Understanding Opinions on Products Without Ownership
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Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Product Reviews
In recent discussions, I've encountered claims suggesting that individuals should refrain from reviewing products they don’t own. Initially, I found myself agreeing with this notion. A review typically entails an objective analysis of various aspects of a product, assigning ratings based on those criteria. This sets a high standard, which is why I’ve taken to calling my reviews ‘overviews’—they’re more about highlighting features I find compelling.
However, I’ve always sensed something amiss in the argument that people shouldn’t evaluate devices they haven't used. Throughout my experience on platforms like Medium, I’ve rarely seen this situation in practice.
For instance, I once contemplated writing a review of an earlier model of a device, mislabeling it as the latest version. Would anyone notice if I claimed the iPhone 13 was the 14? Probably not. With a little digital manipulation, you could even pass off a 13 as a 14 Pro.
So, I suspect that the phrase ‘people are reviewing a device without actually having it’ is really just a euphemism for ‘people are voicing opinions on a device they haven’t used.’ I find this perspective troubling.
A Culture of Positive Feedback
The primary issue with this stance is the potential suppression of negative feedback. Take Apple’s Studio Display, for example.
Is the Studio Display Really Worth Its Price?
Apple’s ‘Peek Performance’ event unveiled some surprises, notably the Studio Display priced at $1699. It’s exorbitantly costly considering that one could purchase a decent 4K monitor for around $300. Not even renowned reviewers like MKBHD seem inclined to defend this pricing.
Some argue that 5K is superior to 4K due to pixel visibility. Personally, I run my MacBook Air at a non-standard resolution, and I see no discernible difference.
Why I Won’t Return to Standard Resolutions
You might be asking, “Doesn’t the MacBook Air have a resolution of 2560x1600?” Yes, it does, but it hardly matters…
Returning to the Studio Display, do you think someone would purchase it simply to label it overpriced? The hassle of returning it—boxing it and arranging pickup—makes that impractical.
When I approach reviews, I do so with the mindset that I’m likely to enjoy the product. For instance, my ‘review’ of the AirPods Pro 2.
Jabra Elite 85ts vs. AirPods Pro 2: A Review Experience
I described the AirPods Pro 2 as the highlight of Apple’s event, and indeed, they garnered much enthusiasm from others as well.
The Excitement Surrounding the AirPods Pro 2 at Apple’s Event
Yet, upon trying them myself, I found them underwhelming. If we insist that one cannot express negative views without owning the item, we risk excluding valuable critiques that highlight issues—essentially letting a flawed product go unchallenged.
The Importance of Genuine Reviews
I recently scrutinized many reviews of the iPhone 14 Pro. It appears that people now consume reviews primarily for entertainment rather than for genuine product evaluation. I’m guilty of this too, but I can’t fathom why anyone wouldn’t want to watch or read a critical review. I often appreciate a scathing review more than a glowing one, even when I disagree with the critique.
Section 1.1: The Problem with Conventional Reviews
The notion that one’s opinion can only be valid if they own a product implies that ownership significantly sways one’s perspective. While it does have an effect, many reviews fail to deliver substantial insights. This often leads reviewers to seek interesting angles, like Mr. Mobile’s more vlog-style approach to reviews.
I’m beginning to think that a lot of reviews are simply entertainment, as they often repeat last year’s design with minor updates. When you have a strong opinion about a product, don’t hesitate to voice it, even if you lack direct experience. I could likely critique a device just as effectively as many YouTubers without ever seeing it because…
Devices Share Similar Features
I've posted numerous critical reviews of Apple products, including the Apple Watch. My jabs at its battery life often provoke strong reactions from fans. However, I feel justified in my critiques, having owned several smartwatches, including the Pebble, Basis Peak, Mi Band, Galaxy Active 2, and Huawei GT 2 Pro.
This experience gives me a broader perspective on the Apple Watch, arguably more informed than those who have only ever used Apple’s version.
Similarly, I’ve had past experience with monitors. The Studio Display offers nothing groundbreaking compared to previous models. My M1 Air serves me well; why would I invest in an M2 that performs similarly? This is why I don’t endorse it.
Why the M2 MacBook Air Isn't Worth Your Money
Chapter 2: The Value of Honest Opinions
Ultimately, I’m not suggesting this is what people imply when they say you shouldn’t review a product without ownership. However, you shouldn’t feel ashamed to express your thoughts on a product you haven’t purchased. Certain aspects, like the audio quality of the AirPods Pro 2, require firsthand experience to evaluate accurately. Yet, for most devices, hands-on experience is unnecessary.
Offering your perspective on a product you haven’t bought can actually help potential buyers by presenting them with alternatives they may not have considered.
And remember, if you misspeak, the dedicated enthusiasts will surely correct you in the comments.
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