While many people associate assistive technology with specialized devices that are expensive or hard to find, many mainstream technology devices have started supporting accessibility features and built-in assistive technology that can make specialty tools more financially and publicly accessible for all. Computers are a great example of how mainstream technology can be used as assistive technology, since there are so many options for customization and information access, though there are some characteristics that make certain computers better for assistive technology than others. Here are features to look for when buying a desktop or laptop computer for users with vision loss, part of the Mainstream Technology and Low Vision post series.
Desktop vs laptop computer for low vision: which is better?
Which is better for low vision: a desktop computer or laptop computer? Like most accessibility questions, the answer is “it depends.”
Desktop computers are generally designed to be used in one location and are not as portable as laptops. That said, desktop computers often offer larger screen sizes, more advanced technical specifications, and more flexibility when it comes to peripheral devices— users can easily connect their own keyboards, mice, and other accessories to their desktop.
Laptops are meant to be used in multiple locations, and their smaller size can make it easier to position the screen within a user’s field of vision, as well as offer options for adjusting the angle of the display. However, users may need to factor in battery life and charging, as well as consider whether they will need to connect additional peripheral devices if they have difficulty using their laptop— for example, someone may need to connect a mouse if a touchpad is challenging to manipulate.
For users that are looking for a portable device that can also be used like a desktop computer, a docking station or second monitor can be useful for connecting a laptop to an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse, which can be used in the same way as a traditional desktop computer. This is particularly helpful for individuals with low vision who need their laptop for school or work, but prefer to work with a desktop configuration for longer periods of time.
Related links
- Questions To Ask When Choosing A Laptop For College
- Questions To Ask When Choosing A Desktop Computer For College
- How I Set Up My Tech Internship Desk: PM Intern With Low Vision
- How I Set Up My College Desk With Low Vision
Choosing an operating system
Windows, MacOS, and ChromeOS are examples of popular operating systems that offer support for built-in accessibility features as well as the option to download third-party applications to access computers with assistive technology. While the range of customization options will vary between operating systems, examples of built-in accessibility features for low vision users often include:
- Screen magnification program for making items on the screen larger
- Increasing the cursor size
- Invert colors
- Options to adjust screen resolution or display scaling
- Read aloud or text-to-speech
- Screen reader/speech synthesis tool
- High contrast display mode
One important consideration for choosing an operating system with low vision is that certain assistive technology applications are only available on a single operating system. For example, JAWS and NVDA screen readers are only available for Windows, while the VoiceOver screen reader is only available for MacOS. Keyboard shortcuts may also vary between operating systems, so users that are planning to switch to a different operating system will also want to keep that in mind.
For students, it is important to verify that applications or software required for school or testing/assessments can be accessed on their computer’s operating system so that they won’t have to switch between multiple devices or use an unfamiliar device for testing. For example, a computer with ChromeOS may not be permitted if a student is required to use the desktop version of a Microsoft application for an exam.
Related links
- Low Vision Accessibility Settings For Windows 10 and 11
- Low Vision Accessibility Settings For Mac Computers
- How To Make Text Cursors Easier To See In Windows
- How To Make Mouse Pointers Easier To See in Windows
- Windows Magnifier and Low Vision
- Zoom Magnifier and Low Vision Accessibility
- How To Use Invert Colors With Low Vision
Monitor sizes and low vision access
When choosing a computer monitor for low vision, it is important to remember that visual impairment is a spectrum, not a binary— bigger monitors are not necessarily better for all users with low vision. Factors to keep in mind when choosing a computer monitor with low vision include:
- Users with visual field deficits may prefer to have a monitor that “fits” into their field of view, so that they do not have to turn their head to see the edge of the monitor.
- When recommending a large monitor for low vision users, many assistive technology specialists will recommend a 17-inch display or larger for laptops and a 24-inch display or larger for desktop computers. Users should try out different screen sizes to determine which one will work best for their needs.
- Wide monitors or ultrawide monitors often show more information on the screen, which can decrease the need for horizontal scrolling or having items cut off on the screen. However, it is important to note that fonts and icons may appear smaller, especially on ultrawide monitors. Users may need to make the fonts and/or icons bigger in system settings.
- Two smaller monitors may be preferred over one larger external monitor. If the monitors are two different sizes, the user will need to configure individual settings for scaling and display resolution.
- Laptops with larger screen sizes are often less portable than smaller laptops, or not be large enough for the user to see. Connecting a laptop to a larger, external monitor or using screen mirroring tools can help mitigate this issue.
- To account for a more narrow field of view, one option is to set up the monitor with a portrait/vertical orientation, instead of the traditional horizontal view. The screen resolution can also be adjusted.
Another important factor for using a monitor with low vision is positioning. Tools such as display stands, slanted displays, adjustable screens that can be angled within the field of vision, and options for increasing the height of a display can all be used to support low vision access. Some users may prefer to sit close to a screen and have their face inches from a display, while others may prefer to have their screen positioned further away.
