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Best Texas Instruments Brand Review: A Detailed Overview of Texas Instruments Calculators

Antonio Evans November 24, 2019

Best Texas Instruments Calculator 2018The right calculator is an absolute must if you are taking math and science classes.

It is even more important for sitting your exams.

Unfortunately knowing which calculator is great at getting excellent grades is not that simple.

Texas Instruments has endeared itself to every student and professional who needs a reliable calculator. This is a brand that for the past 85 years has re-engineered itself to be a leading global technology company.

Known primarily for inventing the silicon transistor, this company sits atop of innovation itself. It prides itself on transforming consumer electronics, appliances, and industrial equipment.

Their hand-held electronic calculator was the first ever in the market in 1967. Now we can’t get enough of their modern age calculators.

They are also well known for introducing the first Single-Chip Microcontroller (MCU), Commercial single-chip Digital Signal Processor (DSP), Digital Micromirror Device (DLP), application processors for mobile phones, single-chip digital cellphone solutions, and so much more.

Today, Texas Instruments sits at the forefront for the next generation signal-processing technology. Their products include Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC), Analog Chips, Embedded Processors, DLP, and Education Technology.

Contents

Texas Instruments: Types of Calculators

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Scientific Calculators (Price Range $20-$150)

Texas Instruments Scientific CalculatorsThis is a line of handheld calculators used by both students and professionals.

These calculators are popular in mathematics, engineering, and science classes.

They offer different scientific functions that span all the three categories.

Features on Texas Instruments Scientific Calculators

TI scientific calculators are permitted into SAT, ACT, and AP exams. Their displays vary from one line to two lines and four lines.

They utilize MathPrint Textbook Display which is a method of representing questions just as they would appear in a textbook. They help in understanding the concepts in a better way since you can relate the problems to the answers you get.

TI scientific calculators also feature battery and solar power support. They are dependable whether you are using yours during the day or at night.

You will even get convenient features like edit, cut, and paste entries, decimal conversion, fraction simplification, probability functions, 1 & 2 variable statistics functions, Tri, Log, and Exponents functions, x,y tables, regression and distributions, numeric differentiation and integration, and three solvers.

Limitations of TI Scientific Calculators

Although TI produces advanced scientific calculators, they also have their limitations.  They cannot utilize images thus you cannot relate questions in real life with those in the textbook on their screen.

Their batteries are also not rechargeable which means you will have to replace the battery after some time if you want to use it both day and night for an extended period.

Is TI Scientific Calculator right for you?

  • Yes, if you are looking for a calculator for both class and exams
  • Yes, if you don’t mind the lack of imaging applications
  • Yes, if you want a calculator, you can utilize from mid-school to college
  • No, if you want a calculator that can also graph and use images
#Top Pick from Scientific Calculators

Top Pick: Texas Instruments 30XS Multiview Scientific Calculator

Texas Instruments 30XS Multiview

  • 4-Line, 16-Character Display
  • One- & two-Variable Statistics
  • MathPrint Feature & Fraction Math
  • Fraction/Decimal Conversion
  • Edit, Cut & Paste Entries
  • Solar & Battery Powered

Featuring a 4-line display, this calculator is the top performing scientific calculators from Texas Instruments.

It has a MathPrint Feature, and it can solve 1 & 2 variable statistics.

It also provides step-by-step fraction simplification, fraction/decimal conversion, and you can edit, cut, and paste entries.

Graphing Calculators (Price Range $90-$1000)

Texas Instruments Graphing CalculatorsTI graphing calculators are ideal for students from middle school through high school, college, and even in the professional world.

These calculators are permitted in many standardized tests as well as in college entrance exams.

Features of TI Graphing Calculators

These models have a lot more to offer than just the scientific functionality. They can solve simultaneous equations by plotting graphs and solving questions with variables. Most of these graphing calculators are also programmable.

Some of the features you can expect from these calculators include a colored display, programmable options, ability to utilize images, and they also include computer software with similar functions.

They have higher price ranges than scientific calculators with most of them ranging from $90 to over $1000.

Limitations of Texas Instruments Graphing Calculators

These models have few disadvantages if any. You will find that some of them like the TI-83 Plus does not have a color display and it has very little memory.

Together with the TI-84 Plus, these two models do not have supportive computer software.

Is a TI Graphing Calculator Right for You?

