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I had never thought that buying a scientific calculator could be that confusing. When I started my engineering course, I was shocked by the amount of sophistication some of those calculators have. It is funny but also scary if you do not know what to buy. You want to buy something that can give you all the help you need for exams and work. This post will show you the best calculators you can buy for your need.
CASIO usually makes the best scientific calculators. They have all the functions an engineer or STEM student needs. If you switch between different Casio calculators, you can get used to the new one in no time as they all have a similar function layout. In addition, most calculators are durable enough to outlast your entire course plus a few years down the track.
The following is a complete guide on buying a scientific calculator and some recommendations for the best calculators you can buy today.
What to consider when buying a scientific calculator?
There are 4 metrics you need to keep in mind when buying a scientific calculator:
1-Ease of use
Buy a calculator that is quite easy to use. Modern calculators have a relatively familiar and easy layout compared to the old ones. My advice is to stick to something that would not give you a hard time. Old calculators are good, but also they consume a lot of power, and they do not have as many functions as the new ones.
2- Price
Stick to your budget. Almost all Casio calculators are similar in price, between $20-$50, except for some outliers. Unless you know what you want, stick to the price guide. Calculator manufacturers love to confuse you with the names, and you might think that the higher, the better, but because they have too many series, it makes it very confusing. The good thing is that any modern calculators have all the basic functions you need. So if you want something simple, any cheap Casio calculate will do the job and more.
3- Features
This is when things start to become interesting. What type of calculators do you want? Do you want programmable (can plot charts with some advanced data analysis) or non-programmable (basic function with some advanced tools usually the best choice for students)? What type of screen do you want, high or low resolution? What size of the screen do you want? These are questions you must know before buying a calculator.
Most engineering and STEM courses would recommend the type of calculator (programable or non-programmable) students should get. The other feathers mentioned above are usually up to the student and their preferences.
4- Convenience
These are the battery, portability and durability. Most of the calculators made are quite portable and durable. The battery is no issue with these calculators as most are solar powered with few rechargeable ones.
However, the only issue worth mentioning is the screen. Because they are portable, the screen can be damaged easily. Most of those calculators are irreparable, hard to repair, or do not have spare parts available, so you have to buy a new one if you break one. I am guilty of breaking some calculator screens over the years because I was not using the calculator cover and was not careful. Piece of advice: put the cover back when you finish using the calculator.
Top 5 scientific calculators for engineers and STEM
The following are the best calculators you can buy right now.
1- Best Bang For The Buck Non-programmable Calculator
Casio fx-300ESPLUS2 2nd Edition, Standard Scientific Calculator
Overall, the best bang for the buck non-programmable calculator that has all the functions you need, such as integration, differentiation, and statistic operations. It has a very clear display and is relatively easy to use, especially if you are coming from old Casio models. Use this link to check on Amazon.
2- Best Overall Non-programmable Calculator (Has all the bells and whistles)
Casio FX-991EX Engineering/Scientific Calculator
In my opinion, this is the best calculator I used personally. It is quite easy and handy for quick calculations. It comes with all the essential functions any engineer needs, making it the best non-programmable calculator. It is even priced well, making it a must-have if you are an engineer. Use this link to check on Amazon.
3- Best Bang For The Buck Programmable Calculator
CASIO PRIZM FX-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator
When it comes to a programmable calculator, there is nothing cheap. Most STEM students will not have to use a programmable calculator. The main difference between programmable and non-programmable is that you can plot graphs on coloured screens, making it much more convenient to use than dedicated software on your computer. Most programmable calculators are not permitted in exams because of the advanced features it has compared to the conventional calculator. Use this link to check on Amazon.
4- Best Overall Programmable Calculator (Has all the bells and whistles)
Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator
It is definitely the best programmable calculator you can get with its high definition screens that make graphs very clear. This calculator is quite useful for mathematicians and students who deal with many statistical and numerical calculations. Due to the high screen definition, it might be worth the upgrade from CASIO PRIZM FX-CG50. Use the link to check on Amazon.
5- Best Calculator For Students (Non-programmable)
Casio FX-991ES Plus Scientific Calculator
It does not matter what you do and what you study. If you need a scientific calculator, you can not go wrong with Casio FX-991ES Plus. All the essential functions are available with some advanced ones. Moreover, it is widely available and cheap. Use this link to check on Amazon.
