TRENDnet Powerline AV 500
Score: 73/100
Linksys Powerline AV Wireless
Score: 68/100Rankings
The TRENDnet TPL-402E delivers up to 500 Mbps powerline speed, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and a built-in pass-through outlet, offering solid performance for streaming and gaming. Its performance can suffer in noisy electrical environments and it only provides a single Ethernet port per unit. Ideal for users who want a compact, feature-rich adapter with Windows utility support.
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 | | |
|---|---|---|
500 Mbpsbest | 200 Mbps | |
500 Mbpsbest | 200 Mbps | |
1 | 2best | |
| ↓ lower better | 5 Wbest | — |
300 mbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.72 Wbest | — |
3 yearsbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.186 kgbest | 0.25 kg |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Ethernet Ports | 1 | 2 |
Network Standards | IEEE 1901, HomePlug AV | HomePlug AV, HomePlug AV2, HomePlug AV500 |
Performance(2) | ||
Powerline Speed (Mbps) | 500 Mbps | 200 Mbps |
Maximum Data Rate (Mbps) | 500 Mbps | 200 Mbps |
Power & Energy(1) | ||
Power Source | AC outlet | AC mains |
Design(1) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.186 kg | 0.2495 kg |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the TPL-402E's compact footprint, integrated pass-through outlet and the inclusion of a Gigabit Ethernet port, which sets it apart from many 100 Mbps rivals. They highlight the effortless plug-and-play setup and the robust build quality, while noting the lack of macOS/Linux utilities as a minor drawback.
Everyday users appreciate the straightforward plug-in experience, the retained wall socket, and the reliable wired speeds for streaming and large file transfers. Common complaints focus on reduced performance in noisy electrical environments, occasional drop-outs across circuits, and limited scalability for very large homes.
“"100% kickass" - 3DGameman YouTube”
“"Easy plug-and-play installation with no configuration needed for basic use." - User review (source 9)”
“Easy setup with simple instructions and software.”
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.
