ReviewFinder Modems

Arris Surfboard S33

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4 Verified Hands-On Reviews

To combat fake reviews we only accept video reviews from verified channels. Each review must show the product and the face of the reviewer.

Expert reviews [4]

87
Total expert reviews: 4
  • with a score: 3
  • without a score: 1
Highest score by gameandtechfocus.com
93
Average score based on 4 reviews
87
Lowest score by dongknows.com
82

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Arris Surfboard S33 is a high-speed cable modem with combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps, 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, and two Ethernet ports, making it ideal for users who require fast and reliable internet connectivity for gaming, streaming, and other data-intensive activities.

The Arris Surfboard S33 is a high-speed cable modem that is compatible with most major U. S. cable internet service providers. It supports combined download speeds up to 3. 5 Gbps and a maximum upload speed of up to 940 Mbps, making it ideal for users who require high-speed internet for streaming, gaming, and other data-intensive activities.

The modem has 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3. 0 bonded channels, which help to further increase its speed performance. It also has a 2. 5 Gbps Ethernet port and an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port, which combined can provide download speeds up to 3. 5 Gbps. The Arris Surfboard S33 is a standalone cable modem that does not have built-in Wi-Fi, but it has two Ethernet ports, including a 2.

5Gbps Multi-Gig port and a standard Gigabit port. It is suitable for households with multiple wired devices that require fast and reliable internet connectivity. The modem is easy to set up and comes with a 2-year limited warranty provided by ARRIS. The product has generally received positive reviews for its reliability and stable connection, especially for cable internet plans with speeds of 500Mbps or faster.

However, there have been some concerns regarding the potential overheating issue, although this does not seem to be widespread. The product seems to have adequate customer support resources for most users' needs, including live chat and phone support, access to user manuals and troubleshooting guides on the ARRIS website, and a mobile app for managing and troubleshooting the modem.

Overall, the Arris Surfboard S33 is a reliable and stable modem that is suitable for high-speed internet plans and is ideal for users who require fast and stable internet connectivity for gaming, streaming, and other data-intensive activities.

Compatibility

The Arris Surfboard S33 modem is compatible with most major U.S. cable internet service providers and is a reliable and secure option for most cable internet users.

The Arris Surfboard S33 modem is compatible with most major U. S. cable internet service providers, including Cox, Spectrum, and Xfinity. However, it's always recommended to check with your ISP to confirm compatibility before purchasing the modem. The setup process is simple and secure, and the modem is certified for use with most ISPs.

However, there may be some compatibility issues with the use of the second port, which is not supported by all ISPs. Overall, the Arris Surfboard S33 is a reliable and compatible modem for most cable internet users.

Is the Arris Surfboard S33 compatible with all major ISPs?

The Arris Surfboard S33 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro), and others. However, it's always a good idea to check with your internet service provider (ISP) to confirm compatibility.
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any ISPs that the Arris Surfboard S33 modem is not compatible with?

The Arris Surfboard S33 modem is compatible with most U.S. cable internet service providers, including Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro) and others. However, it's always a good idea to check with your internet service provider (ISP) to confirm compatibility before purchasing the modem.
Based on 10 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any additional steps or configurations required to ensure compatibility with certain ISPs when using the Arris Surfboard S33?

The Arris Surfboard S33 is certified for use with most U.S. cable internet service providers including Comcast Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum, and others. However, it is always a good idea to check with your ISP to confirm compatibility before purchasing the modem. In general, the setup process is simple and secure: you just need to plug in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem.
Based on 14 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any known compatibility issues between Arris Surfboard S33 and certain ISPs?

The Arris Surfboard S33 is compatible with major U.S. cable internet providers including Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro) and others. However, according to Lifewire, the use of the second port isn't supported by all ISPs. It's always best to check with your internet service provider's website to confirm compatibility before making a purchase.
Based on 9 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Speed

The Arris Surfboard S33 is a high-speed cable modem with DOCSIS 3.1 technology, 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, and a maximum download speed of 3.5 Gbps, making it ideal for users who require fast and reliable internet connectivity.

The Arris Surfboard S33 is a high-speed cable modem that supports combined download speeds up to 3. 5 Gbps and a maximum upload speed of up to 940 Mbps. It is built with DOCSIS 3. 1 technology, which provides faster speeds, better security, and enables multi-gig networking.

The modem has 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3. 0 bonded channels, which help to further increase its speed performance. It also has a 2. 5 Gbps Ethernet port and an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port, which combined can provide download speeds up to 3. 5 Gbps. The Arris Surfboard S33 has high throughput capacity, fast and reliable performance, and excellent design, making it one of the best DOCSIS 3.

