Need help shopping for laptop for Terry

[dreamshark]

 So, I convinced Denny that now would be a good time for them to buy a laptop. Currently, their computer setup consists for 2 or more older Windows desktop machines on the 2nd floor (not very accessible for Terry). And right at the moment, Terry is in a nursing/rehab facility for the indefinite future. They hope to get her home eventually, but time frame is unclear at this point. So ideally, they need a laptop that could be used by either of them in Terry's room at the rehab facility and then transition to something resembling a desktop when they get home. I recommended a docking station for that last part (that's what I use at home, and I usually forget that I'm even using a laptop). 

Denny eventually agreed that this makes sense, and Terry liked the idea of the laptop + docking station. However, Denny is pretty much a technophobe and not comfortable with tech shopping, so he delegated that part to me. Well, that's what I get for being pushy. But I'm only an intermittent tech shopper, and the last time I bought a computer was in 2014. There are way more choices now. I'm a little overwhelmed. 

Here's what I THINK they might like. A larger laptop with a good bright screen and the best possible keyboard. Possibly a convertible, since Terry may be using it in bed. Possibly a touch screen, since it is unclear how much strength Terry will regain in her hands. Something that can very easily be paired with a docking station at home that will work with their older monitors, printer, and other peripherals. Processing power is not an issue - they won't be gaming or doing anything CPU intensive. I'm guessing that they might like a DVD drive for installing software or watching movies. I'm not sure what kind of Internet access they will have at Walker Methodist, but I wouldn't count on high-speed reliable wi-fi. 

All the connectors have changed since the last time I bought a laptop and I have no idea what to look for there. Maybe USB-C, because it seems to be the most versatile of the new connectors?  Apparently most laptops don't come with an Ethernet port anymore - I need to find out if they would want that in their home setup. I know I would, even though I do have a wi-fi router. What else should I be considering? Anybody have suggestions? Do you love (or hate) your current laptop, and if so why?

Comments

[mdlbear]

Let me recommend a ThinkPad X1 Yoga (1st Gen) | 14" Business 2-in-1 Laptop | Lenovo US You can find them for under $500 on eBay. E.g. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga i5 1st Gen

Almost bought one, but went for an X230, which has almost identical specs except for a smaller screen, mostly full-sized ports, and a connector for a dock I already had.

[romsfuulynn]

what kind of TV does the rehab place have? What kind of inputs does it have and where is it positioned from the bed? And is it shared with a room mate? If it is individual, you may have the option of a smaller, lighter laptop and using the room TV as a monitor. But not if it is shared or too far from the bed.

[dreamshark]

The TV is an old CRT TV hanging from the ceiling. It is not appropriate for use as a monitor.

[bibliofile]

Thanks for taking on this task!

I am very happy with my current laptop, bought last year: an Acer Spin 3, 13" laptop, touch screen, converts to tablet (360' hinge).

Further question:

Would headphones be helpful? If they already have wired headphones, then you'll need a headphone jack (my laptop has one, but it's not always standard). If the wires would cause too much hassle, then you could buy wireless headphones.

[lydy]

I have no technical advice, but if there was a fundraiser, I would be happy to chip in $50.

[ranunculus]

If you haven't already gotten a computer I really love my Dell 15". Costco has a Dell Inspiron for about $600. It has a touch screen, multiple USB ports, HDMI and a RJ45 (for hardwired internet). You can get adapters from the USB and HDMI ports to older connectors. I use an external DVD player that plugs into a USB port. I also plug in an external hard drive via USB for backups that don't involve the Cloud.
Here in San Francisco I use Central Computer to get adapters; www.centralcomputer.com

[ranunculus]

Oh, I found you through Laramie