Netgear Powerline 200
Score: 58/100
Actiontec Powerline 500
Score: 64/100Rankings
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.
The Netgear XAV2001 is a compact powerline adapter delivering up to 200 Mbps Ethernet over HomePlug AV wiring, ideal for simple wired extensions. Its limited speed, lack of Wi-Fi, and outlet-blocking design constrain its usefulness for high-bandwidth or multi-device scenarios. Best suited for low-cost, single-device connections in small homes.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
200 Mbps | 500 Mbpsbest | |
200 Mbps | 500 Mbpsbest | |
1best | 1best | |
1 yearsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.635 kg | 0.181 kgbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Network Standards | HomePlug AV1, IEEE 802.3 | HomePlug HD |
Performance(2) | ||
Powerline Speed (Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 500 Mbps |
Maximum Data Rate (Mbps) | 200 Mbps | 500 Mbps |
Design(1) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.635 kg | 0.181 kg |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers highlight the XAV2001's simplicity, compact form factor and eco-friendly packaging, noting it works well for connecting single entertainment devices via Ethernet. The main criticism from editors is the absence of any Wi-Fi capability, which limits its appeal for users expecting a wireless solution.
Everyday users generally praise the ease of installation, small size and energy-saving features, but repeatedly mention that the 200 Mbps speed ceiling feels outdated for modern broadband and that the lack of Wi-Fi is a disappointment.
“"perfect for connecting HDTVs, Blu-ray players, DVRs, PCs and game consoles"”
“rock solid for years”
“full speed delivery for modest connections”
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.
