So "combo device" is really called a Gateway.
Thanks for the clarification.
prices for Gateways are all around $250 or higher. Mostly because they chose to go with 802.11AX technology this time around since WiFi 6
I don't mind going with the latest and greatest since I do keep things until they break or become obsolete as evidenced by my 6 plus year old Netgear.
with a cheap AC router
Is that the way to go though? I would not want to skimp on security.
A quick scan of the major brands looks like the DOCSIS 3.1 prices for Gateways
The Gateways on the Cox page all seemed to be associated with Panoramic Wifi and for my one bedroom apartment I think that maybe overkill.
The deeper dive I take the more confused I seem to be. So are these three good candidates if I don't want to confuse myself and just go with a combo? TIA.