The correct modem can make a big difference to your Internet connection. Motorola MB8611 and MB8600 modems are relatively modern and are equipped with the DOCSIS 3.1 standard.
The problem is that both modems have many similarities regarding DOCSIS, design, channel combining, and size. Users choose Motorola MB8600 and MB8611 for a faster Internet browsing experience.
Choosing between the two can be a difficult decision. Do not worry. We’re here to help. If you can’t choose between the Motorola MB8611 and MB8600, this comparison guide will help you. We have detailed both modems so you can decide which is better.
Also read, Motorola MG7700 Review
Contents
Motorola mb8600 vs Motorola mb8611 specs
| Motorola MB8600 | Motorola MB8611 |
| Size: 7.88 x 7.25 x 2.25 inches | Size: 7.88 x 7.25 x 2.25 inches |
| DOCSIS Technology: 3.1 and 3.0 services | DOCSIS Technology: DOCSIS 3.1 services |
| Downstream speed: 3.8Gbps | Downstream speed: 1 Gbps |
| Upstream: 1 Gbps | Upstream: 800 Mbps |
| Channel: 32 x 8 / 2 x 2 | Channel: 32 x 8 / 2 x 2 |
| RAM: 512MB | RAM: 512MB |
| NAND memory: 128MB | NAND memory: 128MB |
| Ports: 1 x open Gig-E port | Ports: 3 x masked Gig-E ports 1 x 2.5Gbps |
| Internet service providers: Spectrum, optimum, cox, and Xfinity. | Internet service providers: Cox Communications, Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, and RCN. |
| Pair with any Wi-Fi router | Pair with any Wi-Fi router |
Motorola MB8600
Motorola MB8611
Motorola mb8600 vs mb8611 full comparison
Design
Starting with the design, both modems look almost identical. They feature similar aesthetics and dimensions. The Motorola MB8600 measures 7.88 x 7.25 x 2.25 inches and weighs 1.15 pounds. Surprisingly, the Motorola MB8611 also has the same design and weight. Both modems feature well-ventilated construction to prevent overheating.
Internet speed
The modem’s speed depends on the accompanying DOCSIS infrastructure, and DOCSIS 3.1 on the Motorola MB8600 and MB8611 ensures its stability. The release of DOCSIS 4.0 is being delayed and will require more time.
Eventually, everything comes to actual speed. So, to keep the playing field level, we connected the TP-Link Archer AX90 to Xfinity’s highest 1200Mbps plan, one at a time. As expected, they got along quite well.
When connected wirelessly, the MB8600 can achieve download and upload speeds of 907Mbps and 35Mbps, respectively, in a 20-foot proximity test.
As we moved farther, up to 40 feet, speeds dropped to about 631 Mbps and 25 Mbps, respectively. These are great. Ping values were pretty consistent across distances, so you can engage in online gaming, streaming, and other activities without issues.
Continuing with the same settings as the Motorola MB8611, the results were excellent, improving it over its counterpart.
As shown in the snapshot below, with my iPad connected, the maximum download and upload speeds at 20 feet were around 1305 Mbps and 236 Mbps, respectively.
Meanwhile, their respective speeds at 40 feet were recorded at 783 Mbps and 141 Mbps, respectively. Comparing the speed results side-by-side, it’s not hard to judge how well the MB8611 performs, and the extra data you get will lay the foundation for two or three additional streams in high definition.
Also, see Best Router for an Apartment.
Proactive protection
Both modems feature proactive protection that ensures your safety against power surges and heavy lightning strikes. This feature keeps your modem safe during lightning storms and power fluctuations that can negatively impact your device. This protects the modem and any other devices connected to the modem at that time.
Installation and Setup
Regarding installation, neither the MB8600 nor the MB8611 require much effort. Both products come with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Here’s how:
Start by connecting one end of the coaxial cable and power cord to your modem and the other to your computer and power plug. Then turn it on and wait until the bottom green light on the modem turns green.
