Consumer Research
There are many Web resources to help you find reviews of products and companies. Some are part of exclusive Library resources, others are free.
Consumer Reports is part of MasterFILE Premier. You can access it through a search for Consumer Reports in the Publications section of the resource, or you can use the link to search Consumer Reports directly:
- Consumer Reports
- Chicago Consumers’ Checkbook Only available in the Library
Contains articles and ratings on a wide variety of local service firms, professionals, and stores. Includes ratings for insurance companies, plumbers, heating and air conditioning contractors, auto repair shops, dentists, doctors and more. - Angie’s List
Members can review and rate local services and healthcare providers in hundreds of categories. This requires a monthly subscription charge of $7.42 a month with a one time $10 sign up fee. - Better Business Bureau
Accredits, rates, and lists complaints against businesses and charities. - Cnet
Reviews for tech products news, price comparisons, free software downloads, daily videos, and podcasts. - ConsumerSearch.com
This site reviews many products, cell phone and long distance phone service, online banking, insurance, and websites. - Illinois Commission Commerce
- Illinois Division of Professional Regulation
This site provides license and disciplinary information for individuals in many fields including health, interior design, real estate, and cosmetology. - US Consumer Product Safety Commission
- Yelp
Largest and most popular website for reviews by consumers. This is the site to visit for reviews of restaurants, bars, stores and nightlife.
Review of Banks and Credit Unions
Reviews of Brokers & Financial Advisers
Reviews of Charities
For the “Best” Doctors
- Castle Connelly guides
- Chicago’s Consumer Checkbook Only available in the Library
Reviews of General Doctors
- Healthgrades
- ABMS Certification Matters
- Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Reviews of General Hospitals
- HHS Hospital Compare
- Chicago Consumers Checkbook Only available in the Library
Reviews of Specialty Hospitals
Reviews of Insurance Companies
- Consumer Reports
- Chicago Consumers’ Checkbook Only available in the Library
- Consumersearch.com
- JDPower.com
- Weiss Ratings