Linksys Powerline AV Wireless
Score: 68/100
Zyxel G.hn 2400 Powerline
Score: 87/100Rankings
The Zyxel PLA6456 is a high-performance G.hn powerline adapter kit delivering up to 2400 Mbps and featuring a pass-through socket with noise filtering. Its primary drawback is incompatibility with older HomePlug AV/AV2 devices and the possibility of lower real-world speeds. Best suited for users with robust home wiring who need top-tier bandwidth for 8K streaming or lag-free gaming.
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 | 2,400 Mbpsbest | |
200 Mbps | 1,000 Mbpsbest | |
2best | 2best | |
— | 500 mbest | |
— | 2 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.25 kgbest | 0.368 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 | ITU-T G.hn G.9963, IEEE 1905.1, IEEE 802.3/u/ab, G.hn 100MHz MIMO |
Performance(2) | ||
Powerline Speed (Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 2400 Mbps |
Maximum Data Rate (Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 1000 Mbps |
General(1) | ||
Compatibility | Any standard power outlet | Not compatible with HomePlug AV/AV2 |
Design(1) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.2495 kg | 0.368 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 praise the PLA6456 for delivering G.hn Wave 2 speeds up to 2400 Mbps and for its MIMO-based stability, making it suitable for 8K video and lag-free gaming. They also highlight the convenient pass-thru socket and strong AES-128 encryption, but caution that real-world throughput depends on home wiring and that the unit is not compatible with older HomePlug standards.
Everyday users value the quick sync setup, the ability to keep power outlets functional, and the reliable wired link for TVs and consoles. The most common criticism is that performance fluctuates with the quality of the house's electrical wiring, and some owners are frustrated by incompatibility with existing HomePlug devices.
