Powerline adapter or mesh WiFi is the best choice for your home?

Both of these options can be installed in less than an hour and are used to provide high-speed Internet almost anywhere in the house.

So how exactly do they work, and more importantly, which option is right for you?

What is the difference between powerline adapter and mesh WiFi?

Powerline adapter is mainly used to extend wired Internet connection, while WiFi mesh is used to extend wireless connection.

Powerline adapters use existing electrical wiring in your home to extend the connection, while mesh WiFi involves the addition of a much stronger WiFi signal, often with multiple access points (APs).

What is a powerline adapter?

A powerline adapter kit includes two adapters. An adapter is plugged in and connected to the router. The other is plugged in and connected to the computer. Then the two adapters communicate using the in-house electrical circuits.

They are designed to take advantage of the fact that copper wire can transmit not only electricity but also data. Depending on how your home is wired, they can extend the Internet connection to any area of ​​the house with an electrical outlet.

If you don't want to use a cord, another option is a wireless powerline adapter. The wireless versions also use existing circuitry in the home, but when you plug them in, the receiver creates an additional WiFi hotspot. Wireless powerline adapters are popular because they offer the convenience of mesh WiFi at a lower price point.

What is Mesh WiFi?

A mesh WiFi system consists of different devices placed around the house to create a faster and more reliable WiFi network.

They consist of a main device connected to the router with an Ethernet cable and various additional devices that can be placed anywhere. The main unit communicates with all additional devices, delivering a strong signal wherever they are located.

Mesh WiFi systems are similar to WiFi extenders, but they are designed to replace the router's network, not extend it. Mesh WiFi also doesn't require you to use different network names for different areas of your home, which is a problem many WiFi extenders have.

Powerline adapter or mesh WiFi better?

Powerline adapters and mesh WiFi are both designed to achieve the same goal. And if you are not satisfied with your existing Internet setup, either of these two options will provide a useful solution.

However, there are some important differences that you should be aware of.

When is a powerline adapter better?

Powerline adapter or mesh WiFi is the best choice for your home? Picture 1

Depending on the quality of the wiring in your home, a powerline adapter can provide a faster and more reliable connection.

There's no denying all the benefits of WiFi technology, but a direct connection via an Ethernet cable will always deliver outstanding performance. Mesh WiFi is clearly not capable of providing this functionality.

It's important to note that the difference between both options is so small that many people won't notice it. WiFi is popular because it's fast enough for casual browsing and streaming. The difference only becomes apparent if you are doing additional tasks that place more emphasis on speed.

For example, if you download large files, the extra speed can save you time. Or, if you like to play video games, an Ethernet cable will provide better latency.

Powerline adapters are also significantly cheaper than mesh WiFi. Also, because they use the wiring already in the house, the actual adapters have less work to do and therefore cost significantly less.

As a result, wireless powerline adapters are a popular choice for those who want the convenience of mesh WiFi without paying too much.

Powerline adapters are usually very easy to install. Many wired versions don't require you to do anything other than plug them in. However, mesh WiFi systems often require much higher configuration.

When is mesh WiFi better?

Powerline adapter or mesh WiFi is the best choice for your home? Picture 2

Mesh WiFi systems are always a convenient option, especially if you have a large area that needs coverage. They can be used to bring an Internet connection into any room without the need for electrical outlets or even wires. This makes it a popular choice for those who don't want or need the speed benefits of Ethernet.

Mesh WiFi can also be installed in any home. This is in contrast to powerline adapters, which are only really effective in homes with good wiring.

If you live in an older building, you may find that the powerline adapter won't work properly. If different rooms run on different circuits, you may find that the powerline adapter won't work in all areas of the house.

Worse, most people won't know if the wiring in their home is right until they buy a powerline adapter and try it out.

Most mesh WiFi systems come with a smartphone app. This increases the technical knowledge required to use them and adds additional functionality not found in the powerline adapter.

For example, many mesh WiFi apps allow you to make your overall network more secure, being able to manage groups and access points, set timers, parental controls, etc.

Can you use powerline adapter and mesh WiFi together?

If you are not sure which is right for you, it should be noted that the two technologies can be combined.

This is useful if you have a large home, some areas do not support powerline technology, or you have different requirements for specific areas.

To achieve this, you can either purchase a powerline adapter that includes the built-in WiFi mesh feature, or opt for two separate kits and connect them.

However, keep in mind that not all products are compatible and/or work well together.

Kareem Winters

Update 16 August 2021