What “ZDNET Recommends” means
When ZDNET flags a product or service with “ZDNET Recommends,” it reflects a judgment based on hands-on testing, research, and side-by-side comparisons. Reviewers gather information from multiple reputable sources — vendor and retailer listings, independent reviews, and the experiences shared by customers — to assess real-world value and reliability.
How recommendations are funded and how that affects coverage
ZDNET may earn affiliate commissions when readers click through from an article and purchase a product or service. Those commissions help fund reporting and testing, but ZDNET says affiliate relationships do not influence what products are covered or the editorial conclusions reached. The newsroom follows editorial guidelines designed to keep reviews independent of advertisers; neither ZDNET nor the article authors are paid to produce favorable independent reviews.
Accuracy, corrections and reader input
Articles are fact-checked and edited to meet editorial standards. If an error or misleading statement appears, ZDNET commits to correcting or clarifying the piece. Readers are encouraged to report inaccuracies through the site’s correction process.
Tips for readers using the recommendations
– Look for the “ZDNET Recommends” label as a quick signal that a product has been evaluated.
– Read the full review to understand trade-offs, test conditions, and reviewer priorities.
– Check the dates on reviews — tech and prices change quickly, so older recommendations may need re-evaluation.
– Compare rival reviews and specs to ensure the recommendation matches your specific needs (budget, features, platform compatibility).
– Keep in mind affiliate links support the site but do not change the stated price you pay.
Additional comments and logical context
Independent, consistently applied testing and transparent disclosure of affiliate relationships are common practices among reputable tech review outlets. The value of a recommendation depends both on rigorous testing and clear disclosure of how coverage is supported. For readers, transparency about funding and correction procedures increases trustworthiness; for publishers, earned commissions enable more review work but require strict editorial boundaries to preserve credibility.
Short summary
“ZDNET Recommends” signifies products or services selected after testing and research, backed by editorial independence and disclosures about affiliate commissions. The label is intended to help readers make smarter buying decisions while being transparent about how coverage is supported.
Positive note
Clear testing practices, independent editorial oversight, and open disclosures help readers navigate a crowded marketplace and make more informed purchases — a practical benefit for anyone shopping for tech.