Yeti Picks Methodology
Every Yeti Picks page uses a fixed rubric so users can compare options with one frame. We do not replace due diligence; we reduce confusion and speed up first decisions.
Affiliate disclosure: monetization may occur when users click partner links. Scoring weights and negative-fit notes are set before monetization decisions.
Exchange Scoring Rubric (100 points)
| Category | Weight | What we test |
|---|---|---|
| Security controls | 30 | 2FA support, session controls, withdrawal safeguards, transparency signals. |
| Beginner usability | 20 | Onboarding clarity, buy/sell flow, navigation friction, basic task completion. |
| Cost profile | 20 | Trading fee structure, hidden costs, withdrawal behavior, spread quality. |
| Liquidity and execution | 15 | Depth on core pairs, slippage behavior, order execution reliability. |
| Product coverage | 10 | Spot coverage, tools available, growth path for users. |
| Docs and support quality | 5 | Help center quality, clarity of policy updates, support responsiveness. |
Hardware Wallet Scoring Rubric (100 points)
| Category | Weight | What we test |
|---|---|---|
| Custody architecture | 35 | Key isolation model, signing flow, security-first defaults. |
| Backup and recovery process | 25 | Seed generation clarity, restoration workflow, user error resistance. |
| Transaction safety | 20 | On-device confirmation clarity for amounts, addresses, and approvals. |
| Firmware and vendor ops | 10 | Update process quality, communication cadence, maintenance reliability. |
| Ease of use | 10 | Setup friction, app stability, daily usability for target users. |
Interpretation Rules
- 90-100: Strong fit for the page objective.
- 80-89: Good fit with meaningful tradeoffs.
- 70-79: Situational fit only.
- Below 70: usually not selected in top picks.
Every decision page includes a "Who should avoid this" block. If you match that block, do not use that pick.