As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy something through a link on this page, I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It does not change what I recommend and it does not change your price.
How to pick
A lot of what gets called being bad with computers is really just equipment that is too small to use comfortably. Bigger keys, a bigger screen, a louder ringer. If someone in your life is getting frustrated with their tech, try changing the hardware before assuming the problem is them. It fixes it more often than you would expect.
What I recommend
VTech big button cordless phone
Large numbers, a loud ringer, and an answering machine that works without an app or an account. If a smartphone is a daily frustration for someone, having a simple phone on the wall takes the pressure off.
- Keys
- Large and backlit
- Ringer
- Loud, 90dB or more
- Answering
- Machine built in, no app
- Handsets
- Buy enough for the house
Logitech MK540 wireless combo
Full size keys, a number pad, and a mouse that fits an adult hand instead of a laptop trackpad. One small receiver runs both and the batteries last long enough that you forget they are in there.
- Includes
- Keyboard and mouse
- Layout
- Full size with number pad
- Connection
- One small USB receiver for both
- Battery
- Up to 3 years on the keyboard
A larger monitor
Going from a laptop screen to a 27 inch monitor changes how people feel about using a computer more than almost anything else. Everything gets bigger and you stop leaning in. Nothing fancy needed, just check it has the same kind of plug your computer has, usually HDMI.
- Size
- 27 inch is the sweet spot
- Resolution
- 1440p, not 1080p, at that size
- Input
- HDMI, to match most laptops
- Stand
- Height adjustable if you can
Related reading
Setting someone up who is not confident with tech?
This is most of what I do. Patient, no jargon, and I will show them until it sticks.