How we review AI tools

Every rating comes from hands-on testing against a consistent rubric — not vendor marketing. Here is exactly how we evaluate, score and rank each tool.

Our process

1. Hands-on testing. We sign up (using the free tier or a trial) and run each tool through real tasks in its category — writing a draft, generating an image, shipping code, and so on.
2. Consistent criteria. We score output quality, ease of use, speed, value for money, and the depth of features and integrations.
3. Pricing reality-check. We compare each plan against competitors and note where the free tier is genuinely useful versus where you will quickly need to pay.
4. Pros & cons. We list the honest highs and lows, including dealbreakers — even for tools that pay us a commission.
5. Re-testing. AI tools change fast, so we revisit reviews and refresh the “Last updated” date when something material changes.

What our star ratings mean

• 4.5–5.0 — Best in class. We would recommend it to most people.
• 4.0–4.4 — Excellent, with minor trade-offs.
• 3.0–3.9 — Good for specific needs, but compromises apply.
• < 3.0 — Only worth it in narrow cases.

Editorial independence

We earn money through affiliate links and ads (see our disclosure), but commissions never buy a higher score. Ratings reflect our genuine, hands-on assessment, and we are happy to flag weaknesses in products that pay us. If a tool is not worth your money, we say so.

Spotted something wrong?

Pricing and features move quickly. If a review looks out of date or you disagree with a rating, let us know — accuracy is the whole point.