Learn how to use a computer with vision loss. Compare screen readers, magnifiers, OS accessibility features, and hardware built for low-vision users.

For those adjusting to vision loss, using a computer can feel daunting. However, various built-in and third-party tools exist that make computing more accessible. Software solutions include screen readers, which convert text to speech or braille, and screen magnifiers, which focus and enlarge visual on-screen elements. A notable hardware solution is the braille display, which turns the braille output from a screen reader into physical braille you can read. The following is a guide to computing with vision loss, discussing and comparing many of these tools.

Built-In Accessibility Features on Windows and Mac

People with vision loss are fortunate to live in a time when built-in accessibility is more than a token. Both Windows and MacOS have screen readers and magnifiers, which make it possible to accomplish many everyday tasks without resorting to third-party options.

Windows Accessibility Tools: Narrator, Magnifier, and More

Gone are the days when a Windows computer required third-party software to be useable. Microsoft has developed the Narrator screen reader and its own Magnifier to fill this once notorious gap. In particular, Narrator has undergone major overhauls in Windows 10 and 11, transforming it from something you struggled with into a functional everyday screen reader. This transformation lets you quickly read webpages and documents with the arrow keys and provides more responsive voices. Narrator also brings its own helpful additions to the accessibility roster. A handy example of this is the keystroke Narrator + Ctrl + D. When the cursor is placed over an image, this keystroke sends the image to Microsoft and returns a detailed description of the image.

Apple Accessibility Tools: VoiceOver, Zoom, and Display Options

The VoiceOver screen reader is the built-in MacOS solution for text-to-speech or braille, and Zoom is the MacOS screen magnifier. As in other Apple operating systems, Apple intends VoiceOver and Zoom as comprehensive solutions. For this reason, and Apple’s policies, third-party assistive technology for Mac is comparatively rare. MacOS also provides the ability to adjust display options within Accessibility settings. These include inverted colors, increased contrast, and more.

How to Find and Enable Built-In Settings on Each OS

On either OS, the easiest way to enable the built-in screen reader is to use its designated keystroke, which obviates the need for sighted assistance. On Windows, start Narrator by pressing Windows Logo + Ctrl + Enter. On Mac, turn on VoiceOver by pressing Cmd + F5. On Windows, you can also go directly to Narrator settings by pressing Windows Logo + Ctrl + N, then toggle “Use Narrator” to turn on. On Mac, go to System Settings, then Accessibility, then VoiceOver, and toggle VoiceOver on. To change VoiceOver settings, open VoiceOver Utility by pressing Ctrl + Option + F8 or click the option in Accessibility settings. On Windows, turn the Magnifier on or off by pressing the Windows logo key and the plus sign. On Mac, turn on Zoom by going to System Settings, then Accessibility, then Zoom.

What Built-In Tools Do Well and Where They Fall Short

The answer to this question depends on the operating system being considered. Windows has a long history of third-party tools, necessitated by the historical lack of built-in accessibility, which has only recently been remedied. As a consequence, third-party tools that have been in the advanced accessibility space longer have developed specialized approaches for specific applications. Examples include scripts designed for a specific program or keystrokes that automate an action or introduce functionality to streamline the user experience for a person with vision loss. On the other hand, third-party developers have often had to play catch-up when Microsoft introduces a new OS version, whereas the built-in tools are developed in concert with the new OS, with changes already accounted for. The situation is different on MacOS, where Apple fully intends for VoiceOver to be the MacOS screen reader. Support for native MacOS applications is generally strong, but this is not always true with common third-party applications such as Adobe Acrobat or Google Docs. In these cases, when Apple’s built-in solution fails, its reluctance to allow alternative screen readers sometimes means that certain apps can be unusable on MacOS.

Comparing Operating Systems for Vision Accessibility

Windows vs. Mac: Which Is Better for Low Vision Users?

The choice between Windows and MacOS will depend to a large extent on the user’s preferences, but some generalizations can be made. The accessibility philosophies of the operating systems differ somewhat. While Microsoft develops its assistive technologies, such as Narrator and Magnifier, as everyday tools, third-party products like JAWS, ZoomText, and NVDA are common and recommended for more advanced needs. Apple, on the other hand, intends its solutions to be more comprehensive, ideally eliminating the need or desire for third-party software. Therefore, the built-in experience on MacOS is more complete and integrated than Windows. Windows’ strength, by contrast, is the wealth of third-party options which, taken together, may make it more customizable in the long run.

