Best DSL Modems

Let’s talk a little bit about compatibility and what to look for in a DSL modem.

As much as we wish that picking a modem were a simple affair, it isn’t.

There are many features to consider when choosing a new DSL modem, including:

• Compatibility: DSL can be tricky. There are many kinds of DSL technology, and t companies (like AT&T, Windstream, Frontier, Verizon and other rural ISPs) use different kinds in different areas. That means there’s no universal compatibility. Instead, you’ll need to check with your service provider directly to see if each modem is compatible before you buy.
• DSL type: Some of the most common DSL types are: ADSL, ADSL 2+, and VDSL. Make sure that your new modem supports the type of DSL in your home.
• Speed: While most modern DSL modems should support a full range of speeds (up to at least 100 Mbps, which is plenty for most DSL plans), be sure that your modem doesn’t become the slowest link on your internet chain.
• Modem/router combo: A modem will connect to a phone line or other DSL cable, but you’ll need another device—a router—to connect your modem to your computer, TV, or other device. Many modems have a built-in Wi-Fi router, which makes everything a lot easier (all of the modems in this list have built-in routers).
• Wireless protocols: Speaking of routers, there are actually several kinds of Wi-Fi technology out there. Be sure to check the “wireless protocols” of your modem (usually it starts with a number like “802.11”). These protocols will determine how fast your Wi-Fi signal can be, and what devices it’s compatible with.
• Brand: There are a lot of modems out there, but not all of them are top-shelf, so to speak. It can help to go with a trusted brand, like NETGEAR, ARRIS, Motorola, TP-Link, and Actiontec.
• Ports: Finally, be sure to check that the modem has the correct ports. While most computers, TVs, and other devices will connect through Wi-Fi, you may want to plug some things directly into the modem via an ethernet cable, for better speeds.

NETGEAR is probably the most trusted name in DSL modems. The N300 DSL is one of the company’s most tried and true products, making it our choice for best value. And better yet, NETGEAR has severely reduced its price on the N300 (like by more than $100.) So we suggest you snag her up while you can.

This modem/router combo uses ADSL2+ technology, meaning it can handle some fast download speeds. It also has a host of other features that can make your internet experience easier, safer, and more convenient.

NETGEAR N300 DSL modem features:

• Live Parental Controls
• ReadySHARE® USB for wireless access and sharing USB storage
• Easy installation with NETGEAR genie home network manager
• Equipped with 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz wireless protocol (Wi-Fi 4)

Ports include:

• 1 ADSL2+ port
• 4 ethernet ports
• 1 USB 2.0 port

View the NETGEAR N300 on Amazon 

If you want a DSL modem that will make you think you’re using a cable (or even fiber optic) internet connection, then the NETGEAR AC 1600 is the machine for you.

This DSL router/modem combo can hypothetically reach speeds of over 1000 Mbps (though, realistically, DSL internet speeds usually don’t reach higher than 200 Mbps).

While $140 might seem like a hefty price tag, it’s actually a pretty darn good deal when you consider everything you’re getting. Here’s a quick glance at some of this DSL modem’s best features.

NETGEAR AC1600 features:

• Built-in VDSL and ADSL2+ connections
• Simultaneous dual band Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5GHz)
• Live Parental Controls
• ReadySHARE® USB for wireless access and sharing USB storage
• Easy installation with NETGEAR genie home network manager
• Equipped with 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz and 802.11 a/n/ac 5GHz wireless protocols

The dual-band Wi-Fi 5 technology of this device makes it one of the most powerful DSL modems on the market. You should see strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout your house (additional boosters are available for those of you with really big houses).

The AC1600 ports include:

• 1 ADSL2+/VDSL port
• 4 gigabit ethernet ports
• 2 USB 2.0 ports

There’s one additional feature we’d like to highlight for this modem—it actually works with cable internet connections via the gigabit ethernet ports. So, if you end up upgrading to a cable internet plan later on, you’ll already be equipped.

View the NETGEAR AC 1600 on Amazon 

No one wants to shell out hundreds of dollars on a piece of equipment that might be obsolete next year. So how about a high speed DSL modem and router combo for under $50? Sounds pretty good, right?

Whether you’re there to play games, do work, or just stream the new Disney+ series, the Netis DL4323 is a perfectly functional piece of equipment that will get you online quickly and simply.

The Netis DL4323 may not have all the bells and whistles, but it still sports a few important features, such as:

• Built-in firewall
• Easy setup wizard
• Equipped with 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, and IEEE 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) wireless protocols

In terms of ports, this Netis modem is definitely on the simpler side.

It only comes with the following ports (note the absence of a USB port):

• 1 RJ11 ADSL Port
• 4 10/100Mbps Auto MDI/MDIX RJ45 LAN Ports

View the Netis DL4323 on Amazon

CenturyLink  is one of the biggest and best DSL providers in the US. But, as anyone with a CenturyLink account knows, getting the right modem isn’t always easy. You can usually rent one from the company, but it pays in the long run to have your own.

The best option for those who want to maximize data speeds, Wi-Fi range, and overall performance is the Actiontec C3000A.

This modem and Wi-Fi router combo comes with some powerful features, such as:

• Dual-band 802.11a/b/g/n/ac wireless protocols (WiFi 6)
• WPA/WPA2 wireless Encryption, firewall, and other security features
• VDSL2 capability

All of that’s just a fancy way of saying that this modem will give you lightning fast speeds, powerful wireless connections, and unrivaled reliability.

The Actiontec C3000A also comes with the following ports:

• 1 Gigabit ethernet port
• 1 DSL port
• 4 10/100/1000 BaseT 802.3ab Ethernet LAN Ports
• 1 USB 3.0 Host Port

View the Actiontec C3000A on Amazon 

Now that we’ve gone over everything you need to know about the four best DSL modems, it’s time for you to make up your mind.

Here’s a quick recap of each device to help you figure out which one is right for you.

• NETGEAR N300: This affordable modem/router combo has plenty of great features that make it ideal for most casual internet users. With Wi-Fi 4 and ADL2+ technology, its speeds will be fast enough for most, if not all, DSL customers.
• NETGEAR AC1600: If you need the best of the best, then the AC 1600 is the way to go. It has dual-band Wi-Fi technology, VDSL and ADSL2+ capability, and plenty of other premium features for those who need reliable high-speed internet.
• Netis DL4323: This router/modem costs less than $50. While that’s the main selling point, we wouldn’t be including it on this list if it didn’t have decent features and durability.
• Actiontec C3000A: CenturyLink customers should pick up the Actiontec C3000A to save money in the long run. It’s a powerful piece of equipment that works with the fastest DSL and Wi-Fi technologies.

We began this review of the best DSL modems by looking at the big picture. We reviewed the devices with the highest customer ratings and the brands with the best reputations, and then we narrowed down from there looking at the following features.

• Compatibility: Does it work with major DSL providers?
• DSL type: Does the modem work with multiple DSL technologies, or just one?
• Speed: Can the modem handle high-speed internet?
• Modem/router combo: Is there a built-in Wi-Fi router?
• Wireless protocols: Is the Wi-Fi router fast and reliable?
• Ports: Are there enough ports for overall functionality?

We know shopping for a new device (especially a modem) can be confusing and, frankly, annoying. We hope that we’ve been able to make it just a little bit easier.