. Our grading system at Digitalversus
What are grades based upon? They directly depend upon results obtained in tests. The first thing we want to underline is that : grading is totally independent from the product’s price! So, two products with 4 stars are equivalent, even if one is at a 1000 euros and the other at 200. This is true at least if they are in the same survey, but may not always be the case for products featured in different articles. For example, we don’t consider a 3 star reflex the same as a similarly graded compact. Also, we don’t recommend comparing two 5 star products from two successive articles, because technology is evolving and our criteria becomes more and more stringent with each article. As a general rule, a new « 5 star » is better than an older one.
Why the choice not to integrate the price into grading?
Because prices are too volatile. Whether it’s cameras, TVs, screens or MP3 players, the price varies too much. We sometimes see reductions of 50 % with certain brands, while the competition will only decrease by 10 % in the same period. For us, it is therefore impossible and illogical to even partially base our grades on such a criterion. And then, which price should we take into account? The manufacturers' suggested price? That which is offered by major retailers? On-line discount stores?
In this way, grades are purely qualitative. We recommend first the 5 star, then the 4, the three, etc.
5, 4, 3, 2, 1 stars : What do they mean?
5 stars: Recommended by Digital Versus! The product is a reference in its category and it takes priority over the others. This does not, however, mean perfection and it may be surprising to see the list of negative points as long as that of the positives. But according to us, to merit the 5 stars, these are products that will bring the most satisfaction and especially the least deception.
4 stars : Very good. It’s not THE BEST, but the product in question does merit your attention. In some areas it can be better than a 5 star product. Nevertheless, overall and sometimes due to a lack of functions or various flaws, it seems less recommendable than a “5 star" and less suited for most users.
3 stars : Good, but rather average. There is better elsewhere. The manufacturer offers an honest product, which does do what it is supposed to, but little else. At any rate, in our opinion there are others that offer better.
2 stars : spells trouble and is not recommended. There was at least one serious problem found in tests, which will certainly affect users of this product. Maybe consult the tests to understand where the bad surprise(s) can come from, but in general refrain from purchase.
1 star : big problem, huge deception. Run! This is rare but it does happen. With us the 1 star equals an « F », this product should almost be disqualified, and sometimes it actually should be. Here, there is not just one identifiable problem but many.
