7 Best Laptops For Seniors: Reviewed For Elderly Citizens

Laptops For Seniors Compared

Laptop Requirements and Specifications For Seniors

Senior citizens have special needs when it comes to computers. While they are fully capable, the computer needs to be ergonomic, responsive, and simple to use.

User Friendliness

You aren’t going to find many seniors that are editing the registry, or running self-created .bat files to enhance their computing experience. Like most things, seniors want items that just work and do what they are supposed to. Being user-friendly should always be a top priority when looking for a laptop for elderly members of society.

Ergonomics

It is no secret that as we age, things don't work like they used to. Eyes, hands, and fingers aren't as nimble and responsive as they used to be. Having an ergonomic laptop will help alleviate some of the worries about using a computer.

Portability

Laptops need to be lightweight and highly portable. If your elderly relative is expected to take their laptop from their favorite chair to the kitchen, they need to be able to do so with relative ease.

Program Compatibility

The laptop should also be installed with programs that are compatible with high-resolution screens, on-screen keyboards, and even closed captioning. All seniors will have different specific needs, but the standards should be met across the board as a starting point.

Display

The display doesn’t need to be a top-tier 4k resolution. In fact, higher resolution sizes can make icons and text too small to be effective. 720P and 1080p HD with large fonts and icons are the most ideal for a better experience and use of the laptop.

Operating System & Connectivity

Just because you like to run the latest flavor of Linux, or want to customize your Mac OSx environment, doesn't mean it will work best for the elderly. The operating system needs to be familiar while the majority of seniors didn't learn about computers in school, those that have any experience with them mainly trained on a Windows-based system.

The familiar layout and user-experience will go a long way to getting more use out of the laptop. It also needs to be connected with a broadband connection, so there isn't any waiting time. If your elderly relative needs to jump on a Skype call with their grandkids, it should be near-instant.

Battery Life

For the most part, the battery life isn’t going to be an issue. However, you should make sure that the battery can last long enough to get the senior through all the tasks they need to complete that day. If the laptop mainly sits at the charger and only moves when absolutely needed, a 4-hour battery can work well enough, and save a little bit of money.

Processor

Memory/RAM

Another saving grace is that you don't have to go broke upgrading the RAM. Even running a modern CPU with 8GB of RAM will be plenty for most of the applications and software used by senior citizens.

While more RAM is almost always a good thing, you won’t have to worry too much here. Just make sure the system has enough RAM to meet the minimum specs for the most used programs.

Storage

There should be ample storage for images and videos, as well as the space to install any specialty programs needed by your elderly relatives. If you go with an SSD 256GB or more will be sufficient for most cases. HDD storage can easily go up to 1 or 2TB for a relatively low cost.

Price & Warranty

The price will vary based on who is making the purchase. If the senior is buying for themselves, then their income will need to be taken into account. Since most seniors have a fixed income, the overall cost of the laptop will need to be carefully considered.

The warranty is also something that needs extra attention. Accidental spills and dropping aren’t generally covered by a warranty, so you may want to look at investing in an insurance policy for the laptop.

1. Lenovo Ideapad L340

Best Laptop For Seniors

Lenovo enters the gaming market with the Ideapad L340, and inadvertently creates the best laptop for seniors. While your senior may not be an avid gamer, they will appreciate the cost-effect efforts that make this an ideal laptop.

First, we find Dolby digital audio for crystal clear voice and messaging without the need for headphones. This makes video calls easy to hear. The high definition, full-size display also keeps icons a good size as well as clarity on images, videos, and text.

You also don’t need to worry about the battery dying while the senior is shopping or reading emails. The lithium-ion battery pack can power the Ideapad for about 9 hours on a single charge.

While it doesn’t offer a quick charge function, the laptop will charge and play without any noticeable effects. When the battery does get low, you can plug it in and keep going. The Lenovo laptops are also known for their durability. Rugged and highly-durable, this laptop won’t crack under pressure and will take the day to day use it is purchased for.

With online or phone tech support, you won't have to worry about the computer breaking down either. A full 1-year limited warranty is included with upgrade options, including insurance and dedicated support. Easily the best full HD laptop for seniors.

Also Recommended: 5 Best Computers for Elderly Parents & Seniors

2. Acer Aspire 5 Slim

Best Basic Laptop For Seniors

Acer isn't known for its top-end models, and that is what makes them perfect for seniors. The Acer Aspire 5 Slim is a sleek, lightweight, and portable laptop with a full-sized screen and no fancy extras.

What you do get is a crystal clear full 15-inch screen with a 1080p high definition. This clarity is ideal for video chatting, reading eBooks, emails, and watching films. You also get decent audio quality with Acer TrueHarmony sound (though it isn’t surround).

This computer has one feature that stands out, though. The 2x2 channel 801.1 wireless connection is one of the strongest and fastest to connect in the industry. This means the seniors in your life won't have to worry about connectivity when they move around the house or go outside to enjoy the fresh air.

With a 7.5-hour battery life, the Acer is also one of the longest-lasting budget-friendly models on the market, making it ideal for those that may not plug it in all the time, or remember to charge it when they turn it off for the day.

The back-lit keyboard isn't a unique feature, but it does help key visibility, and the full-sized keyboard is easy to type with a low-pressure rating on the keys themselves. The senior using this laptop will be efficient, speedy, and connected at all times.

