Hello again! This week we’re taking a look at Consumer Reports. This FREE resource gives you access to expert, unbiased Ratings of over 5,000 products. You also have access to reviews, expert buying advice, product comparisons, and more.
To get started, head to the “Resources” page of our website and scroll down until you see the following. Click on the Consumer Reports Icon and you’ll be on your way.
A little bit of a warning. If this is your first visit to this site, it can be a bit overwhelming. There are quite a few things happening at once and you may not know where to begin! I recommend starting with the ‘Find Ratings” panel located at the left side of the page.
If you hover your mouse over the categories you can select from the subcategory popups. For example, if I hover my mouse over the Electronics section I can then browse ratings for camcorders, cell phones, e-book readers, and more! Clicking on the “All Electronics” button brings up even more selections.
For example, if I clicked on Digital Cameras I would be brought to the Digital Cameras Overview Page. From here I can read a general summary of what to look for in a digital camera. I can take a look at recommended cameras, browse through a buying guide, and I can price & shop from several different retailers.
Near the top of the page I can also view comparisons of cameras using their Ratings & Reliability page. I can view a ratings overview, or I can change the display to show the list by Features & Spec or Brand Reliability. I can also compare up to 5 different models if I’m having a difficult time choosing. Very handy if you’re looking for particular features in a camera!
As well, by using the filters on the left side of the page I can select which brand and type of camera I would like to look at.
While Consumer Reports is perfect for product reviews it also has a few more key features that are worth mentioning.
Head back to the Consumer Reports home page and scroll down. On the left you can read Recalls & Safety bulletins. In the middle you can read up to date Consumer News files. You can also watch video reviews as well! Finally, if you really want to keep up to date with product releases, safety recalls, and more, you can sign up for the Consumer Reports E-mail newsletters. They’ll send you timely information on safety, health, cars and more. Best of all, you can choose what you’d like to receive in your newsletter. How cool is that?
There are several more features that Consumer Reports offers, but I don’t want to ruin any surprises. If you have any questions please contact your local librarian or use the Contact Us form available on our website. Enjoy using Consumer Reports and stay tuned next week when we take a look at another FREE online resource, courtesy of Bruce County Public Library.