1 modems available. This modem is ideal for users who require high-speed internet for streaming, gaming, and other data-intensive activities. It is also suitable for households with multiple users who require fast and reliable internet connectivity.

What is the maximum download speed supported by Arris Surfboard S33?

The Arris Surfboard S33 is a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem that is capable of combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps, according to 9 to 5 Toys.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the maximum upload speed supported by Arris Surfboard S33?

According to the product specifications, the Arris Surfboard S33 Modem supports a maximum upload speed of up to 940 Mbps.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What additional features or technologies does the Arris Surfboard S33 have that may affect its speed performance?

The Arris Surfboard S33 is built with DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is the latest cable modem technology available. DOCSIS 3.1 provides faster speeds, better security, and enables multi-gig networking, which allows for fast speeds on copper cables from your internet service provider. Additionally, the Surfboard S33 has 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, which help to further increase its speed performance. The modem also has a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port and an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port, which combined can provide download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. According to approvedmodems.org, the Arris Surfboard S33 has high throughput capacity, fast and reliable performance, and excellent design, making it one of the best DOCSIS 3.1 modems available.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Features

The Arris Surfboard S33 is a standalone cable modem with a 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig port, DOCSIS 3.1 technology, and compatibility with most U.S. cable internet providers, making it ideal for users who require high-speed internet connectivity for gaming, streaming, and other data-intensive activities.

The Arris Surfboard S33 is a standalone cable modem that does not have built-in Wi-Fi, but it has two Ethernet ports, including a 2. 5Gbps Multi-Gig port and a standard Gigabit port. It does not offer parental controls, but it stands out in the market due to its multi-gigabit Ethernet port, DOCSIS 3.

1 technology, and compatibility with most U. S. cable internet providers. The modem is ideal for users who require high-speed internet connectivity for gaming, streaming, and other data-intensive activities. It is also suitable for households with multiple wired devices that require fast and reliable internet connectivity.

The Arris Surfboard S33 comes with a 2-year warranty and is compatible with cable internet speed plans up to 2. 5 Gbps.

Does the Arris Surfboard S33 have built-in Wi-Fi?

No, the Arris Surfboard S33 does not have built-in Wi-Fi. It is a standalone cable modem that requires a separate Wi-Fi router to provide wireless internet connectivity.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many Ethernet ports does the Arris Surfboard S33 have?

The Arris Surfboard S33 has two Ethernet ports. One is a standard Gigabit port, and the other is a 2.5Gbps Multi-Gig port according to dongknows.com.
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Arris Surfboard S33 modem offer parental controls, and if so, what are the features and ease of use?

Sorry, Arris Surfboard S33 does not offer parental controls.

What are the unique features of Arris Surfboard S33 compared to other modems in the market?

The ARRIS Surfboard S33 stands out in the market because of its multi-gigabit Ethernet port, which is capable of delivering download speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps. It also has an extra 1 Gbps Ethernet port to connect to a Wi-Fi router or other wired devices. This modem is built with DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which provides better security, reduces lag while gaming, and enables multi-gig networking. The S33 also has a stylish new design with a single large LED light on the front that changes its color to show the modem's condition. Other features that set the S33 apart include its compatibility with most U.S. cable internet providers, a 2-year warranty, and compatibility with cable internet speed plans up to 2.5 Gbps.
Based on 11 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What internet service providers are compatible with the Arris Surfboard S33 modem?

The Arris Surfboard S33 modem is compatible with major U.S. cable internet service providers including Cox (Gigablast), Spectrum (Internet Gig), Xfinity (Blast!/Extreme Pro) and others. However, it's always a good idea to check with your internet service provider to confirm compatibility.
Based on 12 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Reliability

The Arris Surfboard S33 is a reliable and stable modem that supports the latest technologies and is suitable for high-speed internet plans, although there have been some concerns regarding potential overheating.

The Arris Surfboard S33 has generally received positive reviews for its reliability and stable connection, especially for cable internet plans with speeds of 500Mbps or faster. The modem supports the latest technologies, has a high throughput capacity, and fast and reliable performance.

However, there have been some concerns regarding the potential overheating issue, although this does not seem to be widespread. The product comes with a 2-year limited warranty provided by ARRIS, and dedicated customer support is available through live chat and phone support. Overall, the Arris Surfboard S33 is a reliable and stable modem that is suitable for high-speed internet plans.

What is the average lifespan of the Arris Surfboard S33?

