Our rating scale is based on 5 categories - Performance, Appearance, Value, Installation and Overall.

Performance – various benchmarks using industry standard programs will determine the performance factor as well as real world testing.

Appearance – this is a bit subjective, but we will do our best to nag about the features and design of the product. We will judge based on industrial design, effectiveness, comfort, convenience and of course, the coolness factor.

Value – this is pretty much self explanatory. This will be judged on the best bang for your buck.

Installation – we will rate on the ease of use to get the product started and any periodic maintenance we have to perform.

Overall – we average all the categories above and rate it with our burntmarks.

1 burntmark indicates it is the worse product ever to set foot in our labs. Even if it was free, demand your money back. In some cases it may even cause harm to the equipment around you.

2 burntmarks indicate it is a product that is in desperate need of some more research & development. Quality control and performance were not the main focus when this product was designed. Avoid at all costs, until revisions are made.

3 burntmarks indicate it is an average product. There are more better options out there for the same price. Buyer beware.

4 burntmarks indicate it is a safe buy. This product is better than average and offers solid performance. The only determining factor for products that receive 4 burntmarks is price.

5 burntmarks indicate that the product is superior to all its competitors and is a must have even if you don’t need it.

Here is our Burny award. This is an editors choice award. To receive this award, the product must receive 4 or more burntmarks and definately used on a daily basis by our editors. We will have no problems recommending this product to anyone.