HWCooling magazine focuses on computer hardware. On a daily basis, we write about current news related to components, as well as complete computers, notebooks, and peripherals. In addition to news coverage, we also devote ourselves to testing. These tests are built on detailed methodologies. We are of the opinion that if something is to be tested, it should be done precisely, in a unique way, and in depth. For a proper analysis, sometimes not even 50 chapters packed to the brim are enough. The accuracy of evaluation is derived mainly from the number of different perspectives through which a given subject is examined.
For exact and precise measurements, we have several calibrated instruments in the test lab, including a thermal camera, sound level meters, microphones, and an in-house–developed PCI Express power meter.
In general, we place strong emphasis on factual and objective interpretation of data. We are immune to marketing phrases or diverting attention to unimportant aspects (at the expense of the essential ones). Our goal is to prepare valuable materials for readers that, in terms of form and substance, exceed current qualitative standards.
In articles, we often place increased emphasis on cooling-related topics (hence HWCooling). We believe that even today it makes sense to thoroughly engage in fan testing. In the editorial tunnel dedicated to this purpose, we measure not only basic parameters (airflow, static pressure, noise level, and power consumption), but also vibrations and motor power.
Editorial awards and the system of their assignment
Tested products usually receive one of four awards that best characterize them. Most often, this will be the “Approved” award, intended for products without serious shortcomings, but which also do not stand out with an excellent price-to-performance ratio nor represent top-tier solutions.
For an exceptionally good price-to-performance ratio, hardware from our tests earns the “Smart buy!” award. For products that are no longer particularly affordable, but whose biggest drawback is a high price relative to first-class quality, we use the “Top-notch” award. Failures that you should rather avoid will receive the negative label “Stay away!”.
If an award is missing for a product, it means that it is contradictory in some way. It therefore has a more significant drawback. As a result, it does not meet the criteria for receiving the “Approved” award, but at the same time it has many positive qualities and therefore does not deserve “Stay away!” either.
The award logos above are optimized mainly for dark backgrounds (they have a white glow around them); for light backgrounds, variants available for download at the following links are more suitable: Approved, Smart buy!, Top-notch a Stay-away!.
Warning: Associating the logos with products to which we have not awarded them is prohibited. In the opposite case, that is, when they have been obtained legitimately, they may be freely used at one’s discretion for any purpose.
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