Tom’s Guide is a valuable online resource, providing answers and expert advice on a wide range of tech topics. Understanding who owns Tom’s Guide provides insight into its editorial independence, business model, and overall mission. This comprehensive guide, brought to you by CONDUCT.EDU.VN, delves deep into the ownership structure of Tom’s Guide, exploring its history, mission, key personnel, and commitment to providing unbiased information, helping you make informed decisions. Learn about their testing process, editorial guidelines, and how they ensure high-quality content.
1. Introduction: Tom’s Guide as a Reliable Tech Resource
Tom’s Guide is a popular online platform offering reviews, buying guides, how-to articles, and the latest news related to consumer electronics and technology. CONDUCT.EDU.VN recognizes its significance as a go-to source for consumers seeking unbiased information. Understanding the ownership structure is key to assessing credibility, recognizing its mission, and knowing who is responsible for the content published on the platform. This guide explores the evolution, editorial policies, and content funding behind the brand.
2. Tracing the Origins of Tom’s Guide
Tom’s Guide’s journey began in 2007 under the ownership of Bestofmedia. This marked the initial step in establishing the website as a source of tech information and product reviews. Let’s take a look at the timeline that shaped Tom’s Guide.
2.1. Bestofmedia Era (2007-2013)
Launched in 2007, Tom’s Guide quickly established itself as a reliable source for tech product reviews and how-to guides. The platform aimed to provide consumers with the information they needed to make informed purchasing decisions.
2.2. Acquisition by TechMediaNetwork (2013)
In 2013, TechMediaNetwork acquired Bestofmedia, including Tom’s Guide. This acquisition expanded TechMediaNetwork’s portfolio and strengthened its position in the technology publishing space.
2.3. Transition to Purch (2014)
TechMediaNetwork rebranded itself as Purch in 2014. This change reflected the company’s broader focus on providing purchasing advice and product recommendations across various categories, not just technology.
2.4. Future PLC Takes Over (2018)
Future PLC, a global media group, acquired Purch in 2018, bringing Tom’s Guide under its umbrella. This acquisition significantly expanded Future PLC’s presence in the US and bolstered its tech and consumer electronics coverage.
3. The Current Owner: Future PLC
Today, Tom’s Guide is owned and operated by Future PLC, a publicly traded media company headquartered in the United Kingdom. Understanding Future PLC’s role is essential for grasping the strategic direction and operational framework of Tom’s Guide.
3.1. Overview of Future PLC
Future PLC is a global multi-platform media company with a diverse portfolio of brands spanning technology, gaming, entertainment, music, homes, and more. It delivers high-quality content to a global audience through websites, magazines, events, and other channels.
3.2. Future PLC’s Mission and Values
Future PLC’s mission is to create high-quality content that informs, entertains, and connects communities. The company values editorial integrity, innovation, and a commitment to its audiences. These values extend to Tom’s Guide, ensuring that the platform remains a trusted source of information.
3.3. Impact of Future PLC Ownership on Tom’s Guide
Under Future PLC’s ownership, Tom’s Guide has experienced significant growth and expansion. Future PLC has invested in the platform, enhancing its content offerings, expanding its team of experts, and improving its testing and review processes. This has enabled Tom’s Guide to solidify its position as a leading tech authority.
4. Editorial Independence and Content Funding
Maintaining editorial independence is crucial for a platform like Tom’s Guide to retain its credibility and trustworthiness. Understanding how Tom’s Guide balances revenue generation with unbiased content is key to assessing its value as a reliable source.
4.1. Tom’s Guide’s Commitment to Unbiased Reviews
Tom’s Guide emphasizes its commitment to providing unbiased and objective reviews. Its editorial team conducts thorough testing and evaluation of products, without influence from advertisers or manufacturers. This ensures that readers receive honest and reliable recommendations.
4.2. Revenue Streams: Affiliate Links and Advertising
To support its operations, Tom’s Guide utilizes various revenue streams, including affiliate links and advertising. These mechanisms allow the platform to generate income while maintaining editorial independence.
4.2.1. Affiliate Links
Tom’s Guide participates in affiliate marketing programs, earning commissions on purchases made through links to retailer sites. This allows the platform to monetize its content without directly endorsing specific products or brands.
4.2.2. Advertising
Tom’s Guide displays advertisements on its website, generating revenue from impressions and clicks. The platform carefully manages its advertising partnerships to ensure that ads are relevant and non-intrusive, preserving the user experience.
4.3. Policies on Sponsored Content and Advertorials
Tom’s Guide maintains strict policies on sponsored content and advertorials to ensure transparency and avoid misleading its audience. All sponsored content is clearly labeled as such, indicating that it is paid for by an advertiser. This allows readers to distinguish between editorial content and promotional material.
