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5 Best Scientific Calculators For Students
The use of a scientific calculatoris necessary for students who are moving beyond basic math classes. If you're taking the high school or college math courses, it's a necessity!
Fortunately, the scientific calculator I'm recommending in this review (the Casio FX-991EX) is very affordable, and also of good quality.
Here's my list of the 7 top mathematical calculators that are scientific:
- Casio FX-115ES PLUS
- Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro
- Sharp EL-W516TBSL 16-Digit Advanced
- Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView
- HP 35s Scientific Calculator
- Helect 2-Line Engineering Scientific Calculator
- Casio FX-991EX
1. Casio FX-991EX ClassWiz
I quickly fell completely in love with the calculator. For me as a very visual learner , this calculator was the ideal. It's got a vastly improved screen resolution than its predecessor (4 timed higher than the model ESmodel) which enabled Casio to come up with a more visual interface for menus. It can also do 4x4 matrixes, which is an improvement from the 3x3 format of the older model.
I like how it is able to do graphical representations of integrals, differentials, etc. It really helps me as a student.
Also, I believe this spreadsheet feature is the best of none else in the scientific calculator range.
Why This Calculator:
- Speedy:Really quick processing speed.
- very visual:As I am a visual person I am thrilled the way this calculator displays visual menus and spreadsheet functions and graphs for integrals, differentials, etc.
- QR Codes for graphs:It's a clever idea to be able to scan the QR code from your smart phone to generate graphs using this calculator (it also means that you can make use of it as a graphing calculator the stretch). But, I think there are a few problems with this. For one If you've got your smartphone so why not utilize a website for the creation of the graph at all? Second, if you are going to be generating graphs regularly in class, you really should get yourself a graphing calculator!
- Cost-effective:I really do think you're getting value for money here. The idea that you'd get an inexpensive calculator for $10 when you can have this amazing scientific calculator for not all that much is a joke.
Keep In Mind:
- The shortcut for no engineering symbolOne thing that really bothers me about this Casio is the fact that you need to open the menu each time you need to create Engineering symbols.
- Wipes Memory when 'Off':It annoys me that if I switch it off, all memory of recent calculations is wiped.
2. Sharp EL-W516TBSL 16-Digit Advanced
The wide range of functions that this calculator can perform allows it to be a very multi-functional piece of equipment. It would be great for a student who knows they will be doing a lot of calculations but hasn't made a decision on their major yet because the calculator can be used in numerous courses.
Why This Calculator:
- Intuitive PlaybackI am a fan of the playback feature where you are able to return and rectify mistakes you made in the calculation, without having to go through the whole process again.
- large 4 line display:The display on this calculator is certainly the best among Sharp's Sharp EL range of calculators.
- Many Functions:You can cover just about every single function you could imagine using this calculator. So it's ideal for many (nearly all) non-graphing-based calculations you'd like to do.
Keep In Mind:
- Pricing:My guess is that many of my readers will go for a cheaper calculator which will probably accomplish the task.
3. Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro
A popular calculator, which is one of the most commonly used tools in college classes. You'll never be too dissimilar to a fellow scholar or instructor who knows how to navigate the calculator, which is beneficial for minimizing the learning curve. It's also generally approved for the majority of exams, so this calculator should see you through the entirety of high school as well as your college education. This one becomes a trusty machine in no time.
Useful to teach Geometry, Physics, Statistics, Calculus, Algebra and Engineering.
Why This Calculator:
- Cheap:It comes in at an extremely affordable price that won't blow your budget (click image to view current price on Amazon)
- The best bet:Professors typically limit the use of calculators in their tests to the very few. This is typicallyone of the more common types you'll find on an 'exam certified' calculator list.
- SAT, ACT, AP Exam Approved for FE/PE(*):It's permitted in a variety of examinations that have standardized testing (at the time of writing). I'd suggest confirming your exam's current guidelines in case it changes.
- Superb DisplayI love that the four-line display displays calculations as you would view the same on paper, which makes it easier to understand and read.
Keep In Mind:
- It's slowI've found that it's substantially slower than the Casio FX-991EX.
4. HP 35s Scientific Calculator
There are a few real extremely rusty HP enthusiasts out there. One of the reasons behind this is the robust feel and sensible design that comes with HP calculators. (Note: Personally I'm an Texas Instruments person, but I like HP aesthetics).
This calculator has also been approved for numerous SAT, ACT, AP and PSAT tests (see the notes under 'Why this calculator under 'why this calculator?').
Another great feature of HP calculators is that they've held on to the option of RPN input, which can be really effective if you are able to make use of it. It's an option that's not available on this calculator, so in the event that you don't want to use it , don't fret you can utilize the traditional algebraic method, too.
Best used for Engineering, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics.
Why This Calculator:
- Logical Layout:I feel the buttons are strategically placed, making it easy to do the calculations you need once you've done a bit of practice.
- Old HP Feel:Old HP computers have a really nice robust feel to them and this one reproduces this fairly well (not completely, but good enough).
- SAT, PSAT, AP & ACT Test Certified*:It's permitted on multiple SAT tests, including the Reasoning Test and Mathematics Levels 1 and 2. It's also a good choice for the ACT Mathematics test, PSAT/NMSQT as well as AP Chemistry & Physics. Make sure you check before purchasing as this information is only valid as of the date of publication.
