Zyxel Powerline AV2
Score: 75/100
D-Link Powerline AV2
Score: 66/100Rankings
The ZyXEL PLA5206KIT is a HomePlug AV2 powerline kit offering up to 1000 Mbps theoretical speed with advanced QoS and 128-bit AES encryption. In practice, throughput averages around 300 Mbps and the single-port design lacks a pass-through outlet. Best suited for budget-conscious households needing a simple gigabit extension for a few devices.
The D-Link DHP-P701AV is a HomePlug AV2 powerline adapter with dual Gigabit ports and a passthrough socket, offering up to 2000 Mbps PHY speed. Its real-world performance varies with wiring quality and it lacks Wi-Fi. Suited for users who need multiple wired connections while preserving outlet space.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,000 Mbps | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
1,000 Mbps | 2,000 Mbpsbest | |
1 | 2best | |
| ↓ lower better | 4 Wbest | — |
300 mbest | — | |
2 yearsbest | 1 years | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.408 kg | 0.327 kgbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Ethernet Ports | 1 | 2 |
Network Standards | HomePlug AV2, IEEE 1901, HomePlug AV | HomePlug AV2, IEEE 802.3 |
Security(1) | ||
Encryption | 128-bit AES | AES-128 |
Performance(3) | ||
Powerline Speed (Mbps) | 1000 Mbps | 2000 Mbps |
Maximum Data Rate (Mbps) | 1000 Mbps | 2000 Mbps |
Modulation Technology | OFDM | MIMO |
General(1) | ||
Warranty Period (years) | 2 years | 1 years |
Design(1) | ||
Device Weight (kg) | 0.408 kg | 0.327 kg |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the PLA5206 a competent entry-level powerline adapter that reliably delivers 300+ Mbps and offers solid security and QoS features, but they caution that its SISO design and reliance on wiring quality prevent it from matching the higher speeds of MIMO-based competitors.
Consumers appreciate the ease of installation, the security button, and the ability to stream HD content without new cabling, yet many express frustration with inconsistent speeds and occasional dropouts on older wiring, noting that the device rarely reaches its advertised 1000 Mbps rate.
Professional reviewers and editors commend the DHP-P621AV for its effortless plug-and-play setup, compact form factor, and energy-saving features, while noting that the AV2-based 1000 Mbps PHY rate is a theoretical maximum that depends on wiring quality. The inclusion of a passthrough socket and dual Gigabit ports is seen as a practical advantage over single-port models.
Everyday users generally praise the kit for its easy installation, included cables, and the ability to keep the outlet functional thanks to the passthrough socket. Recurring concerns focus on variable real-world speeds, the need for direct wall outlets, and the requirement that both units share the same electrical circuit.
“Reliable speeds up to 300+ Mbps in tests, good noise handling.”
“Easy plug-and-play with QoS for streaming/gaming.”
“Easy install - just plug it into the router/device and the lights confirm the link.”
