Linksys Powerline AV
Score: 65/100
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 Linksys PLEK400 kit offers a straightforward plug-and-play solution with a built-in 4-port Ethernet hub and basic firewall protection. Its main limitation is the 200 Mbps ceiling imposed by the older HomePlug AV standard. Ideal for users with sub-gigabit internet who need simple wired connectivity for streaming and gaming.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
200 Mbps | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
200 Mbps | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
5best | 2 | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.525 kg | 0.327 kgbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Ethernet Ports | 5 | 2 |
Network Standards | HomePlug AV | HomePlug AV2, IEEE 802.3 |
Performance(2) | ||
Powerline Speed (Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 2000 Mbps |
Maximum Data Rate (Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 2000 Mbps |
Design(1) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.525 kg | 0.327 kg |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the PLEK400 for its straightforward plug-and-play setup, reliable HD streaming without buffering, and the convenience of a four-port hub. However, they caution that the older HomePlug AV standard caps real-world speeds well below modern gigabit expectations and that long-term reliability data is sparse.
Everyday users generally praise the kit's ease of installation and its ability to deliver smooth HD video streaming and multi-device connectivity without additional switches.
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.
“Streaming video without issues, speed tests hitting 800 KB/s downloads (matching my internet).”
“Easy install - just plug it into the router/device and the lights confirm the link.”
