Products at a Glance
How we picked
For this guide, we researched different tablets from different brands and narrowed down the list to a few that we think are the best for seniors. We have chosen the selected devices based on display size, audio quality, battery life, and more. We’re always updating our guides with the latest information, so check back for newer additions.
Product Reviews
- Easy to use interface
- Weighs around 0.84 lbs
- You have to pay to use some of the features
If you’re looking for the best tablet for seniors, then look no further than the GrandPad senior tablet.
As its name suggests, the GrandPad senior tablet is solely designed for older adults who require a simple user interface with preloaded apps and a closed network to keep off spam and robocalls.
To get things started, this 8-inch Android tablet packs 3GB RAM with 4GB of internal storage. This isn’t a lot by today’s standards, but this should be enough for seniors to navigate the user-friendly interface and store any images and videos they want.
Plus, the LCD screen with 1920 x 1200 pixels should be well-lit for use even during the day, and the two front-facing speakers should produce loud and clear audio – so seniors can converse and listen to music or videos comfortably.
When it comes to camera properties, you get decent 5MP cameras, which should offer a decent picture for seniors to stay connected with their loved ones through video calls. It’s also extremely lightweight, weighing approximately 0.84 lbs – which should make it easy for seniors to carry around with them without getting fatigued.
Further, the tablet supports wireless charging, which only requires placing it on the wireless charging dock. This should make it easier for seniors to charge the tablet as compared to fiddling around with a pin and a charging port. One thing to note is that the wireless charging dock is sold separately, so you’ll need to spend a little extra for this accessibility.
Additionally, seniors can use the free GrandPad companion app to make calls, post, comment, and do much more without annoying ads or pop-ups, minimizing distractions. Moreover, you have 24/7/365 unlimited support, and the remote tablet management system sets a designated family administrator who can remotely configure the apps, features, and content for the best tablet experience.
The only downside is that you need a service activation plan to fully access all applications, unlimited support, and 4G LTE. However, you get a one-month free activation plan, but moving forward, you can select monthly or annual plans, starting at $59/month or $599/year.
Overall, the GrandPad is an excellent choice for seniors with a Smart Case that easily wakes and puts the device to sleep. Plus, the GrandPad Stylus Pen (sold separately) lets you tap the icons to open and browse the device with ease. If you’re interested in exploring more options, then check out our best Android tablets for the best picks.
- Has strengthened glass for extra durability
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa
- Low price point
- You have to purchase some of the accessories separately
If you’re on a tight budget and want the best tablet for seniors, you should probably check out the all-new Amazon Fire HD 10, which we think is one of the best Android tablets under $200.
Inside, you have an Octa-core 2.0 CPU paired with 3GB RAM and 32GB of storage capacity. This means it should have enough power to handle multiple applications simultaneously and store any images and videos you want.
As for the display properties, you get a 10.1-inch touchscreen panel with a 1920 x 1200 resolution, which should be enough for seniors to use applications, view content, and make calls even in direct sunlight. To make things better, it features strengthened glass that provides extra durability, making it ideal for seniors and young kids.
Coming to the cameras, the tablet has 5MP dual cameras on the front and back that offer 1080p HD video recording, which should provide seniors with a crystal-clear image while making video calls.
As for connectivity options, you get a USB-C 2.0 for quickly sharing files or fully charging the device in under 4 hours with the original 9W power adapter. Additionally, the manufacturer claims that the battery can last up to 13 hours of browsing the web, listening to music, watching videos, and reading.
Another helpful feature is Alexa compatibility, which allows seniors to use the device hands-free using their voice to open apps or even control other compatible smart home devices like checking the front door camera or switching the lights. Plus, the dual-integrated speakers, external volume controls, and 3.5mm stereo jack should deliver the best audio experience during calls or watching videos.
It’s worth mentioning that you can enhance your experience by pairing it with other Amazon Fire tablet accessories (sold separately), including an Amazon keyboard case, stylus pen, screen protector, and slim protective cover.
- Powered by the M1 chip
- Has a Liquid Retina display for stunning visuals
- Has a high price point
If you’re looking for the best premium tablet for seniors, the Apple iPad Air (5th generation) is what you need, and it’s available in five gorgeous colors.
