Best Powerline Extenders in Australia (2025)

Dealing with Wi-Fi dead spots is a common headache in Australian households, especially in multi-story homes, properties with thick brick walls, or larger houses where a single router simply can’t reach every corner. While Wi-Fi extenders and mesh routers often get the spotlight, there’s another underrated technology that can deliver reliable wired internet speeds all across your home: powerline extenders.

Powerline adapters (or powerline extenders) work by sending your internet data through your home’s electrical wiring. This clever trick effectively turns every standard power outlet into a potential network connection. With the right kit, you can plug in an adapter next to your modem or router and place the second adapter anywhere else in the house, instantly extending your internet connection without needing to run long Ethernet cables. This makes powerline extenders especially useful in situations where Wi-Fi signals struggle, such as basements, upstairs home offices, or even detached garages. In 2025, they remain one of the most cost-effective ways for Australians to get a reliable internet connection to every room, without expensive hardware purchases.

Why Choose a Powerline Extender Over Wi-Fi Extenders?

It’s fair to ask: why not just buy a Wi-Fi extender or upgrade to mesh Wi-Fi? The reality is, both of those options have drawbacks compared to powerline devices.

• Wi-Fi Extenders rebroadcast your existing Wi-Fi signal. They’re cheap and convenient but often halve network speeds and can create new mini “networks” (with different SSIDs) that confuse devices.
• Mesh Systems give you seamless coverage across the house but can be costly, with premium systems in Australia selling for $500+ depending on the brand (Eero, Orbi, TP-Link Deco).

With powerline adapters, you get the advantage of a hardwired connection over Ethernet. This means:

• More consistent speeds with less interference from walls, microwaves, or other Wi-Fi traffic.
• A stable connection for devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, PCs, and work laptops.
• Quick setup without running cables through floors or ceilings.

However, it’s important to note that performance depends on the quality of your home’s wiring. In Australian homes built recently, powerline extenders generally work brilliantly. In older homes with electrical quirks, results can vary.

How Powerline Extenders Work

Setting up powerline adaptors is usually a plug-and-play process:

• Connect the first adapter near your modem or NBN router and plug it into a wall outlet.
• Use an Ethernet cable to connect the adapter to your router.
• Place the second adapter in another area of your home where you need wired internet.
• Plug in your device (TV, PlayStation, computer) with another Ethernet cable.

Some models come with more advanced features such as:

• Multiple Ethernet ports (ideal for connecting a desktop setup with a PC and printer).
• Built-in AC outlets so you don’t “lose” the power outlet you’re using for the adapter.
• Network encryption for secure transfers.
• Utility software that allows monitoring and managing your connection.

You can also expand your network by adding more extenders later. For big homes, this makes it simple to build a whole low-latency wired system in just minutes, without drilling or running messy cabling.

The Best Powerline Extenders in Australia (2025)

Based on performance testing (throughput, range, heat efficiency, and value), these are today’s top 5 models available to Australians.

Deep Dive: Best Powerline Extenders

1. Netgear PLP2000 – Best Overall

The Netgear PLP2000 is one of the most powerful extenders on the market. It offers exceptional throughput of around 101 Mbps — fast enough for multiple simultaneous 4K streams, smooth online gaming, or connecting a high-speed NBN 100/40 plan.

With dual Ethernet ports, you can run both a PC and a smart TV at the same time. Plus, its AC passthrough outlet means you don’t need to sacrifice a socket.

The build quality is also excellent, but one downside is that Netgear only provides 90 days of support unless you buy additional cover. At around $150 AUD, it’s more expensive than competitors, but for premium reliability, it’s worth it.

Best For: Australian households with multiple heavy-use devices wanting top-notch stability.

2. D-Link DHP-601AV – Best Budget Choice

If you want a no-fuss, affordable option, the D-Link DHP-601AV ticks all the boxes. It’s tiny, easy to hide, and works well in older homes that may not have grounded (3-prong) outlets.

It only includes one Ethernet port, so it’s best for single-device setups. Its max range of 525 feet is shorter than others on this list, but plenty for most Aussie apartments or small houses. At around $70 AUD, it’s the cheapest powerline extender you’ll find widely available.

Best For: Budget-conscious buyers or those in smaller homes with basic networking needs.

3. Trendnet TPL-423E2K – Best Value

The Trendnet TPL-423E2K balances affordability and reliability better than most. Offering 581 feet of range and consistent mid-range throughput speeds, it’s excellent for everyday tasks like video streaming, Zoom calls, and browsing.

It also provides a 3-year warranty, which beats most rivals, and has an AC passthrough outlet for convenience.

At around $100 AUD, it’s a middle-of-the-road price, but given the warranty and reliability, we consider it one of the best “value for money” picks.

Best For: Families who want a balance of price, features, and peace of mind.

4. TP-Link TL-PA9020P – Best for Large Homes

One of the biggest complaints from Australians in large homes is Wi-Fi dropouts upstairs or in rooms far from the modem. That’s where the TP-Link TL-PA9020P shines: with a massive tested range of 1,075 feet, it’s built to serve sprawling properties.

With two Ethernet ports, it’s great for setups where you need to connect both a gaming console and a TV. The included software lets you monitor usage and apply QoS (Quality of Service) settings — handy for prioritising streaming or gaming packets.

It does consume more energy than others and retails at around $130 AUD, but its extreme range makes it worth it.

Best For: Australian family homes with long layouts or granny flats requiring stable wired coverage.

5. Zyxel PLA5456 – Best for Simplicity

The Zyxel PLA5456 may not have the fastest speeds, but it’s still a strong household extender. Its dual Gigabit Ethernet ports let you connect two devices, while the AC outlet passthrough ensures convenience.

Its performance is modest — around 54 Mbps throughput and 750-foot range — but if you just want a set-and-forget adapter for things like online learning, streaming, and browsing, it does the job well.

Best For: Users who want a simple plug-and-play extender without extra complexity.

Testing Notes: What We Analyse

• Throughput: Testing at 100-foot distances and further with extension cabling.
• Real-world use: Running 4K streaming, online gaming, and video calls concurrently.
• Power consumption: Annual cost estimates, given rising electricity prices in Australia.
• Durability and heat management: Devices left active for extended periods.
• Ease of setup: For less tech-savvy homeowners, simplicity matters.

Powerline vs Wi-Fi Extenders vs Mesh

Buy Now Recommendations for Australians

• For Gamers & Heavy Users: Netgear PLP2000 – Fastest speeds, reliable for high-demand use.
• For Big Homes: TP-Link TL-PA9020P – Longest range, excellent for large properties.
• For Small Homes/Units: D-Link DHP-601AV – Cheap, compact, ideal for single-room extensions.
• For Best Value: Trendnet TPL-423E2K – Warranty-backed pick with balance of features.
• For Simplicity: Zyxel PLA5456 – Low-maintenance option, good entry-point kit.

Are Powerline Extenders Worth It?

Yes, for Australian homes dealing with Wi-Fi dead zones, powerline extenders are one of the best budget-friendly fixes. They’re not as flashy as mesh routers, but they’re cheaper, easier to set up and more stable for wired connections.

If you’re streaming, working from home, or gaming online, investing in the right powerline extender means you can finally get a stable connection in every room, without juggling dropouts or buffering screens.

By Savannah Walker

Energy & Telecom SEO Specialist

Savannah Walker is Selectra’s SEO Project Manager and Editor, leading the team that focuses on energy, telecommunications and consumer technology, across news, reviews and how-tos.