How We Grade

How We Grade: The RigGrade Score

We do not claim hands-on testing unless explicitly stated. RigGrade Scores are built by aggregating and cross-checking trusted third-party sources — not by RigGrade purchasing and physically testing every product.

Every product we cover is scored against the same six criteria, so comparisons stay consistent across categories:

  • Performance — based on verified manufacturer specifications and recognized independent test results
  • Reliability — based on recurring patterns in verified user feedback and available long-term data
  • Compatibility — how well the product works across the platforms buyers actually use (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, mobile), per manufacturer documentation
  • Comfort — based on recognized independent reviews and consistent user-reported experience
  • Value — price compared against similar products in the same category
  • Ease of Use — based on documented setup requirements and reported real-world experience

Each criterion is scored and combined into an overall RigGrade Score shown at the top of every comparison. Where we cannot verify a claim independently, we say so explicitly rather than presenting it as fact — see our Editorial Policy.