Actiontec Powerline 500
Score: 64/100
D-Link Powerline AV2
Score: 66/100Rankings
The D-Link DHP-P701AV is a HomePlug AV2 powerline adapter with dual Gigabit ports and a passthrough socket, offering up to 2000 Mbps PHY speed. Its real-world performance varies with wiring quality and it lacks Wi-Fi. Suited for users who need multiple wired connections while preserving outlet space.
The Actiontec PWR511K01 provides a compact 500 Mbps HomePlug HD solution with easy plug-and-play setup and 128-bit AES security. Its 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port limits true gigabit performance and it lacks a pass-through outlet. Suitable for modest internet connections and devices that don't require gigabit speeds.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
500 Mbps | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
500 Mbps | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
1 | 2best | |
— | 1 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.181 kgbest | 0.327 kg |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Ethernet Ports | 1 | 2 |
Network Standards | HomePlug HD | HomePlug AV2, IEEE 802.3 |
Security(1) | ||
Encryption | 128-bit AES | AES-128 |
Performance(2) | ||
Powerline Speed (Mbps) | 500 Mbps | 2000 Mbps |
Maximum Data Rate (Mbps) | 500 Mbps | 2000 Mbps |
Design(1) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.181 kg | 0.327 kg |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the PWR511K01 a solid, compact solution for extending basic Internet connectivity, highlighting its simplicity and reliability for streaming up to 20 Mbps. However, they criticize the misleading 500 Mbps advertising given the 100 Mbps Ethernet limitation and note that performance varies with home wiring, making it unsuitable for high-speed LAN tasks.
Everyday users appreciate the easy setup, stable performance for streaming and gaming, and the compact design that leaves room for other plugs. Common complaints focus on the gap between advertised and actual speeds, the lack of a pass-through outlet, and occasional premature failures of the units.
“rock solid for years”
“full speed delivery for modest connections”
“units may fail after weeks/months”
Professional reviewers and editors commend the DHP-P621AV for its effortless plug-and-play setup, compact form factor, and energy-saving features, while noting that the AV2-based 1000 Mbps PHY rate is a theoretical maximum that depends on wiring quality. The inclusion of a passthrough socket and dual Gigabit ports is seen as a practical advantage over single-port models.
Everyday users generally praise the kit for its easy installation, included cables, and the ability to keep the outlet functional thanks to the passthrough socket. Recurring concerns focus on variable real-world speeds, the need for direct wall outlets, and the requirement that both units share the same electrical circuit.
