**ZDNET Recommends: How Our Expert Reviews and Deal Ratings Work, and a Look at the Asus CX14 Chromebook Plus Black Friday Deal**
When it comes to making informed decisions about technology purchases, ZDNET aims to be a trusted resource for readers. The “ZDNET Recommends” badge is more than just a label — it represents a rigorous process of product evaluation, deal review, and expert advice. Here’s what it means, how the process works, and an example of a recent standout deal on the Asus CX14 Chromebook Plus.
**What Does ‘ZDNET Recommends’ Mean?**
ZDNET’s recommendations are the product of extensive hands-on testing, research, and careful comparison shopping. The editorial team aggregates information from a variety of authoritative sources, including official vendor and retailer listings, independent technology review websites, and direct feedback from real-world customers. By analyzing user experiences and industry data, ZDNET aims to uncover not just the technical specifications of products, but also the aspects that matter most to everyday users—reliability, value for money, ease of use, and more.
Importantly, while ZDNET may earn an affiliate commission if readers purchase products through links on their site, this has no influence on their editorial decisions. The team is not compensated by vendors or manufacturers for positive reviews, and strict guidelines are in place to ensure that all coverage remains unbiased and independent. The review process is transparent and reader-focused, with editors fact-checking every article to meet high standards of accuracy. If a mistake is found, ZDNET commits to correcting or clarifying the information promptly.
**How ZDNET Reviews and Rates Deals**
With over three decades of experience and a team of 30 dedicated product reviewers working in a vast 10,000-square-foot lab space, ZDNET has refined its approach to evaluating deals. In 2025, the site introduced a measurable, percentage-off-based system for classifying promotional savings. This system is further enhanced by a sliding scale that takes into account the frequency of deals, product or brand reputation, and the expertise of the reviewers.
When a deal is featured on ZDNET, it is not just because it is available, but because it stands out in terms of value, features, and relevance to readers. Editor’s deal rating badges are attached to most deal articles, making it easy for readers to see at a glance how the team rates a particular sale or product. ZDNET’s commitment is to continually monitor and update deals, ensuring that recommendations are always current and the best available.
**Spotlight Deal: Asus CX14 Chromebook Plus for Black Friday**
For those shopping for an affordable laptop—perhaps for everyday use, school, or work—the Asus CX14 Chromebook Plus is a compelling option, especially with its current Black Friday discount. Recently released in May 2025, the CX14 is now available for just $249, a significant drop from its usual $429 price tag. This