Someone who is not good with technology can be described neutrally as a tech novice, beginner, inexperienced user, or not tech-savvy. More informal labels such as technologically challenged or tech-shy can work in friendly contexts, but they may sound patronizing if used about someone else.
Choose the Term by Tone
- Neutral and respectful: Tech novice
- Plain everyday wording: Not tech-savvy
- Still learning: Technology beginner
- Avoids technology because of discomfort: Tech-shy
Tech novice
Neutral and clear for someone with limited experience using digital tools or devices.
Example: “I’m a bit of a tech novice, so I may need help setting this up.”
Not tech-savvy
Common conversational wording that simply means someone is not very skilled or confident with technology.
Example: “My dad isn’t very tech-savvy, but he can use the basics.”
Technology beginner
Straightforward and useful when the person is actively learning rather than permanently “bad” at technology.
Example: “The course is designed for technology beginners.”
Inexperienced user
Neutral and especially suitable in instructions, training, or workplace contexts.
Example: “The interface should be easy enough for inexperienced users.”
Digitally inexperienced
More formal wording for limited experience with digital systems or services.
Example: “Some customers are digitally inexperienced and may prefer extra guidance.”
Tech-shy
Informal. It suggests reluctance or lack of confidence rather than inability.
Example: “She’s a little tech-shy and prefers to learn new apps slowly.”
Technologically challenged
Humorous and familiar, but it can sound dismissive or patronizing when applied to another person.
Example: “I’m technologically challenged when it comes to setting up routers.”
Technophobe
Use only when someone actively dislikes, fears, or avoids technology; it does not simply mean they lack skill.
Example: “He’s a self-described technophobe and still avoids online banking.”
Avoid Age-Based Assumptions
Being less confident with technology is not the same as being older, and age-based labels are usually less accurate than simply describing the person’s experience or confidence.
The Most Neutral Choice for “Someone Who Is Not Good With Technology”
Tech novice or inexperienced user is usually safest when you want to describe limited skill without sounding judgmental.