Methodology
How We Review
Last updated: May 2026
Every product reviewed on favchick is tested by a real person before a single word is written. This page explains our process, our rating system, and how we handle editorial independence.
How we source products
We buy the majority of products we review at full retail price. When a brand or PR agency sends us a product for free, we note it clearly in the review under "How we tested this." A complimentary sample has zero influence on our rating — we have declined to publish reviews of free products we couldn't honestly recommend rather than write a positive review we didn't believe.
Testing period
We use products for a minimum of two weeks before writing a review. For products with long-term durability claims (rechargeable devices, subscription services, apps), we extend testing to at least four weeks. We revisit reviews when a product receives a significant firmware update or the manufacturer makes a claim that contradicts our findings.
Rating criteria
Product reviews are scored across five dimensions, each rated out of 5:
Sensation & performance
Does it do what it promises? We assess intensity range, pattern variety, and whether the product performs consistently across multiple uses.
Design & materials
Build quality, body-safe materials (silicone, ABS plastic, stainless steel), ergonomics, and how the product feels in-hand.
Ease of use
Controls, charging, cleaning, noise level, and whether the product is intuitive without a manual.
Value
Price versus performance versus alternatives. A £20 product isn't expected to compete with a £120 one — but it is expected to be honest about what it is.
Verdict
A single overall score out of 5. The verdict reflects all criteria weighted together, plus overall satisfaction.
What our scores mean
Comparisons
Head-to-head comparisons follow the same testing methodology as individual reviews, with both products tested in the same period by the same tester where possible. Comparisons always pick a winner — if the right answer is "it depends on your budget," we say so, but we also say which is the default pick.
Guides and educational content
Guides are written by editors and reviewed for accuracy against peer-reviewed sources where medical or health claims are made. We link to primary sources. Wellness content that touches on health conditions includes a medical disclaimer and recommends consulting a qualified professional.
Corrections policy
If we get something wrong, we fix it and note the correction at the top of the article with the date it was made. We do not silently edit factual errors. If a product we reviewed changes significantly, we update the review and note what changed.
Questions about a specific review or our methodology? hello@favchick.com