One of the things that parents should do responsibly is to choose proper school supplies for their children. And graphing calculators are no exception. That’s why I decided to check all the available gadgets on the market and choose only the best graphing calculator for physics, which took me 35 hours to do. In fact, I found ten worthies that you are invited to get acquainted with.
Best Graphing Calculators for Physics
| Rank | Review | Name | Color Display | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | | Casio fx-9750GII View Details | No | 10.0 |
| 2 | | TI-89 Titanium View Details | No | 9.9 |
| 3 | | TI-84 Plus CE View Details | Yes | 9.7 |
| 4 | | HP G8X92AA LA Prime v2 View Details | Yes | 9.6 |
| 5 | | TI Nspire CX CAS View Details | Yes | 9.5 |
| 6 | | TI-84 Plus View Details | No | 9.4 |
| 7 | | Casio fx-9860GII View Details | No | 9.2 |
| 8 | | TI-83 Plus View Details | No | 9.1 |
| 9 | | Casio fx-9750GIII View Details | No | 9.0 |
| 10 | | CATIGA CS121 Black View Details | No | 8.8 |
Casio fx-9750GII: Perfect Ratio of Price and Functionality
The Casio brand has lots of decent products, but the fx-9750GII deserves special attention. It’s not a top device, but its features are almost the same as in the higher versions. Still, it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, so you can afford to purchase additional supplies for studying.
Its functions cover all the physics student’s needs. However, it’s ideal for other courses such as Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Geometry, and others. And here’s why – it has more than 2800 functions. In addition, it has a programmable system that makes students think and memorize rather than just focusing on the buttons’ placement.
There is nothing special about the screen – it shows only in black. But it’s pretty large and therefore convenient to use. Meanwhile, the distinguishing thing about this device is that it comes with a USB cable that accelerates the speed of OS updating.
- It is equipped with a pretty large screen
- The package includes a USB cable
- Multiple helpful functions
- The modern Windows versions are not compatible with this device
- It requires careful examination of the guide
TI-89 Titanium: Good Option for Advanced Users
If you are looking for a universal device that is specially designed for more complicated tasks, then you should take a look at the TI-89 Titanium. This is a good option for advanced users, but the user interface is easy to understand even for a beginner.
It comes with the CAS (Computer Algebra System) and preloaded EE Pro and ME Pro apps. Additionally, it builds 3D models, which is a pretty valuable feature. Another crucial detail is that it is permitted on SAT and AP exams, and it is recommended for Physics 101 exam preparation.
The device doesn’t have a color display, but it’s enough to deal with. It has 2.7 MB of built-in memory, so it can store lots of various functions and programs. Besides, it is supplied with a USB cable that can be used for transferring data not only to the computer but also to other calculators.
- It’s convenient and fast
- It comes with extra safety protection – a case
- It doesn’t alert about the low battery but just shuts off
- It requires prior reading of the guide
TI-84 Plus CE: Elegant Design with Clear Color Screen
The first thing that catches your eye in the TI-84 Plus CE is its color display with the backlight. However, its other features should be mentioned, too.
First of all, the device is able to solve various tasks and build graphs and vectors that can be customized by color for easier reading. For sure, the high-resolution color display will help you with this task, too. An additional benefit is that it’s permitted on SAT, ACT, and AP exams. But don’t forget to check whether it’s allowed to be used on the Physics Regents exam. However, the major consumers of this device are engineers since it covers all their needs and even more.
The package consists of the calculator itself with a protective case, a USB cable, and a charger. By the way, it’s easy to track the charging status by the light indicator on the device’s body: orange means it’s in progress and green means fully charged.
- The body is thin, which makes a device convenient to hold and carry
- It’s available in multiple color options
- The high velocity of building graphs and processing tasks
- Major issues with charging the battery
HP G8X92AA LA Prime v2: Your Personal Touchscreen Assistant
The HP G8X92AA LA Prime v2 is one of the fastest and most powerful devices that you can opt for. It has a modern look that is aesthetically pleasing, and it’s pretty easy to use, especially thanks to its large color touch-screen that beats its opponents.
On a separate note, it’s powerful enough to deal with complicated tasks and build graphs. Meanwhile, it processes them really quickly without any signs of jamming or glitches. The large memory volume and the ability to extend it also bring advantages. Besides, the apps the device is equipped with will come in handy for any potential user.
The package includes all the necessary supplies such as a charger and a USB cable. But the main thing you should take into account is that it has a few adapters for a charger. So you will never worry about charging it in other countries.
- It has a gorgeous design
- It is equipped with a powerful processor
- A large touchscreen is really convenient
- The protective case sits tightly at the back
TI Nspire CX CAS: Powerful Graphing Calculator from Texas Instruments
The TI Nspire CX CAS calculator is rightly considered the top-notch device. Its performance along with its features and components is gorgeous. It has a color screen for more precise pictures. Besides, the device is equipped with CAS, which expands its calculating abilities.
On the other hand, its body is relatively big – it’s almost 8 inches tall. However, for some users, this fact will be even an advantage since the buttons are spread evenly on the surface and are convenient to use.
The appliance has a standard set of things it comes with. In particular, after unboxing it, you will find a charger, a cable, and a protective case. Of course, it does come with the user guide, but there is a high possibility that you will hardly ever open it since it’s easy to understand how to use it.
