TRENDnet TPL-402E 500 Mbps Powerline AV Adapter

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85%
93%
Setup & Installation
87%
Connection Stability
81%
Speed Performance
89%
Energy Efficiency
92%
Built-in Outlet Utility
86%
Security Features
80%
Design & Build Quality
88%
Compatibility with Devices
83%
Long-Term Reliability
75%
Customer Support & Warranty
74%
Noise & Interference Tolerance
92%
Overall Value for Money
More

Overview

The TRENDnet TPL-402E 500 Mbps Powerline AV Adapter provides a reliable and simple solution for extending your network without the need for additional wiring. This powerline adapter leverages your home’s existing electrical wiring, allowing for speeds of up to 500 Mbps. Installation is straightforward—just plug the adapters into available outlets and start using your network immediately. With no extra cables or complex setups required, this plug-and-play solution simplifies your home networking setup while offering a stable connection for various devices.

Features & Benefits

This powerline adapter comes with a built-in outlet, ensuring you don’t lose any valuable socket space. The one-touch sync button makes setting up your network easy and quick, and its 128-bit AES encryption guarantees secure data transfer. Another noteworthy feature is its energy efficiency, reducing power consumption by up to 80%, making it an environmentally friendly choice for those looking to cut energy costs. Whether for casual browsing or heavy-duty tasks, this secure and efficient adapter has you covered.

Best For

The TRENDnet TPL-402E is ideal for home users who need a stable network connection without relying on Wi-Fi. It’s particularly useful for gaming and streaming in areas with unreliable wireless signals, offering a reliable alternative. Additionally, users who want a hassle-free, plug-and-play networking solution will find this adapter appealing. With its ease of setup and minimal equipment required, it is perfect for those seeking to improve their home network without complex installations or configurations.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the TRENDnet TPL-402E for its reliable performance and ease of installation. Many have reported minimal setup time, making it a popular choice for those looking for quick and straightforward solutions. However, some users have mentioned that the speed may be affected in environments with high electrical interference, leading to occasional drops in performance. The built-in outlet has received positive feedback, with many noting that it helps reduce clutter by freeing up an additional power socket.

#Powerline Network Adapters
#Network Adapters
#Networking Products
#Computers & Accessories
#Electronics

Pros

  • Easy plug-and-play setup with minimal installation effort.
  • Built-in outlet provides extra socket space, reducing clutter.
  • Reliable 500 Mbps speed over existing electrical wiring.
  • Compact design makes it unobtrusive and ideal for tight spaces.
  • Energy-efficient, reducing power consumption by up to 80%.
  • One-touch sync button simplifies network setup for non-technical users.
  • Secure data transfer with advanced 128-bit AES encryption.
  • Ideal for extending network to rooms without Wi-Fi coverage.
  • Works well for streaming and gaming in stable environments.

Cons

  • Performance can be affected in environments with electrical interference.
  • Not suitable for large homes or areas with heavy network demand.
  • Limited customization options for advanced users.
  • Speed may fluctuate depending on the quality of home wiring.
  • Not a Wi-Fi extender, so it won’t help with Wi-Fi signal issues.
  • Some users report inconsistent connection speeds in older homes.
  • Lacks a mobile app or advanced management features.
  • Not durable enough for constant travel or heavy use in commercial settings.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, we have compiled comprehensive ratings for the TRENDnet TPL-402E 500 Mbps Powerline AV Adapter. Our analysis filtered out any spam, incentivized, or duplicate feedback to ensure only authentic, high-quality user experiences informed the results. Both positive aspects and common pain points have been reflected in these scores, offering a balanced view of this network solution’s performance across various user needs and settings.

