How We Test & Review AI Tools
Our methodology ensures every comparison and review is based on real testing, not just marketing claims. Here's exactly how we evaluate tools.
Our Testing Process
What We Evaluate
- Features: Core functionality, unique capabilities, limitations
- Pricing: All tiers, what's included, hidden costs
- User Experience: Onboarding, learning curve, daily workflow
- Output Quality: For AI tools, we run standardized prompts and evaluate results
- Integration: How well it works with other tools
- Support: Documentation quality, response times, community
Testing Timeframes
- Tier 1 tools (top 15): Minimum 7-day hands-on testing
- Tier 2 tools: 3-day evaluation with core use cases
- Tier 3 tools: Feature review + pricing verification
Data Sources We Use
- Official documentation and pricing pages
- G2 and Capterra reviews (aggregated sentiment)
- Product Hunt and community discussions
- Direct vendor outreach when clarification is needed
Our Rating Criteria
We score tools across six dimensions, weighted by importance for the specific category:
How We Make Comparisons
Side-by-Side Testing
For head-to-head comparisons, we test both tools with identical use cases. This includes running the same prompts, performing the same tasks, and evaluating outputs using consistent criteria.
When We Declare a Winner
We only name a winner when there's a meaningful difference for the target audience. Our verdicts are specific: "X wins for developers who need Y" rather than "X is better overall."
When We Call It a Tie
Sometimes tools genuinely serve different needs equally well. When scores are within 5% and serve different use cases, we explain the tradeoffs rather than forcing a winner.
Our Independence
infoAffiliate Disclosure
We participate in affiliate programs and may earn a commission when you purchase through our links. This is how we keep the site running without paywalls or subscription fees.
How Affiliates Don't Affect Rankings
- Tools without affiliate programs can still win comparisons
- We disclose all affiliate relationships clearly
- Editorial decisions are made before checking affiliate availability
- Negative reviews are never softened for affiliate partners
Keeping Content Fresh
Pricing Verification
We re-verify pricing monthly for Tier 1 tools and quarterly for others. Each page shows when pricing was last confirmed.
Feature Updates
We monitor changelogs and product announcements for major tools. When significant features launch, we update comparisons within 2 weeks.
Report Outdated Info
Found something wrong? Every page has a "Report an issue" link. We investigate reports within 48 hours and update content as needed.
What We Can't Test
In the interest of transparency, here's what we acknowledge:
- Enterprise features: We can't fully test features requiring enterprise accounts
- Long-term reliability: Our testing periods may not catch intermittent issues
- Every use case: Your specific workflow might differ from our tests
- Rapid changes: AI tools evolve fast; check dates on all content