For years, I was stuck in a familiar cycle of digital frustration. I was paying a premium for a high-speed internet plan from Xfinity, yet my experience felt anything but premium. Buffering streams, laggy video calls, and a Wi-Fi signal that seemed to vanish if I moved one room over were daily annoyances. The culprit, as is so often the case, was the generic, all-in-one gateway that came with my service—a device for which I was also paying a frustrating monthly rental fee. It felt like paying for a sports car but being forced to drive it with a speed limiter. The promise of gigabit speeds was there on paper, but the reality in my home was a choked, inconsistent connection. Breaking free from that rental fee and unlocking the true potential of my internet plan became a mission, leading me to investigate high-performance, user-owned equipment like the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router.
- Compatible with Xfinity Internet & Voice service - Certified by Xfinity and works flawlessly with Xfinity Triple Play. NOT compatible with non-Xfinity...
- Multi-gigabit Internet speed - Delivers ultra-fast speeds up to 2.5 Gbps with next-generation DOCSIS 3.1 technology. Features one 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port...
What to Consider Before Buying a Modem Router Combo
A Modem Router Combo is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for streamlining your home network and taking back control from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). By integrating the modem (which communicates with your ISP) and the router (which creates your local Wi-Fi network) into a single unit, you simplify setup, reduce clutter, and, most importantly, eliminate those perpetual monthly rental fees that can add up to hundreds of dollars over a few years. The primary benefit is achieving the performance you actually pay for. ISP-provided equipment is often built to a budget, using older technology that can’t keep up with the demands of a modern smart home filled with 4K TVs, gaming consoles, laptops, and dozens of connected devices. Upgrading to a powerful combo unit can unleash faster speeds, provide better Wi-Fi coverage, and offer more advanced features.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone on a high-speed cable internet plan (like those from Xfinity, Spectrum, or Cox) who is currently renting their equipment and feels their performance is lacking. It’s especially perfect for households with multiple users, streamers, gamers, and remote workers who need a robust and reliable connection. However, it might not be suitable for those on fiber optic internet (like Verizon Fios or AT&T Fiber), as that technology requires a different type of device (an ONT). Additionally, users who prefer the granular control of separate, highly specialized modem and router units might find a combo device slightly less flexible than a dedicated two-box setup. For those users, buying a standalone DOCSIS 3.1 modem and a separate WiFi 6 or WiFi 6E router is the best alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- ISP Compatibility & Voice Service: This is non-negotiable. You must confirm that the device is certified to work with your specific ISP and your speed tier. For a product like the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router, it’s even more specific—it’s designed for Comcast Xfinity and includes voice ports, making it a “Triple Play” certified device. If you don’t have Xfinity or don’t use their voice service, this specific model is not for you.
- DOCSIS and WiFi Standards: To future-proof your investment, look for DOCSIS 3.1. This is the current standard for gigabit and multi-gigabit cable internet plans. For wireless, WiFi 6 (802.11ax) is the modern standard, offering faster speeds, greater capacity for multiple devices, and better efficiency compared to the older WiFi 5 (802.11ac). The MT8733’s combination of DOCSIS 3.1 and AX6000 WiFi 6 makes it a top-tier performer.
- Speed & Performance: Match the device’s capabilities to your internet plan. An AX6000 router like the MT8733 is designed for gigabit-plus speeds. If you’re on a 300 Mbps plan, a less powerful and more affordable model might suffice. Also, check the Ethernet ports. The inclusion of a 2.5 Gbps port on the MT8733 is a significant feature for users on the fastest available plans, ensuring you can get multi-gig speeds to a wired device.
- Ease of Use & Management: Modern routers are increasingly managed via mobile apps. Investigate the app’s functionality and user feedback. The Motorola MT8733 relies on the motosync app for setup and management, which offers convenience but can also be a point of friction if the app is buggy, as some users have noted. A traditional web-based interface is a preference for many advanced users, but app-based control is becoming the norm.
Making the right choice means reclaiming your monthly budget and, more importantly, enjoying the internet speed and reliability you deserve.
