The Ten Best Tablets for Seniors

These days, Internet connectivity is considered a basic necessity, and for seniors, it can be a major source of protection against social isolation. Up to 90% of seniors have an internet connection through a home desktop or laptop computer, according to Pew Research Center, and a majority of seniors have begun to adopt mobile technologies as well. 

Still, many seniors struggle with mobile technologies, and often for reasons other than a lack of technological aptitude. The average smartphone screen measures from about 5 to 6.5 inches in diameter. This can make such a screen difficult for an older person with impaired vision to read, and a screen that size can also present challenges of manual dexterity for seniors who have arthritis or health conditions that cause weakness or unsteadiness in the hands.

While it is still somewhat unusual for a senior to own a tablet, they can be ideal devices for people of almost any age or ability level. The larger screen of a tablet presents the user with an easier reading experience, a larger surface area for touch engagement, and increased immersion in displayed content. Furthermore, tablets now have the same general capabilities as the average smartphone, often including support for on-board data and voice plans.

There are many great tablets available, but finding the best option for a senior involves understanding an individual’s technological competence, physical needs, and budget. We created this guide to help you understand your options and choose the tablet that is the best fit for your needs and budget. Our selections provide a mix of value and useful accessibility features for seniors, as well as a range of operating systems to choose from. We recommend that shoppers look for a tablet running an operating system that they or the senior in their life are already somewhat familiar with, though we have also included devices simple enough for almost anyone to use, such as the GrandPad and Amazon’s Fire tablets.

How We Chose the Best Tablets for Seniors

• Relevant Features for Seniors: We searched for devices that are compatible with a broad range of accessibility apps for seniors to include things like calendar and reminder apps, mind-stimulating games, and even launcher apps that further simplify a tablet’s home screen display and navigation.

• Build Quality: We took various hardware features into consideration, such as battery lifespan, waterproofing and drop-resistant body materials, processing speeds, audio output, screen clarity, and battery size.

• Price Range: Our selections cost between $50 and about $580 at the high end. Though there are more feature-rich devices available from most of the brands represented here, we avoided tablets that cost more than $600.

The Ten Best Tablets for Seniors

GrandPad

Overall Best Tablet for Seniors

GRANDPAD Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Setup is fully assisted by a representative
• Simple and large user interface
• Remote caregiver administrative tools
• Preloaded games to stimulate the mind
• Send voice-recorded emails so there’s no need to type
• The Help feature connects users with live representatives
• Large digital buttons for navigation, text, and dialing
• Internet access can be limited by caregivers for safe navigation

Other Device Highlights

• Built-in wireless connectivity through Consumer Cellular — no Wi-Fi required
• Call blocking
• Can make voice calls using carrier SIM card 
• Full HD display
• Ships with an included charging dock
• Small and easy to hold

View a full list of hardware specifications for The GrandPad.

Amazon Fire 7

Best Tablet Under $100 for Seniors

Amazon Fire 7 Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Show Mode provides enhanced visual information, such as large images and magnified text, along with Alexa’s audible feedback
• Can be used completely hands-free with voice commands
• Can be used to control Amazon smart home devices
• Access to Amazon Alexa Skills
• Highly simplified navigation and settings
• Small and easy to hold
• Text size adjustments and magnifier tool
• High-contrast text setting

Other Device Highlights

• Small 7-inch SD screen is still larger than most smartphones
• 16 GB of internal storage
• Standard size audio jack included
• Quad-core processor providing 1.3 GHz
• Comes in black, twilight blue, plum, or sage

View a full list of hardware specifications for the Amazon Fire 7.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite

Best Budget Samsung Tablet for Seniors

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Easy Mode simplifies home screen layout and enlarges on-screen items
• Bixby voice assistant performs many functions by voice command
• MSmall and very light 
• Samsung interface is famously user-friendly
• Access to support apps for seniors through Google Play
• Exceptionally comprehensive accessibility settings

Other Device Highlights

• MicroSD card slot for expandable memory
• Octa-core processor provides a speed of 2.0GHz 
• 3GB of RAM and at least 32GB of internal storage
• Standard audio jack
• Long battery life of about 10 hours
• Sleek and attractive design

View a full list of hardware specifications for the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite.

