If you are looking for DOCSIS Cable modems, you will get different types like 16×8, 32×8 and many more. There are many different speeds and standards of cable modems. So, if you want such a modem, you may get confused while deciding which one will be perfect for you.
Most users hear about features like upload-download output, bonded channels, DOCSIS 3.1, and DOCSIS 3.0 and get confused. So, before choosing a cable modem, you have to understand the comparison between 16×4 vs 32×8 modems.
Comparing those cable modems will help you to get a clarification about the speeds and current cable standards they offer. So, you can take an informed decision while buying the best cable modem to access the internet.
Before comparing 16×4 and 32×8 modems, let’s understand DOCSIS cable modems first.
Introduction to DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem
If you want to get an advanced network connection, DOCSIS 3.0 Cable modem is a perfect option for you. DOCSIS means “Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification”. It will permit faster data transfer with high bandwidth over your existing cables.
16×4 and 32×8 are 2 popular cable modems that come with DOCSIS 3.0. Selecting the suitable one from a 16×4 vs 32×8 modem comparison is a vital part of establishing high-speed internet connectivity.
The DOCSIS standard became famous across the world since cable lines were ordinary. So, using the existing cable line for data transfer means businesses and customers can gain profit from high-bandwidth connections. In addition, it does not require digging up pavements to lay new telecom cables.
Benefits You Gain from DOCSIS 3.1 Modems
You will see that both devices are faster than DOCSIS 3.0 modems. Both modems will offer 10 Gbps downstream and 1 Gbps upstream speed. In addition, its maximum output is 1.89 Gbps per 192 Mhz channel or 4096 QAM.
If you choose DOCSIS 3.1 modems, you will get Coax cable. It comes with enough capacity to support quicker uploads/downloads than ADSL telephone cables.
While comparing 16×4 vs 32×8 modems, you can get better security features from both devices. Moreover, it also features a sleep mode to decrease power usage and packet latency reduction, making it suitable for online gaming and VoIP.
16×4 vs 32×8 Modem: Which One is Better for You?
Both 16×4 and 32×8 modem comes with speeds and configurations based on the DOCSIS 3.0 standard. However, there are some differences between the upstream and downstream channels.
So, let’s get to know more about the 16×4 cable modem first.
Everything You need to know about 16×4 Modem
A 16×4 cable modem will offer you 4 upstream and 16 downstream channels. In addition, it provides a theoretical speed of 108 Megabit per second upstream and 608 Megabit per second downstream speed.
If your modem’s overall hardware is better, you will get more channels. You can also get speeds of almost 60% of the modem’s rated performance. So, if your internet speed is medium or low, a 16×4 modem is enough.
Generally, Internet Service providers use 16×4 cable modems for speed levels of around 300 Mbps. But, before selecting the 16×4 modem for yourself, you have one more option left, which is the 32×8 modem.
So, let’s get to know more about 32×8 modems to understand the comparison between 16×4 vs 32×8 modems.
Everything You Need to Know about 32×8 Modem
A 32×8 modem will offer you 8 upstream and 32 downstream channels. Additionally, you will get 216 Megabit per second upstream and 1216 Megabit per second downstream theoretical speeds with the modem.
Alike 16×4, you will get a maximum performance of approximately 60% of the theoretical maximum speeds. If you are not getting that performance level, it is likely due to a slow Ethernet or slow Wi-Fi network. In this case, you can update to a better Wi-Fi router or a Gigabit Ethernet card that may support a lot.
Generally, Internet Service providers use 32×8 modems for speed levels of around 500 Mbps. It takes 32×2 modem one step ahead in the comparisons of 16×4 vs 32×8 modems.
Apart from these, a 32×8 modem can support Gigabit’s theoretical download speeds. So, if you want to get a Gigabit network plan with your ISP, you can choose a 32×8 modem for yourself.
So, it is clear that the cable modem you choose completely depends on your internet speed. If you want a speed limit of up to 300 Mbps, then 16×4 is enough for you. But, if you want to increase the internet speed up to 500 Mbps, then you might need a 32×8 modem.
Conclusion
Now, you have to understand that your choice of modem totally depends on the network speed. So, it becomes easier to determine the suitable while comparing 16×4 vs 32×8 modems. Now, the choice is completely yours. We would suggest always sticking to the requirement for added benefits.