- RPN Choice:For the hardcore among us, you'll know HP is well-known for keeping Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) present in a variety of calculators. RPN is an extremely popular alternative to the algebraic entry system logic and I'm awestruck by the fact that you can choose from RPN and algebraic with this one. If your professor has you to use RPN then this is a good choice of calculator.
5. Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView
Here is the official Calculator used for the GED exams , and I'd advise any student who is studying for the GEDs purchase this calculator as soon as possible.
If you're not a mathematician, this is a good base calculator for general high school math. However, if you're doing engineering, calculus, physics or computer science, I'd suggest taking a step up to TI-36X Pro reviewed above. I also think this calculator has not enough features to get you all the way through the college years, which is why I recommend this calculator more for students in high school.
Best used for Statistics, Algebra, General Math, Geometry and Biology.
Why This Calculator:
- GED Certified:This is the only GED certified calculator that you can use for the GED exam. Therefore, you're basically locked in buying this. It's a basic, user-friendly and reliable calculator. You'll be allowed to use it in e Social Studies, Science and Section 2 of the Mathematical Reasoning tests.
- Cheap:It's really cheap for the price of a scientific calculator. It'll help you master the basics, but not much more. You'll get used to it by the time you graduate.
Keep In Mind:
- You'll get used to it:In college Physics and Engineering classes, you'll require a calculator that has additional calculation options like the TI 36X Pro.
6. Casio Fx-115ES PLUS
This is a decent entry-level calculator, but I'm struggling to justify using it when the Casio FX-991EX is much superior at a price comparable to.
Why This Calculator:
- Great DMS Button: Its degree symbol as well as the minutes (DMS) symbol easy to access from one button. As a user of the TI 36x pro which requires you to dig deep into the menu for this feature, I found the simple DMS button to be refreshing.
- Fantastic Battery LifeGood for you trying to get this to be completely empty of battery!
Keep In Mind:
- The speed is slow.I've observed that it's considerably slower than Casio FX-991EX.
- Display:The LCD is quite a leap down from the Casio fx-991EX.
- Price Point:It's at a very much comparable price point to the Casio fx-991EX too. What do you think? It's not as great as its larger brother!
7. Helect 2-Line Engineering Scientific Calculator
Rapid Review An extremely affordable calculator for middle & high school general math.
Check Today's Price on Amazon.
My Rating: 5/10
It's an excellent basic calculator for high school or middle school student. It'll handle the basic calculations that will help through the math classes in high school. However, when it comes to focusing on geometric, financial or calculus courses, this one just isn't going to cut it.
The best thing about this drawing card in this set, is, however, the fantastic price point. I'd like to buy it for my son who is in grade 7 because it'd do the trick for the moment and doesn't cost anything.
The best option for high school general math.
Why This Calculator:
- Incredibly Cheap:It's just about the costliest calculator you could buy. Great for younger students who are not going to treat it too well, anyway.
- Good Button Spacing:Because that there's not many buttons available, the ones are nicely spaced apart and it feels like there's plenty of space for typing.
Keep In Mind:
- very basic:This is the type of calculator you'll get if you want to save a lot of dollars ... however, you'll receive a very basic calculator. If you're a student of sciences or mathematics it's not the right choice for you.
- Do not expect it to Last:Many online reviews have complain that it has broken before long. Be aware of this when purchasing.
Brief Buyers Guide
Like all things, make sure you do your homework prior to making a decision. Information may have changed since I wrote this article, and of course it's best to triangulate information to make sure you're getting the best product for your situation.https://657f6d5eabb3f8e0f905b7c90b0a43cf.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html
Here are some tips to be aware of when buying a scientific calculator:
1. Ensure Your Calculator Is Exam Approved
When selecting when you're choosing a scientific calculator, you need be aware of whether it's appropriate for the exams you'll be taking (if you're in university, consult your professor). Certain exams have extremely stringent requirements regarding the types of calculators that are allowed and which ones aren't.
2. Price Point - Don't Get The Cheap One!
Another aspect to consider is the price. If I were you, I wouldn't go with one of those cheap $10 ones. For a tiny bit more (still less than $50) you can get an amazing calculator with excellent specs. The price hike is small, but it has a massive improvements in the quality. You'll be able to do several calculation and operations, in addition, it'll last you through more classes at high school, and up to college.
3. There Will Be A Learning Curve
If you decide to jump from one brand to another, there will be a process of learning - many people like ot choose one brand and stick with it. Though, I'm typically a Texas Instruments user ... however, the Casio FX-991EX seems so simple I chose it as my preferred one here.
Final Thoughts
My recommendation for the best scientific calculator for students is the Casio FX-991EX ClassWiz. It's got a broad range of functions, is great for those who are visual learners and is lightning-fast. I'm also impressed with the low price - so I am a big fan. I'm not too enthused about the TI-36X Pro either, but I do think that Casio holds the lead in the best scientific calculator category.
Related Article: Best Graphing Calculator for Students
Related Article: Best Financial Calculator for Students
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Chris Drew (aka the Helpful Professor) is an educator at a university and a former school teacher. Read more details about Chris here. Twitter: @helpfulprof
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