  • Yes, if you are looking for the option to use a rechargeable battery in a graphing calculator
  • Yes, if you don’t mind paying a couple hundred dollars to own a graphing calculator
  • Yes, if you want to take advantage of inbuilt apps for advanced learning
  • No, if you don’t plan to spend a little extra in a TI Graphing Calculator
#Top Pick from Graphing Calculators

Top Pick: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE

Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE

  • Available in Different Color
  • Color Screen
  • Rechargeable Battery
  • Preloaded Apps and Images
  • MathPrint Feature
  • Lightweight

This calculator comes with a full-color, high-resolution display. It is slim with a sleek design allowing it to fit in your pocket.

It uses a rechargeable battery that lasts well over a week without the need to recharge.

This model is approved for use in SAT, ACT, PSAT, and IB exams. It uses Mathprint technology, and it has preloaded apps and images.

Financial Calculators (Price Range $20-$100)

Texas Instruments Financial CalculatorsThese calculators are designed for business students and professionals.

They calculate economic parameters like interest, cash flow, profit, and depreciation.

Features of TI Financial Calculators

With a TI financial calculator, you can expect unique functions like Time Value of Money (TVM), Amortization schedules, Cash Flow Analysis, Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and Net Present Value (NPV), profit, percent difference, and breakeven calculations, and methodologies of solving depreciation.

Limitations of TI Financial Calculators

These models are useful in business, but they will not help when it comes to solving advanced statistics, engineering, and science questions.

 

Is a TI Financial Calculator Right for You?

  • Yes, if you want a business calculator with built-in programmable functions
  • Yes, if you need a calculator that is permitted for financial certification exams
  • Yes, if you are looking for a calculator that can solve complex business questions
  • No, if you don’t major in a business related course
#Top Pick from Financial Calculators

Top Pick: Texas Instruments BAII Plus Financial Calculator

Texas Instruments BA II+

  • 10-Digit LCD Display
  • Calculate IRR and NPV
  • Time-Value-of-Money Function
  • Depreciation Schedules
  • Interest Rate Conversions
  • Auto Power Down Feature

This model can solve both basic and financial math. It has an inbuilt memory for storing essential functions.

With it, you can use the worksheet mode which has tables for amortization schedules depreciation, bond, and compound interest.

It can also perform cash flow analysis as well as list-based statistics.

Basic and Elementary Calculators (Price Range $10-$100)

Texas Instruments Basic and Elementary CalculatorsThese are practical tools for any grade and professional work.

They come in handy for quick and straightforward calculations at home, in school, and in the business place.

Features of Texas Instruments Basic Calculators

Texas Instruments designs their basic calculators to have large, well-spaced keys. They are contoured for smooth operation.

The calculators include common keys like square root, three key memory, and solar technology for reliable performance.

 

Limitations of TI Basic Calculators

Ultimately, these calculators cannot handle complicated math like statistics, algebra, equations, etc.

Is a TI Basic Calculator Right for You?

  • Yes, if you do not need the advanced functions provided by scientific and graphing calculators
  • Yes, if you want a simple tool to take to all places
  • No, if you will be doing more than just solving elementary math questions
#Top Pick from Basic and Elementary Calculators

Top Pick: Texas Instruments TI-1795 SV Standard Desktop Calculator

Texas Instruments TI-1795 SV

  • 8-Digit Angled Display
  • Large Contoured Keys
  • Change Sign (+/-) Key
  • Square Root Key
  • Two-way Power (Solar + Battery)

Apart from the usual essential functions, this desktop calculator also includes tax and rate keys to help you if you are in business.

You can use it in school and the office as it is a small portable design.

It has the change sign, square root key, and the screen is angled for quick reading of results. It eliminates strain when using it is a poorly lit room.

Data Collection Calculators ($100+)

Texas Instruments Data Collection CalculatorsTexas Instruments offers solutions for data collection for Biology, Physics, and Chemistry subjects.

These tools are also crucial for solving high school and middle-grade mathematics.

Do you need a data collection device?

  • Yes, if you want to collect data that you will analyze using a Texas Instruments Calculator
  • Yes, if you want a system that is great for high school math and science subjects

Limitations of TI Data Collection Tools

The major purpose for these devices is to collect data.

As such, they must be combined with the necessary tools that will allow analyzing the said data.