Screen Reader Compatibility by Operating System

There are few or no screen readers that can be used on both MacOS and Windows. The built-in VoiceOver is virtually the only screen reader for MacOS. For Windows, besides the built-in Narrator, options include the paid JAWS for Windows and the free, open source Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA). The most updated versions of these generally support some combination of Windows 10 and 11, but not older systems like Windows 7 or 8. Former players in the Windows space, such as System Access and WindowEyes, have been retired, owing to JAWS’s much higher market share and the proliferation of reliable, free options.

Keyboard Shortcuts and Navigation Differences

Both Windows and MacOS have keyboard shortcuts for many common actions, used with or without a screen reader. Examples are the classic shortcuts for undo, cut, copy, and paste. Respectively, they use the Z, X, C, and V keys on both platforms; Windows uses the Ctrl (Control) key, and MacOS uses the Cmd (Command) key. This illustrates well the differences in available keys: there is no MacOS equivalent for the Windows Logo key, for instance. Similar differences are apparent when comparing screen readers across both platforms, and they may present a learning curve for people accustomed to one platform and who are trying to learn the other. For example, most Windows screen readers use the up and down arrows to navigate documents and webpages by line, and the left and right arrows to navigate a line by character. While this is now possible on MacOS as well, it is common for MacOS users to navigate webpages by element using Ctrl + Option + left or right arrow, or just the left and right arrows when Arrow Key Quick Nav mode is turned on.

Choosing the Right OS Based on Your Needs

Because of the many ways in which MacOS and Windows differ in terms of accessibility, there is no easy criterion by which to judge whether to choose one or the other. Out of the box, MacOS includes a customizable, comprehensive screen reader designed to work well across the entire system. This means one does not have to install third-party software or compare many competing products in order to use their computer. The pitfalls of this approach come when the user wants functionality not natively supported by Apple or encounters accessibility hurdles that there is no way to work around with an alternative program. In comparison, Windows’ built-in screen reader is rather elementary and not especially suited to advanced situations, such as those found in many workplaces or schools. This is where aftermarket screen readers, many with a suite of third-party customizations, fill the gaps. Since they all work in slightly different ways, they allow the advanced user to deal with an inaccessible environment by switching to another screen reader. Their longtime presence also means that many of them have been specifically developed to work with challenging applications.

Screen Readers Explained: What They Are, How They Work, and How Screen Readers Convert On-Screen Content to Speech or Braille

The purpose of a screen reader is to convert the graphical user interface (GUI) into a linear text format. It then uses a speech synthesizer or braille driver, assuming the user has a working sound card or braille display, to make this linear format available as spoken or braille output. Beyond this, it also detects various elements, such as static text, links, headings, buttons, and edit boxes, and makes them available for user interaction.

JAWS: The Most Widely Used Screen Reader for Windows

First developed in the 1980s for MS-DOS, Job Access With Speech (JAWS for Windows) is the longtime standard-bearer of screen reading technology. Not too long ago, it was virtually the only option for serious users. It remains popular today, serving as the premium choice, and many use it along with Narrator and NVDA as part of their access arsenal. Main selling points for JAWS are its development by accessibility professionals with extensive experience, a reduced-price option for home users, and, recently, AI integration for describing screens and images. 

NVDA: The Free and Open-Source Alternative

Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA) was first developed in 2006 as a free, open-source screen reader for Windows. At the time, the only other freely available screen reader, Narrator, was a bare-bones program unsuitable for most complex tasks. The popularity of NVDA has steadily increased as its feature set and reliability have become more competitive with JAWS. Despite advances in Narrator, NVDA remains a popular choice for users seeking a richer experience. One difference between the two is that NVDA allows for third-party customizations, called “add-ons,” that add anything from better voices to significant functionality improvements in certain areas. Because NVDA is free and open source, these add-ons can be developed by anyone and hosted on NVDA’s add-on store. Note that not all add-ons are free.

VoiceOver: Apple’s Built-In Screen Reader for Mac

VoiceOver, first launched with OSX Tiger in 2005, is the built-in, comprehensive screen reader for MacOS. Unlike Narrator on Windows, VoiceOver is intended by Apple as the screen reader, so it is difficult to develop third-party screen readers that Apple will approve. It offers the advantages of strong customization, increased stability, and strong support for native applications. Perhaps its main pitfall is a lack of alternatives for those situations where VoiceOver does not work well with a given application. Because of the limited options, certain applications may be more or less unusable on a Mac.