Setup & Installation
93%
Many users are pleased with the simple, plug-and-play setup of this powerline adapter. The device requires no additional cables or complicated steps, making it ideal for those seeking a quick and hassle-free installation. Several buyers highlight how easily they were able to get it up and running in their home or office without technical expertise.
A few users mentioned that although the setup was simple, they encountered minor issues when pairing with certain older routers or electrical circuits. Some felt the instructions could have been more detailed, especially for those unfamiliar with powerline networking solutions.
Connection Stability
87%
Reviewers frequently commend the solid connection stability this adapter offers, particularly for homes with multiple devices or large coverage areas. Many users found that the connection remained steady even through walls and floors, which makes this product ideal for people struggling with unreliable Wi-Fi signals.
However, some users experienced fluctuations in connection speeds when using the device in areas with heavy electrical interference or older wiring. This was particularly problematic in environments with high-powered appliances, which sometimes caused brief drops in connectivity.
Speed Performance
81%
19%
Many buyers were satisfied with the solid 500 Mbps speed, particularly for tasks like streaming HD video and light gaming. For users in need of consistent and reliable internet in hard-to-reach areas, this powerline adapter performed well in delivering speeds close to advertised rates under typical home conditions.
That said, some reviewers expressed disappointment with the speed performance in environments with heavy electrical interference. In these situations, speeds often fell short of the advertised 500 Mbps, especially when used in older homes with outdated electrical systems.
Energy Efficiency
89%
Several users praised the device’s energy-saving features, noting a significant reduction in power consumption. Many felt reassured knowing that the powerline adapter consumes up to 80% less energy compared to other networking devices, making it a good choice for users who prioritize eco-friendly tech.
A few reviewers mentioned that while the device is energy-efficient, it didn’t significantly impact their energy bills as they expected. Some users who were more energy-conscious were hoping for even more savings on power consumption.
Built-in Outlet Utility
92%
One of the standout features that users frequently mentioned is the built-in outlet, which allows for no loss of an electrical socket. This small, yet significant addition helps reduce clutter and ensures users don’t need to sacrifice power outlets to use the network adapter.
However, a handful of users expressed that the built-in outlet was a bit bulky for their specific setups, making it hard to plug in other devices, particularly in tight spaces or with oversized plugs. While useful, this feature wasn’t perfect for all users.
Security Features
86%
The advanced 128-bit AES encryption offers peace of mind to users who prioritize secure data transfer. Many buyers appreciated the additional layer of security when setting up their home network, especially those concerned about protecting sensitive information over powerline connections.
Some users felt that the encryption was overkill for their needs, as they did not have significant concerns about data security. A few also mentioned that they had trouble configuring encryption settings in certain environments, leading to minor frustration.
Design & Build Quality
80%
20%
The compact design of this powerline adapter makes it unobtrusive, easily fitting into tight spaces without dominating the setup. Users generally find the build quality solid and the device feels durable and well-made, despite its relatively small size.
On the downside, some buyers felt the plastic build could have been more premium, and a few noted that the device felt a bit flimsy in comparison to higher-end models. These users were particularly sensitive to the physical durability of the device, especially if it was intended for high-use environments.
Compatibility with Devices
88%
Users were impressed by how well this powerline adapter integrated with a variety of devices, from laptops and smartphones to gaming consoles. Many mentioned how seamlessly it worked with their existing router, without the need for complex configurations or driver installations.
Some users experienced compatibility issues with certain older devices or routers, particularly those that lacked the necessary Ethernet ports. Additionally, a few noted that it didn’t work well with some smart home devices, which led to frustrating connectivity issues.
Long-Term Reliability
83%
Several long-term users reported that the adapter continued to perform reliably over several months, with no major performance degradation. This reliability is a key factor for those using the device as a long-term solution for their home or office networking needs.
However, there were occasional complaints regarding long-term stability, especially in high-usage environments. A few users mentioned that the adapter’s performance slightly diminished over time, particularly in homes with dense wiring or frequent power surges.
Customer Support & Warranty
75%
25%
Some users noted that customer support was responsive and helpful when they encountered issues with the setup or performance. The warranty coverage also provided peace of mind for buyers concerned about long-term reliability and any potential hardware failures.
Not all users were satisfied with the level of customer service, with a few reporting slow response times or insufficient assistance in resolving issues. Additionally, some felt that the warranty coverage could have been more comprehensive for a product in this price range.
Noise & Interference Tolerance
74%
26%
Users with stable electrical environments found the adapter to work reliably even with multiple devices connected. For those in ideal conditions, the device was effective in minimizing latency and interference when streaming or gaming.
On the other hand, users in electrically noisy environments experienced noticeable degradation in performance. The adapter struggled to maintain speed or reliability in homes with multiple high-powered appliances, leading to frequent dropouts and slower speeds.
Overall Value for Money
92%
For the majority of users, this powerline adapter offers excellent value, delivering a strong balance of performance, reliability, and cost. The feature set, including the built-in outlet and secure encryption, adds significant value at this price point.
Some buyers felt that while the device offers good value, certain features like the built-in outlet and security encryption weren't fully necessary for their simple networking needs, making them feel the price was slightly higher than expected for their specific use case.

