Top 3 Graphing Calculators

The study of mathematics has changed dramatically since the basic math our forefathers trudged “up-hill both ways barefoot in the snow” to learn. Since modern math requires advanced capabilities to plot lines and create graphs of numeric functions, a good graphing calculator has become the math student’s best friend.

When choosing a graphing calculator, there are four important factors to consider.                        

• Features. These are the technical aspects of the device. RAM (random-access memory), ROM (read-only memory), screen resolution and input styles must be sufficient to meet class requirements.

• Durability and Longevity.   A good graphing calculator should be able to weather a bit of rough handling, perform multiple mathematical functions quickly, remain useful or more than a single school term, and be compatible with standardized tests that require a calculator.

•  Ease of Use. The calculator should be user-friendly with intuitive menus, easy to read buttons, and clear, high contrast read-outs.

•  Support and Warranty. The complexity of today’s graphing calculators makes the availability of detailed user manuals and readily accessible, high quality technical support critical. A manufacturer’s warranty should also be provided.

Top Quality Graphing Calculators That Offer More Bang for Your Buck

The following trio of graphing calculators is representative of devices that are powerful enough to meet classroom requirements and durable enough to survive the crush of a heavy backpack.

• The TI 84 Plus from Texas instruments, a high quality graphing calculator used in high schools and universities worldwide, is a durable, user-friendly devise that is compatible with all major tests, including the SAT, ACT, and AP. While not as versatile as some graphing calculators, the TI 84 Plus easily handles all essential math needs, from the basic functions of multiplication and exponents to advanced course work in Algebra and Calculus. Many users report that they were able to use the TI 84 Plus graphing calculator through high school and college without need of an upgrade.

Features:         ROM: 480 KB  RAM: 24 KB   

                                    Display: 160 pixels x 120 pixels with a high-contrast read-out

                                    Input Method: algebraic (infix)

                                    Tech Support: Extensive        Warranty: Limited One Year

• The durable HP 50g from Hewlett-Packard is a virtual powerhouse packed with features. This versatile graphing calculator allows multiple input methods, including the standard algebraic (infix) and the popular Reverse Polish Notation (NPR). A solid feature set with multiple subject capability makes the HP 50g a valuable classroom tool. It is approved for all major tests, except the ACT. Although there are drawbacks, like less classroom compatibility and a slightly slower calculating speed, superior customization potential, SD card capability, and exceptional manufacturer support make this graphing calculator a good investment. The HP 50g has over 2300 built-in functions and adjustable type size. It may be a bit of a challenge to master all the options, but once you have, the extensive array of features and expanded storage capability of this graphing calculator will easily meet all your high school and college math needs.

            Features:         ROM: 2 MB     RAM: 512 KB

                                    Display: 131 pixels x 80 pixels  

                                    Input Method: algebraic (infix) and Reverse Polish Notation (RPN)

                                    Tech Support: Extensive        Warranty: Limited One Year

• The TI 89 Titanium, another graphing calculator from Texas Instruments, is a powerful device packed with subject support for nearly every major class from high school algebra and trigonometry to college calculus and physics. The most unique feature of the TI 89 Titanium is its graphical interface that uses icons, rather than buttons and menus, to locate specific functions. Although this graphing calculator has fewer features and slightly less RAM than others on the market, its impressive hardware and ample storage capacity make it a great choice. The extensive class compatibility, ease of navigation, and significant computation power of the TI 89 Titanium easily overshadow its slightly smaller screen and harder to read display. The main drawback is that the advanced function editors and formulas on this model have disqualified it from use in certain classroom settings and on some major tests, like the ACT. Despite its negatives, the TI 89 Titanium is a versatile graphing calculator durable enough to survive student life.

            Features:         ROM: 2.7 MB  RAM: 188 KB

                                    Display: 100 pixels x 160 pixels

                                    Input Method: Algebraic

                                    Tech Support: Extensive        Warranty: Limited One Year

Saying Good-Bye To Your Graphing Calculator

These are just a few of the many fine graphing calculators available. Be selective when making your choice and choose one that will last. A high quality graphing calculator may cost more initially, but will save money over the long run. You will enjoy years of service without the cost of replacements, and, when the time comes to part ways, you can sell the device and recoup some of your investment. If that time is now, Sell Your Calculators would love to be your sell back destination. Contact us today for an instant quote on your used Casio, HP, or Texas Instruments graphing calculator.