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The Best Calculators to Compute Information

Close-up of male hands with calculator, pen, and notebook on table a wooden table.
Syda Productions/Shutterstock.com

Math is hard. It doesn’t matter if you are a student learning algebra or a business person; we all need a little assistance. To help you compute those numbers, here are some of the best calculators to get you the correct results.

With the growth of technology overpowering your basic calculators, it’s no wonder that today’s calculators are more advanced than ever. There are models that feature full-color screens and other capabilities that we wouldn’t have fathomed 20 years ago, but they are making handheld calculators cool again. These products have tremendous capabilities but finding the right one depends on if you are looking for a graphing calculator for class, a calculator to balance your budget, or an inexpensive handheld device. Whatever your preference, we have got you covered.

Finding the Right Calculator 

To find the right calculator, first consider these important factors:

  • Purpose: As we have mentioned, the purpose of your task should be the driving force in determining which type of calculator will best suit your needs. A cheap pocket calculator is perfect for taking on the go to double-check your numbers. If you are a student and you are asked to purchase a scientific or graphing calculator for class, buy one according to what is required.
  • Price: Your basic calculator isn’t going to cost you much. The more advanced models that feature colorful LED graphs and multiple line displays will cost you a bit more, but they will get you the results you need which are important in the long haul. Not everyone has the money, but if you are a business person, an aspiring architect, or an engineer, buying a quality calculator is a true investment that you won’t regret.

Best Scientific: Texas Instruments TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator

Texas Instruments

One of the best scientific calculators comes from the awesome company Texas Instruments. It easily handles one and two-variable statistical calculations and three-angle modes, as well as scientific and engineering modes. It has a two-line screen, and you can compute general math, statistics, and general science, among other things. Another great feature is the menu for selecting the appropriate settings for classroom use to advanced scientific functions. It’s solar and battery-powered and available in four different colors.

Best Graphing: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Python Color Graphing Calculator

A salmon-colored graphing calculator with a graph and table shown on the screen.
Texas Instruments

This calculator’s high-resolution, optimal display features captivating colors to help you read concepts clearly and provides stronger connections between equations, data, and graphs. There are seven different graphing styles for differentiating the look of each graph drawn, and you can work on anything from biology and geometry to programming and finance. In terms of the look, it’s surprisingly slim and really light. It’s also available in a variety of fun colors and preloaded with apps and images.

Best Graphing

Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Python Color Graphing Calculator

This state-of-the-art graphing calculator offers enhanced graphics and is available in plenty of different eye-catching hues.

Best Basic: EastPin 12-Digit Basic Calculator

A basic calculator sitting on a desk next to papers.
EastPin

For the most basic of calculators, we like this easy-to-use calculator from EastPin. The 12 digits make this device most useful for large calculations, so it’s suitable for business people and students. The extra-large LCD and tilted screen make it easy to read for maximum viewing comfort. This calculator works on solar power but also comes with an AA battery as a backup and has an automatic power-off button to save energy.

Best Basic

EastPin 12-Digit Basic Calculator

This basic calculator has big buttons and a large display screen to make the numbers and functions stand out.

Also Consider: Canon LS-555H Business Calculator

A foldable calculator with a one-line display.
Canon

Another small and affordable quality calculator, this basic device is great for travel as it features a foldover design unlike any other. The sturdy hardcover casing keeps dust out, and it has fingertip-size keys with hand-rounded keytops. Eight digits are displayed, and much like the other calculators in this article, it runs on solar power and batteries.

Also Consider

Canon LS-555H Business Calculator

With an old-school foldover design, this basic calculator is great for school or the office.

Omid Khanzadeh Omid Khanzadeh
Omid is a freelance writer for LifeSavvy. He studied psychology and creative writing at Virginia Commonwealth University, and his work has been featured in publications such as Allied Forces Press and various STEM textbooks. He enjoys playing soccer and watching old kung-fu movies. Read Full Bio »
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