A braille display is a device that shows text from a computer, phone or tablet as braille, so it can be read with the fingers. The dots in each braille cell rise and fall electronically as the screen reader sends the text. Most braille displays also have a braille keyboard, so the user can type without looking at the screen.
A braille display does not replace a braille embosser. The display shows one line at a time and does not produce paper copies. In return it fits in a bag, and it can be used all day for e-mail, documents, messages and books.
Braille display, embosser or notetaker?
| Need | Braille display | Braille embosser | Notetaker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Read the screen in braille | Yes | No | Often |
| Braille on paper | No | Yes | No |
| Write notes without a computer | Yes, if it has its own apps | No | Yes |
| Portable | Yes | No | Yes |
| Typical use | Phone, computer, school and work | Teaching materials, signs, paper notes | Independent work without a computer |
What to look for
- Number of cells. 24 cells is light and easy to carry. 40 cells or more gives longer lines and suits a fixed workplace better.
- Connection. Bluetooth for phones and tablets, USB or Bluetooth for computers.
- Screen reader. VoiceOver on iPhone and iPad, JAWS and NVDA on Windows. Check that the screen reader supports the model.
- Built-in apps. Some displays can be used on their own for notes, calendar and books.
- Danish. Danish braille and preferably a Danish interface.
Our braille display
BraillePen24 by Harpo has 24 braille cells with cursor routing keys and an 8-key Perkins-style keyboard. It weighs about 230 g, connects via Bluetooth and has its own apps for notes, calendar and books. The price is DKK 14,900 excl. VAT.
If a municipality, school or institution is buying a braille display, see how to order with an EAN number and get a quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a braille display and a braille embosser?
A braille display shows the screen's text as braille instantly and does not store anything on paper. A braille embosser prints braille on paper that can be handed out or kept. Many users need both: the display for everyday reading and the embosser for materials.
Does a braille display work with iPhone and Windows?
Yes, most braille displays connect via Bluetooth and work together with the screen reader, for example VoiceOver on iPhone and JAWS or NVDA on Windows. According to Harpo, BraillePen24 works with all three. Ask us if you use a different screen reader.
How many cells should a braille display have?
More cells give longer lines and smoother reading, but also make the display larger and heavier. 24 cells is a good choice for phones, school and use on the go, while 40 cells or more is more common at a fixed workplace with a computer.
Can the municipality grant a braille display?
A braille display is an assistive device that the municipality can grant, or that can be applied for through SPS, the education institution or the job centre. The decision is always based on the individual's needs. Contact the vision consultant, and write to us if you need a quote.
Where do we get information for an application?
Write to info@inva.store. We help with data sheets, CE documentation and answers to technical questions, so the vision consultant or case worker has what is needed. If information from the manufacturer is missing, we get it for you.
