[Poll] Professional Vs User Reviews: Whom To Trust?

Hello MIUIers,

Majority of potential purchasers are inspired by reviews to select a brand that had not been in their original consideration set. While consumers consider themselves knowledgeable about products which they want to purchase, they rely heavily on reviews during the decision-making process. Nearly nine in 10 consumers say they are somewhat or very knowledgeable about the product which they are going to buy, yet still consult reviews, user and/or professional when looking to make a purchase.

Consumers report that they pay more attention to user reviews than professional critic reviews. The gap between user and professional reviews closes noticeably, but not entirely. I've always used reviews to judge whether a product is worth buying (I'm sure you all have too). However there are various problems with both categories.

User reviews are good because they are independent and not affected by money or the pursuit of making it. However, users tend to vote either 0-1 or 9-10 (using extremes) rather than taking time to give a fully informed score (which drastically alters the average score). This is where professional reviewers excel, as they are paid by their parent company to put time into playing with and judging the product. However their independence is always under scrutiny, and biases have crept their way into.

With these things considered, how do you go about in deciding? Do take the Poll and Reply your opinion in the comment box below.

Professional vs User Reviews: Whom To Trust?