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Back-to-School Calculator Buyer's Guide
UPDATED FOR THE 2023-24 ACADEMIC YEAR
1. Primary Calculators
What are primary calculators and who are they for?
Primary (formerly considered “basic”) calculators are perfect for elementary students, middle-school students, or those who only require primary math functions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division). Primary calculators are superb for early academic levels because they introduce the essential operators without overwhelming a learner with advanced features. Primary calculators tend to be the most affordable devices for math class because of their efficient electronic design.
What is the best primary calculator?
The Basic Desktop Calculator: SL-450S
SL-450S Primary Calculator Features:
- 8-Digit LCD display
- Solar-powered only
- Tamper-proof hard plastic case
- Floating negative sign
Why is the SL-450S the best primary calculator?
The keys on the SL-450S feature large, high contrast labels that help young learners easily identify the digits and operators. On this calculator, the Clear and All-Clear keys are colored red to help indicate that whatever is on the display is about to be deleted. The SL-450S, unlike other basic calculators, comes with a removable hard cover to help protect the screen, solar panel, and keypad from wear-and-tear.
2. Scientific Calculators
What are scientific calculators and who are they for?
Scientific calculators are ideal for late elementary, middle, and high school students. These calculators handle advanced mathematics like trigonometry, calculus, and statistics while still offering a natural mathematical experience. The mathematics entered is the same as what is shown in textbooks.
What is the best scientific calculator?
fx-991CW ClassWiz® Advanced Scientific Calculator
fx-991CW ClassWiz® Advanced Scientific Calculator Features:
Thirteen math applications
Easy to understand icon based keyboard and home screen
Create QR codes create to help visualize and further interact with the solutions as number lines or graphs via ClassPad Math
Recall variables into any app or mode
Multiple function storage in variables
Graded display (up to four levels of gradient) for easier on screen editing
Features 47 scientific constants, 40 conversions
“Catalog” feature stores all features/functions
Animated probability simulator called “Math Box” to visualize coin toss and dice roller for data explorations
New “format” solution button toggles between decimal, exact, engineering notation, and others
Emulator available via ClassPad Math
Why is the fx-991CW ClassWiz® Advanced Scientific the best scientific calculator?
The fx-991CW is Casio’s latest evolution in advanced handheld calculators, capable of storing and recalling up to nine variables which can consist of integers, computations, and f(x) or g(x) functions. By popular demand by teachers, the variables are retained in the calculator’s memory even after powering off the device. All of the calculator's functions can be accessed through a singular Math Catalog which hosts 47 scientific constants and 40 measurement conversions. ClassWiz can’t create graphs on its own, but learners can generate QR codes of solutions and graph results through ClassPad.net to interact with them at another level.
3. Graphing Calculators
What are graphing calculators and who are they for?
Necessary for advanced math and science courses in upper middle, high school and college. They can plot graphs, solve equations, and perform other complex functions. These upgradable machines will grow with the learner through all their mathematical needs for years to come.
What is the best graphing calculator?
fx-CG50 PRIZM® Color Grapher
fx-CG50 PRIZM® Color Grapher Features:
3.17” diagonal full-color backlit RGB display
16MB of storage memory (for hundreds of programs)
Multi color display
Graph MODIFY feature
Graphing sliders for micro adjustment
Interactive geometry, MicroPython, probability simulation, and spreadsheets
Copying modified expressions back into GRAPH FUNC page
3D graphing for primitives such as lines, planes, spheres, etc.
Periodic table of elements and data import into variables
Casio Picture Plot® with preloaded photo library
Contextual coloring and colored bracketing in programs
Exam Mode™ with 12-hour time lock
Emulator available for download
Why is the fx-CG50 PRIZM® Color Grapher the best graphing calculator?
Students may want to consider the fx-CG50 PRIZM color grapher as their top choice for advanced graphing capabilities. The fx-CG50 features a color display which allows for better differentiation of graphs when plotting multiple functions, understanding equations and programming, and enhancing the overall learning experience to make complex concepts more comprehensible. The fx-CG50 also supports 3D graphing, conic section graphing, and dynamic geometry capabilities. These additional functionalities can be particularly useful for subjects such as geometry and calculus.
How to Choose the Right Calculator?
- Understand the needs: Different school levels and subjects require different types of calculators. Understanding your needs is crucial in choosing the right calculator.
- Check school and state testing requirements: Some schools or courses or state exams may require certain types of calculators. Always check the school or teacher’s syllabus to avoid returning a calculator that won’t be supported in class.
- Think about longevity: It might be wise to buy a more advanced calculator than currently needed. For example, a middle school student may opt to buy a graphing calculator to have a calculator ready for high school courses. Buying an advanced calculator will give students more time to learn all the features of the calculator.
- Consider ease-of-use: Casio calculators are user-friendly. The scientific and graphing models highlighted above feature an icon navigation menu, Natural Textbook Display, and other features designed to assist in the approachability and friendliness of the design. But even with these, make sure the model you choose is one that you or your learner feels comfortable operating.
- Cost-effectiveness: Casio offers a range of products that appeal to consumers at different price points. Keep your budget in mind, but remember, sometimes paying a bit more for a durable and high-quality calculator can save money in the long run.
Back-to-School season is a time of preparation and excitement as students gear up for a new academic journey. It is crucial to have the right tools, such as a reliable calculator, to aid in the pursuit of knowledge. By considering the needs of the student, school requirements, longevity, ease-of-use, and cost-effectiveness, you can make an informed decision that enhances the learning experience.
With Casio's range of calculators catering to various educational levels and subjects, you can be confident in your purchase. A calculator is more than just a gadget—it's an investment in education, a step toward success, and with Casio, you're choosing a companion that guarantees quality, durability, and simplicity in math exploration.
So as you check off items on your Back-to-School list, make sure to equip your student with a Casio calculator—where functionality meets affordability.
Recommended Calculators by Math Class
Best Calculator for: Elementary math
Best Calculator for: Middle school math
Best Calculator for: High school (Pre-algebra, Algebra I/II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Precalculus, Calculus AB/BC, Statistics)