In today’s digital era, smart devices have the power to shape our lives like never before. People rely on their mobile devices to perform everyday tasks pertaining to all aspects of their lives; including ordering food, internet banking, travel reservations and much more. But to accomplish these tasks smoothly, you should have access to various mobile apps that serve each of these needs.
According to statistics, in 2017, a staggering 269 billion apps will be available online. Analysts have predicted that by 2024, 42% of UK’s retail sales will involve the use of apps at some stage, whether for research purposes, to check prices, for online shopping or something else.
These figures highlight the fact that every individual is looking for an ideal app that suits his needs. But, with millions of apps out there and fierce competition, it isn’t always easy to find the right one. As per Silicon Valley analyst Andrew Chen, the average app loses 77 percent of its users within three days of its installation.
This is why you should read unbiased app reviews and do your research before downloading any app. In fact, some apps pay for user-generated positive reviews, which is why you should be really careful before you spend money on them.
Here are top 6 most reliable app reviews websites:
1. CNET
CNET is one of the world’s largest platform for tech-based reviews. The website contains unbiased, comprehensive and thorough reviews for electronics and technology. CNET reviews are popular because of their authenticity and timing; you can find a detailed review as soon as an app is launched. Introductory reviews are updated regularly whenever app developers change an app including potential recalls. What’s more, CNET also informs their readers about the launch of a competing app.
Apart from reviews, CNET also brings forth the latest news and app recommendations for their readers, thus, helping them wisely decide which app offers the best value for money. These recommendations are based on a strict system that involves a lot of research by the editorial team as well as feedback from users.
2. Business Insider
Originally a German-owned news website, Business Insider also houses a strong team of tech journalists. It is a reliable and popular platform among techies which publishes hundreds of app reviews regularly. You can judge their authenticity by the fact that tech videos posted by them get more than 500 million reviews per month!
Since Business Insider is a news website, the reviews are often placed alongside catchy headlines that work like click-bait so that they are easily noticed by the readers. Each of their reviews is extremely detailed and all the essential aspects of an app, including design, user-interface, performance, speed and functionality are discussed in depth.
3. Mashable
Mashable describes itself as ‘a leading source for news, information & resources for the connected generation’. Founded by Pete Cashmore in 2005, it has come a long way and is considered one of the most viewed online news community with 60 Mashable articles being tweeted every minute.
Their authenticity and spot-on articles are famous in the tech community. Mashable provides concise reviews, comparisons and information for all the latest apps.
4. Gizmodo
Gizmodo founders define themselves as ‘people who come from the future’. This website covers a wide range of topics ranging from design, technology, science and even politics. It has a very loyal following of readers who choose to browse through Gizmodo for their daily dose of tech news.
Their timely and quirky reviews on all the latest apps and technology have made them one of the most widely followed tech websites of today. Their in-depth reviews highlight all features of an app – both positive and negative – giving you an opportunity to really see if the app is worth your money and time.
5. YouTube
Many trusted tech bloggers have created dedicated channels on YouTube. YouTube reviews are helpful because they are from the consumers’ point of view. They also feature first impressions and are very detailed too. You can even request a YouTube tech guru to review a specific app for you, but normally they review apps based on each app’s ratings in the app stores.
Here are some famous and trustworthy YouTube tech gurus you can subscribe to;
- Soldier Knows Best
- Locker Gnome
- AppStore Reviewer
- Phone Arena
6. App store reviews
Before you hit the download button on any app, make sure to take a look at the reviews and ratings that are mentioned below. Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store have tightened their security regarding fake reviews, so if an app has a 4 or 5-star ratings and good reviews, it is definitely a good app. Moreover, there is also a small video that highlights the main features of the app that will give you a first impression of whether the app is suitable for your specific needs.
Conclusion
It is really important to do your research and read what others have to say about an app. The links mentioned above are great resources for you to read authentic reviews. But, there is no guarantee that you will like the app even after you’ve read several positive reviews.
A review also helps you verify for how long the app has been in operation and the response of its users. If it’s a free app that has been running successfully for many years, you can download it without second thoughts. But, if it is a new app or website that has just been launched, make sure to research it thoroughly before you push the download button.
It’s best to stay away from misguided or sponsored reviews on tech sites, as all reviews are not foolproof. Also, don’t limit yourself to one or two reviews only. Keep an eye out on your favourite web developers. It is likely that if they’ve developed excellent apps before, they’ll continue to bring great products to the market. Remember that an authentic developer has a legit online presence. Once a developer has earned your trust through consecutive successful apps, it is better to stick with them in the future too.
