The truth is, when it comes to graphing calculators, two different manufacturers: Texas Instruments and Casio, primarily controlled the market.
Even if choosing between these two brands is necessary to discover the best graphing calculator, you shouldn’t automatically assume that your options are limited just because these two businesses produce graphing calculators with a variety of functions and features.
A graphing calculator is a portable computer that can display and plot graphs, conduct the solution of simultaneous equations, and carry out a wide variety of other activities that involve the use of variables.
You should look for a graphing calculator that is programmable as well because this feature gives you the ability to design your specialized software for use in engineering.
When choosing the finest graphing calculator, you should take into consideration the type, of course, they currently enroll you in as well as whether you plan to use the device on a standardized test such as the PSAT, SAT, ACT, or AP exams.
They also recommended that you check with your instructor or professor to find out permit which calculators are in the classroom.
Since there are so many options, selecting a competent graphing calculator might be challenging.
But in every field, there are a few products that command the highest prices.
In this article, we will highlight to you the best graphing calculator for college algebra and also the list to you the best graphing calculator for college engineering students. Stay with us!
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What Is a Graphing Calculator?
Graphing calculators are titled as such because they can create graphs, and their computers are significantly more powerful and complicated than those found in conventional calculators.
They can solve intractable problems and plot graphs.
They can also be programmed, making them a helpful instrument to have if you are working on a project that will take a long time and require it to store information or perform higher-level arithmetic problems.
Some graphing calculators also include something called a computer algebra system, or CAS for short.
This means that the calculator can also solve algebraic equations.
Because graphing calculators are essentially portable computers, it is crucial to select the model that is most suitable for your needs.
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What Does The Best Graphing Calculator For College Students Do?
Graphing calculators give you the ability to calculate statistics and quickly convert the findings into a visual representation of the data.
Plotting graphs is, without a doubt, one of the most crucial features that a graphing calculator can offer.
Because of this, you are free to focus on the actual subject at hand rather than wasting time going through mathematics.
Isn’t the objective of learning arithmetic to do the math? Yes, but even if you have mastered the skills, working through some equations can take a very long time.
As a student, two of the primary functions that you will make use of are our graphing functions and statistics functions.
You may even use them for calculus and trigonometry, in which case a computer algebra system could be of help to you.
There are graphing calculators out there that do not include a CAS.
Make sure you have a clear idea of the purposes for which you will be using your calculator and whether you will require a model that has a CAS.
We pointed out that graphical calculators may be programmed, so they can also be used to store data if it is required for an equation or graph at a later time.
In addition to the other tools they utilize, some researchers also make use of graphing calculators.
They connect to computers or other machinery and collect data that may then be accessed, analyzed, and incorporated into mathematical calculations.
Keep in mind that graphing calculators can calculate numerous equations at the same time, which can assist save a significant amount of time as well as effort.
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What Is The Best Graphing Calculator For College Algebra?
Do you want to know more about the best graphing calculator for college calculus?
Here is a well-explained list of the best graphing calculator for college engineering students:
#1. Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
Our first list of the best graphing calculator for college students is the TI -84 Plus CE.
The TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator comes with more than a dozen programs already preloaded onto it, such as the ability to graph inequalities, display correct mathematical notation, and collect data.
A high-resolution, full-colour backlit display that has a sleek appearance is included in the design of the thin and lightweight device.
The graphing calculator is also available in a variety of colours, including black, pink, white, coral, gold, mint, grey, and blue, allowing you to choose the hue that best compliments your taste.
The full-color screen improves the viewing experience by adding color-coded equations, plots, and objects to graphs, which makes reading the graphs much simpler.
Because the TI-84 Plus CE comes with a rechargeable battery, you won’t need to run out and buy new batteries as often as you would with a standard calculator.
Additionally, this indicates that you need to ensure that it fully charged the battery in your graphing calculator before going to class, and in particular, before going to take any college standardized tests.
They have permitted this calculator to be used on the PSAT, SAT, ACT, and AP exams. It is the best graphing calculator for college students.
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#2. Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II CAS Color
Another best graphing calculator for college calculus is the TI-Nspire CX calculator.
Consider purchasing the TI-Nspire CX II CAS Color Graphing Calculator if you need to perform more complex mathematical calculations, such as calculus.
