Do I need a prescription or doctor's order to buy a speech tablet?

No. Gus Communication Devices sells AAC speech tablets directly to consumers with no prescription, no physician's order, no speech evaluation, and no pre-approval required. You can order today and receive your device in 3 to 4 business days. This is a major advantage over going through insurance, which can take months and require multiple evaluations.

What is the best AAC device for a non-verbal child?

For children and adults who are nonverbal or minimally verbal, we recommend the Samsung 8.7 inch Speech Tablet Bundle at $499.99 as the best entry-level option, or the Samsung 11 inch Speech Tablet Bundle at $699.99 for best overall value. Both include TalkTablet PRO pre-installed with 15 SLP-designed vocabulary sets, over 30,000 SymbolStix symbols, and customizable button pages ready to use out of the box.

What is the best AAC device for an adult who has lost speech?

For adults who have lost the ability to speak, we strongly recommend the Samsung 11 inch Speech Tablet Bundle at $699.99. The larger screen makes button selection easier for adults with motor challenges. TalkTablet PRO includes vocabulary sets designed for adults to express needs, feelings, and everyday phrases. No prescription or speech-language pathologist evaluation is required to order.

Are speech tablets HSA or FSA eligible?

Yes. AAC speech tablets purchased from Gus Communication Devices are generally HSA and FSA eligible as assistive communication devices for qualified medical purposes. We recommend confirming with your plan administrator before purchase.

Does Gus Communication Devices accept insurance?

We sell directly to consumers at consumer prices and do not bill insurance directly. Our devices are priced $499 to $999, compared to $4,000 to $8,000 for traditional dedicated AAC devices billed through insurance. Many customers find it faster and cheaper to pay directly. We accept HSA and FSA cards, Shop Pay 0% financing for 12 months, and all major credit cards. No insurance authorization or Medicare pre-approval is needed.

How long does shipping take?

Most orders ship within 1 business day and are delivered in 3 to 4 business days via free shipping. We ship to all 50 US states. No sales tax is charged outside of Arizona.

What is TalkTablet PRO and is it included with the speech tablets?

TalkTablet PRO is an award-winning AAC app developed by Gus Communication Devices. It is a one-time purchase, not a subscription, and is included free with all Samsung bundle purchases pre-installed (a $250 value). It features over 30,000 SymbolStix symbols, 15 SLP-designed vocabulary sets, customizable button pages from 1 to 144 buttons per page, offline use with no internet required, and supports Android, iOS, Windows, and Chromebook.

How do your prices compare to traditional AAC devices like Tobii Dynavox?

Our speech tablet bundles range from $499.99 to $999.99 and include the tablet, AAC app, and protective case. Traditional dedicated AAC devices such as those from Tobii Dynavox or PRC-Saltillo typically cost $4,000 to $8,000 when purchased through insurance channels, and often require a speech evaluation, physician prescription, and months of waiting. We offer the same communication capability at consumer electronics pricing with no delays.

Parent comparing where to buy an AAC device on a laptop while her autistic son uses a picture-symbol speech tablet on the couch

Where to Buy AAC Devices for Autism: A Practical Buying Guide

October 6, 2026

Where to Buy AAC Devices for Autism

You can buy an AAC device for an autistic child or adult from four main places: a direct-to-consumer speech tablet company, the major dedicated-device manufacturers, the Apple App Store or Google Play (for apps only), and general retailers selling low-tech tools. Where you buy determines how fast the device arrives, whether insurance can be involved, and how much support you get after the sale.

1. Direct-to-Consumer Speech Tablet Companies

This is the fastest way to get a complete, ready-to-use device. A speech tablet company sells the tablet, AAC app, and protective case as one package, set up and ready to talk out of the box. No prescription or evaluation is required.

Speech Tablets by Gus Communication Devices has supplied AAC devices for more than 30 years, including to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Cleveland Clinic, and the Arizona Department of Education. Options include:

8.7" Samsung speech tablet with TalkTablet PRO: $499
11" Samsung speech tablet with TalkTablet PRO: $699
11" Apple speech tablet with TalkTablet PRO: $849
11" Apple speech tablet with your choice of Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, or LAMP Words for Life: $999

Every package includes a carrying case with screen protector, free FedEx shipping, no sales tax outside Arizona, HSA/FSA eligibility, 0% financing for 12 months, and lifetime US-based phone support. Samsung models ship within 24 hours.

2. Dedicated SGD Manufacturers

Companies such as Tobii Dynavox and PRC-Saltillo make dedicated speech-generating devices (SGDs) that run only communication software. These typically cost $6,000–$12,000+ and are usually purchased through insurance after an SLP evaluation, a process that commonly takes 4 to 12 weeks or more. This route makes sense when insurance will pay and you can wait.

3. App Stores (App Only)

If your family already owns a tablet, you can buy an AAC app directly. TalkTablet PRO ($199.99) is available for both Apple and Android. Proloquo2Go ($249.99), LAMP Words for Life ($299.99), and TouchChat HD ($150–$300) are Apple only. You will still want a sturdy case, because autistic users often benefit from carrying the device everywhere.

4. Low-Tech Tools

Picture boards, PECS sets, and simple button devices such as the BIGmack or GoTalk are sold by therapy and education suppliers and online retailers for roughly $50–$570. They are useful starting points and backups, but their vocabulary is limited.

What to Look For When Buying an AAC Device for Autism

Durability: a rugged case and screen protector are essential.
Symbols plus speech: picture symbols that speak aloud help with both understanding and expression.
Room to grow: vocabulary that can expand from single words to full sentences.
Easy customization: parents and teachers should be able to add family names, favorite foods, and photos.
Consistency: if the school uses a specific app, using the same app at home reinforces learning.
Real support: a phone number you can call when you get stuck.

Can Insurance Pay for It?

Insurance typically covers dedicated SGDs, not tablet-based speech devices. For school-age children, the district must provide AAC when it is written into the IEP. Many families buy a speech tablet right away and pursue insurance or school funding in parallel. Read more in How Much Does an AAC Device Cost? Full Price Breakdown.

Not sure which device fits? Call 360-303-3356 to talk with a real person.

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