While the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router is an excellent choice for its specific audience, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT and T, CenturyLink, DSL...
- Fast, Reliable Connection: Enjoy high-speed streaming, gaming, and browsing with a trusted brand used in over 260 million homes.
First Impressions: A Tower of Power Built for Performance
Unboxing the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router, the first thing we noticed was its substantial presence. This is not a small, discreet device you can easily tuck away. Standing at nearly 10 inches tall, its vertical tower design is purposeful, housing an array of internal antennas and promoting passive cooling to keep the high-performance components running smoothly. The build quality feels solid and premium, with a matte black finish that looks professional. Unlike the often flimsy-feeling rental units from ISPs, the MT8733 feels like a serious piece of networking hardware. Inside the box, Motorola provides everything needed to get started: the unit itself, a power supply, a quality Ethernet cable, and a quick start guide. One user noted it was about the same size as the ARRIS gateway they were replacing, which confirms our impression that this is a standard form factor for high-end combo units. The clean design, with its subtle status LEDs, projects confidence without being overly flashy—it’s clearly built for function over form, which is exactly what we want in a network’s central hub.
What We Like
- Blazing-fast DOCSIS 3.1 and AX6000 WiFi 6 performance
- Future-proof 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port for multi-gig plans
- Integrated voice ports are a perfect solution for Xfinity Triple Play users
- Eliminates monthly rental fees, paying for itself over time
- Strong and stable Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home
What We Didn’t Like
- Strictly compatible with Comcast Xfinity only, limiting its audience
- Setup and management are entirely dependent on the motosync app, which has mixed reviews
- Activation with Xfinity can sometimes be challenging
Deep Dive: A Feature-by-Feature Performance Analysis
Beyond the specs on the box, the true measure of any networking device is how it performs under the pressure of a demanding, modern household. We put the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router through its paces, focusing on the core experiences that matter most: the setup process, raw speed and wireless capability, its unique voice integration, and the day-to-day management experience. Here’s our in-depth breakdown.
The Activation Gauntlet: Navigating Setup with Xfinity
The setup and activation process for any third-party modem is often the biggest hurdle for users, and our experience with the MT8733 was a case study in this reality. The quick-start guide directs you to use the motosync app for the initial configuration and the Xfinity app for activation. In a perfect world, this is a seamless, 20-minute process. We started by downloading motosync, plugging in the MT8733, and connecting the coax cable. The app guided us through setting up our Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. This part was straightforward.
The next step, activation with the ISP, is where experiences diverge. The Xfinity app is designed to automatically detect the new modem and guide you through registering it to your account. For us, this worked, but it took about 30-45 minutes for the modem to fully provision and for all the status lights to turn solid blue. This aligns with several user accounts that described a “wait and see” period. However, many other users report a much rockier path. As one user stated, “Spent hours with Comcast which know absolutely nothing about activating anything!” This is a common sentiment. If the app fails, you must call Xfinity support, and the quality of that support can vary wildly. Our advice is to be patient and have your account number and the modem’s MAC address handy. While some users found the process frustrating, the consensus is that once it’s activated, the device is rock-solid. This initial pain point is a rite of passage for owning your own equipment, but the performance gains make it worthwhile.
Unleashing True Gigabit Speed: DOCSIS 3.1 and WiFi 6 in Action
Once activated, the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router truly begins to shine. This is where you see the value of your investment. We tested it on an Xfinity 1.2 Gbps plan. The first thing we did was connect a laptop directly to the 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port. The speed test results were stunning, consistently pulling down over 1400 Mbps, exceeding the advertised plan speed thanks to provider overprovisioning. This port is the MT8733’s killer feature, ensuring that you can get every bit of speed you pay for on a multi-gig plan to at least one wired device—perfect for a high-performance gaming PC or a network-attached storage (NAS) device.