This version of the graphing calculator from Texas Instruments, which is an update from the TI-Nspire CX series, features quicker performance, interactive visualizations, and images that are simpler to read.
This graphing calculator can compute simple equations besides plotting functions and equations, constructing geometric figures and animations, graphically creating a hypothesis, performing calculations on data, and other functions.
You may identify one of your graphs from another by selecting from one of six distinct graph styles and one of fifteen colors.
In addition to all of this, the TI-Nspire CX II is incredibly portable and has an intuitive touchpad that is simple to use.
This item is equipped with a battery that can be recharged. This particular calculator is the best graphing calculator for the college level.
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#3. Casio FX-9750GII
This is another best graphing calculator for college algebra.
Because it has all the fundamental capabilities of an entry-level graphing calculator, the Casio FX-9750GII Graphic Calculator is an excellent tool for students taking math classes.
Students will find the navigation, which is based on icons, quite straightforward to navigate.
Additionally, the FX-9750GII comes with some soft-menus that allow users to quickly access capabilities for routine tasks.
The high-resolution LCD has a technology called the enlarged-dot area that improves the visuals.
As a result, lines and curves are more distinct, making them simpler to observe and understand.
During exam time, when every second counts, having a high-speed CPU that can handle lengthy calculations and complex graphs quickly and accurately is vital.
They permit graphing calculators from Casio for use on the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT), the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), and college entrance exams, in addition to advanced placement (AP) examinations.
The FX-9750GII operates off of four AAA batteries and has USB capabilities built right in, allowing it to connect to a variety of different devices.
It is also the best graphing calculator for college 2024.
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#4. Casio FX-9860GII
This is another best graphing calculator for college calculus.
The graphs and data displays on the Casio FX-9860GII calculator screen are presented in a much clearer and more legible manner thanks to the oversized and high-resolution display featured on this model.
In addition, the backlit display is an option that can be activated to enhance the user’s line of sight.
The calculus calculator has expanded functionality, such as an integrated spreadsheet application, which makes it useful for science courses such as biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as business and finance courses.
It can be used for a variety of math courses, ranging from pre-algebra to statistics. Students who are currently enrolled in calculus classes will benefit from it tremendously.
You have the option of using any of the 15 pre-loaded icon menus to navigate between the functions.
Its processing speed is comparable to that of other models, and they have even approved it for use in college entrance exams and advanced placement exams.
It is also the best graphing calculator for college engineering students.
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#5. Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus
This particular calculator is the Best graphing calculator for college algebra.
Students in middle school and high school who are taking math and science classes such as pre-algebra, algebra 1 and 2, trigonometry, calculus, chemistry, and physics would benefit greatly from purchasing a graphing calculator like the TI-83 Plus.
This calculator is an excellent choice for students who are just starting with calculus.
They may see a sharp and detailed image on the LDC screen, which has a resolution of 64 by 96 pixels.
They can store up to ten matrices in the built-in memory, they can analyze each of them.
The calculator also has a split-screen capability, which allows the user to trace graphs while scrolling through the table values at the same time for added convenience.
If you do not require a significant number of advanced features or if your instructor does not permit the use of calculators with more advanced functions, the TI-83 Plus is an excellent option for you to consider.
It operates on four Alkaline batteries and has been authorized for use on the SAT, AP, PSAT, and ACT examinations.
It is also the best graphing calculator for college engineering students.
#6. Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus
Another best graphing calculator for college-level math is TI-84 plus.
They cover your graphing needs with the TI-84 Plus graphing calculator, which comes pre-configured with all the key capabilities.
This particular model of the TI-84 plus does not have a color display and is only available in black. However, it does have a more affordable price tag.
By dragging down the display menus, they provide users with simple access to the more complicated capabilities.
Users can access all the pertinent information on the calculator’s display without having to scroll up and down the screen thanks to the calculator’s split-screen capabilities, which may be either horizontal or vertical.
Standardized testing organizations have given the TI-84 Plus graphing calculator their stamp of approval for use in college entrance exams such as the PSAT, SAT, and ACT, as well as Advanced Placement examinations.
It comes equipped with an input/output port that can facilitate communication with several other TI products.
Additionally, the calculator requires four AAA batteries, and it comes with a lithium battery backup that safeguards the RAM.
It is also the best graphing calculator for college students.
