Orbi CBK752 review: is the modem+router combo worth it?

The CBK752 is different from most Orbi products in one key way: it combines a cable modem and a mesh router into a single unit, rather than requiring you to bring your own modem. Here's what that tradeoff actually looks like in practice.

What the CBK752 actually is

It's a cable modem and Orbi mesh router built into one device, paired with satellites for whole-home coverage — meaning you don't need a separate modem from your ISP at all, as long as your provider supports the CBK752's modem specifications.

Setup: fewer boxes, less flexibility

The obvious upside is simplicity — one less device, one less power cable, and one less thing that can individually fail. The tradeoff is flexibility: if you ever switch ISPs to one that requires a different modem type (like a fiber connection instead of cable), the combo unit's modem becomes unusable, and you'd need an entirely new setup rather than just swapping a router.

Activation considerations

Because it includes a modem, the CBK752 requires ISP-side activation — you'll need your account number and the unit's MAC address on hand, and the process is a bit more involved than plugging in a router-only Orbi behind an existing modem.

Who it's best suited for

• Households on a compatible cable internet plan who want the absolute simplest setup
• People who don't already own a separate modem and would otherwise need to buy one anyway
• Those unlikely to switch to a fiber or DSL provider in the near future, where the built-in modem would become obsolete

Who might want to skip it

If you already own a modem you're happy with, or you anticipate switching ISP types in the next year or two, a separate router-only Orbi paired with your existing or a standalone modem gives you more flexibility long-term.

Frequently asked questions