The whole "paid" review thing is like walking a tightrope. So long as its disclosed, I'm not against it. But...........................................
Quite often, these reviewers get early access to products that I might be interesting in, so it can be a good chance see something new in action. But...........................................you need to keep in mind that money has changed hands, so how critical will the reviewer be? It's all in how its presented, if you put a happy-happy-happy spin on EVERYTHING like certain reviewers do to keep the gravy train rolling, then I tend to sideline their content because I'm not really learning anything.
When I write a review on a product, I've paid for it using my own money so that I'm not obliged to be selective in what I write. I was once sent the full Bilt Hamber lineup in order to write a range review/overview for Detailing Shed. Apart from that initial rush from opening a box full of products you didn't pay for, the novelty wears off very quickly because, well, suddenly there are expectations. And while there were products that instantly impressed, many I found remarkably unremarkable.
In the end, I wrote the article to provide an overview of each product, and where/when/how to use it. From my point of view, some of the Bilt Hamber product names do not even hint as to what each product is used for. Does anyone know what Dynax-UC is or what its used for? Or what about Touch-On and Atom Mac? So, I managed to find an angle to provide content without offending someone, or being that happy-happy-happy influencer that provides no value to the viewer/reader.
I'd say that paid reviews are like a drug. The initial rush feels good, but once you are on the merry-go-round, you will do anything to maintain the rush. Like any drug of dependance, there are side effects.