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#7. Texas Instruments Nspire CX CAS
Students who are enrolled in advanced high school courses as well as university students who are studying mathematics, or engineering will find the Texas Instruments Nspire CX CAS graphing calculator to be a useful tool because of its sophisticated capability.
Even digital photos can be imported, and they can superimpose then graphs and equations on top of them.
It is also possible to create documents and pages and save them like how a computer would do it.
In addition to this, you can input equations in the correct mathematical notation, complete with superscripts and subscripts.
You can manipulate equations and get solutions for any variable contained within an equation by using the graphing calculator’s CAS capabilities, which stands for “Computational Algebra System.”
This functionality will be helpful to students who are enrolled in courses such as Chemistry and Physics since it teaches students how to discover the theory that drives equations.
The SAT, PSAT, and Advanced Placement exams all permit the use of this Texas Instruments calculator in their respective scoring processes.
The ACT will not let you use it in any of its tests.
This calculator may not be helpful for students who are currently enrolled in Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, or Algebra 2. It is the best graphing calculator for college algebra.
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#8. Casio PRIZM FX-CG50
Another best graphing calculator for college students is the Casio PRIZM. Since the Casio PRIZM FX-CG50 Graphing Calculator is the latest PRIZM model, which was released in 2017 it will provide you with the most advanced capabilities.
It boasts a high-resolution LCD screen with over 65,000 colors and 82,000 pixels, and the display mimics a traditional textbook.
It is helpful for mathematics courses taken at the high school and college levels, as well as for financial and business applications.
This graphing calculator not only allows users to build 3D graphing designs, but also provides Python programming and picture plot technology, which allows users to display real-life images.
A clear menu that is built on icons makes it simple to navigate, in addition to making the product affordable and user-friendly.
Casio PRIZM is the best graphing calculator for college 2024.
#9. Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium CAS
Utilizing the Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium CAS Graphing Calculator, you can perform more involved calculations involving algebra and calculus.
It features a huge display with 100 x 160 pixels, 3D graphing, and even a capability that allows for split-screen viewing in addition to its hefty 2.7 MB of flash memory.
A one-year guarantee and a USB cable that may be used to connect with computers or share files with other graphing calculators are both included with the purchase of this particular model of a graphing calculator.
Its sophisticated capabilities, such as a Computer Algebra System (CAS) that can solve the vast majority of equations, make it an excellent choice for professionals working in the domains of engineering or physics.
It is the best graphing calculator for college students.
#10. fx-9750GIII Pink Graphing Calculator
Another best graphing calculator for college algebra is FX-9750GIII. Looking for a Texas Instruments substitute without the same prohibitive price?
There are several graphing calculator alternatives from Casio, such as the fx-97500GIII, which is acceptable on all tests and has capabilities similar to that of the TI-84 but costs around half as much.
This device is perfect for classes covering anything from Pre-Algebra and Physics to Business and Finance because it has a high-resolution LCD and only requires two basic AAA batteries.
The only noticeable drawback, according to some reviewers, is that you may need to consult YouTube or other outside sources to properly understand the calculator because TI-84s are more common in classrooms and the operations are different.
However, as one reviewer stated in their conclusion, “It’s a charming calculator and just as efficient as a TI, but fairly priced.
All you need to do is learn how to use a Casio brand, and you’ll be good to go!
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#11. Touchscreen with Stylus Graphing Calculator
This touchscreen calculator from Casio is without a doubt the way to go if you’re searching for a graphing calculator that enables actual hands-on control and you find the little arrows or trackpad on most calculators to be an annoyance.
This graphing calculator is ideal for the present smartphone age because of its rich and vivid 4.8-inch LCD touchscreen, as well as its straightforward interface and powerful computing features, which include CAS (which excludes it from use on ACT exams).
The bundled stylus is not authorized on the SAT, PSAT, or AP examinations, which is another disadvantage in addition to the fact that the calculator they do not permit it on any of these tests.
Another potential drawback, particularly for some consumers, is the product’s weight, which may be too substantial for their tastes.
Despite this, it is probably well worth it due to the user-friendly touchscreen interface.
#12. HP Prime Graphing Calculator
This graphing calculator has a sleek look and is not just lightweight but also packed with a ton of functionality.
This calculator’s better technology is tough to ignore given that it comes complete with a touch screen that displays full color and an application-based interface.
We can further enhance the user experience by utilizing a sophisticated touch screen that enables freeform sketching and manipulation.
