Choosing a computer, laptop or tablet can be a confusing process. This guide aims to demystify some of the jargon and help you make an informed choice.
Jargon busting
Let's start by explaining some common terms used by retailers to describe their products' features.
Processor speed: The speed that a computer can process information, measured in Gigahertz (Ghz). Most computers have at least 1.4 Ghz, some have more than 3 Ghz.
Random Access Memory (RAM): The working memory of a computer, measured in gigabytes (GB) and typically between 4GB and 8GB.
Disk Storage: The amount of space a machine has for storing data, measured in gigabytes (GB) and typically between 500GB and 1000GB (or 1 terabyte, 1TB).
Contrast ratio: A monitor's (screen's) ability to display colour contrast. Partially sighted people may find high contrast displays helpful.
Operating systems: The software your computer runs on. The two most common are Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X.
The latest version of Microsoft Windows operating system is called Windows 8, which comes with a basic screen magnifier and screen reader. Various free and paid-for screen readers and screen magnifiers are available from third parties.
The latest version of the Mac OS X operating system is called OS X Mountain Lion, which comes with a basic screen magnifier and fully fledged screen reader. Mac computers are considerably more expensive than Windows computers.
How much power and storage will I need?
If you'll be performing sophisticated tasks on your computer, such as video and audio editing or playing computer games, you may need an above average specification machine. For everyday tasks like browsing online, emailing, watching movies, playing music and creating office documents, a standard machine should be adequate.
If you're going to use a screen reader, screen magnifier or other assistive technology, you may want additional RAM.
Different types of device
There are a range of different computers, laptops, and tablets available from manufacturers like Dell, Acer, HP, Sony and Apple.
Desktop computers
A desktop computer sits on a desktop or workstation, and is therefore not portable. A typical system consists of a monitor (or 'screen' or 'LCD display'), base unit (or a 'central processing unit'), keyboard and a mouse or trackpad.
Desktops may be particularly valuable to people with low vision, as they come with a 20 inch or larger monitor. They also have a large number of ports for connecting equipment like printers, scanners and braille embossers.
A desktop package with a 20 inch LCD display, fast processor, 4GB of RAM and 500GB of storage, may cost roughly £299-£499.
All-in-one computers
All-in-one computers consist of one central unit housing the display, processor, memory and all other components. Screen sizes range from 21-27 inches. All-in-ones are ideal if space is at a premium, but are more expensive and less easy to modify than desktop computers.
Laptops
A laptop is a portable computer with processor, keyboard, battery and tilting display all incorporated into one. Also known as notebooks, laptops have become very popular as they allow you to work anywhere. Available in all sizes and colours, laptops typically include a suite of built in accessories including microphone, web camera, WiFi and Bluetooth. Lighter laptops will be more expensive than heavier models.
Netbooks
Netbooks are mini laptops that are smaller and lighter weight, usually with a 10 inch display. A growing range of notebooks have dual core processors (two processing units, allowing you to run multiple programmes at the same time). These are faster than standard netbooks and offer a good alternative to a standard laptop.
For everyday computing, a netbook can be a good low cost option. However, a 10 inch display may be a limiting factor for low vision users. Almost all models include built-in webcam, microphone, WiFi and Bluetooth. Many run Windows 7 Starter, which has a limited version of the built-in screen magnifier.
Netbooks cost between £200-£300 depending on the design, storage and specification.
Ultrabooks
Ultrabooks are high-end light laptops. While they can be powerful, their smaller size means they have a limited number of ports for connecting external devices.
Tablets
A tablet is a small, thin and lightweight portable computer with a touch-screen, no keyboard and few physical buttons. The original Apple iPad launched in 2010, and is still the most popular tablet on the market.
Screen sizes range from 5-10 inches, and typing is done on an on-screen keyboard. Some people with sight loss can find the touch-screen challenging, as the lack of a tactile keyboard can present a real barrier. Some choose to use their tablet with a braille display or Bluetooth keyboard.
Tablets do have some distinct advantages over traditional technology. They are low weight with no moving parts, and therefore more durable. They instantly 'wake up' so you can use them immediately, without having to wait for them to start up. Many have a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 10 hours.
Tablets work using wireless internet or WiFi, so they are good to use on the move. Some also offer 3G, allowing you to access mobile phone networks (subject to subscription with a provider).
iPad
The iPad was the first tablet with built-in screen magnification and screen-reading capability that is accessible 'out of the box' (without setup), making them a good option for low vision users. When using the new iPad for the first time, simply click the 'home' button three times and the device begins talking straight away.
There is a built-in magnification feature called Zoom, as well as a facility to enlarge fonts in some apps. There is a invert colours feature (creating white text on black background), plus a range of other accessibility features.
iPads costs from £329 and are available from major high street retailers and Apple stores, and online from apple.com and others.
Android powered tablets
There are lots of Android tablets on the market. The latest version of Android, Jelly Bean, contains a robust screen reader which can be started without sighted help, and a basic magnification facility that does require sighted assistance to start up. However, many manufacturers of Android tablets tinker with the facilities within Android, and this can have an impact on the accessibility.
The Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 tablets have a version of Android that has not been tampered with or added to, and therefore has the best experience in terms of accessibility.
The Nexus 10 costs from £319 and is available from a range of high street and online shops.
Windows powered tablets
Windows RT tablets cost around £399 and are restricted to loading Windows store apps. They include a basic screen magnification and screen reader. Microsoft will soon be releasing the Surface Pro tablet which will allow other apps to be loaded, including third party screen magnifiers and screen readers.
Further resources
The web is a huge resource for finding out about technology, although of course you have to be able to use a computer to use the web! Here are some examples of websites that contain useful information, most of which can be downloaded.
The Access Technology Institute have some free tutorials aimed at users of JAWS and Window-Eyes. These are large downloads which include audio and electronic text versions, and use Word 2007 to illustrate Windows concepts.
Two good general areas for audio tutorials aimed at people with sight loss interested in technology are blind geek zone and Blind Bargains.
VIP Software Guides has some useful Windows guides for users of screen magnifiers or JAWS.
Vision Australia have some great resources on their "Help Yourself!" page. Most of their audio downloads are aimed at users of Apple technology.
The makers of assistive technology may include guidance material in the box of goodies they sell you, or online. While aimed at users of their products, some may be useful even if you use a different product. Examples are the Freedom Scientific training page and the videos from the Dolphin Training Academy.
Technology Support Squad
If you've recently bought a computer, laptop or tablet, but you're having difficulty using it, call RNIB's Technology Support Squad. We have a team of over 1,000 volunteers across the UK who can visit you at home to help you set up and use technology, from TVs and computers through to mobile phones and eBook readers. Call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 to find out more or request a free volunteer.
Still need help?
We hope that our range of beginner's guides gave you the information you needed to get started with confidence.
But if you've read the guides and still need some help, you could try the following:
Visit the technology discussion board - someone might have asked the same question that's puzzling you. To reply or start a new topic you have to register with the website. Read the Help using our discussion forum page if you're stuck!
Look at the other (non-RNIB) websites that offer help and support - Useful links: technology
Call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk for advice and to find out about our free technology support service.