The guides are commercial publications. Independence means the economic relationship is visible and bounded — not that revenue does not exist.
What cannot be purchased
- A positive verdict or softened non-fit conclusion.
- A criterion, shortlist position or comparison outcome.
- Suppression of a documented material limitation.
- A claim of testing, certification or compliance that did not occur.
What may be commercial
A vendor may sponsor clearly identified inventory or pay a referral commission. A paying partner normally receives a direct link, but the relationship must be disclosed near the link or placement. The commercial agreement does not change the editorial answer.
Non-partner vendors
A non-partner is included only when necessary for a credible buyer decision. The network does not promise free promotional links or coverage unrelated to reader utility.
Disputes
Commercial status is not evidence. A factual challenge follows the same correction process whether it comes from a partner, non-partner or reader.