Best Graphing Calculators for High School and College Students

Here’s a list of some of the best graphing calculators for high school and college students, each with its own strengths:

1. TI-84 Plus CE

• Pros:
  • Lightweight and slim design.
  • Color display, which can make graphs easier to interpret.
  • Powerful enough for most high school and college-level math (pre-calculus, calculus, statistics).
  • Popular in classrooms and widely accepted in exams.
• Cons:
  • Limited to basic functions compared to more advanced models.

2. TI-Nspire CX II

• Pros:
  • High-resolution color display.
  • Advanced functionality like 3D graphing, spreadsheet capabilities, and computer algebra system (CAS).
  • Rechargeable battery.
• Cons:
  • More expensive.
  • Steeper learning curve.

3. Casio fx-9750GII

• Pros:
  • Affordable and reliable.
  • Clear, easy-to-read screen.
  • Performs most high school and college functions without complexity.
• Cons:
  • Not as advanced as TI models, no CAS functionality.

4. HP Prime Graphing Calculator

• Pros:
  • Touchscreen, making it more intuitive.
  • Advanced graphing functions.
  • CAS capabilities for algebraic manipulations.
• Cons:
  • The interface can take some time to get used to.
  • Can be pricier than other models.

5. TI-89 Titanium

• Pros:
  • Powerful with CAS for algebraic operations and symbolic manipulation.
  • Great for advanced math and engineering students.
• Cons:
  • Bulkier than the TI-84.
  • High learning curve and might be overkill for basic courses.

6. Casio fx-9860GII

• Pros:
  • Similar to the Casio fx-9750 but with additional features.
  • Excellent for higher-level math.
  • Large, easy-to-read screen.
• Cons:
  • Lacks a CAS.

7. NumWorks Graphing Calculator

• Pros:
  • Very simple, easy-to-use interface with a sleek design.
  • Affordable and gets the job done for high school-level courses.
  • Web-based software for easy updates.
• Cons:
  • Lacks some advanced features found in other models, such as CAS.

8. Sharp EL-W516XBSL

• Pros:
  • Affordable and reliable for high school students.
  • Has a solar-powered feature.
  • Performs well for basic graphing needs.
• Cons:
  • Lacks advanced features like CAS.

Factors to Consider:

• Subject Requirements: Check if your course requires advanced functions like CAS (Computer Algebra System).
• Test and Exam Regulations: Some exams (like SAT, ACT, etc.) limit what calculators you can use, so make sure the model you’re considering is allowed.
• Battery Life: Rechargeable options (like the TI-Nspire CX II) are great, but make sure to carry a charger if it’s your primary calculator.
• User Interface: A more intuitive calculator like the TI-84 Plus CE or NumWorks can save you time if you’re not trying to do advanced math.

If you’re focusing on just high school, the TI-84 Plus CE or Casio fx-9750GII will be great. For more advanced college work, a TI-Nspire CX II or TI-89 Titanium will serve you well.