It's not the cheapest out there, and the two ethernet ports may not be enough for more serious gamers, but it certainly delivers alongside Devolo's bold slogan that it "cures weak Wi-Fi." Frequently Asked Questions Is a powerline adapter better than a standard Wi-Fi router? Here’s a test I ran using IxChariot. The top trace shows two AV2 MIMO adapters plugged into different outlets in the same room. The lower trace shows the same setup, but with a small USB charger plugged into the outlet shared by the receiving end powerline adapter. The charger has a Nexus 7 tablet plugged into it until the 20 second mark, where it is unplugged, then replugged at 30 seconds. Note both the loaded and unloaded conditions result in lower throughput, even with a strong powerline signal.

But speed isn’t the only consideration. Not all of these powerline adapters featured are the most intuitive to install, so if you’re unfamiliar with the subject, you’ll likely want to prioritize a plug-and-play option. Finally, these powerline adapters can vary significantly in price, so make sure you know your budget and tailor your choices accordingly. How we test the best powerline adapters These are some of the biggest names in powerline adapters, as good a place as any to start the search for your latest bit of tech.The only way to find the sources that can be affecting your powerline network is to carefully look for them and then run throughput experiments using tools like LAN Speed Test, or better NetStress (see How Fast Is Your Network? Five Ways To Measure Network Speed). Make sure you run a long enough test to get a good throughput average in each case. Some throughput loss can be intermittent and hard to find using a short test. Powerline adapters stand out from conventional network solutions like the best WiFi router or best mesh Wi-Fi system due to their distinct operating mechanism. These adapters function by connecting one unit directly to your router via an ethernet cable and plugging it into a power outlet. Then, by plugging additional units into outlets in areas with weak signal strength and ensuring they share the same power grid connection, you can significantly improve your network coverage and stability. With broadband speeds getting faster all the time, it makes sense to give yourself the best chance of getting the best possible speed, while future-proofing your home network at the same time. A gigabit ethernet connection does just that.

The other big plus in favour of powerline networking is that it is very easy to use. There's no faffing about trying to get adapters to sync up. As soon as everything is plugged in, connected and switched on, the adapters detect each other automatically and those sweet internet signals start flowing immediately. Powerline networking is a way of connecting a device to your router using the mains electricity wiring of your house to send and receive signals to and from your router. It is an alternative to using wifi as a way of connecting a device to your home network. While not exactly brimming with features – these are quite simple devices after all – there are a few features it's worth looking out for when browsing powerline adapters. If you’re willing to look past that sky-high price, nothing will stretch your Wi-Fi further than the Devolo Magic 2 WiFi 6, especially if you have lots of think walls or an unusual layout.A bit of a niche one this, but worth mentioning. Amateur radio enthusiasts have reported that powerline networking causes electrical circuits to emit low frequency radio waves, which can interfere with their broadcast signals.

In this guide, we'll explain what powerline networking is, how it works, and talk you through the pros and cons you need to know if you're going to make an informed decision. We'll also have a look at some of the powerline options out there on the market, so you can start to familiarise yourself with the available brands. Electrical noise can be a significant factor in limiting powerline network throughput. And the worst noise sources are often not obvious. Generally, motor noise from hair dryers and power tools doesn’t have much detrimental effect on powerline network throughput because its frequency is too low. Square D and Eaton AFCIs have this arrangement and are very HomePlug-friendly; it is fortunate that these brands have a large market share. Some other manufacturers (such as Siemens) have a capacitor in front and this is detrimental to HomePlug signals. Powerline networking is one of a number of ways you could potentially improve your home network. But what exactly is it? And is it going to solve all of your connectivity issues?

Need a better connection in an outside office or back bedroom? Make it easy with the best powerline adapters

Key specs – HomePlug standard: AV2 2000; Ports on the first adapter: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet; Ports on the second adapter: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet; Wi-Fi: No; Mains passthrough: Yes While other network solutions, such as the best WiFi extenders, best WiFi 6 router, or best secure router are available, powerline adapters come into their own when dealing with hard-to-reach areas in your home or office. Certain models even have the capability to broadcast their Wi-Fi signal, providing an added layer of versatility. The best powerline adapters are a must-have in 2022. After all, slow or inconsistent Wi-Fi is one of modern life’s most annoying minor problems, especially now that more of us work from home. Sure, you can get a great signal when you’re right next to the router, but what if it’s in a hallway or living room and you need Wi-Fi in a distant upstairs bedroom or an office in the loft or garden? Much more of a problem is switching power supply noise, which comes from almost every electronic device’s power supply today. Its higher frequency falls into the same band used by powerline devices. Even tiny cellphone chargers and innocent-looking USB power warts can cause significant powerline throughput loss. Another form of switching supply interference comes from light dimmers, especially when used with halogen lights. While it looks similar to the above listing, this isn't the same product as the Devolo Magic 2 Wi-Fi 6. But this older offering still delivers fast speeds and all the benefits of mesh Wi-Fi technology, making it worthy of second place. It’s an excellent jumping-off point for the G.hn standard, bringing noticeable improvements to network speeds.