Our 2023 Guide to Computers for Seniors

Desktop Computers, Laptops, and Tablets

Desktop computers, laptops, and tablets are often used interchangeably since they are all ways that people can “go on the computer,” whether to check a bank account, schedule an appointment, shop, or just watch movies. However, these devices have different uses due to distinctions in their technology.

This changes not only the size and power of each device but also what they are best used for and how you will interact with them.

Desktop Computers

A desktop computer has an upright box or “tower” that contains the computer’s systems. The tower contains a drive to play CDs and DVDs, a place to plug in headphones, a power button, and various ports for additional drives. You interact with desktops through a mouse and keyboard connected to a screen called a monitor. All of these components are separate.

Modern desktop computers require a lot of cords, but they are ready to use out of the box. However, of the three device types, the desktop requires the most space and the most hardware setup. It will require multiple devices to be plugged into one another correctly, as well as a permanent power source that can be reached with the plugs it comes with.

Laptops

A laptop contains the computer, screen, mouse, and keyboard in one device. It opens on a table or on your lap and can be used out of the box after being charged. Unlike a desktop, a laptop does not need to be plugged in permanently, as it uses a rechargeable battery.

Not all laptops contain the same hardware features as a desktop. Some, for instance, do not have a disc drive that plays CDs and DVDs. The technology of a laptop is often more limited due to its size, and instead of a mouse, most have a touchpad that you can use with your finger.

However, laptops are versatile, as you can buy external keyboards and mouses if you prefer to use them. Laptops always have the ability to connect wirelessly to your internet after putting in the right access point and password, so you never have to bother with cords.

Tablets

Tablets are the smallest and newest device of the three. They contain the processors, power source, and interface all within one flat screen that you hold in your hand. Most do not come with a mouse and keyboard, relying instead on touch screen functions to type and perform other functions.

Tablets cannot play movies from discs, but they can access the internet and stream video content. Despite not having a keyboard by default, tablet users can buy them separately and use programs like Microsoft Word just like on a computer. Tablets connect to your Wi-Fi and provide access to all the same internet functions as a laptop.

How to Choose the Right Device

When starting to look at devices, you’ll want to consider the following:

Intended usage

Computers can be used in a variety of ways, no matter which device you buy. How and where you plan to use your computer makes a big difference in which type is the right one for you. Examples of uses for computers include:

Where you plan on using your device can be as important as what you plan on using it for. For example, if you plan on using your computer mostly for reading, checking emails, and other relaxing things, you may want to take it with you to different rooms. By contrast, if you plan on using it to write or conduct business, you may prefer for it to stay in your office space.

Experience level

Your experience level with computer technology plays a role in which device is best suited for your needs. Maybe you’ve used computers with Windows in the past, in which case a desktop or laptop from Microsoft may be more familiar.

No matter which device you get, there will probably be a learning curve. If you feel overwhelmed by computers, you might consider the simplified devices to be better options. Laptops are much easier to set up and use than desktops and tablets are the simplest of all.

Many modern devices prioritize usability over technical knowledge. You may still need help using them, but the devices that are self-contained and ready to use out of the box may be better choices for those who are nervous about using new technology.

Physical capabilities

Your physical capabilities may also influence which device is right for you. Arthritis, for instance, can make typing on a conventional keyboard difficult whereas a touch screen on a tablet might be much more comfortable. If you have vision issues, you might also appreciate how easily you can zoom in to enlarge text.

Regardless of your physical limitations, there are devices out there to accommodate you. These include keyboards and mouses built with ergonomic comfort in mind, touch-screen alternatives, larger screens, and keys with bigger print.

What to Look For in a Computer

Even if you decide which type of computer you want to get, different brands and models of each type have different capabilities. Each aspect of a computer’s features, from its physical size to its computing power, has implications for what you can use it for and how well it will work.

Therefore, each criterion affects your ability to get your intended uses out of your computer. These categories do not have “right” and “wrong” answers that apply to everyone, but they are all significant to consider when choosing a computer.

Size and weight

Computers all have different physical sizes, which can impact their usability. If you have dexterity or strength limitations, a lighter tablet may be much more comfortable to use.

The importance of size goes beyond physical comfort, however, since computers have different displays which impacts how well you can interact with them. Most laptops have screens that are 11-15 inches, while desktops can have monitors as large as 30 inches. If you have vision limitations and would like to use your computer on a larger display, a desktop may be a better fit than a tablet.

Operating system

The operating system (often labeled “OS” in manuals and user guides) is the software that your computer uses to manage all of its basic tasks. This includes how it displays information to you, making it an important factor to consider when buying a computer.

The main operating systems that you will be choosing between are Microsoft Windows and Apple iOS. Neither is “better,” but many people are more familiar with one or the other. If you have a low experience level with computers and want to get as familiar as possible with your new device, you should make sure that the computer you buy supports the operating system you are used to.

RAM

RAM or “random-access memory” is a form of memory that defines many aspects of computer functions. RAM is not the memory that saves pictures and documents, but the memory that computers use to run tasks.

An increase in RAM will usually increase the price of the computer since more RAM means a greater ability to run heavy or multiple tasks, play videos more smoothly, and do everything more quickly.

The amount of RAM you need depends on what you plan on using your computer for. The smallest amount of RAM anyone should consider buying in a laptop is 4 GB. However, if you plan on using the computer for multiple tasks, watching videos, or doing anything more than checking your email, 8 GB of RAM is a solid amount that should cover any function you would need.

Above that, computers with 16 GB, 32 GB, or more of RAM exist to run more strenuous tasks like programming and gaming. Everyday use doesn’t require that much, so you can save money by downsizing the RAM based on your needs.

Storage (memory)

Storage refers to the memory used to save files like pictures, videos, and other documents. Most computers come with both a limited internal storage space and a storage drive. You will see listings that refer to either “HDD” or “SSD” when discussing the storage.

These “hard disc drives” and “solid-state drives” do the same thing in allowing you to save things on your computer. The difference is that SSDs are faster and therefore more expensive.

The amount of memory you need depends on what you plan on using the computer for. You may only need a standard hard drive space of 256 GB if you plan on only saving some Word documents, pictures, and programs. Above that, larger files like videos and interactive applications will require more space, with most laptops and desktops now coming with 512 GB of space, at least.

Another option is always to buy a computer with a small hard drive and then buy a separate external drive for more memory if you need it later. However, this will require you to learn how to use it to save your files.

Maintenance

Since desktops have more parts, maintenance can be a bigger issue with them. Laptops and tablets by comparison are less likely to need maintenance. However, any computer can break and need to be fixed.

When buying a computer, consider the warranties it offers as well as the steps required to fix it, such as whether the company provides at-home maintenance.

Security

Security is a priority for most new computer users, especially with banking, insurance, and payment information being used on them. Many computers offer security packages or come with features that will help you keep your data safe, such as a biometrics system that locks your computer to anyone without your fingerprint.

Price

The average laptop costs around $500 while the average desktop costs closer to $650. Tablets, however, can cost significantly less, often available for under $200. However, within each type of device, different computers can vary widely in price.

The above categories, especially RAM and storage size, greatly impact how much the computer will cost. This is why it’s important to compare your needs with the device’s capabilities when budgeting for the machine that’s right for you.