NEC 525 HDM (AT&T)

Editors' rating: cell phones
CNET editors rate cell phones on a scale of 1 through 10. Any product achieving an 8 or better can be considered for an Editors' Choice award. To calculate the rating, different criteria are scored on a 10-point scale. These scores are weighted as detailed below, added, and converted to conform to our rating system.

The rating criteria with the weightings by class are:

Design
We assess the physical design and appearance of the product, as well as its ergonomics and user interface. Weight and durability are also factors. We pay special attention to the readability of the display and the design of the buttons and controls.

Features
We evaluate the features of the product, both in terms of number and ease of use. A phone with more features will receive a higher rating than a phone with fewer features. On the other hand, while it's good for a phone to have a lot of features, it's also important that the features are easy to access and use.

Performance
When assessing performance, we judge sound quality, clarity, and loudness. Other pluses include minimal call drops and a consistently strong signal.

Battery life
When it comes to battery life (talk time and standby time), we rate the product using real-world testing rather than relying on the manufacturer's numbers. Rating is based on the battery life of the battery included with the phone, and a small bonus is given for a quick recharge time.

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