What should a total beginner look for in a first Bitcoin wallet?

I’m trying to think about this in a beginner-safe way.

If someone is choosing a first Bitcoin wallet, what should they actually care about first?

Not brand loyalty or hype.
I mean the basics:

• ease of use
• backup safety
• self-custody
• fees
• open source vs convenience
• mobile vs hardware

What would you tell a total beginner to look for before picking a first Bitcoin wallet?