At our core, we believe great product reviews start with real-world experience — not just spec sheets or test labs. Here’s how we evaluate the tools, tech, and gadgets we review.
Real-Life Testing Comes First
Before any scores are given, we spend meaningful time with each product. Whether it’s a smart speaker, laptop, app, or vacuum, we use it like a regular user would — at home, at work, in everyday scenarios. Our goal is to understand how the product performs where it matters most: in the real world.
Performance Benchmarks & Battery Life
We combine personal experience with reliable performance tests when relevant — especially for devices like laptops, phones, and tablets. Battery life, in particular, is tested in practical ways. For example, on laptops, we set the screen brightness to 200 nits and track how long it lasts while doing normal tasks like browsing, streaming, and document editing.
We believe this approach gives a more realistic picture than artificial lab stress tests. Of course, every user is different, so we always explain how we used the product during testing.
Scoring System
Every product we review (unless noted) receives a score on a 1–10 scale. These scores are based on several factors — performance, design, features, usability, value, and overall experience. However, our scores aren’t simple averages. Editors have the final say and may adjust the score to reflect the bigger picture, including things like price, long-term updates, and unique standout features.
Scores may change over time if a product gets major updates or improvements — though this is rare and always clearly explained when it happens.
What the Numbers Mean
- 1 – 2: Avoid. Seriously flawed or broken.
- 3: Poor. Hard to recommend.
- 4: Below average. Too many issues.
- 5: Average. Works, but has significant downsides.
- 6: Decent. Some flaws, but still usable.
- 7: Good. Well-rounded with a few rough edges.
- 8: Very Good. Reliable, with only minor flaws.
- 9: Excellent. Great performance across the board.
- 10: Outstanding. Best in class.
