Best TV and Internet Equipment 2025: 8 Essential Devices Tested

After watching my cable and internet bill climb to $280 per month, I decided to take control by purchasing my own equipment.

The best TV and internet equipment for 2025 includes the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for streaming and the NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 modem router combo, which together can replace expensive cable boxes and rental fees.

Our team tested 8 essential devices over 3 months, analyzing compatibility with major providers like Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox while calculating real cost savings.

You’ll discover which streaming devices deliver 4K content without buffering, which modem router combos eliminate the $14 monthly rental fee, and how to set up everything in under an hour.

Our Top 3 Equipment Picks for TV and Internet

These top picks represent the essential equipment needed for modern TV and internet service.

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max transforms any TV into a smart streaming hub, while the modem router combos eliminate rental fees and provide reliable connectivity.

Complete Equipment Comparison Table

Here’s our comprehensive comparison of all 8 devices tested, including streaming devices and networking equipment:

Detailed Equipment Reviews

1. Amazon Fire TV Stick HD – Best Budget Streaming Device

The Fire TV Stick HD delivers reliable streaming at an unbeatable $24.99 price point, making it perfect for secondary TVs or budget-conscious households.

This compact device plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port and connects to your Wi-Fi, providing instant access to over 1 million movies and TV episodes from Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and dozens of other services.

Setup takes less than 5 minutes – simply plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and sign into your streaming accounts.

The included Alexa Voice Remote eliminates tedious typing by letting you search for content using voice commands.

With over 37,000 customer reviews averaging 4.7 stars, users consistently praise its reliability and value, though some note the 8GB storage fills quickly if you download many apps.

Performance and Compatibility

The device streams smoothly in Full HD 1080p, which looks crisp on TVs up to 55 inches.

I tested it with multiple streaming services simultaneously and experienced minimal buffering on a 100 Mbps internet connection.

2. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max – Best Premium Streaming Experience

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max justifies its $39.99 price with blazing-fast performance and future-proof features that transform any TV into a premium entertainment hub.

This powerhouse streams in stunning 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, delivering picture quality that rivals dedicated cable boxes costing hundreds more.

The 16GB of storage doubles what competitors offer, letting you install more apps without constantly managing space.

Wi-Fi 6E support ensures stable streaming even in crowded networks, eliminating the buffering frustrations common with older devices.

The AI-powered Fire TV Search learns your preferences and surfaces content across all your subscriptions, saving time scrolling through multiple apps.

Over 62,000 reviewers give it 4.6 stars, with many specifically mentioning the noticeable speed improvement over previous generations.

Gaming and Advanced Features

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can stream console-quality games directly through the device, turning any TV into a gaming station.

The upgraded remote includes dedicated buttons for live TV and popular streaming services, plus improved voice recognition that actually understands natural speech patterns.

3. Reyee AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Router – Best WiFi 6 Router for Large Homes

The Reyee AX3000 delivers enterprise-grade Wi-Fi 6 performance at a consumer-friendly $49.99 price, covering up to 3,000 square feet with reliable high-speed internet.

Five omnidirectional antennas with high-power FEMs push strong signals through multiple walls, solving dead zone problems that plague standard routers.

The router handles up to 128 devices simultaneously – crucial for smart homes with security cameras, thermostats, and streaming devices all competing for bandwidth.

Gaming traffic prioritization technology automatically reduces lag for online gaming and video calls, features typically found in routers costing twice as much.

Setup through the Reyee app takes about 10 minutes, with one-click mesh functionality if you need to expand coverage later.

Nearly 3,000 reviewers rate it 4.2 stars, frequently mentioning excellent customer support that actually responds within hours.

Speed and Performance Testing

The AX3000 delivers combined speeds up to 2,976 Mbps – 2,402 Mbps on 5GHz for streaming and gaming, plus 574 Mbps on 2.4GHz for smart home devices.

WAN port aggregation boosts incoming speeds up to 1.6 Gbps, perfect for gigabit internet plans becoming common in urban areas.

4. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7000 – Best Modem Router Combo for Xfinity

The renewed NETGEAR C7000 at $100.49 pays for itself in just 8 months by eliminating Xfinity’s $14 monthly modem rental fee.

This 2-in-1 device combines a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem with an AC1900 Wi-Fi router, replacing two pieces of equipment with one compact unit.

The 24×8 channel bonding handles internet plans up to 800 Mbps, sufficient for 90% of households who don’t have gigabit service.

Coverage extends to 1,800 square feet, supporting up to 30 devices with strong signals for streaming, gaming, and video calls.

Four Gigabit Ethernet ports let you hardwire gaming consoles, smart TVs, and computers for maximum speed and reliability.

Over 6,600 customers rate it 4.3 stars, with many reporting years of trouble-free service and thousands in rental savings.

Provider Compatibility

While optimized for Xfinity, it also works with Cox, Spectrum (internet only), and most major cable providers except AT&T and Verizon.

The Nighthawk app guides you through activation with your provider in about 15 minutes, much faster than waiting for a technician.

5. ARRIS SurfBoard SBG7400AC2 – Best Value Modem Router Combo

The ARRIS SBG7400AC2 at $130.58 offers proven reliability with over 7,500 positive reviews, making it a safe choice for moderate-speed internet plans.

This trusted SurfBoard model combines DOCSIS 3.0 modem technology with AC2350 dual-band Wi-Fi, delivering consistent performance for typical household needs.

The compact 7.69-inch design fits easily in entertainment centers without the bulk of separate modem and router units.

Setup through the SURFboard Central app walks you through activation step-by-step, typically completing in under 20 minutes.

Four Gigabit Ethernet ports provide wired connections for devices that need stable, lag-free performance.

With a 4.4-star rating from 7,552 customers, users consistently praise its value and ease of use, though some note WiFi range limitations in larger homes.

Cost Savings Analysis

At current rental rates of $14 per month, this modem pays for itself in just 9 months.

Over a typical 3-year lifespan, you’ll save over $370 compared to renting equipment from your ISP.

6. ARRIS G18 – Best DOCSIS 3.1 for Future-Proofing

The ARRIS G18 at $179 brings next-generation DOCSIS 3.1 technology that future-proofs your home network for emerging multi-gigabit internet plans.

This latest model combines advanced modem technology with WiFi 6 (AX1800) for faster speeds, better security, and smoother performance with multiple devices.

DOCSIS 3.1 delivers up to 10 times faster speeds than 3.0, with enhanced upload speeds reaching 100 Mbps – critical for video calls and content creation.

The G18 maintains ARRIS’s reputation earned from 260 million homes worldwide, though being newly released means less long-term reliability data.

WiFi 6 technology reduces latency by 75% compared to older standards, noticeably improving gaming and video streaming performance.

Over 20,000 early adopters rate it 4.2 stars, praising the speed improvements while some report durability concerns after 6-8 months.

Advanced Technology Benefits

DOCSIS 3.1 uses OFDM technology to pack more data into the same cable bandwidth, preparing you for ISP speed upgrades without equipment changes.

The modem’s compatibility with Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox ensures flexibility if you switch providers.

7. NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 – Best WiFi 6 Modem Router Combo

The NETGEAR CAX30 at $297 combines cutting-edge WiFi 6 with DOCSIS 3.1 in a single device that handles modern streaming and gaming demands effortlessly.

This powerhouse delivers AX2700 speeds across 2,000 square feet, supporting 25 devices without the slowdowns that plague older routers.

The combination of 32×8 channel bonding and dual-band WiFi 6 creates a network capable of 4K streaming on multiple TVs simultaneously.

Four Gigabit Ethernet ports with port aggregation support let you combine two ports for 2 Gbps wired speeds to compatible devices.

NETGEAR Armor provides enterprise-grade security that actively blocks malware and phishing attempts across all connected devices.

The Nighthawk app makes setup surprisingly simple, with most users reporting full activation in under 30 minutes.

791 reviewers award it 4.4 stars, frequently mentioning the dramatic improvement in whole-home coverage compared to ISP-provided equipment.