Narrator: Microsoft’s Native Screen Reader

Narrator, Microsoft’s built-in screen reader for Windows, was first released with the Windows 2000 operating system. Though it has long had a reputation among users as the screen reader they struggled with until installing something better, those days are fortunately over. Beginning with Windows 10 and continuing through Windows 11, Narrator has come into its own as a useful addition to the Windows user’s toolbox. It is a good option for those just getting used to screen readers, as it is available out of the box, does not require additional software, has good documentation, uses a simple interface, and accomplishes the most common computing tasks with ease.

Screen Magnification Software for Low-Vision Users

What Screen Magnification Does and Who It’s For

Screen magnification is useful for those with some remaining vision. It focuses and enlarges text and other elements on the screen so they can be more easily read. As with screen readers, there are built-in options for both Windows and Mac, and third-party tools for Windows.

ZoomText: Magnification and Reading Combined

ZoomText, now developed by Vispero along with JAWS, is a screen magnifier that can also read content aloud. It was originally developed in parallel with the now-defunct WindowEyes screen reader. It provides more powerful and customizable features than the built-in Magnifier and leverages Vispero’s long experience in the assistive technology space. Also available is a package of JAWS and ZoomText together, called Fusion. This solution combines the full feature sets of both and is intended for those who would benefit from both technologies, whether at different times or in concert.

Built-In Magnifiers Versus Third-Party Software

As with screen readers, the situation varies by platform. Zoom is the main screen magnifier on MacOS. Its functionality is meant to be advanced and system-wide, and third-party options are limited. For Windows, the built-in Magnifier is suitable for some common tasks, while users seeking more features and greater customization may opt for third-party options such as ZoomText.

Pairing Magnification with a Screen Reader: When and Why

For people with some vision, it may be helpful to use a screen reader and a magnifier together. Fusion, a combination of the JAWS screen reader and ZoomText magnifier, was developed specifically for this purpose, and the built-in options on each platform can also be combined in this way. For some users, it’s helpful to have more options rather than fewer. For example, a person might use a magnifier to enlarge static text on the screen while relying on a screen reader to navigate more complex environments, such as webpages. According to the American Foundation for the Blind, using these technologies together can also reduce eye strain from reading magnified text.

Specialized Hardware for Computer Users with Vision Loss

High-Contrast and Large-Print Keyboards

These keyboards can be helpful for those who have trouble seeing to type on a more traditional keyboard. A large-print keyboard will have the symbols on the keys enlarged, while a high-contrast keyboard will make the symbols stand out better against the background color of the keyboard. These are available in both wired and Bluetooth configurations.

Refreshable Braille Displays—How They Work and Who Needs One

A refreshable braille display is a device that converts the digital braille output of a screen reader to physical braille that can be read by the fingers. They accomplish this by raising and lowering sets of pins corresponding to each braille cell. Within each cell, the unused pins used to create braille dots are hidden. They come in different sizes, from 14 cells to 80 cells. Many also support braille input via a Perkins-style keyboard layout. A display can also be a component of a standalone, portable computer without a screen, called a braille notetaker. Refreshable braille displays are most useful for those who already know braille and are essential for those who are deafblind. They can also be used to teach braille in lieu of traditional methods.

Video Magnifiers and Desktop CCTVs

Video magnifiers and desktop closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are hardware tools that use a camera to magnify text and project it onto the screen. They are often used to read printed physical documents whose text is too small for a person with low vision. The camera is handheld or mounted on a stand, with the document placed beneath it. Some systems also allow the material to be read aloud by a screen reader.

Alternative Input Devices and Adaptive Mice

These devices are most helpful for those with other disabilities in addition to vision loss. They include adaptive keyboards, joysticks, and other pointing devices and often work well with magnification. AbilityNet has a list of common implementations.

Choosing Hardware Based on Your Level of Vision Loss

Finding the right hardware will depend on your individual needs. For example, a user might want a desktop computer if they prioritize finding a monitor with just the right settings, even if it means sacrificing portability. They may instead want a laptop computer for its convenience but may lose some of the benefits that a more distant monitor provides, such as reduced eye strain. They may opt to buy a second monitor to alleviate this problem.

