Linksys Powerline AV Wireless
Score: 68/100
TP-Link AV500 Powerline
Score: 71/100Rankings
The TL-PA4010 is an ultra-compact powerline adapter delivering up to 500 Mbps over existing wiring with a single 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port. Its older HomePlug AV standard and limited Ethernet speed reduce suitability for high-bandwidth tasks. Ideal for budget-conscious users needing a simple wired link in small homes.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
200 Mbps | 500 Mbpsbest | |
200 Mbps | 500 Mbpsbest | |
2best | 1 | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 2.3 Wbest |
— | 300 mbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 0.44 Wbest |
— | 2 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.25 kgbest | 0.272 kg |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Ethernet Ports | 2 | 1 |
Network Standards | HomePlug AV, HomePlug AV2, HomePlug AV500 | HomePlug AV, IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u |
Performance(2) | ||
Powerline Speed (Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 500 Mbps |
Maximum Data Rate (Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 500 Mbps |
Power & Energy(1) | ||
Power Source | AC mains | Mains |
Design(1) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.2495 kg | 0.272 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 commend the TL-4010 for its discreet nano form factor and straightforward plug-and-play setup, noting reliable HD streaming up to 300 m. However, they criticize the limited real-world speeds-often under 100 Mbps-due to the 100 Mbps Ethernet limit and older HomePlug AV standard, and they point out that newer AV2/Gigabit kits offer superior performance.
Everyday users appreciate the adapter's tiny size and instant, hassle-free installation, reporting satisfactory speeds for streaming and gaming in apartments. Common complaints revolve around speed drops on older wiring, occasional pairing hiccups, the single-port limitation, and incompatibility with surge protectors or GFCI outlets.
