Review Policy
The three kinds of reviews
1. Tested reviews. The product was physically in our possession. The review states how long it was used, in what conditions, and with what sources. Any listening description comes from that time — not from imagination, not from other reviews.
2. Research-based overviews. No hands-on testing. These are compiled from the manufacturer’s official specifications, manuals, and attributed published evidence (other reputable reviews, measurements, owner reports). They are clearly labeled as research-based, and they contain zero invented listening impressions, measurements, or experiences.
3. Updated reviews. A previously published article revised with new facts — firmware changes, price movements, new competitors, corrected specs. Updates are dated so you can see what changed and when.
What we never do
- Never claim first-hand testing that didn’t happen.
- Never invent measurements, frequency-response graphs, battery tests, quotes,
- Never publish a numerical score without a genuine, documented rating
- Never write “Editor’s Choice” or similar awards without a real editorial
or ownership.
methodology behind it. (We don’t currently score products numerically, and we won’t until a methodology exists that we’d defend publicly.)
basis.
How tested reviews work
When we test, we live with the product: daily use across music, calls, travel, and work, plus the specific scenarios the product claims to serve. We note comfort over long sessions, real battery behavior, app reliability, and how it compares to direct competitors we’ve also used. Limitations of the testing — short loan periods, missing accessories — are disclosed.
Review samples
Manufacturers and PR agencies may provide review samples. This is standard practice and it doesn’t buy anything: not coverage, not a conclusion, not a score. Whether a unit was loaned, provided, or purchased is stated in the review. Loaned units are returned unless the manufacturer declines.
Comparisons
Head-to-head comparisons evaluate both products on the same dimensions: sound, comfort, ANC, battery, microphones, connectivity, codecs, app, controls, and price. We don’t handicap one side to flatter the other.
Buying guides
Products earn their place in a guide by fitting the guide’s stated purpose at its current price — not by commission rate, not by brand relationship. Every pick gets strengths, weaknesses, and a clear statement of who it’s for. Guides are re-checked regularly; picks that no longer deserve their spot are removed.
Your part
Found an error in a review? A spec that changed? Tell us via the Contact page. Corrections are handled under our Corrections Policy — openly, and with dates.