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Finding the Simplest Laptop for Seniors

Finding the Simplest Laptop for Seniors

Many seniors just want a basic laptop that is easy to use. The simplest laptops for seniors are lightweight, have large screens, loud speakers, and keyboards with large buttons. Often a separate mouse is easier to use than a built-in one. Here are my recommendations.
Scott Grant, CSA®, SHSS®
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Simplest Laptop For Seniors
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Simplest Laptop For Seniors

Computers have sure come a long way since I sold them in college at our local Sears store. And they sure are a lot easier to use than they were too.

Desktop and laptop computers are used in nearly all parts of life now: at work and at home. Many seniors have embraced computers but some still have a fear of the technology.

Here is a guide to finding the simplest laptop for seniors who are afraid they can’t learn computers or that they may mess something up.

Winner: The Simplest Laptop for Seniors

Acer Chromebook 14, Aluminum, 14-inch Full HD, Intel Celeron N3160, 4GB LPDDR3, 32GB, Chrome, CB3-431-C5FM

Acer Chromebook 14

$258.00
as of 03/18/2024 5:12 pm

Google Chrome Operating System

4 MB RAM Memory

32 GB Internal Storage

14″ High-Density Backlit Screen

High-Density Webcam

2 USB Ports

Up to 12 hours of Battery Life

Weighs 3.42 lbs

Model# 14 CB3-431-C5FM

After studying and reviewing the many laptop options, I am recommending the Acer Chromebook 14 as the simplest laptop for seniors.

Chromebooks use a very simple interface and are a much easier system for elders and seniors to learn than Windows. This laptop has all the basic features needed for using the internet, storing pictures, and other simple functions.

The screen is 14″ on the diagonal which is roughly 11-1/2″ wide by 8″ high. It is also extremely lightweight and easy to carry.

While you are researching laptop computers for seniors, you will run into terrible reviews of Chromebooks. But, keep in mind the intended uses. Typical complaints about these computers are that they are too simple.

However, that is exactly what we are looking for seniors and elders. People buy these because they are cheap laptops and try to load them down. They were never designed to do this.


Cheapest Simplest Laptop for Seniors – Runnerup

HP 14" Chromebook Laptop 4GB 16GB | 14-ak040wm

HP 14-inch Chromebook

$199.00
as of 03/18/2024 5:12 pm

Google Chrome OS

4 MB RAM Memory

16 GB Internal Storage

14″ HD Screen (not backlit)

Webcam

3 USB ports

Up to 8.25 Hours of Battery Life

Weighs 3.77 lbs

Model#: N2840

I also like this HP Chromebook 14 for seniors and elders who just want a simple laptop computer to use for the internet and social media. It’s lower priced than the one above but also has fewer features.

This laptop has half the storage of the Acer Chromebook which isn’t a big deal unless the user will be saving a lot of pictures. The screens are about the same size BUT this one is not backlit.

That could make a big difference for a senior who is having vision problems. The battery life is a little less too. But, again, this probably isn’t a big deal for most elder and senior users.


Best Easy-to-Use Laptop for Seniors with Bad Eyesight

acer 2023 Newest Chromebook 15.6" FHD 1080p IPS Touchscreen Light Computer Laptop, Due-core Intel Celeron N4020, 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC, HD Webcam, WiFi 5, 12+ Hours Battery, Chrome OS, w/Marxsolcables

Acer 15.6

$267.00
as of 03/18/2024 5:12 pm
  • Google Chrome OS
  • 4 MB RAM Memory
  • 16 GB Internal Storage
  • 15.6″ Full HD Screen that is also Backlit
  • Webcam
  • 2 USB ports
  • Up to 9 hours battery life
  • Weighs 4.85

For seniors and elders who have low vision or need more features, I recommend the Acer 15.6″ Flagship Chromebook. To help with bad eyesight, this easy-to-use laptop has a larger 15.6″ screen that is full HD quality and is also backlit. This is a powerful combination of features in a sub $300.00 laptop package. It has my other recommended features too.

This laptop is a bit heavier than the others – about a pound more. But, the weight comes from the larger size which is the main benefit of this laptop.

How Seniors Use Computers

Like I said before, not every senior is technologically illiterate. While some seniors have trouble with basic remote controls, many aging baby boomers have used computers for years.