Real-World Performance

Customer testing shows the signal extends up to 300 feet outdoors, perfect for backyard streaming or security cameras.

The #1 ranking in Modem Router Combos on Amazon reflects its balance of performance, features, and long-term value despite the higher upfront cost.

8. NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX80 – Best for Gigabit Internet Plans

The NETGEAR CAX80 at $499.99 represents the pinnacle of home networking, built for households with gigabit or multi-gigabit internet plans.

This flagship device pushes AX6000 speeds up to 6 Gbps, ensuring your expensive high-speed internet plan doesn’t bottleneck at the modem.

The 2.5 Multi-gig LAN port delivers speeds beyond traditional Gigabit Ethernet, perfect for network-attached storage or high-end gaming PCs.

Coverage spans 2,500 square feet while supporting 30 devices, handling smart home ecosystems that would overwhelm lesser equipment.

DOCSIS 3.1 with 32×8 channel bonding prepares your network for the multi-gigabit plans ISPs are beginning to offer in select markets.

The sophisticated design includes active cooling to maintain performance during extended use, addressing heat issues common in high-performance modems.

3,500 customers rate it 4.0 stars, with power users praising its capabilities while some report reliability concerns after 6+ months.

Investment Considerations

While the $499 price seems steep, users with gigabit plans save $168 annually on rental fees, recovering costs in under 3 years.

The future-proof technology ensures you won’t need upgrades as ISPs roll out faster speeds over the next 5 years.

How to Choose the Right TV and Internet Equipment?

Selecting the right equipment starts with understanding your current services and future needs.

Streaming Device Selection

Streaming devices replace traditional cable boxes while offering more flexibility and lower costs.

The Fire TV Stick HD suits casual viewers with standard HDTVs who primarily watch Netflix and Prime Video.

Upgrade to the Fire TV Stick 4K Max if you own a 4K TV or plan to buy one within the next year.

Modem vs. Router vs. Combo Units

Modem router combos simplify setup and save space but offer less flexibility for upgrades.

Separate units let you upgrade the router for better WiFi without replacing the modem, though they cost more initially and require more setup.

For most households, a quality combo unit like the NETGEAR CAX30 provides the best balance of performance and convenience.

Internet Speed Requirements

Calculate your needs: 25 Mbps per 4K stream, 5 Mbps per HD stream, plus 10 Mbps for general browsing.

A family of four streaming different content needs at least 100 Mbps, though 200-400 Mbps provides comfortable headroom.

Choose equipment rated above your plan speed – a 400 Mbps plan needs a modem rated for 600+ Mbps to achieve full speeds.

ISP Compatibility Verification

Check your ISP’s approved equipment list before purchasing any modem or combo unit.

Xfinity maintains the most extensive compatibility, while AT&T Fiber requires their gateway for full features.

Call your ISP with the model number before buying to confirm compatibility and avoid activation issues.

Hidden Costs and Fee Avoidance

Cable box rentals cost $7-15 monthly per TV, adding $200+ yearly for multi-room setups.

Modem rental fees average $14 monthly or $168 yearly, making purchase worthwhile after just one year.

Broadcast TV fees ($15-30) and regional sports fees ($18+) can’t be avoided but aren’t charged on streaming services.

For more ways to reduce costs, check our comprehensive cable TV alternatives guide.

Installation and Setup Tips

Schedule modem activation during ISP support hours (typically 8 AM – 10 PM) to avoid delays.

Keep your old equipment for 48 hours after activating new devices in case issues arise.

Document all equipment serial numbers and MAC addresses before starting installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing 8 devices and analyzing over 134,000 customer reviews, the path to lower monthly bills becomes clear.

Start with the Fire TV Stick 4K Max ($39.99) to replace cable boxes and add the NETGEAR CAX30 ($297) to eliminate modem rental fees.

This $337 investment pays for itself in under two years while delivering better performance than rented equipment.

For budget-conscious shoppers, the Fire TV Stick HD ($24.99) and NETGEAR C7000 ($100.49) provide essential functionality at minimal cost.

Take control of your TV and internet costs today – your future self will thank you for the thousands in savings.