#Top Pick from Data Collection Calculators

Top Pick: Texas Instruments TI CBL 2 Calculator Base Lab 2

Texas Instruments TI CBL2

  • 3 Collection Modes & 3 Buttons
  • 3 LEDs Indicate Status (Red, Yellow, Green)
  • Built-in DataMate Software
  • Compatible with Vernier EasyData Software
  • 3 Sensors Included
  • 3 Analog Channels for Data Collection
  • Channel for an Ultrasonic Motion Detector

This device is portable and handheld. You can take it to the data collection location when collecting real-world data.

It comes with different sensors from temperature, light, motion, PH, force, sound, etc. It has over 50 sensors that are applicable in math and science lessons from mid-school to high school.

This simple-to-use device has a CBL Din adaptor, three buttons, and three collection modes.

It supports Vernier EasyData software DataMate software. When you want to create the correct mindset for students, this device helps you to make the connection.

If you are looking for a calculator from one of these categories, our top picks are all you need to fulfill your specific needs.

Popular Texas Instruments Calculators Reviews

#1

1. Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculator

Texas Instruments TI 84 PLUS

  • 10-Digit 8-Line LCD Display
  • 250 Functions
  • 480KB ROM & 24KB RAM
  • Preloaded Apps & Images
  • MathPrint Feature
  • Built-in USB Port

Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus offers great power for working on different types of math. It is a calculator designed with high school and college students in mind. This is because it is accepted in various major tests including ACT.

It comes with a large display that gives a clear view of the answers and the graphs you plot. With 408Kb of memory, it can store as many formulas as you would like.

It has preloaded apps like Cabri Jr. Interactive software. This gives you a platform for inequality graphing, interactive geometry, and real-world data collections.

By exploring MathPrint Notation, this calculator allows you to see math exactly as it would in the textbook. It will enable you to understand math better as the representation is much easier.

It displays 16 characters with up to eight lines. This indicates it will be of great use when dealing with a series of questions.

What’s more, it comes with a USB port that allows connection to a computer. You can now analyze data in a more detailed way and also transfer important files when you need more storage.

You will also like that it supports Texas Instruments presentation tools like the TI presentation adapter.

What we like
  • It uses MathPrint Technology
  • It has different display modes in either fractions or decimals
  • Comes with a kickstand slide case
  • Comes with preloaded apps
  • Can be admitted to SAT, ACT, PSAT, and AP exams
  • Inbuilt USB port
  • 408Kb flash memory
What we don’t like
  • Not ideal for use in mechanical engineering

Verdict:

The TI-84 Plus Graphing calculator boasts a high acceptance rate in high schools and colleges the same. It is easy to use and learn from using the preloaded apps that help in the more natural understanding of math.

#2

2. Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium Graphing Calculator

Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium

  • 16 preloaded Applications
  • Calculate with Precision
  • Display Expressions in Proper Notation
  • EE*Pro, CellSheet & NoteFolio
  • Simplify Collection
  • Analysis of Real-World Data
  • Built-in USB Port with Cable

This calculator is a good pick for advanced high school and college math. If you are taking calculus, for example, this is the kind of calculator you want to have.

The TI-89 is a hand-held calculator that you can easily slide in the pocket. It is rivaled for being able to graph functions, solve for roots, intercepts, complex lines of equations, matrices, etc.

This calculator is CAS-enabled. It allows you to tackle the kind of math that is not applicable with the TI-84 and other calculators in its class.

It has numerous graphing functions which include parametric graphing, 3D graphing, sequence graphing, differential-equation graphing, and of course basic functions graphing.

It is well-rounded with more features that allow faster and more engaging math-solving.

Texas Instruments continues to support this calculator by offering Titanium’s flash technology.

You can update this calculator on the company’s website so that you can continue using it without buying a new calculator.

It has 2.7MB flash memory and 188KB RAM. It allows you to store more data and formulas than you could with the TI-84 Plus.

What we like
  • It is programmable
  • Multiple functions for complex math-solving
  • 100 x 160 pixels display
  • Can solve differential equations graphically, symbolically, and numerically
  • Offers real-time rotation and 3D graphing
  • It allows USB connectivity
What we don’t like
  • It is not permitted on ACT exams

Verdict:

The high number of features on the TI-89 makes it a top recommendation for advanced math. Being CAS-enabled it helps in solving complicated math that college students have to undertake.

