Our editorial team evaluates the products with two questions in mind: Is this a good choice for readers, and if so, who should buy it? We’ll tell you if the alternative is better or worse, and in what ways. We also find out what the owners of these products are saying, for example by analyzing user reviews, to inform your next purchase.
Our reviewers have a great time using each product to determine how well it works in their target market. We’ll go jogging with a fitness tracker, playing the latest titles with a gaming keyboard or browsing the web with several tabs open on our Chromebook.
Depending on the product category, we also conduct a range of benchmarking and real-world tests, many of which we have developed in-house. For example, our smartphone and laptop battery test Browse the web (via wireless or Wi-Fi, respectively), just as if you were using these devices at home or on the go.
What do our ratings mean?
In Tom’s Guide, all products are rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with the higher being better. The classifications are as follows; Anything rated less than 3: is not recommended.
5 stars = Practically perfect
4 stars = worth it
3 stars = worth looking at
2.5 stars = meh
2 stars = Not worth the money
1 star = laughably bad
Special prizes
In addition to the overall rating, Tom’s Guide may also give a product a specific award. Here’s what they mean:
Editor’s Choice: One of the best products we tested in a particular category. It stands out from the competition for its features or performance, regardless of price.
The best value: This award is given to a product that has the best combination of price and features. While it may not boast all the bells and whistles, it still offers a solid selection at a very competitive price.
Budget selection: The best choice for those who are familiar with their spending. It may have a few more compromises than the higher-priced models, but it offers the basics at the best possible price.
Practical reviews
In some cases, Tom’s Guide may receive a product early, or it may not be able to perform our full set of benchmark tests. In these cases, we may choose to publish a “hands-on review,” an initial, unrated look at the device, based on a brief period of time with the product.
Once we have had more time with the product, and given the opportunity to run our own tests, our hands-on review will be converted into a fully rated review.
How do we test?
Tom’s Guide tests a range of products, from televisions to electric scooters to smartphones to appliances. Depending on the category, the product will undergo a range of different tests. These standards may include in the lab, but they are all tested in real-world scenarios.
When reviewing a product, we look at what the manufacturer claims and, to the best of our ability, test the accuracy of those claims. We also rate the product based on its design, ease of use, and competition-related features. We also take into account the price of the product to see how much value it provides.
For more details on how we test specific products, please refer to the guides below.
For more information on Tom’s Guide, what we do and who we are, please check out our website about us page.
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