**ZDNET’s Approach to Product Recommendations and Deal Ratings**
When reading a technology review or deal recommendation on ZDNET, you might notice a “ZDNET Recommends” badge or see a perfect score assigned to a particularly good offer. But what exactly does that mean, and how does ZDNET arrive at these conclusions? Here’s a closer look at how ZDNET evaluates products, determines the value of deals, and maintains editorial integrity—all to help readers make informed purchasing decisions.
**How ZDNET Reviews and Recommends Products**
ZDNET’s recommendations are not made lightly. The editorial team invests significant time into testing, researching, and comparing products. This process includes gathering information from vendor and retailer listings, consulting independent review sites, and, crucially, analyzing customer reviews. By listening to the experiences of real users, ZDNET aims to understand what matters most to consumers who actually use these products day-to-day.
The review process is thorough and transparent. Every article is carefully fact-checked and reviewed by editors to ensure accuracy and reliability. If errors or outdated information are discovered, ZDNET pledges to correct or clarify the article promptly. They even encourage readers to report inaccuracies using an online form, demonstrating a commitment to accountability and ongoing improvement.
**Editorial Independence and Affiliate Links**
You may notice that ZDNET sometimes earns affiliate commissions if you click through their links and make a purchase. This is a common practice among review and news sites, helping to fund the work that goes into testing products and writing reviews. Importantly, ZDNET emphasizes that this does not influence what they cover or how they cover it. The editorial team and individual authors are not compensated for their reviews, and strict guidelines are in place to prevent advertiser influence over content. This ensures that the recommendations are genuinely made in the readers’ best interests.
**Expertise and Experience**
ZDNET has a long history in technology journalism, boasting over three decades of experience, a team of 30 hands-on reviewers, and 10,000 square feet of dedicated lab space for testing products. This level of commitment enables ZDNET to deliver detailed, practical advice on a wide range of tech gear, from laptops and smartphones to monitors and smart home devices.
In 2025, ZDNET refined its approach to deals, introducing a measurable, percentage-off-based rating system. This system helps readers quickly gauge the value of a deal, with editorial “deal rating” badges attached to most deal content. These badges reflect not just the size of the discount, but also factors such as brand reputation, product quality, and the frequency with which such deals appear. The idea is to provide clear, expert guidance to help readers make the smartest purchase decisions.
**A Case in Point: The LG UltraGear Gaming Monitor Deal**
To illustrate ZDNET’s review and deal assessment process, consider a recent early Black Friday deal on the 27-inch LG UltraGear Full HD Overclock Gaming Monitor at Walmart.