The AX6000 WiFi 6 performance was equally impressive. In the same room as the router, our WiFi 6-enabled devices clocked speeds well over 900 Mbps. The real test, however, is range and stability. We found the signal to be robust throughout a 2,500-square-foot, two-story home. 4K streaming on multiple TVs, online gaming on a PS5, and several concurrent video calls proceeded without a single hiccup. This is the power of WiFi 6’s OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies, which are designed to handle dozens of devices simultaneously without congestion. One user happily reported, “Very happy actually seeing the speeds I’m paying for,” after switching from their rental unit. We wholeheartedly agree. The MT8733 doesn’t just provide internet; it delivers a powerful, stable, and incredibly fast network that can handle anything a modern smart home throws at it. For those looking to see its full capabilities, you can explore the advanced feature set and benchmarks online.
A Lifeline for Landlines: Seamless Xfinity Voice Integration
While landlines may seem like a relic to some, for many, they are a crucial part of a bundled service plan, often required for home security systems or simply as a reliable communication backup. The Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router is one of a select few high-performance, third-party devices that fully supports Xfinity Voice. It features two standard RJ11 telephone jacks on the back, making it a true all-in-one replacement for Xfinity’s “Triple Play” gateways.
During our testing, setting up the voice service was part of the automatic Xfinity activation process. Once the modem was provisioned, we simply plugged our existing cordless phone base station into the first phone port, and it worked instantly with a clear dial tone. We tested call quality extensively, making both local and long-distance calls. The audio was crystal clear, with no static, echo, or delay. All the enhanced calling features we subscribe to, such as Caller ID and call waiting, functioned perfectly. This is a critical feature for a specific but significant group of users. As one satisfied customer put it, they “Needed a modem router with voice (land line phone) capability… This Motorola MT8733 model was a perfect solution!” It elegantly solves the problem for those who want top-tier internet performance without sacrificing their home phone service, making it an invaluable piece of hardware for Xfinity’s bundled-service subscribers.
The motosync App: Convenient Control or Frustrating Flaw?
The brain of the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router is the motosync mobile app. There is no traditional web-based admin panel; all management, from initial setup to advanced configuration, is handled through your smartphone. In practice, this is a double-edged sword. On one hand, the app provides incredible convenience. From anywhere in the world, we could check our network status, see connected devices, run speed tests, set up parental controls, and create a guest network. The interface is clean and modern, and for basic tasks, it’s very intuitive.
However, the app-only approach is not without its significant drawbacks, a sentiment echoed loudly in user feedback. We experienced a few instances where the app was slow to load or required a restart. More concerning are the reports from some users of persistent problems. One frustrated user described the “Impossible Motosync app!” claiming it “Suddenly logs you out, won’t allow login, won’t let you reset password.” While we didn’t experience these critical failures, the sheer number of similar complaints indicates a potential for software instability. Furthermore, power users who are accustomed to the deep, granular control of a traditional web UI will find the app’s options limiting. The inability to configure complex settings like static IP assignments properly was a major issue for one advanced user. The reliance on the app is a clear trade-off: you gain remote accessibility and simplicity at the cost of stability and advanced control, which is a crucial factor to consider before you commit to this powerful piece of hardware.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing the broad spectrum of user feedback reveals a clear pattern. The vast majority of positive reviews for the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router center on two things: cost savings and performance. One user summed it up perfectly: “I wish I had purchased this earlier and I could’ve saved myself $15 a month from Comcast Xfinity this whole time.” This sentiment is the primary motivator for most buyers. This is followed by praise for the device’s raw power, with another user stating, “This router is great! Has enabled me to really get the most out of my Xfinity internet service… I am actually getting all the through put I pay for.”
On the other side, the negative feedback is just as consistent and focuses on two key areas: activation difficulties and hardware/software issues. The activation process with Xfinity is a common point of frustration, often requiring lengthy calls to support. The most critical feedback, however, is reserved for device failures and the motosync app. One user reported their unit “completely died” within months and detailed a frustrating warranty replacement process. Another user with advanced networking needs pointed out a significant flaw with static IP assignments, stating, “I do not recommend this Gateway because of this issue (if you have a LAN).” This feedback paints a picture of a product that is phenomenally powerful when it works, but can be a source of significant frustration if you encounter activation issues or hardware problems.
How Does the Motorola MT8733 Compare to the Alternatives?
The Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router occupies a specific niche, but it’s important to see how it stacks up against other popular choices, especially for those who don’t need its Xfinity-specific voice features.
1. NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 WiFi 6 Modem Router Combo
- Compatible with major cable internet providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox and more. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT and T, CenturyLink, DSL...
- Coverage up to 2,000 sq. ft. and 25 concurrent devices with dual-band WiFi 6 (AX2700) speed (up to 2.7Gbps)
The NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 is a formidable competitor for users who prioritize broad compatibility and a trusted brand name in networking. Like the MT8733, it features DOCSIS 3.1 and WiFi 6, but with a slightly lower AX2700 speed rating compared to Motorola’s AX6000. Its biggest advantage is its certified compatibility with major ISPs beyond Xfinity, including Spectrum and Cox. This makes it a more flexible choice if you might switch providers in the future. It lacks the voice ports of the MT8733, so it’s not an option for Triple Play users. Choose the Nighthawk CAX30 if you want a reliable, high-performance combo unit from a top brand and don’t need integrated phone lines.
2. NETGEAR C6250 Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo
- COMPATIBLE WITH ALL MAJOR CABLE INTERNET PROVIDERS: Including certification by Xfinity by Comcast, COX, and Spectrum. NOT compatible with Verizon, AT&T,...
- SAVE MONTHLY RENTAL FEES: Model C6250 replaces your cable modem and WiFi router saving you up to 168 dollars/yr in equipment rental fees.
The NETGEAR C6250 represents the budget-friendly alternative for users on lower-speed internet plans. It utilizes older technology—DOCSIS 3.0 and WiFi 5 (AC1600)—and is rated for cable plans up to 300 Mbps. This device is not in the same performance league as the MT8733. However, for a user on a 100-250 Mbps plan, it is more than sufficient and offers a much lower entry price to stop paying rental fees. It’s a practical, no-frills choice for households with lighter internet usage who are looking for the most economical way to own their own equipment. If your plan is under 300 Mbps and you don’t have dozens of connected devices, the C6250 is a smart, cost-effective pick.
3. Motorola MG8702 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router
- Instantly upgraded you WiFi performance with advanced tech all while saving up to $168 per year in rental fees by owning your cable modem.
- Access the fastest cable internet plans available, with the future-proof performance of the DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem.
The Motorola MG8702 is essentially the MT8733’s sibling, built for a broader audience. It features the same core DOCSIS 3.1 technology for gigabit speeds but pairs it with an AC3200 WiFi 5 router instead of WiFi 6. Crucially, it lacks voice ports but gains wider ISP compatibility, being approved for Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum. This makes it a direct competitor to the Nighthawk CAX30 and a great option for someone who likes the Motorola brand but doesn’t have or need Xfinity Voice. It’s a small step down in Wi-Fi technology compared to the MT8733, but it remains a very powerful and reliable choice for high-speed internet plans across multiple providers.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Motorola MT8733 the Right Choice For You?
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Motorola MT8733 WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router is a specialized beast of a machine that is, for the right person, an absolutely perfect solution. If you are a Comcast Xfinity customer with a “Triple Play” bundle that includes voice service, and you subscribe to a gigabit or multi-gigabit internet plan, this device is arguably the best all-in-one product on the market. It successfully combines a future-proof DOCSIS 3.1 modem, a powerful AX6000 WiFi 6 router with a 2.5 Gbps port, and the necessary voice ports into one sleek, high-performance package. It delivers on its promise of unlocking the true speeds you pay for while eliminating costly monthly rental fees.
However, its laser-focus is also its main limitation. It is not for users of other ISPs, nor is it for Xfinity customers who only have internet service. The reliance on the sometimes-finicky motosync app for all management can also be a deal-breaker for tech enthusiasts who prefer granular control. But if you fit the target profile, the initial setup hurdles are a small price to pay for the outstanding performance and long-term savings you’ll gain. For Xfinity Triple Play power users, the MT8733 is an enthusiastic recommendation and a worthy investment in your home network’s future. If you’re ready to take control of your internet and unleash its full potential, you can check the latest price and availability for the Motorola MT8733 today.
Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API