Linksys Powerline AV Wireless
Score: 68/100
D-Link Powerline AV2
Score: 66/100Rankings
The Linksys PLWK400 merges powerline networking with a Wi-Fi extender, delivering up to 200 Mbps over the electrical wiring and 300 Mbps Wi-Fi. Its main trade-off is the limited Fast Ethernet port speed and the absence of detailed power or range data. It is best for users who need both wired and wireless coverage in hard-to-reach areas without running new cables.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
200 Mbps | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
200 Mbps | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
2best | 2best | |
— | 1 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.25 kgbest | 0.327 kg |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Network Standards | HomePlug AV, HomePlug AV2, HomePlug AV500 | 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) | 0.2495 kg | 0.327 kg |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers highlight the PLWK400's straightforward installation, its suitability for extending coverage into basements and garages, and its ability to deliver up to 500 Mbps across both powerline and Wi-Fi while maintaining WPA2 security and QoS.
Everyday users consistently praise the kit's plug-and-play setup, easy security key management, and the noticeable reduction in lag and connection instability.
“Easy setup with simple instructions and software.”
“Reduces lag spikes and improves inconsistent speeds.”
“Straightforward security key management.”
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.
