#How RackRat Deal Scoring Works

RackRat calculates a 0–100 score so you can compare listings by value, not hype. A higher score means “better performance for the money” relative to similar listings in the same category.

#What the Score Represents

The deal score highlights relative value compared to other active listings. A 95 points to an exceptional price/performance combination, while a 45 means the listing looks expensive versus peers.

#Inputs That Move the Score

• CPU generation and configuration. Newer, higher core-count silicon generally scores higher until diminishing returns kick in.
• Included RAM. Systems with balanced memory footprints earn more credit than those that require immediate upgrades.
• Storage capacity. Raw terabytes matter because most buyers need at least a boot volume to get started.
• Total price including shipping. The score always uses out-the-door cost.

#Inputs That Stay Out

To keep the score objective, RackRat intentionally ignores:

• Seller reputation and anecdotal trust factors
• Cosmetic or physical condition beyond what’s in the specs
• Warranty promises and listing “extras” that are hard to verify at scale
• Power consumption, acoustics, or rack depth
• Your unique workload or homelab goals

#The 0–100 Scale

Scores are percentile-based inside each product family:

• 100 → One of the strongest deals available now
• 90–99 → Excellent price/performance
• 70–89 → Solid value
• 50–69 → Typical market rate
• Below 50 → Overpriced compared to peers

Because the scale is relative, scores update as market inventory shifts. New batches of strong listings can lower the relative position of older deals.

#Using the Score

Use high scores to surface listings worth deeper research, then apply your own filters (power, acoustics, supported features) before buying. Treat the number as a shortcut, not a verdict, and corroborate with the listing details. The score is descriptive, not prescriptive.

#FAQ