Oddbean

I'd say there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Number one goal here would be get them to take the first steps without overwhelming them. None of us leveled up to where we are now in a single leap. My default onboarding wallet right now is Phoenix. Works with on chain and lightning, regular 12 word backup. Getting sats obviously varies on jurisdiction. Non KYC is ideal but can be daunting as a first experience. In Canada I point to Bull Bitcoin, internationally I point to Hodlhodl (but will concede to an easy KYC exchange if this is too much of a challenge out the gate. Cold storage can depend again on the user. Timid: tapsigner on Nunchuk mobile Willing to learn: Coldcard/Sparrow plugged in (much easier than many would assume if you don't get distracted by the bells and whistles) Eager: CC/Sparrow air gapped Many non technical people I've worked with over time have leveled up over time to: -Phoenix hot wallet -No KYC sats -Coinjoin -Coldcard air gapped -Running a node Not everyone needs to get here, but a lot get curious and excited once they fall down the rabbit hole. Holy crap this is a long reply. Sorry.

To add: Even the most basic first step with a non-ideal setup is fine. It's not important where one starts, but where they end up with knowledge and time. We should all learn to teach newcomers using a virtue we all preach: low time preference.

It's not an answer to your question, but I would steer someone to Wallet of Satoshi (I know it's non-custodial) and Bitrefill. Or Strike and Bitrefill. Most people want to spend money. So let them know, that yes, you can spend bitcoin. Allow them to realize for themselves that they don't really want to spend it. At least not all of it.

Safest computer in the world is one that is turned off. Regardless of the software stack be used have it implemented on dedicated hardware or better a dedicated VM. With the VM approach, it easy to back up the whole system as many times as needed and had off to love ones when you are no longer around.