Unfortunately, we don't have the exact lifespan information for the Arris Surfboard S33. However, as with most electronic devices, the lifespan may vary based on factors such as usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. The modem comes with a 2-year limited warranty from the manufacturer, and it's always recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and usage to extend the product's lifespan.

What is the frequency of reported issues or malfunctions with the Arris Surfboard S33?

Unfortunately, I do not have access to information regarding the frequency of reported issues or malfunctions with the Arris Surfboard S33. However, based on the reviews from various sources I can say that the Arris Surfboard S33 has generally received positive reviews for its performance and design. It also comes with a two-year warranty.
Based on 8 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the common reliability concerns or complaints for Arris Surfboard S33?

Based on the reviews available in our database, there have been some concerns regarding the potential overheating issue with the Arris Surfboard S33. According to dongknows.com, ARRIS seems to have slightly overlooked the potential overheating issue in making the S33 a compact (and cute) device. However, it's worth noting that this issue does not seem to be widespread. Other than that, we didn't find any other common reliability concerns or complaints regarding the Arris Surfboard S33.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the Arris Surfboard S33's track record for maintaining a stable and consistent connection?

According to the product experts at dongknows.com, the Arris Surfboard S33 has a reliable and stable connection, especially for cable internet plans with speeds of 500Mbps or faster. Additionally, the modem supports the latest technologies, has a high throughput capacity, and fast and reliable performance, as noted by approvedmodems.org. Overall, the product has garnered positive reviews for its consistent and stable connection.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Have there been any reported instances of the Arris Surfboard S33 failing completely or needing to be replaced prematurely?

I'm sorry, I don't have access to specific information on reported instances of the Arris Surfboard S33 failing or needing to be replaced prematurely. However, the product comes with a 2-year limited warranty provided by ARRIS, and dedicated customer support is available through live chat and phone support. Additionally, the consumer score for the Arris Surfboard S33 is 8.7 out of 10, which is higher than the median score for modems, indicating that customers have generally had a positive experience with this product.

Ease of setup

The Arris Surfboard S33 modem is praised for its simple and secure installation process, with experts noting that users can easily activate the modem by plugging it in, downloading the SURFboard Central App, and following the instructions.

The Arris Surfboard S33 modem is praised by experts for its simple and secure installation process. Users only need to plug in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. The modem also comes with a quick-start guide to help users through the setup process.

The web user interface accessible via the 192. 168. 100. 1 IP address and the ARRIS SURFboard Manager mobile app make the setup process even easier. Experts note that there are no significant issues or challenges that users may face during the setup process. Overall, the Arris Surfboard S33 modem is an excellent choice for users who want a hassle-free setup experience.

What is the installation process like for the Arris Surfboard S33?

The installation process for the Arris Surfboard S33 is simple and secure. All you need to do is plug in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. After activation, you can connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking. Additionally, the modem comes with a Quick-Start guide to help you through the installation process. If you need further assistance, dedicated customer support is available via live chat and phone support from 8am -1am EST.
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the user interface like for the Arris Surfboard S33?

The ARRIS SURFboard S33 comes with a web user interface that is accessible through the IP address 192.168.100.1. According to dongknows.com, the interface is like other cable modems and the default username and password are admin and password. Additionally, there is a mobile app called the ARRIS SURFboard Manager that can be used to manage the modem.
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the setup process for the Arris Surfboard S33 modem?

According to the product features listed on ReviewFinder, the setup process for the Arris Surfboard S33 modem is simple and secure. All you need to do is plug in the device, download the SURFboard Central App, and follow the instructions to activate the modem. You can then connect to a Wi-Fi router for networking. The modem also comes with a quick-start guide to help you through the setup process. Additionally, the modem has a web user interface accessible via the 192.168.100.1 IP address, and there is also an ARRIS SURFboard Manager mobile app available.
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are some common issues or challenges that users may face during the setup process for Arris Surfboard S33 modem?

According to the experts' reviews in our database, there aren't any significant issues or challenges that users may face during the setup process for the Arris Surfboard S33 modem. The process is straightforward and easy to follow, and the modem comes with a web user interface that is accessible via the 192.168.100.1 IP address, as well as the ARRIS SURFboard Manager mobile app, which makes the setup process even easier. However, if users do encounter any issues during setup, they can consult the user manual or contact Arris customer support for assistance.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Customer support

The Arris Surfboard S33 has good customer support resources available, including live chat, phone support, user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and a mobile app, but there is no information on the average response time for inquiries.

Based on the expert reviews, the Arris Surfboard S33 has good customer support resources available, including live chat and phone support during specific hours, access to user manuals and troubleshooting guides on the ARRIS website, and a mobile app for managing and troubleshooting the modem.

