How We Review Products

Our mission at FactBench is to provide readers with fact-based, comprehensive, and completely unbiased product reviews. Our methodology is built on rigorous testing, transparent evaluation, and unwavering editorial independence. These guidelines govern every product we review and ensure that our recommendations are grounded in evidence, not influenced by marketing hype or manufacturer relationships.

Our Review Process

Our process is designed to be systematic, thorough, and impartial, allowing us to provide reviews that our readers can trust and act upon with confidence. Here's exactly how we evaluate every product that crosses our review bench.

Strategic Product Selection

Product selection at FactBench begins with comprehensive market research and reader interest analysis. We focus on products that matter most to consumers—whether they're gaining significant market attention, solving common problems, or representing innovative solutions in their categories. Our goal is to review the products you're actually considering purchasing, not just what's trending in tech blogs.

Comprehensive Hands-On Testing

We believe that meaningful reviews require meaningful time with products. Our hands-on evaluation process involves:

• Extended Usage Periods: We use products for weeks or months, not just days
• Real-World Scenarios: Testing happens in actual use conditions, not controlled lab environments
• Multiple Team Members: Different reviewers test the same product to eliminate individual bias
• Stress Testing: We push products beyond normal use to evaluate durability and reliability

When physical testing isn't possible, we clearly disclose this limitation and rely on verified user data and expert analysis.

In-Depth Customer Experience Analysis

Real user experiences form a critical component of our evaluation process. We systematically analyze customer feedback across multiple platforms, focusing on:

• Long-term Performance: How products hold up after months of ownership
• Common Issues: Recurring problems that emerge after the initial honeymoon period
• User Satisfaction Patterns: What makes people love or regret their purchases
• Support Experiences: How brands handle warranty claims and customer service

This analysis helps us identify potential issues that might not surface during short-term testing and provides insight into the complete ownership experience.

Expert Consultation & Industry Insights

Our review process includes consultation with industry professionals, engineers, and subject-matter experts who understand the technical aspects and market context of products we evaluate. These consultations help us:

• Understand technical specifications and their real-world implications
• Evaluate products within their proper market context
• Identify features that matter versus marketing fluff
• Assess build quality and manufacturing standards

Brand Reputation & Track Record Assessment

We research each manufacturer's history, including:

• Track Record: Previous product performance and reliability
• Customer Service Standards: How brands support their customers
• Safety Recalls: Any history of safety issues or quality problems
• Manufacturing Standards: Production quality and consistency
• Corporate Responsibility: Environmental and labor practices

This background research informs our confidence level in recommending products and helps predict long-term satisfaction.

Safety & Quality Standards Verification

Every product we recommend must meet stringent safety and quality criteria:

• Certification Compliance: Products must meet relevant safety standards
• Material Quality: We evaluate build materials for durability and safety
• Manufacturing Standards: Products must come from reputable manufacturing facilities
• Regulatory Compliance: All recommendations comply with relevant consumer protection regulations

Value Analysis & Accessibility

Our pricing evaluation goes beyond sticker price to examine:

• True Value Proposition: Performance and features relative to cost
• Total Cost of Ownership: Including maintenance, accessories, and replacement costs
• Budget Options: We always consider affordable alternatives
• Availability: Products must be widely accessible to consumers
• Warranty & Support: Post-purchase support value

What We Don't Do

At FactBench, our commitment to integrity means being as transparent about what we avoid as what we do. Here are our firm boundaries:

No Paid or Influenced Reviews

• Our editorial content is never influenced by manufacturers or paid partnerships
• We don't accept payment for positive reviews or favorable coverage
• When we receive products for testing, this is clearly disclosed with no strings attached
• Our revenue comes from affiliate commissions only when readers choose to purchase recommended products

No Compromising on Facts

• We base all evaluations on verifiable data, testing results, and documented evidence
• We don't recommend products that lack proper safety certifications
• Marketing claims are verified through independent testing or credible third-party sources
• We clearly distinguish between manufacturer claims and our verified findings

No Unethical Recommendations

We maintain strong ethical standards in our recommendations:

• We don't recommend products with known environmental harm
• Products from companies with documented labor exploitation are excluded
• We consider the broader impact of our recommendations on consumers and society
• Animal testing practices are factored into our evaluation of beauty and personal care products

No Hidden Agendas

• Our methodology and testing criteria are fully transparent
• We disclose any potential conflicts of interest
• Reader questions and concerns are addressed honestly and completely
• We update reviews when new information becomes available

Our Commitment to You

By following these comprehensive guidelines, FactBench ensures that every review serves your best interests. We maintain the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and thoroughness because your trust is the foundation of everything we do.

Our fact-based approach means you can shop with confidence, knowing that our recommendations are grounded in evidence, extensive testing, and genuine concern for your satisfaction.

Questions about our review process or need clarification on a specific evaluation? We're always happy to explain our methodology in greater detail. Contact us at hello@choiceio.com.

Last Updated: August 2025