Accessible Browsers and Applications

Which Web Browsers Work Best with Screen Readers?

Fortunately, the major web browsers are now mostly accessible with screen readers. The experience between browsers on Windows is fairly similar, with most users choosing Google Chrome according to recent surveys. The Mac’s native web browser, Safari, offers the best VoiceOver accessibility, though some people choose to use Chrome there as well.

Accessible Email, Word Processing, and Office Tools

Most email clients are accessible with screen readers on both platforms, but in general, native clients such as Microsoft Outlook or Apple Mail may be somewhat preferable to web clients. On Mac, Apple’s native tools including Pages, Keynote, and Numbers offer the strongest accessibility and can easily interface with the Microsoft equivalents. With the exception of Excel, Microsoft Office accessibility on Mac is not as smooth. This is also true for Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides on Mac. On Windows, Office 365 products are generally accessible, and screen reader support for Google Docs tends to be better as well.

Browser Extensions That Improve Accessibility

Some browsers, like Google Chrome, offer third-party extensions that improve accessibility. Many of these involve low-vision-friendly fonts and reading tools. The ChromeVox screen reader, used on Google’s Chromebook computers, is also available as a Google Chrome extension.

Apps and Software Built Specifically for Low-Vision Users

This encompasses a wide variety of tools and services. Besides magnifiers, products include AI assistants like Be My Eyes for Windows, document scanners like OpenBook, additional reading tools, fonts, and more.

Tips for Setting Up an Accessible Computer Workspace

Display and Monitor Settings That Reduce Eye Strain

To reduce eye strain, consider using a non-glare panel, using warmer color temperatures in the evening, maintaining proper contrast and a comfortable text size, and keeping your monitor at an appropriate distance.

Font Size, Contrast, and Color Filter Adjustments

Eye strain can be caused by reading text that is too small or has low contrast. Ensure that you have adjusted these settings so reading is comfortable. You can use a non-glare monitor that reduces brightness. Adjust color filter settings to reduce exposure to blue light, particularly in the evening, as it can cause sleep issues.

Positioning Your Screen and Hardware for Low Vision Access

The recommended distance for a screen is about an arm’s length away from your eye and below eye level. Ensure your settings allow you to read comfortably at that distance, as a monitor close to your face can increase eye fatigue.

Building a Workflow That Works Without Full Sight

Concentrate on simplicity and efficiency. Unnecessary clutter can create access problems for low-vision users and make workflow generally unpleasant. Adjust settings to minimize distractions and ensure your programs and files are organized to optimize your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using a Computer with Vision Loss

What Is the Best Screen Reader for Beginners?

These days, the best screen reader for beginners is probably the built-in one on your desired platform. Narrator on Windows and VoiceOver on Mac both offer solid initial training materials, documentation, and feature sets that let you accomplish common tasks with ease. If you intend to use a public or company computer for any length of time, it is a good idea to have some familiarity with how screen readers like Narrator work on Windows, as this is what most businesses use.

Can I Use a Computer If I Am Completely Blind?

The answer is an emphatic yes! Screen readers that convert text to speech or braille have revolutionized how people living with total vision loss access the world around them. With reliable, built-in screen readers on both Windows and Mac, the barriers to using a computer are lower than ever before.

Is Windows or Mac Better for Blind Users?

Windows and MacOS both have their pros and cons for blind users. Windows has more screen readers, which means greater customization, and knowing how to use Windows with a screen reader will let you use most computers you’ll encounter at work or in public places. MacOS, on the other hand, has the best built-in screen reader, strong support for native apps, and better stability. The main disadvantage of the Mac is that there are virtually no alternative screen readers available when VoiceOver fails.

What Is the Difference Between a Screen Reader and a Screen Magnifier?

A screen reader converts text and other visual elements of the screen into spoken or braille output. A screen magnifier focuses and enlarges text on the screen. Some magnifiers, such as ZoomText, also offer screen-reading functionality.

How Much Do Accessible Software and Hardware Cost?

Accessible solutions range from free to very expensive. The majority of commonly used screen readers are available at no additional cost to users. JAWS is the exception, though that service has recently become more affordable with a new plan for home users. Refreshable braille displays can be pricey due to their abundance of physical components, such as the pins used to create braille dots. Large-print, high-contrast keyboards are on the lower end of the cost spectrum.