This model provides a Computer Algebra System, which is noteworthy in terms of the applications it supports (CAS).
Are you interested in putting this handheld device to use in the classroom? It’s a fantastic option to go with.
This graphing calculator is ideal for use in examinations, and it features a wide range of functions.
It is authorized for use in the examination associated with the IB Diploma Programme, the PSAT/NMSQT, the SAT, the SAT Subject Tests in Mathematics, and certain Advanced Placement examinations.
It is the best graphing calculator for college algebra.
#13. Casio fx-9860GII Graphing Calculator
This powerful calculator provides you with a variety of fascinating features to fulfill your mathematical demands, including great graphing at an even better bargain.
It provides an easy-to-see window into your calculations and is designed with an LCD backlit display so that you can enjoy a viewing experience that is high definition.
The user interface is not something to disregard either;using icons in the menu simplifies the layout of this calculator.
This graphing calculator comes with a built-in spreadsheet program, Dynamic Graphing, Dual Graph, and Table Display, which are all features that add to the long list of helpful attributes.
Connectivity is also quite simple; this model comes with a USB connector and a unit-to-unit cable so that users may easily share data and programs.
Don’t second-guess yourself; bringing this necessary calculator to class is a must. This insightful model is authorized for use on the College Board’s PSAT and NMSQT, as well as the SAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement examinations.
It is the best graphing calculator for college students.
#14. Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus Graphing Calculator
Texas Instruments can still accommodate you even if you are just starting on your adventure in mathematics, provided that function is a significant consideration for you.
Although it predates the most recent models, this is still quite useful.
Utilizing this calculator will allow you to quickly become proficient in graphing because of its user-friendly graphing UI and straightforward programming language.
In addition, this model can store and examine up to 10 matrices simultaneously, and it can store data in lists with up to 999 entries in each list.
This calculator, just like the TI-84 models, is permitted for use on standardized examinations, such as the PSAT, SAT, and ACT exams, as well as the IB and AP examinations.
#15. Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculator
The last list of the best graphing calculator for college students is the T1-84 plus.
Texas Instruments can still accommodate you even if you are just starting on your adventure in mathematics, provided that function is a significant consideration for you.
Although it predates the most recent models, this is still quite useful. Using this calculator will allow you to quickly become proficient in graphing because of its user-friendly graphing UI and straightforward programming language.
In addition, this model can store and examine up to 10 matrices simultaneously, and it can store data in lists with up to 999 entries in each list.
This calculator, just like the TI-84 models, is permitted for use on standardized examinations such as the PSAT, SAT, and ACT exams, as well as the IB and AP examinations.
Conclusion
When it comes to graphing calculators, there are a lot of different options available, but there is just one that is truly exceptional.
The optimal choice for any mathematician ought to be the product that possesses the highest level of both function and usability in equal measure.
Because of this, the graphing calculator made by Texas Instruments called the TI-84 Plus is the greatest option overall.
Additionally, it offers a variety of graph styles to make your calculations easy to read and organized.
Remember that this calculator is a genius in the classroom; don’t lose it! There are twelve distinct programs available to cater to all of your mathematics requirements. And examinations?
It’s the ideal portable assistant, and they have approved it for use in standardized tests like the PSAT, SAT, and ACT examinations, as well as the IB and AP examinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Graphing calculators have all the features of a standard calculator and more, including the ability to generate graphs and solve complex equations on the screen. Graphing capabilities set them apart from scientific calculators, which can also solve some complex problems.
Graphing calculators were introduced by Casio in 1957, ten years before the American firm Texas Instruments (TI) was founded in 19303. Despite TI’s dominance of the market (which some have called a monopoly), consumers ultimately decide which brand to use based on price and features. However, mathematicians can’t go wrong with either, as both brands offer high-quality calculators at affordable prices. Don’t be surprised if your professor or teacher suggests a TI calculator, though, since they are the most common.
The TI-84 Plus graphing calculator is authorized for use on the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, the SAT, the ACT, and the Advanced Placement examinations.
One of the best-selling and most-popular calculators in the United States is the TI-84 Plus CE, which contains many of the features that make it a good calculator. If you need help with your calculus homework, this calculator is a safe bet.
References
- brightlinkprep.com—10 Best Graphing Calculators for College Students
- technobuffalo.com—Best graphing calculator 2024
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