Turn on your computer and visit your ISP’s official page to complete activation. Now, you are ready to dive into the sea of fast internet.
Hardware and Performance
The hardware setup of the two models compared deserves special mention, though one performs slightly ahead of the other.
MB8600 has a Broadcom multi-core processor that solves all the network congestion and allows faster data transfer. Complementing the chipset is 512MB of RAM and 128MB of flash storage for storing firmware updates or related configuration details. Plus, there is AQM support for an improved gaming experience.
Moving on, the MB8611 offers the exact RAM and flash memory, but the difference comes in processing power. According to my tests, it can process more data simultaneously than other products. It also offers ARM-based performance improvements and 2 x 2 OFDM/OFDMA technology as future assets.
Differences between Motorola MB8600 and MB8611
Security
Today, with the introduction of WPA2 security, it has become standard for most modems and routers to use this technology. With better security, things can continually improve, and you get decent security options. MB8611 supports a VPN network. However, it is somewhat slow when it comes to security.
Dealing with this always takes some time. On the other hand, it’s much better to go with the MB8600. It comes with a personal FTP server that you can set up for better networking.
Data Speed
Motorola MB8611 is a better choice regarding data transfer speeds as it can reach downstream speeds of up to 6000Mbps.
On the other hand, the MB8600 only has a maximum downstream speed of 1000Mbps. This significant difference in data transfer speed shows that the MB8611 is a better modem than the MB8600.
Link Aggregation
In terms of link aggregation, MB8600 is considered a better modem as it supports link aggregation. Additionally, it is equipped with automatic MDI/MDIX technology, ensuring easy and accurate wired configuration. However, the MB8611 lacks these features.
Ports
Both modems offer faster-wired speeds with a single Ethernet port but have ports of different capacities. For example, the MB8611 has a single Ethernet port supporting 2.5Gbps speeds.
On the other hand, the MB8600 also has one Ethernet port, but its capacity is limited to 1Gbps. This clearly shows that the former guarantees better speed than the latter.
Compatibility
Unlike the MB8611, the MB8600 is compatible with most Internet service providers. These include Cox, WOW!, Comcast, Spectrum, Mediacom, Midco, Sparklight, and Optimum.
The MB8611 is only compatible with a few selected Internet service providers, including Cox, Mediacom, Comcast, and Suddenlink.
Similarities Between MB8611 and MB8600
- Both support DOCSIS 3.1 with a fallback to DOCSIS 3.0.
- Similar hardware setup with Broadcom processor and 512MB RAM
- Supports Active Queue Management (AQM) for minimal waiting time
- Aesthetics and Dimensions
- Has standard modem light
- Full-band digital tuning for better speed
- Vertical layout with adequate ventilation
- IPV6 support for better network addressing performance
- Seamless configuration
- Surge protection against lightning
- 2-years of warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a modem do?
Your modem connects your home to your ISP via a coaxial cable connection. It captures the signal from your ISP and converts it into a signal your local device can pick up.
Will the Motorola MB8600 be enough?
Yes, Motorola MB8600 is still a good choice in 2024. The MB8611 has only a few differences. You can’t go wrong with either one.
How fast is the Motorola MB8611?
The MB8611 has a downstream capacity of 3.8 Gbps and an upstream capacity of 1 Gbps. It boasts a Gigabit Ethernet port and can support internet speeds of up to 1Gbps.
Do you need a modem for the internet?
It would be best to have a modem to convert your ISP’s connection into a data signal your device can use.
What is DOCSIS used for?
DOCSIS is a globally recognized communications standard allowing high-bandwidth data transmission over coaxial cable systems.
Conclusion
Both the Motorola MB8600 and MB8611 are excellent products. However, there are some differences that we have pointed out in this post. If you want faster speeds, MB8611 is a better choice. However, for better compatibility, you should choose MB8600.