When I know little about a product area, I find such tests and opinions a good starting point, either as a basis for further exploration or to be followed directly, when I have no interest in further exploration for one reason or another, e.g., because the product is far from critical to my life. When I am an expert, I can be critical of consumer tests, but I can also be just as critical of advice on forums. I wish I had heard a Brompton advice when buying my first folder, rather than trusting a forum recommendation of picking a bike that rides like a full-size one.