However, there is no information available on the average response time for customer support inquiries.

For users who may need assistance with setting up or troubleshooting their modem, the resources available for the Arris Surfboard S33 appear to be comprehensive and helpful. The web user interface and mobile app provide additional tools for managing and monitoring the modem's performance. Overall, the product seems to have adequate customer support resources for most users' needs.

What is the average response time for customer support inquiries for Arris Surfboard S33?

According to the product information, live chat and phone support for the Arris Surfboard S33 are available from 8am to 1am EST. However, there is no information available on the average response time for customer support inquiries.

What resources are available for users to access user manuals and troubleshooting guides for the Arris Surfboard S33?

Users can access the user manual and troubleshooting guides for the Arris Surfboard S33 on the ARRIS website. You can also access the web user interface for the modem using the 192.168.100.1 IP address, where you can find additional resources and settings. Additionally, the ARRIS SURFboard Manager mobile app can also help with troubleshooting and managing your modem.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Best Alternatives

3 best modems in the same price range as Arris Surfboard S33

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Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 Netgear CM1000 Motorola MG7550
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Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 rank #2 out of 112. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.1
Great
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Netgear CM1000 rank #4 out of 112. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.6
Great
Reviews
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Motorola MG7550 rank #15 out of 112. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.7
Great
Price
The Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 is a high-speed cable modem that is compatible with all major cable internet providers, featuring DOCSIS 3.1 technology, 32x8 channel bonding, a powerful 1.5GHz dual-core Broadcom BCM3390 processor, and a 2.5 Gbps ethernet port, making it ideal for online gaming, streaming, and other high-bandwidth activities. The Netgear CM1000 modem is a high-performance device that supports fast and reliable internet connectivity for multiple users and is compatible with major cable internet providers. The Motorola MG7550 is a highly rated and reliable modem router combo that is ideal for households with multiple devices and offers impressive features such as parental control support, multiple connection ports, and a built-in AC1900 Dual Band router for amplified signals.
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Modems above are offered because they are in the same price range as Arris Surfboard S33. To browse more budget and premium modems go to our modem ranking .

Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all modems.

Rank Change Price Modem
Popular Mechanics
Wirecutter
Lifewire
approvedmodems.org
HighSpeedInternet
BestReviews
Networks Hardware
Tom's Guide
PC Guide
The Strategist
1
+1 $190
Arris Surfboard S33
2
1
4
2
-
-
-
1
4
-
2
-1 $250
Netgear Nighthawk CM2000
5
-
2
-
3
-
2
-
1
-
3
+1 $125
Arris SURFboard SB8200
-
-
5
7
2
3
5
-
-
9
4
+1 $157
Netgear CM1000
-
-
-
5
-
4
-
-
3
1
Show all rows
Arris Surfboard S33 ranks #1 out of 10 in this month's ranking:
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20 Oct 2023 (6 months ago)
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A future-proofed modem
27 Mar 2024 (1 month ago)
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Best Design
26 Feb 2024 (2 months ago)
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Best Runner-Up
29 Dec 2023 (3 months ago)
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Best cable modem for gigabit and multi-gig internet
26 Mar 2024 (1 month ago)
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Highest recommended modems this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. modems below are at the top of our ranking this April.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the modem for more details.
Arris Surfboard S33 (this item) Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 Arris SURFboard SB8200 Netgear CM1000
Reviews
In comparison:
Arris Surfboard S33 rank #1 out of 112. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.3
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 rank #2 out of 112. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.1
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Arris SURFboard SB8200 rank #3 out of 112. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.3
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Netgear CM1000 rank #4 out of 112. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.6
Great
Price
The Arris Surfboard S33 is a high-speed cable modem with combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps, 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, and two Ethernet ports, making it ideal for users who require fast and reliable internet connectivity for gaming, streaming, and other data-intensive activities. The Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 is a high-speed cable modem that is compatible with all major cable internet providers, featuring DOCSIS 3.1 technology, 32x8 channel bonding, a powerful 1.5GHz dual-core Broadcom BCM3390 processor, and a 2.5 Gbps ethernet port, making it ideal for online gaming, streaming, and other high-bandwidth activities. The Arris SURFboard SB8200 is a high-performance cable modem that delivers fast and stable internet speeds of up to 2 Gbps, making it ideal for activities such as online gaming, streaming 4K video, or downloading large files, but requires a separate wireless router for Wi-Fi capability. The Netgear CM1000 modem is a high-performance device that supports fast and reliable internet connectivity for multiple users and is compatible with major cable internet providers.
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