Lenovo Smart Tab M10 FHD Plus

Best Tablet with Alexa Voice Assistant

Lenovo Smart Tab M10 FHD Plus Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Dolby Atmos technology boosts audio and simulates surround sound with or without headphones
• Comes with built-in Alexa voice assistant enabling hands-free usage
• Front-facing speakers deliver clearer sound
• Thin and lightweight body is easy to hold
• Font size adjustment and high-contrast text settings
• Magnifier and large mouse cursor options
• Users can elect to use spoken passwords rather than typing
• Access to assistance apps for seniors through Google Play Store

Other Device Highlights

• 64GB of internal storage and 4GB of RAM
• Quad-core 2.3GHZ processor
• MicroSD slot for expandable memory
• Combination audio jack
• Comes with Alexa built-in smart dock 

View a full list of hardware specifications for the Lenovo Smart Tab M10 FHD Plus.

Apple iPad Mini

Most Affordable Apple Tablet

Apple iPad Mini Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Liquid Retina Display with high pixel density for the visually impaired
• Medical ID card in Apple’s Health app
• Available with SIM card support with no external Wi-Fi needed
• Apple’s accessibility features make display items larger and simpler to navigate
• Hearing aids Made for iPhone compatibility are widely available
• Siri Shortcuts feature makes verbal navigation easy
• Siri voice assistant carries out basic and complex verbal commands

Other Device Highlights

• iCloud app provides easy data backup and retrieval
• 64GB of memory and A15 Bionic chip
• Access to Apple’s proprietary app ecosystem
• Industry leading hardware
• Small, lightweight and easy to hold

View a full list of hardware specifications for the iPad Mini.

The Amazon Fire HD 10

Amazon Fire HD 10 Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Loud dual speakers 
• High-definition screen
• Show Mode provides enhanced visual information, such as large images and magnified text, along with Alexa’s audible feedback
• Can be used completely hands-free with voice commands
• Can be used to control Amazon smart home devices
• Access to Amazon Alexa Skills
• Highly simplified navigation and settings
• Large, carousel-style home screen shows most frequently used apps
• High-contrast text setting

Other Device Highlights

• Low-cost device with a solid build quality
• Sufficient availability of Amazon apps for moderate usage
• Great for streaming movies and TV or reading eBooks
• Octa-core processor offering 2.0 GHz processing speeds
• 3GB of RAM
• Available with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage

View a full list of hardware specifications for the Amazon Fire 10 HD.

The Apple iPad

Best Tablet for the Visually Impaired

Apple iPad Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Large HD Retina Display with high pixel density for the visually impaired
• Medical ID card in Apple’s Health app
• Fingerprint reader eliminates the need to remember a device passcode
• Available with SIM card support with no external Wi-Fi needed
• Apple’s accessibility features make display items larger and simpler to navigate
• Hearing aids with Made for iPhone compatibility are widely available
• Siri Shortcuts feature makes verbal interface navigation easy
• Siri voice assistant carries out basic and complex verbal commands

Other Device Highlights

• iCloud app provides easy data backup and retrieval
• Access to Apple’s proprietary app ecosystem
• 64GB of internal storage
• A13 Bionic chip supports productivity and multitasking
• Many compatible accessories including attachable keypad, charging dock, and smart home products

View a full list of hardware specifications for the Apple iPad.

Microsoft Surface Go 3

Best Tablet for Windows Users

Microsoft Surface Go 3 Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Built-in kickstand makes device easier to hold
• Extensive display settings to aid visual impairment and eye strain
• Cortana voice assistant makes searching for settings and apps easy 
• Customizable screen magnifier
• Windows 11 operating system offers familiarity to seniors already using it on a desktop computer

Other Device Highlights

• 64GB on internal storage 
• 4GB of RAM
• 1.1GHz Intel pentium processor
• Capable Intel processor makes the Go suitable for productivity
• MicroSD card slot for expandable memory

View a full list of hardware specifications for the Surface Go 3.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite

Best Accessibility Features

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Easy Mode simplifies home screen layout and enlarges on-screen items
• Exceptionally comprehensive suite of accessibility settings
• Access to support apps for seniors through Google Play
• Samsung interface is famously user-friendly
• Fingerprint sensor for password-free unlocking of device and apps
• Bixby voice assistant performs many functions by voice command

Other Device Highlights

• MicroSD slot for expandable storage
• 64GB of internal storage and 4GB of RAM
• Upright charging dock available separately
• More powerful processor than the featured Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
• Large 10.4-inch screen with Super AMOLED technology

View a full list of hardware specifications for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite.