3. HP (17-BY1053DX)

Best Laptop For Seniors With Bigger Screen

4. ASUS Chromebook C202SA-YS02

Best Chromebook For Seniors

If you want an easy to use, no-frills laptop that is designed for simple tasks, the Asus Chromebook is the best Chromebook for seniors. Initially developed for distance learning for kids, it has practical applications for seniors as well.

One thing you need to note, though, is that this isn’t your average laptop. There isn't a hard drive. It only has 16GB (optional upgrade to 32GB) flash storage. The Chromebook works with Google OS, and everything is done online.

Through Chrome and your Google account, you can access the internet, online applications, and almost anything from the Google Play Store. There won’t be any stand-alone email clients or additional downloads to do.

Keeping it simple is the main purpose, and for that, the Asus Chromebook does it better than anyone else. The notebook is only 2.6 pounds, and the bottom side has 2 grip-strips that make carrying the laptop easier for small and older hands.

The Asus Chromebook also boots up extremely fast (in about 10 seconds) and will last all day with 10-hour battery life. You do get a free year of Google Cloud storage (100GB) where you can store your files, images, and videos. However, at the end of the 12-month subscription, you will need to pay to continue its use.

Also Recommended: 5 Best Chromebooks Under $200

5. Dell Inspiron 14 5481

Best Touchscreen Laptop For Seniors

The best touchscreen laptop for seniors is the effective and simple-designed Dell Inspiron 14. This 2-in-1 touchscreen laptop doubles as a display for images and video, a tablet for reading, and a laptop for emails and online shopping.

The best thing about it is that it isn’t an expensive 2-in-1. Unlike some of the top-end models, this Dell has the basics of only what you need. The Intel i3 CPU is the 8^th gen version, so it is fast enough to run the laptop without being bogged down.

There is a 128GB hard drive installed as well, which makes it easy enough to store all of your files and have enough left over for Skype video calls and receiving videos of the grandkids. The 4GB RAM isn't going to make this a blazing fast system, but a 6 hour battery life and efficient speed for online activities should be sufficient.

With the money saved, you can add office software or add a nice carrying case. The touch screen works with fingers, though a pen may be a better option. What you may not like, though, is that the screen doesn’t offer many viewing angles.

Aside from straight on, the screen can grow dark or difficult to see when viewed from the side, or at an angle while sitting or standing. Apart from this, though, a straight-on view produces a high-quality 720p resolution that accommodates all eye sights.

Also Recommended: Best 2 in 1 Laptops Under $300

6. TOSHIBA Tecra A50-E

Best Business Computer For Seniors

For the senior with a job to do, the best business computer for seniors is the Toshiba Tecra A50-E. This full-sized, 15-inch laptop delivers where it matters and saves when it doesn’t.

It comes with a 128GB SSD storage drive but can be upgraded to 256 (for an additional cost). The 128GB should be enough to store files, paperwork, images, and videos for a while. If space is a concern, you can use the UBS 3.0 port to connect an external drive when needed.

For video calls, conferences, webinars, and Skype calls, the full 1080p high definition resolution will make all videos crystal clear. The laptop is also relatively lightweight. At 5 pounds, it won't scoot around the desk while typing and is still easy enough to pack up and carry with you.

The 8-hour battery life is enough to get you through the workday or to stay late and work on those documents that can't wait. Regardless of how you plan to use it, the Toshiba is a rugged, hardy, and easy to use laptop that won't' slow you down.

While there isn't any insurance, the design is fairly rugged, and with normal wear and tear, the laptop will last for years to come.

Also Recommended: 6 Best Work Laptops Reviewed

7. Apple MacBook Air

Best Apple Laptop For Seniors

Software Most Used by The Elderly

Software and programs are the reason to use a laptop in the first place. They help us maintain productivity and keep us connected to the outside world. Several programs are essential to a laptop for the elderly to help facilitate these things.

Cleaning, Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Keeping a laptop clean and maintained isn’t a difficult process. The use of disinfecting wet wipes is a good idea for the screens and keyboard, as long as they are rated for electronics. A can of air can go a long way as well.

Most of the troubleshooting will be with the Operating System or the power supply. The most common questions deal with the computers not turning on. This can be due to a dead battery, a faulty power supply, or the charger not being plugged in.

For OS-specific queries, an online troubleshooting guide is best to use to get specific help for the exact problem. Also, while it is cliché, turning it off and back on trick does solve a lot of start-up and program freezing issues.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Do I need to get insurance for my laptop?

Insurance is not a warranty. While it isn’t a requirement, it is recommended to purchase an insurance policy that protects against accidental damage. This can be dropping, screen issues, or spills. 

What types of warranties do these brands offer?

Most laptops will come with a 1-year limited warranty. This will protect against damage from shipping, problems with the battery or power supply, and general defect issues. It will not protect against user-caused damage, viruses, or accidental damage. However, an insurance policy can cover the things the warranty doesn't.

What should an elderly person do when their laptops stops working?

Troubleshooting a laptop doesn't change because the user is older. The same steps are involved, including locating the source of the issue and taking steps to resolve that issue. Once you know about the problem, steps can be made to correct it. In most cases, it is a simple fix, such as a battery or power supply problem.

Are iPads or tablets better solutions for seniors wanting to stay connected?

A lot will depend on how the senior uses the devices to stay connected. Tablets are usually lighter and easy to carry around. However, they lack some of the fundamental features that are needed. A full-size keyboard, for example, is better when writing emails or doing online banking or shopping.

What is the most user-friendly laptop for seniors?

Conclusion