I use labmax
Do I think it is a great test,
Hell no, but it is what we have, and IMO its cheap for what it is.
Frankly if $10 is too much for you, find another hobby, one with less possible negative heath impacts.
One of the problems is that it is a visual test therefore very subjective. We see color different from person to person, some will say the light between green and red is yellow, some see it as orange.
For me it is just another tool like research, blood work and MS.
I have done a number (around 50) of LM test both on raws and finished products, here are some of my observations, in response to
@Sworder valid questions.
Raws have the best fluorescence.
Carrier oil by itself even MCT does not show fluorescence.
Both raws and finished product have similar/same color flourescence.
Both my experience and labmax chart states that Test P raw and oils have color the same color in UV light
They do differ in normal light which is questionable to me as well. The "Why" has not been answered to my satisfaction by LM
When I brewed with MCT the raw test and finished product test match very well.
When I brewed with GSO the raws look good and finished product looked questionable.
Blood work and the mirror proved both products were IMO acceptable.
There is a pattern that you can see after doing more than just a couple LM test and you get more comfortable with them and there results.
Sworder is right they don't prove shit but they do give some clue to what you have or do not have.
They are a secondary tool to be used in conjunction with blood work and the mirror.