Reading the labels

Review status guide.

Status labels summarize a specific finding. They are not interchangeable with a warranty or a promise about every unit sold.

Capacity validated

The tested storage device reported a capacity that passed the named capacity check. Read the review to see whether that was a screening scan or a completed full write-and-verify test.

Capacity mismatch

The named test did not support the capacity reported or advertised by the device. The review identifies the tool, numbers, and whether additional testing is underway.

Testing in progress

A test has started but the final stage is incomplete. Interim figures can change and are labeled as preliminary.

Positive hands-on review

The product performed well in the tasks described and the reviewer would consider it a reasonable purchase based on current use. Long-term reliability may remain open.

Do not recommend

The tested unit failed an important claim, performed poorly, introduced a serious drawback, or otherwise did not earn a recommendation.

Product link provided

The exact or best-confirmed listing is supplied because the tested product received a positive or validated result. Readers should still check the seller, variant, bundle, and current listing details.

No product link

Proof of Purchase is not directing readers to buy the tested item, or the exact listing could not be confirmed. Failed or potentially fraudulent products do not receive a sales link.