However, if you are looking forward to sitting ACT exams, this is not the calculator for you as it is not admitted in this particular exam.

 

#3

3. Texas Instruments TI-85 Graphing Calculator

Texas Instruments TI-85

  • 8-Line by 21-Character Display
  • Up to 99 Functions
  • 28K RAM & Customizable Menu Keys
  • Data Transfer Through I/O Port
  • Systems-of-Equations & Polynomial-Root
  • Parametric, Differential & Polar Equations

Graphing calculators are popular in the Texas Instruments line. The TI-85 model has been around for over a while and is still a regular pick with advanced Math students.

If you are looking for an affordable graphing calculator, TI-85 is an easy pick. This calculator has three different modes including polar, parametric, and solving of differential equations.

These are easy functions that any student can learn and utilize for statistical analysis. It is programmable to allow storage of different numbers and formulas for future retrieval.

When it comes to statistical analysis, this calculator allows running the gamut from power to quadratic polynomial, logarithmic, linear, quartic polynomial regressions, and cubic polynomial.

What’s more, TI-85provides you with different methods of viewing data from vectors to strings and even pictures. You have fifteen zoom features that create an interactive platform.

Lastly, it has customizable menu keys to make it easy to learn and master the keys for programming.

What we like
  • It can store and graph multiple functions
  • Bright LCD screen displays 21-characters in 8 lines
  • Simple to learn keyboard layout
  • It has an in/out port that supports the transfer of data between the TI-85 and TI-86 models
What we don’t like
  • Complaints about the features not being user-friendly for High School students

Verdict:

The TI-85 Graphing Calculator is an affordable model for every advanced math student. It is ideal for light users since it has a much smaller memory than the TI-84 and TI-89.

But it has a considerable number of functions that will not give learners a hard time learning.

#4

4. Texas Instruments TI-92 Plus Graphing Calculator

Texas Instruments TI-92 Plus

  • Over 500 KB Memory
  • Pretty Print Technology
  • QWERTY Reyboard & Large Display
  • Real-Time Rotation of 3-D Surfaces
  • Supports Optional TI-GRAPH LINK
  • Input/Output Port & Cable

This calculator features a computer-like layout. It has a QWERTY keyboard that makes it easy to key-in numbers.

The high-resolution display allows viewing of numbers clearly, and you can switch to a split screen when you want to focus on more than one application. The TI-92 has a wealth of functions from statistics to Text Editor, Geometry, and programming.

It is designed for students taking statistics and engineering studies as it is programmable so that you can control the dialog box, create custom menus and control all the pop-up windows.

With the in/out port and cable, you can connect it to other TI-92 calculators or CBRs, and CBLs, for data transfer and sharing.

You also get 3D surface plots that come in either hidden surface or wire frame. It geometric constructions can be made simply using lines, points, circles, and polygons.

You will also love that it allows retrieving of prior entered numbers such that you can edit and get new and corrected results.

What we like
  • It has 500KB+ memory
  • Easy-to-use QWERTY Keyboard for programming
  • Can connect to computers
  • Pretty Print Feature activates textbook format
  • Comes with a sturdy shell to protect the face
What we don’t like
  • It is not permitted to many exams and classes

Verdict:

Although this is a large calculator, it is pretty easy to use. It is calculator aimed at helping engineering and statistics students have an easy time learning.

With its QWERTY keyboard and the ability to work in real time with 3D graphs, it opens up the door for students to achieve more in their classes.

Features of Texas Instruments Calculators

This brand involves a high level of designing to create the most durable calculators. You can expect to find calculators with metallic shells and top cases to protect the calculator.

Display

Texas Instruments invests in LCDs for their calculators. Although they come in different resolutions, they all have one thing in common. You can use a TI calculator in a low-lit room. This gives you total functionality as you can continue to use your calculator way after dark.

How to choose Texas Instruments calculator // Texas Instruments сalculator buyer’s guideIn some models like the Texas Calculator TI-8 Plus CE, you will find a color display. It helps to visualize concepts more clearly so that you can learn better and make connections between functions.

Memory

Having a memory is an essential feature as it offers you the capability to store formulas and functions. The bigger the memory, the better it is as it can store more data. This way, you can retrieve it later for use in exams so that you can save the time it takes to complete a lengthy problem.