Related links
- How To Customize Icons For Windows
- How I Document Accessibility Preferences With Low Vision
- How I Use Google Chromecast With Low Vision
For laptops: battery life and charging considerations
Using multiple applications simultaneously can drain the battery life of a laptop more quickly than using a single application alone. Since many users with low vision often have screen magnification and/or a screen reader enabled while using other applications such as a web browser or productivity applications, it is important to consider that the device may need to be charged more often and to identify locations where the device can be charged. Portable battery packs often do not provide sufficient charging power, so it is helpful to have access to an outlet or charging station that is close to where the user is working. Avoid charging a laptop inside of a backpack or case, as this can cause the device to overheat and pose a fire risk.
Before purchasing a laptop, users with low vision may benefit from practicing how to connect and disconnect the laptop for charging, including locating the charging port and verifying that the device is connected for charging. Many devices will play a sound when the charger is connected/disconnected, or the charger itself will light up to confirm that it is connected. Another option is to add a tactile sticker or label to the charging port so that it is easier to locate, or to add cable tags to help with aligning the charger.
Related links
Video card and graphics card requirements for assistive technology
For users that are blind or that access computers using nonvisual access methods like a screen reader or braille display, video cards and graphics cards may not seem like the most important feature to consider when choosing a computer for visually impaired users. However, video cards and graphics cards are essential for screen readers and screen magnifiers to process visual information and run smoothly. If the user plans to use their computer for watching or editing videos or gaming, a more powerful graphics card or video card will be necessary— it is helpful to check system requirements for software prior to purchasing a computer.
To protect user privacy and security when using a computer with visual impairment, consider a privacy screen, screen protector, privacy film, or blackout screen that can be placed on the computer screen. This makes it more challenging for others to look at the screen and see what the person is doing. A screen curtain can also be enabled when using a screen reader, which will turn off the computer’s display output so the user can navigate entirely with the screen reader or braille display.
Related links
- Ten Ways To Reduce Eye Strain From Screens With Technology
- A to Z of Assistive Technology for Reading Digital Text
Planning for RAM
Remote Access Memory (RAM) impacts the speed of a computer and its ability to run multiple programs simultaneously. Many assistive technology applications such as JAWS recommend a minimum of 16 GB RAM in order to optimize performance— lower amounts of RAM can affect computer speed and increase the likelihood of programs freezing or crashing during use.
Connecting peripheral devices
Peripheral devices are hardware components that can be connected to a computer (or other device) to enhance the functionality of a computer. Examples of peripheral devices for users with low vision can include:
- Monitor
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Web camera or distance magnifier
- Microphone
- Speakers
- Headphones
- Stylus
- Alternative input devices
- Privacy screen or filter for screen
Depending on the device, peripherals may require a wired connection (e.g. USB cable), wireless connection (e.g. Bluetooth), or another tool for connecting to the computer. For wired connections, users will want to consider the number of USB ports that are available on their computer and whether they will need to connect a USB hub to accommodate peripheral devices.
Related links
- Mainstream Technology and Low Vision: Keyboards
- Computer Mice and Mouse Alternatives For Low Vision
- Mainstream Technology and Low Vision: Headphones
Visual characteristics for choosing a computer with low vision
Should someone with low vision choose a computer just because it is blue, without considering any other features? No, but features like device color, weight, and cases/covers can play a role in making the device even more accessible for users with low vision.
When possible, choose a device color that does not blend into common surfaces such as the inside of a backpack, desk/table, trunk, or other storage area. For example, a white laptop case may be challenging to locate on a white desk for someone with reduced contrast vision, or a student may have trouble locating their laptop in a storage area with dozens of identical laptops. Accessories that can help with making a computer easier to identify include stickers, covers/cases, and vibrant device colors that stand out against common surfaces and make it easier to locate items.
When it comes to transporting a computer with low vision, look for hands-free options such as a backpack or case with a strap, since individuals with low vision often use navigation aids like a smartphone, human guide, cane, or guide dog when traveling. Ensure that the case has adequate padding to protect against drops and that it also does not blend into commonly used surfaces. The device weight will also need to be considered to ensure that the user can transport the device independently.
Related links
- High Contrast and Low Vision
- Choosing A Backpack With Low Vision
- What’s In My Backpack: Program Management Intern With Low Vision
Summary of features to consider when choosing a computer with low vision
- Desktop computers often offer more powerful features and options for customization, while laptop computers are more portable. A laptop computer can be used like a desktop computer when connected to a docking station or peripheral devices.
- Windows, MacOS, and ChromeOS all offer built-in accessibility features, though customization options and support for third-party software will vary. For example, JAWS (a popular screen reader software) is only available for Windows computers, while VoiceOver is only available for Mac.
- Larger screen sizes can be useful for users with low vision, but may not display content in larger print sizes or fit into the visual field. Users can customize the display resolution and display orientation to make the screen easier to see.
- Using multiple programs (e.g. screen magnifier and web browser) can make the computer battery run out quicker— make sure to plan for charging.
- Video cards and graphics cards are essential for running assistive technology applications such as screen readers, especially for users that access information without looking at the screen.
- A minimum of 16 GB of RAM is recommended for running assistive technology software on a computer.
- Peripheral devices can enhance the accessibility of a computer and make it easier to use. This includes items like external keyboards, cameras, microphones, monitors, and input devices like a computer mouse.
- When possible, choose computers and accessories in colors that do not blend in with commonly used surfaces (e.g. white laptop on white desk). This can make it more challenging to locate items with low vision or contrast deficiencies.
Published August 10, 2017. Updated July 2025