The evaluation of a manufacturer/dealer includes the legal form, which provides information on liability and capital structure, as well as the location, which has an influence on communication, in particular whether communication can be carried out in German and without time difference. It is also checked how easily important information such as imprint or customer reviews is accessible and whether a professional website is available. The production location is analysed in terms of standards and delivery times, while accessibility via various communication channels is assessed in terms of response time and accessibility.

The evaluation also includes shipping, which checks which regions the retailer delivers to, whether shipping is free of charge and is subject to conditions. It is also analysed whether the goods are shipped from a location in Germany/EU or from a non-EU country. Shipping packaging is assessed in terms of space optimization, protection and materials. When processing returns, it is crucial whether the return address is in Germany or the EU, as this influences logistical costs and the carbon footprint.

To evaluate the original packaging (OVP), it is first checked whether the product is delivered in the usual commercial packaging that the customer would expect. A distinction is made between whether the OVP only serves as protection, as with electrical appliances, or is directly suitable for use, as with cleaning products. It is also examined whether the packaging offers sufficient protection against damage and environmental influences, including a drop test from a height of 1 meter. The materials and any odors in OVP are also assessed in terms of sustainability and environmental friendliness. The size of the package should be appropriate to avoid unnecessary empty spaces. Finally, it is checked whether the OVP is equipped with a sealing mechanism that prevents unnoticed opening and possible manipulation.

The evaluation of the scope of delivery checks whether all content promised according to the description is actually included. At the point of start-up, it is examined whether the product is immediately ready for use or whether the consumer must first make his own preparations. Bonus elements such as attached tools, assembly materials, batteries or discount vouchers that improve the user experience are also recorded. In addition, it is checked whether user manuals are available if the product is not intuitive to use and whether they are available in multiple languages or in digital form (e.g. via QR code).

The evaluation of the look, feel and workmanship ensures that the product is as described by the manufacturer, feels high-quality and is made from the advertised materials. In addition, the workmanship is checked for obvious defects such as scratches or dents. The next step is to examine whether the product has unpleasant odors, sharp edges or foreign substances that are not part of the product purpose. The practical test assesses whether the product is suitable for its intended use and is tested for resilience and stability, including specific stress tests. Finally, it is examined whether the product has quality marks, certifications or proofs of conformity.

In the practical test (not a long-term test), the product is rated according to the subjective perception and subjective findings of the tester (s). The classification is based on a star system of 1 to 5 stars.

External prices and customer reviews are used to determine the price/performance ratio. The price of the product is compared with the average prices of the first search page on Amazon in order to make a classification (deviations above or below the average price are represented by plus or minus symbols).
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Quality or performance is determined based on Amazon reviews of the product, provided that there are at least 20 reviews. Products with a rating of less than 2.5 stars are rated zero points (insufficient). Ratings of 2.5 stars or more are awarded as a percentage, based on the deviation from 5 stars, with a maximum of 50 points being awarded (example: 4.9 stars correspond to 98% of 50 points, i.e. 49 points).