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5 Best Scientific Calculators For Students

An scientific calculatoris necessary when you move beyond basic math courses. If you're doing higher school or college math classes, it's nearly essential!

Fortunately, the scientific calculator I'm giving you in this review (the Casio FX-991EX) is extremely affordable and of high-quality.

here's my shortlist of the seven best Scientific calculators

• 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 in love with this calculator. For me as a very visual person, this calculator was the perfect. It has a significantly improved size screen resolution that its predecessor (4 times faster than the ESmodel) which enabled Casio to build a more visually-oriented menu. It also supports 4x4 matrices. This is an upgrade from three-dimensional matrices in the earlier model.

I like how it is able to create graphic representations of integrals, differentials, and so on. This really helps me as a student.

I believe that this spreadsheet feature is second to nothing else in the scientific calculator range.

Why This Calculator:

• Rapid:Really quick processing speed.

• Extremely VisualAs I am a visual person I am thrilled the way this calculator displays visual menus, a spreadsheet function and graphs for integrals, differentials, etc.
• QR Code to generate Graphs:It's a clever idea to be able to scan the QR code on your smart phone and generate graphs using this calculator (it implies that you can make use of it as a graphing calculator for a stretch). But, I think there are some problems with this. For one when you've got your smart phone on you then why don't you just use a website to generate the graph at all? Second, if you are going to be making graphs on a regular basis in class, you really should purchase a graphing calculator!
• Cost-effective:I really do think you're getting value for money here. It's absurd to think that you'll get a basic calculator for $10 instead of this wonderful scientific calculator for not all that much is a joke.

Keep In Mind:

• "No Engineering Symbol" Shortcut:One aspect that really bugs to me in this Casio is the fact that you need go to the menu every time you're trying to generate an engineering symbols.

• Wipes Memory off 'Off':It annoys me that if I turn it off the memory of any recent calculation will be erased.

2. Sharp EL-W516TBSL 16-Digit Advanced

The vast array of functions this calculator offers allows it to be a very versatile piece of equipment. It would be great for a student who knows they'll be performing lots of calculations, but hasn't made a decision on their major as of yet, because you can utilize it in numerous courses.

Why This Calculator:

• Playback with Intuitive:I enjoy the playback feature which allows you to go back and edit errors you've made in your calculation without having restart the entire process.
• A Large Display of 4 Lines:The LCD on the calculator is by far the best in the Sharp EL range of calculators.
• Tons of Functions:You can cover just about every function you can imagine using this calculator, making it good for many (nearly all) non-graphing calculations you want to perform.

Keep In Mind:

• Pricing:My guess is that most of my readers would opt for a less expensive calculator that could still get the job done.

3. Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro

A popular calculator that's one of the essential tools in college courses. It's never too away from a fellow scholar or instructor who knows how to use this device, which is great for reducing the learning curve. The calculator is also generally accepted by most tests, which means this calculator will see you through most of high school and the college years. This one becomes a trusty and familiar tool in no time.

Useful most effectively for Geometry, Physics, Statistics, Calculus, Algebra and Engineering.

Why This Calculator:

• Cheap:It comes in at a really good price point that won't exceed your budget (click image for current prices on Amazon)

• The best bet:Professors frequently limit the calculators that they use during their tests to one or two select groups of calculators. This is typicallyone of the most frequently used models you'll see on an exam-certified calculator list.
• SAT, ACT, AP Exam Approved*It's used in several exams that are standardized (at the time of writing). I'd suggest confirming your exam's current guidelines in case it changes.
• Fantastic Display:I enjoy the way that the display of four lines displays the calculations like you would look at the same on paper, which makes it much more intuitive to understand and read.

Keep In Mind:

• Fast:I've observed that it's substantially slower than the Casio FX-991EX.

4. HP 35s Scientific Calculator

There are some truly really hardcore rusted on HP fans out there. One of the reasons for this is the solid feel and sensible design that comes with HP calculators. (Note Personally, I'm more of a Texas Instruments person, but I like HP designs).

The calculator is also certified to be used in many SAT, ACT, AP and PSAT examinations (see the notes under 'Why this calculator' below).

The other benefit of HP calculators is the fact that they've adhered to the possibility of using RPN input which is extremely effective if you are able to use it. It's a choice in this calculator, so should you not ever use it , don't fret you can utilize the classic algebraic method too.

Useful for Engineering, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics.

Why This Calculator:

• Logical Layout:I believe the buttons are designed to be logically placed, which makes it easy to do the calculations you need once you've had a little practice.
• Old HP Feel of School:Old HP calculators have a really nice robust feel to them and this one is able to replicate this fairly well (not perfectly, but well enough).
• SAT, PSAT, AP & ACT Test Certified*:It's permitted on multiple SAT tests including those for the Reasoning Test and Mathematics Levels 1 and 2. It's also acceptable for the ACT mathematics test, the PSAT/NMSQT as well as AP Chemistry & Physics. Check the book before purchasing as the information provided is correct at the time of publication.
• RPN Choice:For the hardcore among us, HP is well-known for keeping Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) active in its calculators. RPN is a very popular alternative to the logic of algebraic entry systems, and I love that you can choose from RPN and algebraic in this calculator. If your professor has you to utilize RPN, this is a good choice of calculator.

5. Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView

The official calculator used for the GED exams and I'd recommend anyone who is preparing for the GEDs take this right away.

If you're not a mathematician, this is a good starting calculator for elementary high school mathematics. However, if you're doing engineering, calculus, physics or computer science I'd recommend moving up to the TI-36X Pro reviewed above. It also lacks the options to get you up to the level of college, so I would recommend this model for high school students.

Best used for Statistics, Algebra, General Math, Geometry and Biology.

Why This Calculator:

• GED Certified:This is the only GED certified calculator that you could use to pass the GED exam. It's basically forcing you into buying this one. It's a basic, easy to use accurate calculator. You'll have the ability to use it for the e Social Studies, Science and Section 2 of the Mathematical Reasoning tests.

• Affordable:It's really cheap for a scientific calculator. But keep in mind that it's going to be sufficient to get you through the basic stuff, but nothing much more. You'll grow out of it by college.

Keep In Mind:

• It's a thing you'll outgrow:In college Physics and Engineering courses you'll find you require a calculator that has additional calculation options like the TI-36X Pro.

6. Casio Fx-115ES PLUS

This is a decent basic calculator but I just can't justify its use as the Casio FX-991EX is much better for the same price.

Why This Calculator:

• Great DMS Button: The degree symbol and minute (DMS) symbol is simply accessible via one button. Coming from the TI-36x pro that requires you to go through the menus to locate this function, I found the simple DMS button very refreshing.
• Great Battery Life:Good Luck trying to get this battery to get a battery!

Keep In Mind:

• slow:I've discovered that it's significantly slower than Casio FX-991EX.
• Display:The display is also a big step down than the Casio FX-991EX.
• Price Point:It's at a very affordable price point compared to the Casio fx-991EX, too. Do you see the clue? It's just not as good as its bigger brother!

7. Helect 2-Line Engineering Scientific Calculator

Brief Review The most affordable and basic math calculator that is suitable for middle and high school math.

Check Today's Price on Amazon.

My Rating: 5/10

It's a fantastic basic calculator for a high school or middle school student. It'll do the basic calculations that will help you through your general math courses in high school. But when it comes to specializing in geometric, financial or calculus-related subjects the one you're looking at won't make the cut unfortunately.

The really good drawing card of this one, is the price. I'd buy it for my son in Grade 7, as it's sufficient for the moment and won't cost me anything.

Most suitable for general math in high school.

Why This Calculator:

• Amazingly cheap:It's just about the most affordable calculator that you can buy. Perfect for younger students who don't take it seriously at all.
• Excellent Button SpacingBecause these buttons don't have many, they're well separated, and it's like you have plenty of space to type.

Keep In Mind:

• very basic:This is the calculator you'll get if you want to save some money ... but you'll be getting an extremely basic calculator here. If you're in the field of mathematics or sciences it's not the right choice for you.
• Don't expect it to Last:Many online reviews have complaints that it was broken in the shortest time. Make this a consideration when making your purchase.

Brief Buyers Guide

Like all things, conduct your due diligence prior to making a choice. 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 points to keep in mind when purchasing a scientific calculator:

1. Ensure Your Calculator Is Exam Approved

When choosing a scientific calculator, you need to keep in mind what it's allowed to use for exams you'll take (if you're in college, you can ask your professor). There are many exams that have very strict requirements about which calculators are permitted and which ones aren't.

2. Price Point - Don't Get The Cheap One!

Another factor to consider is the price point. In my opinion, you shouldn't choose one of the cheaper calculators that cost $10. If you pay a little more (still under $50) it is possible to get a great calculator with great specs. The modest price increase is accompanied by a massive improvement in quality. You'll be able to do lots of features and calculation, also will get through many more classes in high school and until college.

3. There Will Be A Learning Curve

If you decide to switch brands to another, it will be a new learning curve . Many people like ot choose one company and stick with it. While, I'm usually an Texas Instruments user ... but the Casio FX-991EX seems so simple I couldn't resist picking it as my preferred one here.

Final Thoughts

My top pick for the most efficient scientific calculator for students is the Casio FX-991EX ClassWiz. It's got a great range of functions, is great for visual learners, and is lightning-fast. I'm also impressed at its low cost - so I am a big fan. I'm not too enthused about having the TI-36X Pro either, but I think Casio leads the pack in the best scientific calculator category.

Related Article: Best Graphing Calculator for Students
Related Article: Best Financial Calculator for Students
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About The Helpful Professor

Chris Drew (aka the Helpful Professor) is an instructor at a university as well as a an ex-school teacher. Find out further about Chris here. Twitter: @helpfulprof

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