Best DSL Modems: Top 3 ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+ Cable Modems In 2021

I am 100% sure you might be using a rented DSL modem from your internet service provider and still paying for it. And, there must be some additional costs as well on your internet bill. So it’s time to take one step further and trash that shit as I’ll help you in buying one of the best DSL modems —a modem that will be far better and faster than your rented one. 

I’ll share with you three of the best modems on the market today. They will be under your budget and at reasonable prices. After replacing your existing DSL modem, you’ll see a huge speed difference (if configured properly, you might see double the speed) and better performance. 

Reasons to buy a DSL modem/router combo.

Buying a DSL combo will cost you more. It will be an expensive deal for you. Moreover, these DSL combos are easier to set up as they don’t have more moving parts. In other words, one less device and one less line too. 

Reasons to buy separate DSL modem and router.

Buying a DSL modem is always a less expensive option. It will be easier for you to upgrade. As you know, the hardware of a modem technology doesn’t change much. On the other hand, routers technologies keep on changing. So buying both the units separately will be much easier to upgrade. 

So when it comes to upgrading, you need to upgrade the router portion only. Check three best cheap WiFi routers

Therefore, I don’t want to mix things up. 

1. Best DSL cable modems (Modem Only, no router) (which you’re reading).
2. DSL modem router combo 

Here are three best DSL Modems in 2021

1. TP-Link ADSL+ (TD-8616) Ethernet Modem – Best Overall

Key Highlights: 

1. ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+ supported
2. Up to 24Mbps downstream
3. 10/100Mbps Ethernet Port
4. Built-in Firewall
5. 6KV Lightning Protection

Overview:

TP-Link TD-8616 is one of the best DSL modems on the market. It supports all DSL standards, such as ADSL, ADSL2, and even the lastest ADSL2+. When it comes to overall speed, it tops out up to 24Mbps downstream speed for higher performance.

With the latest ADSL2+ standard support, you’re free to connect it to any 10/100Mbps Ethernet-enabled device. It also supports auto MDI/MDIX. 

With the modem TP-Link TD-8616, you can create a wireless network by adding the fastest router. It supports all modern and high-end routers with ease. 

It features 8 PVCs, meaning it can support all the major DSL service providers around the world. Additionally, TD-8616 includes a web-based user interface for set up and network management. 

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

1. A reliable, strong, and consistent performance. 
2. It supports the latest DSL standards – ADSL2+. 
3. Unlike other modems with 4KV, It is equipped with 6KV lightning protection. 
4. A built-in firewall that prevents cyber attacks.
5. It supports all modern routers. 

I don’t like: 

1. Its web-based GUI. 

Summary: 

The Tp-Link TD-8616 is a great option and replacement for your rented DSL modem. It is fast, reliable, and affordable. You can create a wireless network easily by adding any multi-port routers. 

2. Netgear ADLS2+ broadband (DM111PSP-100NAS) – Best Affordable DSL Modem

Key Highlights: 

1. ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+ supported
2. 1x Fast Ethernet RJ-45 port
3. 1x ADSL2+ RJ-11 port 
4. It works with all DSL service providers 
5. 1-year warranty

Overview:

Netgear ADSL2+ broadband modem is another powerful and affordable modem. You can replace your existing modem with it without any second thoughts. It is a lightweight, small, compact, beautiful white-colored modem. 

With the latest DSL standards – ADSL2+, it provides amazing performance. It has one fast ethernet port RJ-45 to connect your PC or any wireless router. Additionally, there is one ADSL2+ RJ-11 port and power On/Off button. It includes a DSL phone filter or splitter for the internet and your landline. 

It works with all the major DSL internet service providers, including AT&T, Verizon, Centurylink, Comcast, Cox, TimeWarner, and many more. However, it won’t work VDSL services, such as Verizon FIOS, AT&T U-verse, and CenturyLink VDSL. 

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

1. Lightweight, compact, beautiful design, and cheap. 
2. It is super easy to set up and install. 
3. The lastest ADSL2+ supported.
4. A 1-year hardware warranty with 24/7 technical support. 
5. Its compatibility with major DSL Internet service providers. 

I don’t like:

1. It is not good for high-speed Internet plans, especially CenturyLink. 

Summary:

The Netgear (DM111PSP-100NAS) is a very cheap modem that offers the lastest DSL standard – ADSL2+. It is cheaper than TP-Link TD-8616. It is compatible with all the major DSL Internet service providers around the world. 

3. D-Link ADSL2+ (DSL-520B) Ethernet modem + Router – Best Value

Key Highlights:

1. The lastest DSL2+ standard
2. 1xRJ-11 ADSL2+ port, 1xRJ-45 Fast Ethernet port
3. Rohs compliant
4. Built-in Firewall
5. Quality Of Service (QoS) supported

Overview:

The third DSL modem on the list is from D-Link, called DSL-520B. It supports ADSL2+ interface for higher speeds for home and small office. It has one RJ-11 ADSL2+ Ethernet port, one RJ-45 port for connecting ethernet-enabled devices such as your PC, wireless routers, access points, etc. 

