Netgear Powerline 200
Score: 58/100
Linksys Powerline AV
Score: 65/100Rankings
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.
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 Mbpsbest | 200 Mbpsbest | |
200 Mbpsbest | 200 Mbpsbest | |
1 | 5best | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.635 kg | 0.525 kgbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Ethernet Ports | 1 | 5 |
Network Standards | HomePlug AV1, IEEE 802.3 | HomePlug AV |
Power & Energy(1) | ||
Power Source | Mains | AC mains |
Design(1) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.635 kg | 0.525 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of installation, small size and energy-saving features, but repeatedly mention that the 200 Mbps speed ceiling feels outdated for modern broadband and that the lack of Wi-Fi is a disappointment.
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.
“"perfect for connecting HDTVs, Blu-ray players, DVRs, PCs and game consoles"”
“Streaming video without issues, speed tests hitting 800 KB/s downloads (matching my internet).”
