How do we score video quality?
The Video Quality score is based on a combination of visual quality and technical performance. We consider factors such as sharpness, clarity, lighting, and production value, as well as how well the videos function across different devices and platforms. Our main concern is how good the videos look at their original size and when enlarged to full screen.
We also take into account whether videos are downloadable, how well they stream, and if they’re compatible with mobile devices. These features don’t define the core video quality but can affect the overall experience and impact the final score.
Visual Quality Examples
- High Quality: Sharp, clear, professionally lit videos that hold up well even at full screen.
- Good Quality: Clear and well-lit, with few or no visual issues.
- Average or Amateur Quality: Slightly less sharp or polished, may suffer in full screen, or feature minimal lighting and basic camera work.
- Vintage Quality: Older videos (20+ years) with lower resolution, film grain, or analog artifacts — often smaller in size and less sharp by today’s standards.
- Poor Quality: Blurry, dark, low-resolution, or heavily compressed content that looks noticeably bad even at its original size.
Production Value
We look at how well the videos are filmed, including camera work, lighting, and editing. Poor camera angles or lighting that obscures the action can negatively affect the score.
Functionality Considerations
Sites with high-quality video that also stream well, offer downloads, and work flawlessly on mobile will score higher. Sites with lower-quality visuals or missing functionality may score lower overall.
- Downloadable Videos: Whether downloads are included with membership, require extra payment, or aren’t available at all.
- Streaming: Whether videos play smoothly and the streaming interface is modern and reliable.
- Mobile Compatibility: Whether videos resize correctly and play without issues on phones or tablets.