They know their way around a keyboard and a mouse. Many have experience using tablets like iPads. For the elders and seniors who don’t, here are just a few ways that seniors benefit from using laptop computers:

  • Social Media. Staying in touch with family and friends is important. Computers and social media sites allow seniors to see pictures of their grandkids who now live 3 states away. They are able to stay involved in the lives of their families and not feel as alone and sheltered.
  • Recipes. For seniors who enjoy cooking and experimenting in the kitchen, the internet offers millions (maybe even billions!) of recipes. All these can be at their fingertips through a simple Google search.
  • Email. More and more businesses want to communicate with their customers through email. Having an email address is becoming necessary and hard to avoid.
  • Games. Many of the games seniors like to play are available in electronic versions. On a computer, these games are easier to play because they are easier to see in many cases.
  • Discounts. I know that my grandmother loves nothing better than a good discount. Searching online for the best prices and reviews is a computer activity that seniors will love.
  • Paying Bills. Many seniors love the ability to instantly pay bills online. This can be especially helpful to those on a fixed income who have to manage a tight cash flow.
  • Work-at-Home Jobs. Some seniors have taken up working at home for extra part-time income. Computers are usually a requirement for this type of work.
choosing laptop computer for seniors
Depending on the included features, laptop computers differ in price.

Questions to Answer Before Choosing a Laptop Computer for Seniors

Before just jumping in and buying a laptop for a senior or elder, ask yourself these questions:

1. How will the senior be using the computer?

What the senior needs the laptop to do for them is a major consideration before buying a computer. A few questions to ask:

  • Will the senior be primarily using the internet?
  • Is there a need to run additional software like word processing or spreadsheets?
  • Will the senior use the laptop for gaming or processing images?
  • Are USB ports needed for connecting other devices like cell phones or MP3 players?

2. What level of computer experience does the senior have?

Another major consideration before choosing a laptop computer is the experience level of the user.

  • Beginner – No or very minimal experience using computers
  • Novice – Can perform basic functions like opening a browser window and using Google
  • Intermediate – Knows how to install software, run programs, and
  • Advanced – Can manipulate files, write code, create websites

3. What are the senior’s physical limitations?

Adaptations can be made for computer users with physical challenges and medical problems.

  • Vision – does the user have any difficulty seeing small print? How about dimly lit screens?
  • Hearing – Is the senior experiencing hearing loss? If so, at what level?
  • Physical – does the user have arthritis or weakness in their hands that makes typing or using a mouse difficult?

4. How much does the senior have to spend on a new computer?

Laptop computers vary greatly in price depending on the included features. Basic, simple laptops are available for less than $300.00 now.

Good, budget options exist for well under $500.00. Middle range well-equipped laptops are under $1000.00 with higher end systems over $1000.00.

laptop computer terms and features seniors
 For seniors with more advanced computer skills, they may need 8 GB RAM or more.

A Review of Laptop Computer Terms and Features for Seniors

There is a lot of jargon and terminology that goes along with computers and tablets. Most of it is easy to understand once you learn some of the basic terms.

For the purpose of this article, I am not going to get too technical. My goal is to give you enough understanding to be able to compare options. Just what you need to know for buying the simplest laptop for seniors.

Technical Computer Terms and Recommended Features

These technical terms are used to describe the processing power and storage capabilities of computers. A very basic understanding of these numbers is all you need to shop for a computer. Here is a quick rundown:

  • Operating System – Operating systems are what make the computer able to function. There are a few major operating systems (OS): Chrome OS, Windows, and Mac OS. A detailed comparison is more than you need to know for this discussion. But, I recommend the Chrome OS for simple-to-use laptops for seniors. Here is why for those who want to compare in detail.
  • Processor – this is the brain of the computer and the type determines how fast the computer is. Most computer processors on the retail market are made by AMD or Intel. This article by iFixit.com really gets into the details and differences among processors. For simple laptops, the processor is not a major factor.
  • RAM – this stands for Random Access Memory and is described in Gigabytes (GB). It’s the temporary storage of the computer and is where programs and files are stored while the computer is running. In today’s environment, look for a minimum of 4 GB. Seniors with more advanced computer skills may need 8 GB or more.
  • Storage – this is where the computer programs are stored and is usually expressed in Gigabytes (GB) and even Terabytes (TB). Most computers still use hard drives which is a moving device in the computer that stores the files. Newer technology is Solid State which stores files on chips inside of the computer. Most of the more simple laptops use internal, solid-state storage. Computer Hope does a great job of explaining the differences in storage devices if you want more details.
  • Screen Resolution – this indicates the clarity of the computer screen and is described by #### X ###. These #’s are the number of pixels in the width of the screen by the pixels in the height. The higher the numbers, the better the resolution. Look for HD screens around 1920 X 1080.
important laptop features for seniors
A screen size of at least 14″ is suitable for most seniors.