To begin with, the thin and lightweight tablet is powered by the solid Apple M1 chip, which should ensure serious performance, efficient multitasking, and all-day battery life.
When it comes to connectivity options, it supports both 5G and WiFi 6 for super-fast internet connections. Having more options means that you can connect to one option or the other if any of them stop working.
As far as the display is concerned, you get a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ultra-low reflectivity and other features such as P3 wide color and True Tone. However, seniors will most likely not use these features, but the display in and of itself should provide stunning and clear images and videos even in sunlight.
For more natural, engaging video calls with loved ones, the iPad Air packs a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with Center Stage and a 12MP wide back camera for recording 4K videos or capturing crystal-clear photos.
Another notable aspect is the touch ID in the top button, which allows you to unlock your device, sign in to apps, or make secure payments using your fingerprint. Plus, you can pair the iPad Air with Apple Pencil (2nd generation) or Magic Keyboard to write, take notes, or sketch diagrams. These accessibility options make it easier for seniors to operate the tablet and have a good experience.
- Has a memory storage capacity of 128GB
- The charging dock doubles as a speaker
- Chromecast make it easy to cast to other devices
- The cameras are lacking
If you’re looking for a mid-range tablet, then the Google Pixel tablet is our recommendation, as it offers various features at a relatively affordable price.
For starters, it’s powered by the Google Tensor G2 chip with 8GB RAM, which should provide efficient multitasking even with demanding applications. To make things better, it features Google AI technology, ensuring you enjoy high-quality video calls, smooth streaming, and better battery life.
Coming to the display, you have an 11-inch touchscreen with adaptive brightness, which should be perfect for use in well-lit rooms or during the day.
On top of that, you get a charging dock that doubles as a speaker, eliminating wire clutter as you only need to place it on the dock to fully charge it – which makes it easier for seniors as they don’t have to fiddle around with a pin and a charging port. Plus, the four speakers should deliver an immersive music or audio experience – which is good as seniors may have some level of hearing impairment.
Along with this, you have 8MP dual back and front cameras, which both support 1080p resolution and should be able to deliver crystal-clear selfies or portrait pictures. An added feature that should help seniors is the built-in Chromecast. This lets you quickly cast content from your phone to compatible devices – so seniors can view content on a larger screen with a better audio system.
Other helpful features for seniors include Google Assistant, which lets you set timers, play music, and control compatible smart home appliances like cameras, locks, thermostats, and lights using your voice. Plus, the easy-to-use Split Screen functionality lets you view and use two apps for seamless multitasking.
How to pick the best tablet
Before investing in any tablet, it’s important to consider certain aspects. We’ve listed some of them to help you make an informed decision.
Display
The display is the biggest and the most important part of a tablet. A good display can elevate the user experience by providing crisp visuals and additional features such as nightlight, which make it less straining for your eyes. So always choose an option with good color accuracy, high ppi, and strengthened glass so it doesn’t scratch easily.
Battery Life
A tablet is only as good as its battery. Look for the battery and charging it comes with, as you want to get in at least a couple of hours of usage before it needs to be charged again. However, if the battery drains quickly and the tablet is out of juice in an hour, that makes it less than ideal for anything.
Features
When it comes to features, there is a simple rule – the more the merrier. The more features a tablet has, the more ease it will provide, such as support for a pen, a wireless charging dock, Alexa compatibility, and more. All these aspects make using the tablet easy and fun, and you get the most out of your investment.
Size
Size is all about preference. Some may prefer a 12-inch tablet, and others will find their sweet spot to be 8 inches. So, regardless of the option, go for a size you’re comfortable choosing, and if you’re on the road a lot, then a medium-sized tablet is preferred.
Is a laptop or tablet better for seniors?
Both devices have their use cases and are equally good options for seniors. Tablets provide a more hands-on approach, which seniors may appreciate, while laptops offer more features and a larger screen, which is good for visually impaired seniors but at the cost of more technicalities.
Our Verdict
After going through all the listed options, we saw one option that came across as the clear winner, and that is the GrandPad Senior tablet. It’s filled with features that make it an easy option to use for seniors, such as a simple user interface, preloaded apps, all-around 24/7 support, a smart case that puts the devices to sleep, and more. It also weighs just 0.84 lbs making it ideal to carry with you and use wherever without getting fatigued.