So it is an issue of you have to find a trusted source. Consumer Reports advertises that they buy everything they test off the shelf. Although I suspect car dealers in the area of CR get prescreened cars.
I personally trust Toms Hardware for many issues.
Also I look at Amazon 1 & 2 star reviews. People will complain, and I look for common comments. Of course you have to dodge the crap reviews that complain about delivery issues or (my favorite) the advanced book that was not a good introductory book.
Often something will get 9/10 but the benchmark charts/measurements or mention of a relevant flaw will be included. Therby allowing reviewer to inform you whilst still maintaining a positive relationship with the manufacturer.
freediver•4h ago
My secondary source are three star reviews on Amazon. While 1 star and 5 star are being gamed by abusers, three star reviews tend to still have wealth of useful information.