Which Device Is Right for You? Simple Quiz for Australian Seniors

Choosing between a phone, tablet and laptop can be confusing, especially if the device is for an older parent or family member.

This short quiz helps you think through what the device will mainly be used for, how comfortable the person is with touch screens, and whether they need apps, typing, video calls or simple calls and texts.

It won’t choose an exact model for you, but it can help you decide which type of device to compare first.

Which device might suit best?

Answer a few simple questions to see whether a laptop, smartphone, simple phone or tablet may be the best starting point.

This quiz is a guide only. The right choice also depends on eyesight, hearing, budget, support and what the person already feels comfortable using.

1. What will the device mainly be used for?

Video calls, photos, reading and browsingA larger screen and simple touch controls may help. Email, typing documents, banking and printingA keyboard and larger screen may be useful. Mostly calls and textsA simple phone may be enough. Calls, texts, maps, photos and apps while outA smartphone may be the most flexible option.

2. Where will it be used most?

Mostly at home on a desk or tableA laptop or tablet can work well at home. Often while out and aboutA pocket-sized phone is usually easier to carry. Mostly on the sofa, in bed or around the houseA tablet can be easier to hold than a laptop. Mostly for staying contactableA phone is usually the most practical choice.

3. How comfortable is the person with touch screens?

ComfortableTouch screens may be a good fit. Comfortable if the screen is largeA tablet or laptop may be easier than a small phone. Not very comfortableButtons or a keyboard may feel more familiar. Prefers a keyboard and mouseA laptop may be the best starting point.

4. How important is screen size?

Very importantA laptop or tablet gives more space for reading. Important, but it still needs to be easy to holdA tablet may be a good balance. Moderately importantA larger smartphone may be enough. Not a main concernA simple phone may still work well.

5. Does the person need apps such as WhatsApp, banking, maps or video calling?

Yes, several appsA smartphone or tablet is usually needed. Mainly video calls and photosA tablet is often easier for this. Mainly email, websites and online formsA laptop may make typing easier. No, calls and texts are enoughA simple phone may be the clearest option.

6. How much help is available for setup and updates?

Regular help is availableA more flexible device may be manageable. Some help is availableKeep the setup simple and familiar. Very little help is availableA simpler device may reduce frustration. The person already knows computersA laptop may feel familiar.

7. Which feels most important?

Being simple and easy to answerFewer features can be a benefit. Having one device for calls, photos and useful appsA smartphone may avoid needing several devices. A bigger screen for relaxed everyday useA tablet may be the easiest screen to live with. Proper typing, printing and home computer tasksA laptop may be more practical.

Please choose an answer before continuing.

What your result means

Laptop

A laptop may suit someone who wants a larger screen, proper keyboard, online forms, email, banking, printing or home computer tasks.

Tablet

A tablet may suit someone who wants a larger touch screen for video calls, photos, reading, browsing and relaxed use around the home.

Smartphone

A smartphone may suit someone who wants calls, texts, photos, useful apps and one device they can carry outside the home

Simple phone

A simple phone may suit someone who mainly wants calls, texts, clear buttons and easy answering without many apps or settings.

FAQs

Is a tablet or laptop better for seniors?

A tablet is often easier for video calls, photos, reading and browsing. A laptop is usually better for typing, online forms, printing, banking and using a keyboard and mouse.

Is a simple phone better than a smartphone?

A simple phone can be better if the person mainly wants calls and texts. A smartphone may be better if they want photos, maps, video calls, banking apps or messaging apps.

What is the easiest device for an older parent?

The easiest device depends on what they need to do. For calls and texts, a simple phone may be easiest. For video calls and reading, a tablet may be easier. For typing and home computer tasks, a laptop may be better.

Should I buy a device before setting it up with my parent?

It is usually better to talk through what the person wants to use it for first. Then choose a device and set it up with larger text, important contacts, simple shortcuts and only the apps they need.