5. Key Personnel Behind Tom’s Guide
The expertise and leadership of key personnel drive the quality and direction of Tom’s Guide. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of these individuals provides insight into the platform’s operations.
5.1. Mark Spoonauer, Global Editor-in-Chief
As Global Editor-in-Chief, Mark Spoonauer is responsible for the overall editorial direction, strategy, and growth of Tom’s Guide. He has extensive experience covering technology and is a frequent commentator on tech industry trends.
5.2. Mike Prospero, U.S. Editor-in-Chief
Mike Prospero oversees all of Tom’s Guide’s evergreen content to ensure it’s up to date with the latest information. He is also in charge of the smart home devices, wearables, and drones categories for Tom’s Guide.
5.3. Jeff Parsons, U.K. Editor-in-Chief
Jeff Parsons is UK Editor-in-Chief for Tom’s Guide looking after the day-to-day output of the site’s British contingent. Rising early and heading straight for the coffee machine, Jeff loves nothing more than dialling into the zeitgeist of the day’s news and poring over the specs sheet of the newest products.
5.4. Other Key Editors and Writers
Tom’s Guide has a team of experienced editors and writers who specialize in various areas of technology. These individuals bring their expertise to bear in creating high-quality content that informs and empowers consumers. Here are a few other key editors and writers
- Amanda Caswell, Staff Writer (AI): Amanda is a seasoned writer with a passion for blending creativity and technology.
- James Frew, Buying Guide Editor: James is Tom’s Guide’s Buying Guide Editor, overseeing the site’s buying advice.
- Jason England, Managing Editor, Computing: Jason brings a decade of tech and gaming journalism experience to his role as a Managing Editor of Computing at Tom’s Guide.
- Louis Ramirez, Group Senior Deals Editor: As senior deals editor at Tom’s Guide, Louis is constantly looking for ways to avoid paying full price for the latest gadgets.
- Nick Pino, Managing Editor, TV and AV: Nick Pino heads up the TV and AV verticals at Tom’s Guide and covers everything from OLED TVs to the latest wireless headphones.
- Kelly Woo, Managing Editor, Streaming: Kelly heads up all streaming media coverage for Tom’s Guide, so basically, she watches TV for a living.
- Jane McGuire, Senior Editor (Fitness): Jane McGuire is Tom’s Guide’s Fitness editor, which means she looks after everything fitness related — from running gear to yoga mats.
- Millie Fender, Senior Editor (Homes): Millie is the Senior Editor for Homes at Tom’s Guide.
- Kaycee Hill, How-tos editor: Kaycee is the How-to Editor at Tom’s Guide and has been writing for as long as she can remember.
- Dave LeClair, Senior News Editor: Dave LeClair is the Senior News Editor for Tom’s Guide, keeping his finger on the pulse of all things technology.
- Philip Michaels, Managing Editor: Philip Michaels oversees coverage of smartphones, apps, wireless carriers and all things mobile for Tom’s Guide.
- Peter Wolinski, Reviews Editor: Peter is the Reviews Editor at Tom’s Guide, based in the U.K.
- Claire Davies, Senior Sleep Editor and Certified Sleep Science Coach: Claire is the Senior Sleep Editor at Tom’s Guide, overseeing all mattress and sleep content for the site.
- Kate Kozuch, Managing Editor, Social and Video: Kate Kozuch is a managing editor at Tom’s Guide looking after social media and video content for the site.
- Matthew Murray, Head of Testing: As head of testing for Tom’s Guide’s parent company, Future Media, Matthew helps coordinate and conduct product testing for all of the company’s editorial brands.
6. Tom’s Guide’s Mission and Values
Understanding the core principles that guide Tom’s Guide is essential for appreciating its approach to content creation and user engagement.
6.1. Providing Reliable and Trustworthy Information
Tom’s Guide is dedicated to providing its audience with reliable, accurate, and trustworthy information. This commitment is reflected in its rigorous testing processes, objective reviews, and fact-checked content.
6.2. Helping Consumers Make Informed Decisions
The platform’s primary mission is to empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. Through its buying guides, product comparisons, and how-to articles, Tom’s Guide equips readers with the knowledge they need to choose the right products and services for their needs.
6.3. Staying Up-to-Date with the Latest Trends
Tom’s Guide is committed to staying at the forefront of technology trends. Its team of experts closely monitors the industry, providing timely coverage of new products, emerging technologies, and evolving consumer preferences.