- The device is lightweight
- The buttons are comfortably situated
- The UI is intuitively easy to understand
- The battery life is not long
TI-84 Plus: Reliable Educational Tool
The TI-84 Plus is a universal device, and this fact is proved by mentioning it by the manufacturer on the package that says “all-purpose.” Besides, the special Cabri Jr. software highlights that it is perfect for those who have just started diving into the world of calculations, specifically geometry.
Meanwhile, it’s also suitable for those who require advanced features for solving complicated tasks. Additionally, such users will also appreciate the feature of splitting the screen either horizontally or vertically.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a color display, but the quality of the monochrome one is decent enough to be convenient for various cases. In addition, the pre-installed apps will also help potential users not to screw up.
- It’s easy to use
- It’s suitable for various calculations
- It’s accepted for AP, SAT, and ACT tests
- It may be improper for particular cases since it doesn’t have some of the functions
Casio fx-9860GII: Functional and Easy to Use
The Casio fx-9860GII is easy to use, and such simplicity is achieved by having icons and not ambiguous names on buttons. All these things make you forget about reading the guide prior to using it.
In terms of performance, it processes the data very quickly, so the user receives an almost immediate answer or built graph. The pre-installed applications allow users to deal with multiple functions that are required for work or studying.
A significant helper in reading the information properly is a monochrome LCD screen with the backlight. Another valuable feature is its ability to communicate with other devices, computers, and even Casio projectors.
- Rapid data processing
- There are multiple functions
- Suitable for some exams
- There is a lack of information in the guide
TI-83 Plus: Simple Model for Novice Users
If it’s not necessary for you to have a device with multiple options and special software that can calculate complicated equations, then you should proceed with the basic option like the TI-83 Plus.
This device is ideal for high school subjects such as algebra, physics, biology, economics, etc. It has a perfect size of the screen but shows only in black. The buttons have their own definitions that allow students to understand how to use it. Moreover, this calculator is permitted on ACT, SAT, and AP exams.
- It’s durable
- It performs well
- It doesn’t come with a charging cord
Casio fx-9750GIII: Improved Third Generation Model
The Casio fx-9750GIII is an improved version of the previous model. While the latter is the simple option for basic calculations, the fx-9750GIII has advanced properties.
The appliance features a black-and-white display with an eye-friendly backlight. The 3 MB memory allows building graphs without glitches. By the way, there is a feature of creating pie charts and bar graphs. For easier handling, there are icons on the buttons.
Another valuable thing about this device is that it keeps all the history when it shuts down. Besides, it is equipped with a rechargeable battery.
- It works properly for a long time
- It’s rechargeable
- It’s available in a few color options
- The manufacturer doesn’t state whether it’s permitted on exams
CATIGA CS121: Selection of High School Students
The CATIGA CS121 is a nice universal device for high school students. It has all the necessary things, particularly over 280 functions that are used for calculating in various disciplines. Besides, it has a programmable system that is ideal for any level of user.
Be sure that everything will be clear on the monochrome display. The size and form are ideal for holding it in hands.
- It’s universal in purpose
- It delivers high performance
- The display is easy to read
- Its performance is sensitive to bumps
FAQ
The process of selecting a proper device may promote lots of questions. That’s why some users give up and proceed with the random calculator that is often not suitable for particular cases. In order to prevent such a situation, WoWPencils has collected all the frequently asked questions and the answers to them.
What Is a Graphing Calculator ? for Physics?
The graphing calculator for physics doesn’t often differ from a regular graphing calculator. However, devices for physics are capable of processing exactly physics tasks, as well as others like division, subtraction, addition, multiplications, etc.
What Tests Is It Allowed ✅ to Use the Graphing Calculator for Physics?
Every exam has its own requirements that students should stick to. And one of them is the usage of graphing calculators. Unfortunately, such gadgets are not allowed on some of the exams, but here’s where you can bring them to: Environmental Science test, Physics exam including AP Physics 1, 2, 3, C (Mechanics, Magnetism and Electricity). Still, some of the exams expect limited usage or functionality of graphic calculators for physics: Biology, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, and Statistics. Still, there may appear a question: “Can you use it for BJU Physics?” or “Is it allowed for a Physics major?” And in order to answer them, you should precisely check the description of the device you choose.
Do You Need to Buy ? a Graphing Calculator for Physics Every Year?
The answer to the question “Do you need to buy a graphing calculator for physics every year?” is no. This appliance is usually purchased once, and it is used by a child during the whole studying period at school. In some cases, it may be prolonged to a college or even after graduating.
Where to Buy ? a Quality Graphing Calculator for Physics?
The answer to this question must be the simplest one since everyone may think about going to a local supermarket such as Walmart. The alternative may be Costco stores, too. However, don’t hesitate to check the availability of the suitable calculators online, e.g., on eBay. Besides, there may be a special sale of particular devices on Amazon. So it’s better not to limit yourself to choosing the first available options such as Target.
In Closing
While physics requires a precise understanding of all the processes, choosing the graphing calculator for physics absolutely doesn’t. Especially when you have some prompts that are given in this review. Thus, by purchasing such a device once, you will use it for a long time. Moreover, it’s highly likely that even your children will take advantage of using it, too.
Besides, you can get more information about other options and supplies for college and school by subscribing to my social media accounts. Regards, Yuliya Skryp.
References
- Graphing Calculator – https://en.wikipedia.org/
- AP Exam Calculator Policy – https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/
- The Top 10 Questions Parents Ask About Graphing Calculators – https://education.ti.com/