Smartphones vs Tablets: Which Is Better for Seniors in Denver
Smartphones vs Tablets, Which Is Better for Seniors in Denver
Introduction, Choosing the Right Device Should Feel Easy
If you are a senior living in Denver or the surrounding areas like Lakewood, Wheat Ridge, Arvada, or Littleton, you might be thinking about buying a new device. Maybe your old phone feels too small to read, or your family suggested a tablet so you can enjoy bigger screens for photos and video calls. But with so many models and brands to choose from, the decision can feel overwhelming.
At Golden Age Tech Support, we sit with seniors every week who ask, “Should I get a smartphone or a tablet, and which one is better for me?”
The truth is, there is no one size fits all answer. Both smartphones and tablets can be wonderful tools to help you stay connected, entertained, and confident with your technology. But depending on your eyesight, hand comfort, and everyday needs, one of these devices may be a better fit for your lifestyle.
This simple, friendly guide will walk you through everything you need to know so you can choose the device that truly works for you, not against you.
Understanding the Difference
Before we compare features, here is the simplest way to think about it:
A smartphone is
small
portable
easy to keep in your pocket
great for calls and quick tasks
A tablet is
bigger
easier to see
more comfortable for reading and watching
used mostly at home
Both devices can do almost all of the same things — text, browse the internet, take photos, make video calls, and run apps — but the experience is very different.
Screen Size, One of the Biggest Factors for Seniors
For many seniors in Denver, eyesight changes over time, and screen size becomes one of the most important features.
Smartphones
Most smartphones are between 5 and 7 inches. While this is convenient for carrying, small screens often mean:
harder to read text
more difficult to tap accurately
more squinting
more frustration
Tablets
Most tablets are 8 to 11 inches, sometimes larger. Bigger screens make everything easier:
reading news or books
watching videos
checking messages
looking at family photos
joining video calls
The National Institute on Aging recommends larger screens for seniors with vision changes because they reduce eye strain and improve readability.
What we see with Denver seniors
Most of our clients who struggle with small text or shaky hands prefer using a tablet for everyday tasks.
Ease of Use: Which One Feels Simpler
Tablets are usually easier for seniors
A larger screen means:
bigger buttons
easier menus
more comfortable typing
fewer mistakes
For seniors who do not want to feel rushed or frustrated, tablets often provide a calmer and more relaxed experience.
Smartphones require more precision
The small size can make:
tapping tricky
typing slow
icons harder to see
Accessibility features help both
Devices today include:
larger text
bold text
magnifiers
voice commands
simplified menus
hearing assistance settings
At Golden Age Tech Support, we help seniors adjust these settings during our In Home Tech Lessons so their device is customized to their comfort level.
Portability: Which One Fits Your Life
Smartphones
Easy to carry everywhere
Fits in your pocket
Ideal for emergencies
Great for quick calls and texts
Tablets
Better for at home use
Great for relaxing on the couch
Better for reading, games, and browsing
Not meant for pockets
Most seniors choose tablets for comfort and smartphones for communication.
Making Phone Calls: Smartphone Takes the Lead
Smartphones
Designed for calling, texting, and staying reachable.
You can:
make calls
send messages
receive emergency alerts
store contacts
Tablets
Can make calls using apps like:
FaceTime
Facebook Messenger
Zoom
Google Meet
But tablets are not ideal if you want a traditional phone experience.
Video Calls: A Tablet Makes Family Time Easier
Video calling has become one of the biggest reasons seniors upgrade their devices.
Tablets provide:
bigger faces on screen
easier buttons
clearer video
more comfortable holding
At Golden Age Tech Support, we help seniors across Denver set up:
FaceTime
Zoom
Google Meet
Messenger video calls
We also teach how to start calls with one tap, so staying connected feels simple.
Reading, Photos, Games, and Entertainment
Tablets are better for:
reading the news
browsing websites
looking at family photos
watching movies or shows
YouTube videos
crossword puzzles
solitaire or word games
Smartphones are better for:
quick photos
short web searches
messaging
If you enjoy relaxing and taking your time, a tablet is usually more enjoyable.
The AARP Tech Resource Center also recommends tablets for seniors who want a safer, easier way to read and browse.
Comfort for Arthritis or Shaky Hands
If you have arthritis, finger stiffness, or shaky hands, a tablet is often the better choice because:
buttons are larger
the keyboard is easier to use
the screen is clearer
you can hold it in your lap
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that grip strength can change with age, so seniors benefit from devices that require less pressure or precision.
Battery Life and Charging
Tablets
larger battery
lasts much longer
great for long reading or streaming sessions
Smartphones
shorter battery life
drains faster with apps or camera use
If long battery life matters to you, tablets are more reliable.
Cost and Value
Tablets often provide more comfort for less money.
Average prices:
Good tablet: 150 to 400 dollars
Modern smartphone: 300 to 1,000 dollars
Seniors who mainly want to browse, read, and video chat often save money by choosing a tablet.
WiFi vs Cellular
Smartphones
Work anywhere with WiFi or cellular service.
Tablets
Most work on WiFi only, unless you pay for a cellular model.
For seniors who mostly stay home, WiFi tablets are perfect and cost less.
What Denver Seniors Usually Choose
Based on our in home visits at Golden Age Tech Support:
70 percent prefer using a tablet for daily tasks
30 percent prefer using a smartphone as their main device
Most seniors use both:
smartphone for calls
tablet for comfort and visibility
When a Smartphone Is the Better Choice
Choose a smartphone if you want:
portability
easy communication
emergency calling
quick texting
a simple all in one device
When a Tablet Is the Better Choice
Choose a tablet if you want:
large text
big, clear screens for video calls
comfortable browsing
easy reading
simple navigation
a relaxed experience
How Golden Age Tech Support Helps Seniors Choose the Right Device
At Golden Age Tech Support, we help seniors understand their options without pressure or confusing language. During our in home tech visits, we:
compare smartphones and tablets
adjust accessibility settings
set up contacts
organize the home screen
teach important basics step by step
help transfer photos and data
You can explore our full services on our Services Page.
We also help with device set up as part of our New Computer and Device Setup service.
FAQ Section for Seniors and Families
1. Which device is easier for seniors, a smartphone or a tablet?
A tablet is usually easier because of the bigger screen, larger text, and simpler buttons.
2. Can a tablet make phone calls?
Yes, using apps like FaceTime, Messenger, or Zoom. It is not the same as a cell phone, but it works well for video calling.
3. Are tablets better for people with arthritis?
Yes. They require less precision and are easier to manage than small smartphones.
4. Do seniors need both a smartphone and a tablet?
Many seniors enjoy having both, but it is not required. You can choose whichever device feels most comfortable.
5. Can Golden Age Tech Support help me set up my new device?
Absolutely. We offer in home setup, personalized tech lessons, and patient guidance that fits your pace.
Conclusion: Choose the Device That Fits Your Life
There is no right or wrong choice. The best device for you is the one that feels comfortable, easy to use, and stress free.
Smartphones give you convenience and portability.
Tablets give you comfort and clarity.
And if you ever feel unsure, Golden Age Tech Support is here to help. We sit with you, explain everything step by step, and make sure your technology works for your life, not the other way around.
Call us or schedule an in home visit today — and let us help you choose the perfect device with confidence and ease.
