What is the best phone, tablet or computer for me?

Phones, tablets and computers aren't always designed with older people in mind, but there are features that can definitely make them easier to use, so we advise you to look out for them. 

We understand that many older people now prefer large-screen smartphones and tablets to computers, so most of our suggestions focus on these. If you're buying a computer, see our tips further down.

Before you buy

• If you haven't owned a device like this before, get some lessons. Many libraries, Age Concern, some SeniorNet centres and other community organisations offer these for free. This includes the Better Digital Futures for Seniors programme for people aged 65 and over. Enquire at your local library or Citizens Advice Bureau. Family members can help too, but be aware they can sometimes lack the experience and patience of a more qualified trainer.
• Buy from a reputable source.
• Cost is of course a big consideration. Decide what features are most important to you, and which ones you need or simply want.
• Know the difference between an Android phone and an iPhone. iPhones are made by Apple, and use Apple's own operating system, iOS. Android phones are made by different companies, such as Samsung and Google, and are generally more customisable. They function slightly differently and offer different features. There are alternatives to Android and iOS, but they are not in common use.

What to look for

1. What is the weight and feel of it? Is it comfortable to grip? Is it too heavy? Does it feel too flimsy. 
2. What is the quality of the hardware life? Is it durable and protected against dust and water?
3. What is the battery life like? A short battery life can be frustrating.
4. What is the volume like? How does it sound when it is turned up high? Is it still clear?
5. Does it have a good camera? Is a camera important to you?
6. How does it work with headphones? Many phones no longer have a socket for plug-in headphones, so you may need Bluetooth (wireless) headphones or an adaptor.
7. Do you need a case and/or screen protector?
8. Is the screen easy to see? Is it big enough and bright enough?
9. Are the buttons big? How do they compare to others?
10. Would you use it to write on? If so, what is the stylus (digital pen) like?
11. Is the performance quick and responsive?
12. What accessibility features does it have, such as larger text, magnification, or reading the screen aloud? Could they be useful to you?
13. What sort of digital assistant (voice command assistance) does it use?
14. Does it have biometrics, such as a fingerprint or facial recognition, so you can unlock it quickly and easily.

How long will it be supported?

Phone makers send out regular software updates that fix security problems. Once a phone stops getting these updates, it becomes less safe for things like online banking, and some apps may stop working.

Some newer phones are promised up to seven years of updates, while cheaper models often get fewer. Updates are counted from when the model was first released, not from when you buy it. That means an older model still on sale may have less time left. Ask the seller how long the phone will receive updates.

Will it work with your hearing aids?

Many modern hearing aids cannot connect directly to a phone, so you can hear calls and other audio through your hearing aids. Not every phone works with every hearing aid, particularly Android phones. Ask you audiologist which phones will work with your hearing aids before you buy.

Emergency features and network changes

• Does it have an emergency SOS feature? Most smartphones let you call 111 and alert chosen contacts by pressing buttons in a set way. Some newer phones can also contact emergency services via satellite when there is no mobile coverage.
• New Zealand's 3G mobile networks were switched off in early 2026, so any phone you buy needs to work on 4G or 5G. If you're buying secondhand or keeping an older phone, check it can still make 111 calls. You can text '3G' free to 550 to check. If you have a medical alarm, check with your alarm provider too.

Ongoing costs

The phone is only part of the cost. You'll also need a plan for calls, texts and data. Some questions to consider:

• Would prepay (paying in advance) or a monthly plan suit you better?
• How much data do you need? If you mostly use wifi at home, you may need less.
• If the phone is offered on a payment plan, how long are you committed for, and what is the total cost?
• How good is the coverage where you live and the places you visit often?

Making your phone simpler to use

Many phones now have a built-in simpler mode, with larger text and icons and fewer apps on the home screen. One an iPhone this is called Assistive Access. On Samsung phones it's called Easy Mode. Ask about this when you buy, or ask whoever gives you lessons to help set it up.

If your Android phone doesn't have a simpler mode, consider getting what is known as a Launcher. This is an app that changes how your home screen looks so you can choose to show only the apps you use, or only your favourite contacts. One popular option is Simple Launcher. Before installing a launcher, check its reviews and when it was last updated.

If you're buying a computer

• Would a laptop or desktop suit you better? A laptop is portable, but a desktop usually comes with a larger screen and full-sized keyboard.
• If you're buying a Windows computer, make sure it runs Windows 11. Microsoft has ended full support for Windows 10, so avoid buying a computer that still runs it.
• Other options include an Apple Mac, or a Chromebook, which is a simpler laptop that works mainly through the internet. As with phones, ask how long it will receive updates.
• Many of the questions above apply to computers too. Is the screen easy to see? Is the keyboard comfortable? What accessibility features does it have?

A note for family and friends

If you're helping an older relative choose a device, involve them in the decision. They're the person using it. Let them hold the devices in the shop, and go through the questions above together. Where you can, encourage them to have lesson, or help them yourself.