Low power factor can make other devices nearby unstable by introducing noise or uneven ac cycles. Its overblown, sure, but tends to be a reliable indicator of o

Low power factor can make other devices nearby unstable by introducing noise or uneven ac cycles. Its overblown, sure, but tends to be a reliable indicator of overall quality as most engineers will only optimize for it with higher quality designs. Lower quality designs can often be dirtier and shorter lasting due to feedback, inefficiency and parts omission.