How We Research

Research-driven, not staged

Every recommendation on this site follows the same process. This page exists so you know exactly what stands behind every score.

Research-driven, not staged

We don't stage survival scenarios for the camera, and we don't pretend to. Our method is built on verifiable data: we aggregate manufacturer specifications, independent certifications — NIOSH approval for respirators, NSF standards for water filtration, EN 14387 for gas mask filters — and hundreds of verified buyer reviews and published third-party tests. If a claim can't be traced to a spec sheet, a certification body, or consistent real-world reports, it doesn't make it into a verdict.

Two badges, two promises

Hands-on tested: we bought or borrowed the product and actually used it. Photos and measurements are our own.

Research and analysis: when we haven't handled the product ourselves, we cross-reference official specs, certifications, and verified owner reviews from multiple sources. We never hide when that's the case — the badge appears at the end of the article.

Scoring criteria (0 to 10)

• Does it do what it claims? (40%) — specs verified against certifications and independent test data, not marketing copy.
• Value for money (30%) — what you get for the price, compared with direct competitors.
• Ease of use and setup (20%) — can a regular household set it up and rely on it under stress?
• Durability and support (10%) — brand track record, warranty, shelf life, and replacement parts.

Independence

We earn commissions from affiliate links (see how), but the score is set before any link goes in. No brand pays for a review, approves copy, or sees an article before it's published.