The article is focused on principles and research methods of evaluation of cartographic visualizations. We describe a methodological framework of main approaches that could be employed within the process of evaluation and usability testing of cartographic products. These approaches include the quantitative analysis using different data collection tools with an emphasis on the MUTEP application, the qualitative methods applying eye-tracking study and their effective combination. The research approaches are explained with regard to their historical relations originated from cognitive science. This knowledge is an essential assumption for understanding all determinations of the employment of the particular methods in usability testing.