If you've ever played online games, you've probably encountered one constant: a more reliable connection trumps a slightly faster connection every time. Most online games don't really use a ton of bandwidth, but they do require a very stable connection that WiFi can struggle to provide. Unfortunately for most gamers, having a wired ethernet connection is simply not possible. Luckily, Powerline Ethernet adapters have matured to the point that they can approach most of the benefits of traditional wired gaming without the need for massive cables strung around your house.
Note: Powerline Ethernet adapters are reliable, but they are also subject to your home's wiring. Depending on where you place them, they may or may not work, so be prepared to try several different plugs to find the ones that work well with your adapters.
Tenda PH6 Powerline Ethernet Adapter Kit
This set of Tenda is a good compromise between speed, features and price. At under $50, you get a two-pack of gigabit-capable powerline adapters, which is plenty of speed for anything but massive network transfers. These adapters also feature a handy grommet so you won't lose the plug, and they come with a three-year warranty. Tenda also advertises electrical noise cancellation, although testing this claim would require specialist equipment. All in all, a solid set of adapters to get you gaming without spending a lot of money.
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Kit TP-Link TL-WPA4220
TP-Link is truly the premier brand when it comes to powerline Ethernet adapters. They've been offering them for a number of years and often include features that competitors haven't mastered for a while. This kit provides a modest 600 Mbps Ethernet power, which is good for gaming, but you might want to avoid major network transfers or remote desktop work. However, the real benefit of this set is the built-in WiFi extension provided by the larger adapter. Not only does it pair with other models, in case you loop gigabit-capable adapters into your setup, but the WiFi extender provides a 300Mbps extension to your existing network. It's by no means the fastest, but if you're still streaming at 1080p and want to game, the flexibility it offers outweighs the slightly slower speeds.
Zyxel Powerline Starter Kit
These adapters from Zyxel look a lot like the majority of standard powerline adapters you'll see online or at your local retailer, with one notable feature: they're very fast. At speeds of 2400 Mbps, they outperform most other adapters you're going to find, while offering the same convenient powerline adapter feature set you've come to expect. They may lack robust features like WiFi extender, but if you're looking for pure speed, they're the easy choice.
Tenda PH10 Powerline WiFi adapter
Tenda continues to get its money's worth with TP-Link with its PH10 adapter kit. It includes a dual-band WiFi extender, just like some TP-Link adapter models, but has full gigabit Ethernet adapters. The built-in WiFi extender simply clones your existing network to provide 2,4GHz and 5GHz extension in addition to its powerline capabilities. If you're looking for a powerline adapter that includes a WiFi repeater but aren't ready to compromise on speed, this is a good choice.
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NETGEAR PLP2000
NETGEAR is probably a name you've seen before if you've ever bought or purchased networking hardware. They are a major player in the networking landscape, and their powerline adapters are rock solid. Their PLP2000 adapters offer speeds of up to 2000 Mbps, and the dual ports on both ends mean that on the receive adapter you will be able to plug in two different devices. This is a convenient and fast option from a company with a considerable heritage in the world of networking equipment.
The speeds listed on these types of adapters are maximums, not the speeds you are going to get in operation. Powerline adapters are susceptible to noise and interference, so you may need to spend some time finding a set of electrical outlets that work for what you're trying to configure. Avoid things like power strips and surge protectors for the fastest, most direct route for your traffic, and run tests to make sure things are working at acceptable speeds.
For more hardware guides, check out the best holiday gifts for gaming hardware and the best screen protectors for Macbook M1 Pro and M1 Max on Pro Gaming Guides.