Suitable for:

The TRENDnet TPL-402E 500 Mbps Powerline AV Adapter is ideal for users who need a simple, reliable network solution without the hassle of additional cables. It’s well-suited for home users who want to extend their network to hard-to-reach areas where Wi-Fi signals are weak, such as basements or distant rooms. Gamers and streamers will appreciate the stable 500 Mbps speeds for high-quality, uninterrupted experiences. Its plug-and-play installation makes it perfect for those who are not tech-savvy but want to set up a fast and secure connection quickly. The built-in outlet feature will also appeal to those who want to save space and avoid losing an electrical socket in already crowded rooms, making it a practical choice for small apartments or offices.

Not suitable for:

This powerline adapter may not be the best option for users in environments with significant electrical interference, such as homes with older wiring or those using many high-powered devices on the same circuits. In such cases, the speed and reliability can suffer, with some users reporting inconsistent performance. Additionally, those who need faster speeds or more robust networking solutions for larger homes or offices may find this device limiting, as it can’t match the performance of higher-end Wi-Fi mesh systems or dedicated Ethernet setups. It’s also not ideal for users who require advanced configuration options or greater flexibility, as the device’s ease of use comes at the cost of customization and fine-tuning.

Specifications

  • Speed: Supports up to 500 Mbps Ethernet speeds over existing electrical wiring.
  • Connectivity: Uses Ethernet connectivity for reliable, wired network connections.
  • Interface: Operates over powerline wiring to extend network coverage without additional cables.
  • Sync Method: Features a one-touch button for simple and fast network setup.
  • Encryption: Includes 128-bit AES encryption for secure data transfer.
  • Built-in Outlet: Offers a built-in power outlet to avoid losing an electrical socket when plugged in.
  • Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient design with up to 80% reduction in power consumption.
  • Dimensions: Measures 2.17 x 4.8 x 2.36 inches, compact and easy to place in tight spaces.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 6.56 ounces, lightweight and easy to handle.
  • Installation: Plug-and-play setup requires no software or drivers for installation.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with all devices that have Ethernet ports, including computers, game consoles, and smart TVs.
  • Power Save Mode: Supports power save mode to further reduce energy consumption during inactivity.
  • Range: Effective range depends on the quality of electrical wiring, but typically provides coverage across a home.
  • Environment: Performance may be impacted by electrical interference from high-power devices or older wiring.
  • Security: Uses advanced encryption to prevent unauthorized access over the powerline network.
  • Warranty: Backed by a limited warranty for peace of mind.
  • Color: Available in a neutral white color that blends easily with most home decor.
  • Model: Model number: TPL-402E.
  • Usage: Ideal for home users who need stable, fast network connections without relying on Wi-Fi.

FAQ

Setting up the TRENDnet TPL-402E is simple. Just plug one adapter into a power socket near your router and connect it to the router with an Ethernet cable. Plug the second adapter into another socket in the room you want to connect and press the sync button on both adapters for automatic pairing.

No, the TRENDnet TPL-402E is not a Wi-Fi extender. It is a powerline network adapter, which uses your home's existing electrical wiring to create a wired network connection. It's ideal for providing fast and stable Ethernet connections to areas with poor Wi-Fi coverage.

The TRENDnet TPL-402E offers speeds of up to 500 Mbps, which is sufficient for streaming HD videos, gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities. Actual speeds may vary based on your home's electrical wiring quality and distance between adapters.

No software installation is required. The device uses plug-and-play technology, meaning you just need to plug it into your electrical outlets and connect it to your devices using Ethernet cables. The one-touch sync button makes it even easier to set up.

The TRENDnet TPL-402E uses 128-bit AES encryption to secure your data transfer, providing a level of security comparable to many home Wi-Fi networks. This encryption ensures that the information being transmitted over your electrical wiring remains private and protected.

In most cases, yes. The TRENDnet TPL-402E works by using your home’s electrical wiring, so it should work well in most modern homes. However, performance can be affected by the age and quality of your electrical wiring, as well as electrical interference from other devices.

The built-in outlet allows you to plug another device into the adapter, so you don't lose a power socket. This feature is particularly useful in rooms with limited outlets, keeping your workspace organized without sacrificing electrical access.

The main limitation is that the device's performance can be reduced in homes with old or low-quality electrical wiring, or in environments with significant electrical interference. Additionally, it's not a solution for improving Wi-Fi performance, as it’s a wired solution over powerlines.

Yes, you can use additional TRENDnet powerline adapters to extend your network to more rooms. Just connect each new adapter to a power outlet and pair it with the existing ones using the one-touch sync button.

The TRENDnet TPL-402E is designed with energy efficiency in mind, reducing power consumption by up to 80% compared to older models. It uses minimal power while operating, making it a cost-effective option for long-term use.