Pharos Traveler GPS 525

Editors' rating: handhelds
We rate handhelds on a scale of 0.0 through 10.0 (see "What the numbers mean" below). The editors calculate the overall rating from a series of subratings, on a scale of 1 to 10, that gauge key aspects of the product. On the product review page and elsewhere on the Web site, the overall rating is displayed as a series of stars, based on a five-star scale with half stars (see conversion details below). Each subrating is weighted based on its relative importance. For example, a handheld's performance score counts less than its design score.

The rating criteria with the weightings by class are:

Design
(45 percent of the total rating)
This criterion covers the look and feel of the handheld as well as ease of operation. We consider the size, weight, and shape of the device. We look for intuitive layout of buttons and examine the ease of use of any keyboard or cradle that is included. We also take into account ergonomics, how cool it looks, and how well the implementation achieves its implicit design goals. An uninspiring but functional design will rate a 5. An especially small or lightweight handheld will earn a higher rating.
Features
(35 percent of the total rating)
We rate a handheld's feature set relative to its competitors, looking for that perfect combination of capabilities that matches its users needs. We consider factors such as processor, RAM, and expansion slots. A product that provides just a basic electronic organizer functions will rate a 5. Products with wireless connectivity, abundant software packages, or other, more advanced features will earn a higher rating.
Performance
(20 percent of the total rating)
We evaluate the performance of a handheld in comparison to similar handhelds. We also evaluate battery performance and the quality of the display under varied lighting conditions. A handheld that can perform basic organizing tasks seamlessly will rate a 5. Devices that can perform more sophisticated operations seamlessly will earn higher scores.
What the numbers mean

9.6 to 10.0 = 5 stars (Spectacular):
This exceedingly rare score is reserved for a product that is as perfect as it could be.

9.0 to 9.5 = 4.5 stars (Outstanding):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores high on all of its rating criteria. It succeeds at meeting all of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful drawbacks.

8.0 to 8.9 = 4 stars (Excellent):
A product that receives a rating in this range is superior in so many ways that its relatively few drawbacks are not very important.

7.0 to 7.9 = 3.5 stars (Very good):
While the strengths of a product scoring in this range certainly outweigh its weaknesses, it has some minor faults that certain users should be aware of.

6.0 to 6.9 = 3 stars (Good):
This range represents a product that is above average. Its strengths slightly outweigh its weaknesses, making it good for most uses but not a standout.

5.0 to 5.9 = 2.5 stars (Average):
A product that scores in this range is functional but unremarkable.

4.0 to 4.9 = 2 stars (Mediocre):
Products in this range are below average. They fall in the middle of the pack for most features, but suffer from a few additional major flaws.

3.0 to 3.9 = 1.5 stars (Poor):
You probably should not consider a product in this range or lower. There may be one or two specialized circumstances, however, that could justify the purchase of this product for a very low price for a specific demand.

2.0 to 2.9 = 1 star (Terrible):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores low on all of its rating criteria. It does not satisfy any of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful strengths.

1.0 to 1.9 = 1/2 star (Abysmal):
A product in this range should never have been produced. This product has no redeeming qualities and worse, may actually harm you or your productivity.

0 - 0.9 = 0 stars