How We Test Laptops
Current methodology: Test Bench 1.2
We buy laptops, run every one through the same standardized tests, and publish the raw numbers alongside our scores. This page explains how the process works.
1. Why We Test Laptops
Manufacturer specs and marketing rarely tell you how a laptop performs in real use. Standardized testing lets us compare laptops fairly on the things that matter: real battery life, sustained performance, display quality, typing comfort, and noise.
2. How We Buy Products
We buy the laptops we review at retail whenever possible, the same units a Canadian shopper would receive. When we accept a loaner, we disclose it in the review and return it after testing.
3. Why Independence Matters
No manufacturer pays for a score or sees a review before it is published. Our editorial and affiliate decisions are kept separate. Affiliate commissions never influence a score. Read our full editorial and independence policy.
4. What We Measure
Every laptop is tested across these categories. Each links to its detailed methodology:
5. How Scores Work
We score on a 10-point scale. Each category gets a sub-score, and the overall score is a weighted average using the default weighting below. Use-case scores (school, gaming, and so on) reweight these categories for specific needs.
Bars above show relative weighting. You can set your own weighting with the Custom Ratings tool.
6. How We Update Reviews
We re-test and update reviews when firmware, drivers, configurations, or Canadian pricing change materially. Each review shows its tested date and Test Bench version.
7. Test Bench Versions
Laptop Test Bench 1.2
2025-09-01Current Test Bench. Added sustained creative-workload export tests and refined battery scoring.
Laptop Test Bench 1.1
2025-03-15Added repairability scoring and standardized fan-noise measurement distance.
Laptop Test Bench 1.0
2024-10-01Initial public Test Bench covering display, performance, battery, keyboard, build, thermals, and ports.
8. How To Read Our Results
On each review, the score breakdown shows category sub-scores; the test-results page shows raw measurements with bars comparing a laptop to the full tested range. Higher is better for most metrics, but lower is better for weight, noise, temperature, and price.
9. Limitations
We test representative configurations, not every variant. Unit-to-unit variation, driver updates, and regional pricing can shift results. We note known limitations in each review.
10. Contact Us About Testing
Questions about our methodology or a specific result? Get in touch. We welcome corrections backed by data.