7. How Tom’s Guide Tests and Rates Products
Tom’s Guide employs a comprehensive and rigorous testing methodology to evaluate products and provide unbiased recommendations. Understanding this process helps readers appreciate the credibility of the platform’s reviews.
7.1. Overview of the Testing Process
Tom’s Guide’s testing process involves a combination of hands-on evaluation, benchmark testing, and real-world usage. Reviewers spend considerable time using each product to assess its performance, features, and overall value.
7.2. Key Testing Categories and Metrics
The platform employs various testing categories and metrics tailored to specific product types. These may include performance benchmarks, battery life tests, display quality measurements, and usability assessments.
7.3. Rating System: What the Stars Mean
Tom’s Guide uses a five-star rating system to indicate the overall quality and value of each product. The ratings are as follows; anything rated 2.5 or below is not recommended:
- 1 star – Very poor and among worst products we’ve tested
- 2 stars – Poor and not recommended
- 2.5 stars – Below average and not recommended
- 3 stars – Good but there are better options
- 3.5 stars – Very good
- 4 stars – Excellent and recommended
- 4.5 stars – Superb and among best in class highly recommended
- 5 stars – Best of the best and close to perfect
8. Navigating the Tom’s Guide Website
Understanding the layout and features of the Tom’s Guide website can enhance the user experience and make it easier to find the information you need.
8.1. Main Sections: Reviews, Buying Guides, How-Tos, News
Tom’s Guide is organized into several main sections, each catering to different user needs. These include:
- Reviews: In-depth evaluations of the latest tech products.
- Buying Guides: Curated lists of the best products in various categories.
- How-Tos: Step-by-step instructions for common tech tasks.
- News: Coverage of the latest tech industry developments.
8.2. Search Functionality and Navigation Tips
The website features a robust search function that allows users to quickly find specific products, topics, or articles. Navigation tips include using the main menu to explore different sections, utilizing filters to narrow search results, and browsing related articles for additional information.
8.3. Community Features: Comments and Forums
Tom’s Guide offers community features such as comment sections and forums, where users can engage with each other and share their opinions and experiences. These features provide a valuable platform for discussion and feedback.
9. How to Follow Tom’s Guide
Staying connected with Tom’s Guide ensures that you receive the latest tech news, reviews, and advice.
9.1. Social Media Channels: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
Tom’s Guide maintains active profiles on various social media channels, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Following these accounts allows you to stay up-to-date with the platform’s latest content and engage with its community.
9.2. Newsletter Subscriptions
Subscribing to Tom’s Guide’s newsletter provides you with regular updates delivered directly to your inbox. The newsletter typically includes a selection of the platform’s top stories, reviews, and how-to articles.
9.3. RSS Feeds
Tom’s Guide offers RSS feeds that allow you to receive automatic updates whenever new content is published. This is a convenient way to stay informed without having to visit the website regularly.
10. Tom’s Guide Frequently Asked Questions
To address common queries and provide additional information, Tom’s Guide offers a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section.
10.1. Who is Tom from Tom’s Guide?
Tom’s Guide is named after Thomas Pabst, who founded our sister site, Tom’s Hardware in 1996. Tom’s Guide was subsequently launched in 2007.
10.2. Where is Tom’s Guide Located?
Tom’s Guide has two main offices. In the United States, our address is 130 West 42nd Street, 7th floor, New York, NY 10036.
In the United Kingdom, we have offices at Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA, and at 121 – 141 Westbourne Terrace, Paddington, London W2 6JR.
10.3. How Does Tom’s Guide Make Money?
We always aim to provide unbiased editorial created by our journalists and writers. We also need to pay our teams and website costs so we make money in a number of ways. We sometimes use affiliate links to products and services on retailer sites for which we can receive compensation if you click on those links or make purchases through them.
From time to time, we also publish advertorials (paid-for editorial content) and sponsored content on the site, and may also include Preferred Partner blocks. When this is the case the content is clearly marked as sponsored or promoted, so you’ll always know which content is editorial and which is not. For more information on sponsored content, advertorials and Preferred Partners, please refer to our Content Funding on Tom’s Guide FAQ.
Future PLC is our parent company and has an in-depth terms and conditions page with a lot more information that you can read right here.
10.4. How We Test and Rate Products
To help make complex tech-buying decisions easier for our readers, we test and review hundreds of different gadgets, software and services each year, ranging from smartphones, laptops and smartwatches to TVs, Bluetooth speakers and the best antivirus suites. Here’s how we test products.
10.5. How to Follow Tom’s Guide
From reviewing Android phones live on Instagram to sending digital privacy tips directly to your inbox, Tom’s Guide answers your tech questions wherever you are. Here’s where to find us!
