Review methodology

This page explains what we look at when we review a product and what our scores mean. We only give a score to a product we have actually used or tested. If we have not tested something, we say so and do not give it a score. What we assess Area What we look at Core features Does it do what it says it does, and how well? Ease of use How quickly a new user can get real work done. Pricing and value Plans, limits, what is locked behind higher tiers, and how the price compares with similar products. Support and documentation Help articles, onboarding and how to reach a human. Data handling and privacy What the product says about your data, especially for AI tools. Refunds and cancellation Trial terms, auto-renewal, and how easy it is to cancel or get a refund. How testing works We sign up, use the product for realistic tasks, and read the vendor's pricing, terms and documentation. Where a review is based on testing, we describe what we tested. Where it is based on research only, for example for a product we could not try, we say that clearly. What the score means Scores are out of 10 and reflect our editorial judgment for the kind of buyer the review is written for. 9 to 10: excellent, with few real drawbacks. 7 to 8.9: good, with some trade-offs worth knowing. 5 to 6.9: acceptable for some people, with clear weaknesses. Below 5: we would not recommend it for most buyers. A score is a summary, not a guarantee. The written review explains the reasoning, and your needs may differ from ours. Prices and updates Prices change often. We show when a price was last verified and update reviews when something important changes. Always confirm the current price on the vendor's site before you buy. Independence Affiliate commissions do not change a score. Read more in the editorial policy and the affiliate disclosure.