Important Laptop Features for Seniors

  • Weight – laptop computers vary greatly in how much they weigh. Look for lighter-weight laptops, especially for seniors with weakness. I recommend ones that are 4 lbs or less.
  • Screen Size – laptop computer screens are measured diagonally like TVs. So, a laptop with a 17″ display screen measures 17″ from one corner diagonally to the opposite corner. For most seniors, you will want a screen size of at least 14″. Stay away from the new 10″ and 11″ models – these screens are much too small. Also, a backlit screen is clearer, brighter, and easier to see.
  • Battery Life – indicates in hours how long the batteries will last between charges. The longer the battery life the better BUT a long battery life may require bigger batteries which will make the laptop heavier.
  • Sound – the quality of speakers on computer laptops differs from model to model. Higher-end “gaming” laptop computers have the best sound systems. Don’t get too hung up on this though. The sound on laptops can be supplemented by using headphones or plugging in external speakers. Check out the best headphones for seniors here.

Additional Recommended Features

  • Keyboard Buttons – this is very important for seniors with bad vision or arthritic joints. Look for big buttons with big, bold letters that are easy to read. Amazon also sells keyboard stickers to put onto the keys that are helpful for people with low vision.
  • Cursor Control – most laptop computers come with a pad below the keyboard which moves the cursor on the screen. Many seniors, especially those with arthritis and hand weakness, will not like using this device. I don’t like using them either – I always use a separate mouse. It requires using the fingertips to move the cursor. Get a separate mouse to plug into the computer for easier, pain-free control

Summary: Simplest Laptop for Seniors Reviews

So, boiling all this info down, here is my recommendation for the most basic and simplest laptop for seniors. Look for a laptop that has:

  • Google Chrome OS
  • 4 GB RAM memory & 16 GB storage
  • A backlit, high-density screen that is at least 14″
  • A keyboard with large keys with bold print. If not available, grab a set of keyboard stickers from Amazon.
  • a total weight of less than 5 lbs
  • Use an actual mouse instead of the pad on the laptop. Here are a few recommendations for seniors with arthritis.

If you have any questions or recommendations of your own, please share them below! As always, questions are welcome!

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Scott Grant, CSA®, SHSS®

Scott Grant, CSA®, SHSS®

With over 20 years of experience and certifications as a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® and Senior Home Safety Specialist (SHSS)®, Scott Grant provides reliable recommendations to help seniors maintain independence through informed product and service choices for safe, comfortable living.

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3 thoughts on “Finding the Simplest Laptop for Seniors”

  1. Abishek

    Thank you so much…….to give us such type of valuable information……and specially i would like to thanks because i got so many help from this site………and i wish you best of luck……..

  2. Peter

    The chrome book is too small and has a cell phone interface so it’s fairly confusing to seniors. There are actually computers just for seniors. Wow, telikin and A Plus Senior are all ready to go. The wow and telikin (there actually the same computer uses a Linux system so it’s closed, no adding programs and has basic software. A Plus Senior uses Windows so it’s compatible with all software and printers. Even though they use Win10 they configure it with a Windows 7 look and feel.

  3. I’m a senior who has worked with computers since 1980, and I worked as a Programmer Analyst 1981–1991. Since 2014, I’ve owned — and loved! — 3 chromebooks (all Acers). I also provide tech support to many seniors in my community who are struggling to use their (sometimes old) Windows PCs.

    The above comment by “Peter” is incorrect in 2 places:

    1. Saying that chromebooks have “a cell phone interface.” Most or all chromebooks have a built-in WiFi adapter, just like Windows laptops and MACbooks.

    2. Saying that chromebooks are “too small.” I think the smallest chromebooks have an 11.6″ display/screen, which is perfectly fine for most seniors who are willing to take a few days to adjust to a more condensed keyboard and screen. But for only $50-$150 more, there’s plenty of great chromebooks with a 14″ or 15.6″ screen.

    And re Peter’s comments about the 3 brands of “computers just for seniors”: More proof that seniors don’t need complicated Windows PCs. But those brands either started before chromebooks were so ubiquitous and affordable, and/or their business model probably includes marketing to seniors in ways that attract those who are frustrated by their PCs and then are not informed that a chromebook would be a great solution.

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