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The Best Graphing Calculators

We compared five graphing calculators on owner ratings, video reviews, and specs. The Casio Prizm FX-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator is our top pick for its high-resolution display and 3D graphing capabilities.

Updated

The bottom line

The Casio Prizm FX-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator is our top pick, with a high-resolution display, 3D graphing capabilities, and Python integration for programming. Priced at $86.79, it has a 4.8/5 owner rating from 4068 reviews. The TI-84 Plus CE is a close runner-up at $110.59, with a 4.6/5 owner rating from 30242 reviews. For budget-conscious buyers, the TI-84 Evo Graphing Calculator at $85.99 offers enhanced performance and modern features, though it lacks TI Connect CE software support.

Top pick
Casio Prizm FX-CG50 Color Graphing CalculatorCasio Prizm FX-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator $86.79

Best overall graphing calculator

The Casio Prizm FX-CG50 has a high-resolution display, 3D graphing, and Python integration. Priced at $86.79, it has a 4.8/5 owner rating from 4068 reviews. Those needing TI-specific software should consider the TI-84 Plus CE instead.

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Runner-up
TI-84 Plus CETI-84 Plus CE $110.59

Best TI graphing calculator

The TI-84 Plus CE has a vibrant color display, long battery life, and MathPrint feature. Priced at $110.59, it has a 4.6/5 owner rating from 30242 reviews. It's slightly more expensive but offers TI-specific features.

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Budget pick
TI-84 Evo Graphing CalculatorTI-84 Evo Graphing Calculator $85.99

Best budget graphing calculator

The TI-84 Evo offers enhanced performance and modern features at $85.99. It has a 4.7/5 owner rating from 438 reviews but lacks TI Connect CE software support. Best for those on a budget.

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The field, ranked

  1. Casio Prizm FX-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator Best for high-res display and 3D graphing 10.0/10 $86.79 Amazon
  2. TI-84 Plus CE Best for TI-specific features and color display 9.0/10 $110.59 Amazon
  3. TI-84 Evo Graphing Calculator Best for budget and modern features 8.0/10 $85.99 Amazon
  4. TI-84 Plus Good for basic graphing needs 7.0/10 $114.99 Amazon
  5. TI-84 Evo Graphing Calculator Bundle with Sharpie Tank Highlighters, Paper Mate Pencils & BIC Pens Bundled option, not a direct substitute 6.0/10 $193.29 Amazon

Who should buy which

Students needing advanced math functions and a high-resolution display should opt for the Casio Prizm FX-CG50. Those preferring TI-specific features and a color display should choose the TI-84 Plus CE. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the TI-84 Evo for its modern features and affordability.

Owner complaints

Some owners of the TI-84 Evo have reported issues with software compatibility and button layout. The TI-84 Plus CE has received praise for its battery life and durability, with minimal complaints. The Casio Prizm FX-CG50 has been well-received for its display and features, with few reported issues.

Also-rans

The TI-84 Plus, while functional, is outclassed by the TI-84 Plus CE and Casio Prizm FX-CG50 in terms of display and features. The TI-84 Evo Bundle, while offering additional writing tools, is not a direct substitute for the standalone calculators and is ranked last.

How this was put together

This guide is based on owner ratings (4068-30242 reviews), video reviews (2-3 per product), and specs. No hands-on testing was conducted. The TI-84 Evo Bundle was not ranked as a direct substitute due to its additional writing tools.