Instagram→ http://www.instagram.com/tomsguide
Twitter→ http://www.twitter.com/tomsguide
Facebook→ http://www.facebook.com/tomsguide
TikTok→ https://www.tiktok.com/@tomsguide
YouTube→ http://bit.ly/toms_YTSub
RSS feed→ http://bit.ly/Toms_RSS
In Your Inbox→ http://bit.ly/Toms_Newsletter
10.6. Join The Team
Want to join the Tom’s Guide team? We occasionally have full-time staff openings; please go to https://apply.workable.com/futureplc/ and search for Tom’s Guide for any available positions.
Alternatively, if you want to work with us as a freelancer, or you have a story you’d like to pitch, you can contact us at [email protected].
11. Tom’s Guide Editorial Policies
Understanding the editorial policies of Tom’s Guide provides insight into its commitment to journalistic integrity and ethical content creation.
11.1. Fact-Checking and Accuracy
Tom’s Guide places a strong emphasis on fact-checking and accuracy. Its editorial team verifies information from multiple sources to ensure that all published content is reliable and up-to-date.
11.2. Corrections and Transparency
The platform is committed to transparency and promptly corrects any errors or inaccuracies in its content. Corrections are clearly noted and dated, providing readers with a clear understanding of any changes that have been made.
11.3. Affiliate & Advertising Disclosure
We always aim to provide unbiased editorial created by our journalists and writers. We also need to pay our teams and website costs so we make money in a number of ways. We sometimes use affiliate links to products and services on retailer sites for which we can receive compensation if you click on those links or make purchases through them. From time to time we also publish advertorials (paid-for editorial content) and sponsored content on the site. When this is the case the content is clearly marked as sponsored or promoted, so you’ll always know which content is editorial and which is not. For more information, please refer to Content funding on Tom’s Guide.
Future PLC is our parent company and has an in-depth terms and conditions page with a lot more information that you can read right here.
12. Community Guidelines
The Tom’s Guide comment section is for thoughtful discussion of article topics. Together we’re developing a space where people share your passion and where you can enjoy conversations built on a foundation of respect and common interests.
12.1. Stay on Topic
Comments should be relevant to the article or discussion at hand. Posts that stray into unrelated topics like politics or religion will be removed.
12.2. Respectful Interaction
Healthy debate is welcome, but personal attacks, harassment, or demeaning language toward others, including staff, are not permitted. Hate speech or discriminatory language of any kind will result in a ban.
12.3. Threatening Behaviour
Any threats made toward staff, the subjects of articles or other users will be reviewed for what action needs to be taken and you will be banned. If a threat is deemed to be credible we will contact local law enforcement.
12.4. No Self-Promotion
Do not use the comments to advertise personal products or services. Attempts to drive readers to third-party sites will be deleted.
12.5. Prohibited Content
Do not promote or describe illegal activities, including piracy or hacking. Users doing so will be banned.
12.6. Impersonation is Prohibited
Do not impersonate other users, influencers, staff members, or any person/organization. Users doing so will be banned.
12.7. Privacy Matters
Never share personal identifying information like email addresses or phone numbers. Do not ask others to provide their personal information or share information (dox) anyone in our comment sections this will lead to an immediate ban.
12.8. Spam Policy
Spam comments will lead to an immediate and permanent ban.
12.9. Language
Comments should be in English to ensure moderators can effectively enforce these guidelines.
12.10. Respect Moderation Decisions
Our guidelines cannot cover every situation and our moderation team reserve the right to remove any comment at any time. The Tom’s Guide team and Future PLC do not endorse the opinions and views shared by readers in our comment sections.
13. Privacy Policy
Tom’s Guide is part of Future PLC. We are both fiercely committed to protecting your privacy. Please have a look at our in-depth privacy policy to find out more.
14. Conclusion: Leveraging Tom’s Guide Responsibly
Tom’s Guide serves as a valuable resource for consumers seeking tech information and buying advice. By understanding who owns Tom’s Guide, its mission, editorial policies, and testing processes, you can make informed decisions about the reliability and trustworthiness of the platform.
Navigating the digital world requires access to reliable and ethical resources. CONDUCT.EDU.VN aims to provide you with the tools you need to make informed decisions about online conduct and digital citizenship. Visit conduct.edu.vn today to explore a wealth of information on ethical behavior, responsible technology use, and navigating the complexities of the online world. For further assistance, contact us at 100 Ethics Plaza, Guideline City, CA 90210, United States, or via Whatsapp at +1 (707) 555-1234. Remember, responsible online behavior starts with understanding and applying ethical guidelines in every interaction.
