Overall Best Tablet for Seniors

Designed with seniors in mind, the GrandPad demonstrates an exceptional understanding of senior needs. Features like larger buttons, remote administrative function and voice-recorded email make it more likely an elderly or inexperienced user won’t get frustrated. In many ways, the aptly named GrandPad demystifies tablets, allowing seniors who may have formerly lacked confidence when it comes to digital gadgets to stay connected with loved ones. 

Pros:

  • Plans starting at $20 a month provide internet connection
  • Affordable device designed specifically for seniors
  • Charging stand, smart case, and stylus included with purchase

Cons:

  • Unlimited data plan will cost more
  • Device changes can only be made by administrator (usually a caregiver)

Overview of the GrandPad

Consumer Cellular designed the GrandPad with an 80-year old in mind. This alone puts the tablet in a league of its own when it comes to meeting the needs of seniors. From extra-large digital buttons on the touch screen to audio amplification geared to the hard of hearing, this device makes it easy for seniors to connect with loved ones, health professionals and other inner circle members via voice or video call, even if they are usually uncomfortable with technology.

User Interface and Operating System

Android OS with GrandPad custom interface 

Weight

10.5 ounces

Screen Size

8 inches

Screen Definition

Full HD

Average Battery Life

1 to 3 days

Available Colors

Red

Price

$150

How Much Does the GrandPad by Consumer Cellular Cost?

The GrandPad starts at $150 for the device itself. But it won’t work independently or with an existing data plan. Rather, connectivity is provided exclusively through Consumer Cellular starting at $40 for a monthly subscription. Extras such as protection plans and unlimited data, which HD video calling requires, can add to the monthly maintenance bill. 

So, while getting started with the GrandPad is reasonably inexpensive, supporting its ongoing operation month after month could be challenging for low-income seniors. That said, Consumer Cellular offers a range of financing options that may help.

Full Review of the GrandPad’s Features

The GrandPad from Consumer Cellular is an excellent and affordable entry-level tablet for seniors. Designed with intentionally limited features and a deliberately simple user interface, the GrandPad takes much of the fear and mystery out of digital communication for those who are wary of technology and digital devices. Though focused on communication, the GrandPad does offer some pre-loaded software for playing games, checking the weather, looking at photos and listening to music.

Specifications

  • Screen Size: 8 inches
  • Screen Resolution: 1920 X 1200
  • Total Storage Capacity: 32 gigabytes
  • Internet Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi
  • Battery Type: Lithium-polymer
  • Camera (front and rear-facing): 5 megapixels
  • Weight: 12.5 ounces

Interface

The tablet interface is simple and obvious with large digital buttons on the touch screen and extra-large icons indicating a limited menu of preloaded software options such as Weather, Music, Call and Video Call, and Help.

Connectivity

Because the GrandPad runs on a proprietary operating system with connectivity supplied by Consumer Cellular, it is always connected. There is no need for passwords or for turning the device on and off. 

Senior-centric Features

  • Preloaded mind-stimulating games such as Sudoku, crosswords and poker
  • Ad-free music streaming with 30 million tracks
  • Flashlight and magnifying tool box features for the vision-impaired
  • Audio setting options for the hard of hearing
  • Remote setup and administration so a family member can run things

Customer Support 

Real people staff GrandPad customer support 24/7, and they can be reached via the Help button on the device screen or by phone to talk through any issues. There is a one-year warranty on parts and labor, but if the GrandPad is ever lost or broken, subscribers get a replacement tablet.

Pricing

The tablet itself is a reasonable $150. But further investment is required to use the GrandPad over time. Subscriptions run between $40 and $79 per month. Happily, Consumer Cellular sometimes sells refurbished models and offers generous financing terms. Third-party retailers may offer deals as well.

What’s Included in the Box

Shipping is included with a Consumer Cellular subscription, and the GrandPad arrives with a battery and wireless charging station, a smart case, and a stylus in addition to the tablet itself. Since it can be set up and administered remotely, senior users should be able to start using their tablet right out of the box.

Who Should Consider Consumer Cellular’s GrandPad Tablet? 

Tech-averse Seniors 

Setting up and getting used to a tech device is challenging for many seniors. The GrandPad has removed many of the most irritating barriers, allowing for outside administration, offering 24/7 in-person customer support and limiting features to those most likely to be used by the consumer.

People With Compromised Vision, Hearing or Motor Skills

Diminished faculties come with age, but anyone with vision, hearing or mobility issues will find it easier to stay connected with the GrandPad. It has extra-large digital buttons, a wider-than-normal range of audio settings and voice recording for emails, all of which make it easier than most tablets to use. 

What Are People Saying About Consumer Cellular’s GrandPad?

Most user reviews rave about the GrandPad and how it has made connecting with family and friends easier, especially during the pandemic. One reviewer called it “life-changing” for his 91-year-old father who lives alone. Users love the simple interface and generous customer service, with support available 24/7 from knowledgeable agents.

Some users were concerned about the durability of the GrandPad, saying that it seemed flimsy and they worried about dropping it. Others found the 8″ screen size on the small side and wished for a version with a larger screen.

Overall, users believe this tablet fills an important niche as a carefully designed aid for seniors and sense-impaired users.

Frequently Asked Questions 


What Is the Easiest Tablet for Seniors to Use?



Of course, the answer to this depends on the individual senior, but the GrandPad from Consumer Cellular was designed specifically with the elderly in mind. It has a number of built-in limitations and features that make the tablet less daunting for many seniors to use. Click here for our full answer to this question.


What Is the Difference Between a Tablet and an iPad?



The iPad is an Apple product. Most tablets use an Android operating system, while the iPad (like the iPhone and iMac computer) runs on Apple’s iOS, which has a reputation for being both stable and easy to use. Click here for our full answer to this question.


What Is the Difference Between an iPad and Kindle?


The big difference is the screen. The iPad uses a touch screen LCD display, while Amazon’s Kindle uses e-ink technology to simulate the look and sensation of reading on paper. Click here for our full answer to this question. 


What Size Tablet Is Best for Seniors?



Tablets with a larger screen area may be easier for seniors to see, but that needs to be offset by comfort in handling. Generally, an 8 to 10″ screen covers both requirements. Click here for our full answer to this question. 


The Best Tablet for Seniors With Vision Problems 



Most tablets allow for adjustments in the size of type for users with less-than-perfect vision. But there are several tablets on the market, including the Mag&Read Low Vision Tablet and the GrandPad, that have built-in accessibility features for vision and hearing impairment. Click here for our full answer to this question.