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A senior’s needs for a laptop or desktop computer may not be the same as an engineering student or a professional video editor. More often than not, a senior’s computer needs focuses on more general uses such as email, internet browsing and media consumption…a high-end computer is simply not needed.

Before You Go Shopping: your selection of a new laptop should be based on your support network. That is, if your group of friends or family use Macintosh or Windows, you should align your purchase along those lines.

If you have limited support and basic computer needs (e.g. email, basic editing of documents like word processing and spreadsheets, media consumption), you might look at Chromebooks or Chromebook Plus which has more performance and capability.

Some tips for seniors purchasing a laptop:

• Screen Size: a diagonal screen size of 14″ or larger. Anything smaller may result in text that is too small for aging eyes.
• Screen Resolution: Full High Definition (FHD). A screen resolution of 1920×1080 pixels is a minimum to ensure text and images are sharp.
• Screen Type: look for an IPS or OLED screen to maximum brightness.
• Operating System (OS): this is a topic unto itself. Gravitate to an OS that your inner support team use (e.g. children, grandchildren, friend). Plenty to chose from including Windows, Mac OSX, Chrome OS. Avoid Windows “s” versions.
• Central Processing Unit (CPU): If Intel, i3 or better. If AMD, a Ryzen 3 or better. If Apple, M1 or better.
• Memory: minimum 8GB or more.
• Hard Drive: stay away from these.
• Solid State Drive: ensure PCIe NVME (Avoid eMMC).
• Drive Size: if you use cloud storage, 128GB is a adequate. If you store files locally, preferably 512 GB or larger. If you deal with images/video, the larger the drive the better. Note: if you plan to increase storage at a later date, make sure the drive is user replaceable.
• Ports: Should have at least one speaker jack, USB and USB-C.
• Video Ports: USB-C or HDMI for external monitor. If USB-C, make sure your monitor can support this or you’ll need a USB-C to HDMI adapter which is an added cost.
• Speaker: Most laptop speakers are afterthoughts. You may have to purchase some external speakers for adequate sound volume and quality.
• Video (HDMI)/Microphone Outputs: an absolute necessity!
• Weight: unless you plan to do a lot of travel or require mobility, you might want to look at ultrabooks with a higher costs.
• Brand: stick with well known brands. Avoid unknown foreign 3rd party manufacturers. Ensure their products are warranted and serviced within Canada.
• Costs Range: From $500 to $750 (for Windows). Wait for the right sale or checkout clearance products to get the best bang for the buck. Don’t cheap out!

For peace of mind, avoid purchasing refurbished unless offered by known vendors with adequate warranty. Also avoid Facebook Marketplace unless you are comfortable with the risks.

Best Computer for Seniors of 2024 – Forbes Health, July 5, 2024

If in doubt, seek the advice of an Information Technology (IT) savvy individual.