A rugged AAC tablet in a black casing on a stand, being used by a child with an adult's hand guiding it.

Grid Pad Go

by Smartbox

Est. $1,500–$3,500, see price history

Typical price range, not a vendor quote. Confirm it with the vendor before buying.

Professional setup required Choosing and customizing a full communication system is a clinical decision. The right vocabulary, layout, and way of accessing the device (touch, keyguard, or switches) depend on the person's abilities, and a poor fit can leave an expensive device unused. An SLP or AAC specialist should guide the selection and setup, so professional involvement is required.

What it is

Summary

AI-generated from vendor-published content · October 1, 2026

The Grid Pad Go is a portable, tough communication device that runs Smartbox's Grid software, so a person can speak with symbols or text and have the device say it aloud. It has a tactile handle and strap, can be mounted to a wheelchair, and is drop tested to 1 meter with extra screen protection. For people who can't tap a screen easily, it has two switch ports, oversized buttons, and an optional keyguard (a plate that guides the finger to the right spot). Grid also gives access to apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, and it supports a range of voices as well as a personalized voice. The page lists it for people whose speech is affected by conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, early MND/ALS, stroke, or aphasia.

Getting it

Try before you buy

Devices like this are often available to borrow through your state's AT Act program — typically free or low-cost — so you can try it before buying or pursuing funding.

Where to get it

Smartbox Visit
Contact vendor for pricing

This is the vendor WhatCanHelp tracks for this product — it may also be available from other retailers or a local supplier, and prices vary.

How to fund this

These are common places to ask about paying for equipment like this. Each one decides its own eligibility and what it covers, so start by asking them.

All funding programs, state by state →

Details

Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
Age range
Complexity
Professional setup required
Price
Est. $1,500–$3,500
Funding
  • AT Act lending
  • Insurance
  • Medicaid waiver
  • Out of pocket
  • School district
  • Vocational rehab

What setup looks like

  • Out of the box
    Charge the device and power it on using the oversized power button. Grid software is already on it.
  • With a guide
    Set up the voice, volume, and any accessibility options such as a keyguard or mounting hardware for a wheelchair or stand. See manufacturer support resources for detailed instructions.
  • With professional help
    1. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) or AAC specialist usually works with the user to choose the right Grid vocabulary set and page layout. They also decide on the access method: direct touch, keyguard, or switches.
    2. Plan on an assessment and several follow-up sessions to customize the vocabulary and teach the user and their communication partners. Switch scanning setup can take extra time and fine-tuning.

Sources & fine print

Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from Smartbox — view on vendor site (opens in a new tab); last checked October 31, 2026.

Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on October 1, 2026 · confidence: high. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.

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