Microsoft Surface Pro 6

Best Tablet/Laptop Hybrid for Seniors

Microsoft Surface Pro 6 Relevant Features for Seniors:

• Capable graphics engine and high-definition screen for clearer and more vivid display
• Built-in kickstand makes device easier to hold
• Extensive display settings to aid visual impairment and eye strain
• Cortana voice assistant makes searching for settings and apps easy 
• Customizable screen magnifier

Other Device Highlights

• Intel UHD graphics processor make photos and videos crystal clear
• Intel 1.6GHZ processor with faster options available
• 253GB of internal memory and 4GB of RAM
• Small attachable keyboard has good tactility (sold separately)

View a full list of hardware specifications for the Surface Pro 6.

Financial Assistance for Seniors Buying Tablets

Small smartphone screens may make it difficult for seniors with impaired vision, arthritis, or unsteady hands to use these devices. In contrast, tablets have a much larger screen and are therefore a great senior-friendly alternative. However, while there are some tablets available for under $100, many have a higher price tag and can retail for multiple hundreds of dollars. Seniors on a budget or with a limited income may not be able to afford such prices.

Neither Medicare nor Medicaid covers the cost of a tablet except in limited cases, such as when individuals with significant communication challenges need a tablet for speech generation. However, there are other forms of financial assistance available to low-income seniors that increase the affordability of tablets. The federally funded Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offers discounts on internet-connected devices and can help qualifying seniors get a tablet at a very low price. Veterans of the armed forces can also receive an internet-connected tablet on loan from the VA if they participate in virtual health appointments. Financial assistance options are available to seniors on a budget as well, including retailer discounts and tablet loaning programs at public libraries.

The below information will help seniors determine whether they are eligible for these or other programs and explain the application process required to receive a free or low-cost device. Seniors can use the included links and contact information to reach out to program or company representatives for additional details or answers to questions.        

Veteran Resources for Accessing Tablets

The VA provides veterans with free tablets with internet connectivity if they want to participate in telehealth programs but don’t have a required device. Various companies also provide discounts to veterans so they can purchase their own tablet or iPad for a fraction of its retail cost.  

VA Tablets for Telehealth

Veterans who want to participate in telehealth services through the VA, but do not have access to the internet or a video-capable device, can receive an internet-connected tablet on loan from the VA. 

To qualify, the veteran must contact their VA care team and then be referred to a VA social worker as part of a Digital Divide Consult. The social worker will determine whether a veteran is eligible for VA internet service or technology programs. For more information about this process, visit the VA Telehealth page of the VA website.  

Veteran Discounts on Electronics

In addition to the VA, many companies offer veteran discounts on electronics such as tablets and iPads. The following table lists several companies and the percentage discount they offer veterans. All companies except Microsoft and Dell require verification of one’s Veteran status with ID.me, an online platform that uses facial recognition to authenticate users’ identities, before one can redeem these discounts. Information on how to apply for Microsoft and Dell discounts is provided in the following table.

Affordable Connectivity Program for Low-Income Seniors

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides discounts on internet services to low-income individuals. Available discounts include $30 a month on high-speed internet services (up to $75 for those who reside on tribal lands) and a one-time discount of up to $100 on a connected device such as a tablet. This device discount requires a co-payment between $10 and $50. StandUp Wireless, Q Link Wireless, and Cintex Wireless are some of the companies that offer free tablets (with a $10.01 co-pay) to ACP customers.

To qualify for this benefit program, individuals must meet certain requirements:

• They must have an income no greater than 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (this is based on household size and state of residence).
• They must participate (or someone in their household must participate) in government assistance programs such as the following:
  • The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Medicaid
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • The Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
  • The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
  • Lifeline
  • The Federal Pell Grant program as a recipient in the current award year
  • The Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program 

To enroll in the ACP Program and begin receiving benefits, visit the Lifeline National Verifier page and answer the screening questions. 