One of the main features of this DSL modem is the Quality Of Service. It supports multiple priority queues to provide a smooth and reliable internet network without worrying about traffic congestion. The feature comes in handy while streaming multimedia, playing online games, downloading files, watching videos, and VoIP. 

Pros & Cons:

What I like:

1. Fast Ethernet LAN ports with auto MDI/MDIX support.
2. Built-in firewall protection and Quality oF service. 
3. Setup is super easy with a very useful user manual.
4. It is an affordable and high-performance modem.
5. Up to 24Mbps data transfer rate. 

What I don’t:

1. Despite a wireless router, it doesn’t have a USB port. 

Summary:

A good ADSL2+ DSL modem and router option for home and office use. It offers wireless connectivity too. It is a wireless 802.11n standard router that provides a decent range. 

Buying guide: How to choose the best DSL modem? 

If you’re a DSL internet service user, there are two options for you. 

You can rent a DLS modem from your internet service provider. 

You can buy from the market on your own. 

Firstly, let’s talk about those who rent a DSL modem from their ISP. These rented ones can handle light-duty tasks, such as surfing the web, downloading and uploading files, social media, and other similar tasks. You might also see some other issues with third-party modems, such as compatible issues, lack of power and efficiency, etc. 

However, renting a modem from ISP will result in limited configuration options and features. Therefore, you can’t get the most out of your modem. In this case, the wise decision would be buying a separate modem from the market. Plus, you will be able to save some money every month. 

But, choosing the best DSL modem is not that easy, and it becomes more difficult when you don’t have any technical skills. Therefore, I’ve recommended three top modems for you above. Choose any one of them that suits you the most or read the following guide in order to buy on your own. 

Factors that should be in your mind before buying a new DSL modem. 

Let’s see what some crucial factors you should look for before shopping for a new DSL modem are. 

1. Check with your DSL service provider: 

The very first thing is to confirm the rules and regulations of your ISP. Are they allowing you to replace your rented modem? Are they letting their consumers buy their own modems? So it is better to check ISP’s approved DSL modems. 

2. Compatibility: 

It is essential to check the compatibility with your DSL service. It can be done by calling your DSL service provider. Ask them which type of DSL standard they use. The most common DSL lines types are VDSL or SDSL DSL. On the consumer side, it can be ADSL, ADSL2, or the latest one ADSL 2+. So call your ISP and ask them. 

3. Ports:

The number of ports on your DSL modem matters a lot. These ports can either be fast ethernet ports or gigabit ports. The gigabit ports are ten times faster than fast ethernet ports. 

Therefore, it is our first priority to check whether the modem includes gigabit ethernet ports. It would be best if you also look for the USB ports; however, USB ports are not that essential. 

Most modern or high-end DSL modems or DSL combos come with four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports, at least one USB port, and one RJ11 jack for a standard telephone line. 

4. Additional:

There are many other considering factors as well. However, they all are common; therefore, I don’t think they deserve writing, such as speed, ease of use, WiFi settings, security, price, etc.  

FAQs: Most Common Questions asked about DSL modems. 

1. Should I buy a DSL modem? 

Ans. Do you think it is fair paying $5 to $10 a month? I am not sure maybe you’re paying more than that. Also, it is not about only a month. Month after month, it becomes a considerable amount. So, in the long run, you should definitely buy your own DSL modem than renting. 

Paying a rental fee is not only a reason behind it. There are several other reasons: lack of firmware update or outdated firmware, locked features, and even outdated modems. 

2. What Is a DSL modem?

Ans. The DSL term is stands for Digital Subscriber Line. In order to provide internet connectivity, you connect it to a computer via a telephone line. Moreover, it is a broadband connection. There are different types of DSL modems you can find on the market. However, these days combo modems are quite common. 

3. How do DSL modems work?

Ans. It is a very simple process between your computer and your modem. These DSL modems usually come with Ethernet ports and USB ports. One of these ethernet ports is used to connect your computer’s PCI slots via Ethernet cable. Once the connection is made, your DSL modem uses a technology called wireless access point to provide internet connectivity to various devices, such as your computer, printer, and other ethernet-enabled devices. 

Conclusion: How to choose the best DSL modem? 

This article—best DSL modems— include two DSL modems and one combo (basic wireless connectivity) – and the buying guide with FAQs. I always recommend people buying a separate modem and router. It is because of the easier upgradation. However, combos have their own advantages, which you can read here. 

So all the DSL modems on the list are worth the money. You can pick any of them because of their compatibility with all DSL internet service providers around the globe.