Consumer Cellular GrandPad Review, Tested by Caregivers
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December 17, 2024
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Smartphones and tablets have greatly facilitated communication through text and video. However, these devices are often difficult to use — particularly for seniors who are new to the technology. That’s where the GrandPad comes into play.
By simplifying the features of a traditional tablet, the GrandPad provides an ideal way for seniors to stay in touch with their loved ones. If you don’t mind the higher subscription fee of $40 per month, then the GrandPad might be the perfect alternative to a smartphone or conventional tablet.
FYI: Consumer Cellular may be affordable, but it’s far from the cheapest wireless provider. To find phone plans for less than $15 per month, read our guide to the best senior phone plans.
GrandPad Pros and Cons
Pros
- Simplified design: The GrandPad's interface features streamlined menus, making it easy for anyone to pick up and use. The stylus and touch screen accommodate rougher, less nimble, and colder fingertips.
- Video calls: A GrandPad subscription includes unlimited video calls, as well as regular calls and text messages.
- Family connectivity features: The GrandPad allows users to create a “Family Circle” where only preselected users can contact the device. This is a great way to reduce spam calls and scammers.
- Attentive customer service: GrandPad technical support from Consumer Cellular is available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Cons
- No video streaming or e-books: While the GrandPad's strength is its simplicity, I don’t understand why it doesn’t include an e-book reader or compatibility with video streaming services.
- Costly: The GrandPad costs $199 upfront and $40 per month, making it more expensive, in many cases, than the cost of a smartphone.
GrandPad Design
The GrandPad tablet has a user-friendly interface with a high-definition display. Buttons displaying apps are large so that users can view everything easily. When you want to use an app, you simply touch the app you want to use on the tablet screen.
Front and rear cameras make video calls possible. Plus, the GrandPad’s clear and enhanced sound, from built-in speakers on each side, allows you to enjoy calls and music without holding a receiver close to your ear. At 8 inches high and 5 inches across, it’s the perfect size to rest in your hands. Also, it’s much easier to see and work on than a smartphone. Plus, at less than a pound (12.5 ounces), the GrandPad is comfortable to hold and carry around.
Upkeep of the GrandPad is easy. There’s no need to worry about draining the battery; it automatically puts itself in sleep mode when the smart case is closed. There’s not even an on/off button. When the battery does run low after one to three full days, you set it down on the wireless charging cradle; it will reach a full charge after a few hours.
GrandPad Features
Video and Calls
The GrandPad can make audio calls and send emails and recorded messages. However, we were most excited to try the video calling feature. In our experience, this feature worked pretty well, with calls coming in loud and clear with high-quality video. Even when these calls were conducted over 4G LTE (as opposed to Wi-Fi), we had a similarly seamless experience.
Another feature we appreciated was the auto-answer option. By turning this feature on, incoming calls will start after a few rings — useful for someone who might have trouble answering on their own.
Photos
Another useful feature of the GrandPad is the photo album. This app stores photos taken with the GrandPad itself and ones added by loved ones. Using the GrandPad app, they can upload photos to a shared cloud, and they’ll be immediately viewable on the GrandPad.
Camera
The GrandPad's front and rear cameras are rated 5 MP. To give you a comparison, the iPhone 13 has 12 MP, and the latest iPhone has 48 MP. Your loved one may be able to see a crisp, clear image of you through their GrandPad. But, keep your expectations low for the quality of the image you’ll see.
While these cameras can perform well with video, photos are a different story.
Internet and Browsing
Browsing the internet was easy, and pages loaded quickly — at least when we were connected to a Wi-Fi network. When I was on a 4G LTE network outside of the house, the connection was a bit spotty. The included internet app makes it easy to type in the names of websites and click and scroll.
Weather
I could view the current weather conditions and the five-day forecast on the GrandPad. I could also see the weather for the locations of each of my five “trusted” contacts. Because they are large and clear, most seniors would have no trouble viewing the weather conditions and forecasts.
Music
As a huge music buff, I was thrilled about the 30-million-song database we could search to add tracks to our GrandPad’s music app. However, I was frustrated that the library initially available on the tablet was very slim. Plus, I could not access any other streaming services, like Spotify or Amazon Music.
GrandPad vs. Smartphones
Both the GrandPad and a conventional smartphone feature various communication and entertainment features; however, the two cater to different skill sets.
Cost
When purchased from Consumer Cellular, the GrandPad costs $199 and $40 per month for the required subscription.
Smartphones, however, will cost you either about this much or significantly more. On the pricier end of things, the newest iPhone will cost you well over $1,000, and an accompanying cellular plan will likely cost $50 per month, depending on your provider. On the cheaper end of the spectrum, you might purchase the Jitterbug Smart4; it costs $149 and can be paired with a service plan for about $30 per month.
The GrandPad will cost you roughly the same amount as a smartphone, unless you splurge on a cutting-edge device.
Accessibility
The GrandPad's large HD screen allows seniors to look closer at text or images that may be difficult to process on a smaller smartphone screen. Large, color-coded icons on the screen reduce confusion and minimize choices for seniors with minor to moderate visual impairment. Like with a smartphone, seniors navigate the GrandPad via its touch screen; the option to zoom in to the text makes browsing the web easier than on a tiny smartphone screen.
Overall, the GrandPad is definitely easier to use than a smartphone due to its large size and simplified design.
Features
While the number of apps you can add to your smartphone is essentially limitless, the GrandPad allows only 16 apps. Those apps can be added or removed from the GrandPad based on the user's preferences.
A small percentage of users will likely prefer a smartphone with infinite app choices. However, having fewer apps prevents one from becoming overwhelmed by choices.
GrandPad Costs
When purchased from Consumer Cellular, the GrandPad will cost you $199 for the device and $40 monthly for your subscription. This monthly charge covers the cost of service on your GrandPad, much like a cell phone plan.
Consumer Cellular also offers financing plans on the GrandPad starting at as little as $5 per month. Also, it boasts the option to buy a refurbished GrandPad for a discount.
Bottom Line
If the senior in your life isn't tech savvy, but you still want to help them keep in touch with loved ones, a GrandPad is a fantastic resource. While it lacks specific technology capabilities like the option to stream audiobooks and interact with voice assistants, the GrandPad provides a convenient way for your loved ones to stay connected.
Ultimately, the GrandPad provides even the most tech-averse senior with an approachable and senior-centric means of minimizing loneliness and maximizing invaluable connections.
To learn more about our favorite phones and providers for seniors, be sure to check out our helpful guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where can I buy a GrandPad?
You can purchase a GrandPad online via the Consumer Cellular website.
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What is a GrandPad?
A GrandPad is an easy-to-use, safe tablet that helps seniors stay in touch with their families and friends. Seniors can easily review photos and videos, listen to music, play games, and view the weather conditions where each family member lives. They can also enjoy music, check emails, make phone calls, participate in video chats, and more.
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How much does a GrandPad cost?
Through Consumer Cellular, GrandPads cost $199 when on sale and require a $40 monthly subscription fee.