Additional Financial Assistance Resources for Tablets

In addition to large federally-funded assistance programs, there are also nonprofits and some retailers that offer free or reduced-cost tablets to individuals who qualify. It is important for those who receive government assistance to check that those benefits will not change by accepting a fully free device.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Tablet for Seniors

Step 1: Find a Device that You Feel Capable of Setting Up Without Difficulty

Device setup is important when purchasing a tablet for a senior. Buyers will want the device to be intuitive and easy for the senior in their life to use as this will limit the possibility of confusion and encourage active use of the device. The caregiver or the end-user of a tablet should be confident in their ability to set up such a device after purchasing it, and without undue time burden. 

Setup of a new tablet involves multiple actions, such as determining easy-to-remember passwords, saving fingerprints for easy login, arranging the home screen to be as intuitive as possible, and turning on any assistive features that may be needed, such as enlarged or high-contrast text or text-to-speech screen readers. If you need help understanding what settings you’ll need to take care of to get a new tablet user-ready, multiple guides are available online for how to set up a mobile device specifically for a senior.

Most consumers will have an existing competency for certain device brands and operating systems, so it may be best to look for a device that will already be at least somewhat familiar to the person who will be responsible for device setup. For this reason, people who have never used an Android device may want to steer clear of brands like Samsung or Lenovo. While these devices boast the Android operating system’s extensive list of available settings, including a robust set of accessibility settings, that sheer number of options can make the first-time setup quite time-consuming and maybe a little confusing.

For users and caregivers who have little to no experience using mobile technologies, including smartphones and tablets, setup may be easiest with devices that have more limited feature sets and basic capabilities. Windows tablets and Amazon’s Fire tablets are great options in this case as these devices are made with simplicity in mind. However, buyers should be aware that setting up a Fire tablet’s most useful function for seniors — the Alexa voice assistant — will require the end-user to ‘train’ the voice assistant to recognize their words, and may involve at least some slightly complicated adjustment.

Step 2: Search for the Device’s Available Accessibility Settings

When considering the user’s potential future needs, it’s important to review the accessibility settings of potential devices to ensure that if serious hearing or vision loss should occur, they can still enjoy their tablet. To make these settings easier to learn about before you purchase a tablet, we have included links to all of our selected devices’ accessibility feature lists within each of our product listings above.

Step 3: Determine Hearing Aid Compatibility

If you use hearing aids and wish to connect them directly to your tablet, it’s important to check the device user guide for compatibility. Many manufacturers will provide a hearing aid compatibility (HAC) rating within the device manual or disclose whether or not the tablet is compatible. However, if a tablet has Bluetooth connectivity it’s likely that a Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid will connect to the device.

A popular trend among quality hearing aid brands has been to manufacture their aids with ‘Made for iPhone’ functionality. In many cases, this means that Made for iPhone hearing aids are more smoothly integrated with Apple phones and tablets than those of other brands, and that fewer additional accessory purchases may be needed to stream sound directly from an Apple device to a user’s hearing aids. Owners of Made for iPhone hearing aids may want to consider purchasing an iPhone or iPad when shopping for a mobile device.

Step 4: Understand Device Pricing Structure

Many tablet models are available in different hardware configurations. You may find one type of tablet available with a higher-definition screen, a faster processor, or larger storage capacity, and as a result, you’ll find the same device listed at a very broad range of prices. To find all configurations that a device is offered in, it’s usually best to view that device on the manufacturer’s website, as other retailers, like Best Buy or Amazon, may not offer all available configurations or may sell them across different product pages that make reviewing your options online more tedious.

Step 5: Review the Warranty Options Before You Buy

Though any new tablet you buy will be covered by a basic manufacturer’s warranty that at least covers defective parts, the extended warranty options you’ll be offered will be contingent upon where you choose to purchase your tablet. The tablets listed here are all available for sale through their manufacturers, all of which offer some type of extended warranty to cover use-related damage or loss. But these tablets are also available from other retailers, such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Costco. These retailers all provide their own terms and conditions (and prices) for their extended warranties, so determining the best place to buy your tablet should be a process determined not only by who has the best price, but also where you can get the best warranty coverage. Also, keep in mind that buying a device directly from the manufacturer can make getting repairs down the road a faster and possibly cheaper process.

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