS 3.0 modems and are therefore better suited for high-speed plans, especially those offering gigaspeeds or higher.
- Security:While both modems have built-in security features, DOCSIS 3.1 modems may offer the best online security, especially if you purchase a modem-router combination device.
- Long term use: DOCSIS 3.0 modems are not completely obsolete yet, but it’s safe to say that 3.1 modems are the best option for long-term use.
DOCSIS 3.1 supports higher speeds, if you need them
| Device | Maximum download speed | Maximum upload speed | Price range | Year of publication |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DOCSIS version 3.0 | 1 Gbps | 100 Mbps | $50-$150 | 2006 |
| DOCSIS file 3.1 | 10 Gbps | 2 Gbps | $150-$250 | 2013 |
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The main difference between DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1 is that the latter can support download speeds that are 10 times faster than DOCSIS 3.0, up to 10Gbps. That’s impressive, but unless you’re on a particularly fast plan, it might not matter.
Most cable providers offer a gigabit plan with maximum speeds around 940 or 1,000 megabits per second. Astound, Cox, Xfinity and a few other cable providers offer download speeds above 1,000 Mbps.
If you choose speeds above 1 gig and rent your equipment, you will receive a modem router combo that comes with DOCSIS 3.1 built in, so you don’t have to worry about that. Otherwise, if you choose to use your own equipment, you’ll want to spend a little more on a DOCSIS 3.1 modem to take full advantage of the plan’s speed potential.
But let’s say your plan offers speeds of up to 200 Mbps. If you’re renting from your provider, the modem that comes with your equipment may be a DOCSIS 3.0 model, which is more than capable of supporting your internet connection.
If you choose to use your own modem, you probably won’t see much of a performance improvement, if any, by purchasing a DOCSIS 3.1 device over a DOCSIS 3.0 device. Given the price difference and available options between the two, you may be better off opting for DOCSIS 3.0 on lower-rate internet plans.
DOCSIS 3.0 has more, cheaper options
DOCSIS 3.0 is the cheaper option when shopping for a modem or modem-router combo. New DOCSIS 3.0 modems can cost between $50 and $150 depending on the device you choose and the source you buy from, but you may be able to score a used unit for less than $50. On the other hand, DOCSIS 3.1 modems can easily cost $150-$250 or more.
Manufacturers like Arris, Asus, Netgear, and Motorola have been making DOCSIS 3.0 modems for years. These manufacturers also make DOCSIS 3.1 modems, but you have fewer options than if you were looking for a DOCSIS 3.0 modem, at least for now.
DOCSIS 3.1 is more secure and future-proof
Any major Internet Protocol update, such as the transition from DOCSIS 3.0 to 3.1, will include improved security features. This usually comes with improved encryption, so a DOCSIS 3.1 modem will likely be better equipped to keep your information safe. Additionally, the best router and modem combinations equipped with DOCSIS 3.1 also include WPA3, a more advanced router security feature than older modem routers that may have shipped with DOCSIS 3.0 and WPA2.
DOCSIS 3.0 was released in 2006 and DOCSIS 3.1 came out in 2013, which is a long time in the tech world — long enough for early security measures to become obsolete. Modem manufacturers and ISPs release security updates regularly to keep your equipment safe. Still, I would take extra precautions security software or using a good VPN to improve your online security, especially when using a DOCSIS 3.0 modem.
Given the increase in home internet speeds and the need for up-to-date security, DOCSIS 3.1 is well on its way to replacing DOCSIS 3.0. That hasn’t happened quite yet, especially since slower, cheaper cable internet plans can still get by with DOCSIS 3.0 technology. Still, as faster plans become more available and affordable, DOCSIS 3.1 will become the standard for cable modems.
Why would you choose one DOCSIS modem over another?
If you’re happy with a low-end or mid-range cable internet plan, then a DOCSIS 3.0 modem will likely meet all of your needs and will be less expensive than a DOCSIS 3.1 device. But if you want faster speeds, specifically speeds approaching or exceeding 1 Gbps, or simply want a device that you know you’ll be able to use for years to come, then a DOCSIS 3.1 modem is the way to go. You’ll have to pay more for a DOCSIS 3.1 modem, but chances are you’re paying a premium for those faster speeds, so you might as well equip your home with a device that lets you enjoy them.
