How we rank

Every tool gets the same five scores from 1 to 5. Output quality counts double, because a fast, cheap tool that doesn't work is worth nothing.

1. Output quality. Does it actually ship working results for this job?
2. Speed to first result. How fast do you go from sign-up to something real?
3. Price for a solo builder. Is there a usable free tier, and what does real use cost?
4. Freedom to leave. Can you export your code and data and walk away?
5. Momentum. Is it shipping often, with a community behind it?

Rules we keep

• Every score carries the date it was last checked. Anything older than 60 days is re-checked.
• When a better tool ships, the ranking changes and the newsletter says why.
• Some links are affiliate links. We only use them for tools we'd rank the same without one.
• Sponsors can buy a clearly labeled slot in the newsletter. They can never buy a score or a position.
• Scores marked as drafts haven't been tested hands-on yet.