How to choose Texas Instruments calculator // Texas Instruments сalculator buyer’s guide

Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX CAS has the most advanced memory system in its line. With 100MB of space, you can save and access stuff like you would on a computer. This goes for such things as opening and editing a specific file.

Input Method and Software

The way the calculator writes numbers and figures determines how fast you can relate the answer to the question you are solving. TI explores proper math notation where you can enter numbers as they appear in the textbook.

There’s also the pretty print input method that displays results and equations in radical notation, superscript exponents, and stacked fractions.

It is not a straightforward method, that’s why TI urges students to switch to TI-Nspire CX CAS Graphing Technology. This is a software that has Computer Algebra System (CAS). It supports learning of math from middle school all the way to college and after college.

How to choose Texas Instruments calculator // Texas Instruments сalculator buyer’s guideTI-Nspire CX uses its exclusive software that is also intuitive. It allows entering of data in proper math notation. You can use different methods to analyze data using bars, pie-charts, histograms, and box plots.

Learn more about the TI-Nspire Software here.

Power

To be able to use your calculator every day, you will need reliable power. Fortunately, Texas Instruments invests in both battery and solar power.

We find that most scientific calculators use solar and alkaline cells while graphing calculators use alkaline batteries or rechargeable batteries.

They provide dependable means of powering the calculator since it will give you long-term usage without ever changing the batteries.

For a calculator that uses rechargeable batteries, it frees you from replacement, and you can use the calculator for up to two weeks without recharging it.

Weight and Size

Sometime back, we used to carry calculators in backpacks because of their considerable weight. But time has since more innovations bring small calculators that you can easily slide in your pocket.

In the Texas Instruments line, we have the latest models featuring small and slim profiles. This makes it easy for you to take it anywhere without feeling like the calculator weighs you down.

How to choose Texas Instruments calculator // Texas Instruments сalculator buyer’s guideThe Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE shows a sleek design that TI is embracing in its calculators.

Regarding the weight, you will find that a slim size allows shedding off some pounds which means you will be carrying a calculator that weighs only a few ounces.

Texas Instruments Calculators vs. Casio Calculators

The battle on the superiority of these two brands is not about to end. Let’s take a peek into the features that define the Casio and Texas Instruments Brand.

Types of Calculators

The two brands have scientific, graphing, financial, basic, and printing calculators. But Texas Instruments has an additional line of data collection devices.

Despite targeting the same audiences, Texas Instruments has higher student acceptability. Their calculators are admitted in class and in major exams which is not always the case with a Casio Calculator.

Technologies

There’s little to go by when looking for technologies used in Casio. We can confirm that Casio also uses Computer Algebra system in some of its calculators. But that is as far as the tech specs go.

On the other hand, when we look at Texas Instruments, the brand has invested heavily in technologies like TI-Nspire, TI-Innovator, TI-Nspire Navigator technology and others.

Display and Layout

Both brands utilize LCD screens. This allows them to have high resolutions. You will find that different calculators have different display sizes.

A unique thing with Casio is that the brand has also provided a touchscreen calculator with a color display.

 

Weight and Size

This is where the two brands can agree on something. Casio and Texas Instruments have all explored small compact designs in their calculators.

It has been a journey since we first saw bulky calculators, but now their newest models offer you portability as they can fit in small pockets. They can also be of use in places where desktop space is limited.

Price

Texas Instruments calculators have higher prices than Casio calculators. This is because Texas Instruments continues to expand their technologies allowing them to use sophisticated parts that cost more money to produce. This, in turn, translates to a higher price tag.

Concerning quality, design, and software, Texas Instruments wins big. It is an ever-expanding brand that has the most intuitive features that every student, teacher and professional is looking to for in their type of calculator.

Bottom Line

Texas Instruments proves it is a reliable brand when it comes to producing dependable calculators.

The brand covers all aspects of what to expect in a useful calculator. From battery and solar power to MathPrint technology and CAS, the intuitive features make the price worth it as you will use your calculator for years to come.

Whether you want a scientific calculator, graphing, financial calculator, or a data collection device, Texas Instruments got you covered.

We hope this information sets you on a path of making a better choice when choosing your next Texas Instruments Calculator.

Best Texas Instruments Calculator 2018

 

2 Comments

  1. ram July 18, 2018

    it is the best guide for texas calculator reviews. thanks for the reviews

    Reply
  2. Joe Wolovits June 8, 2020

    I find your scoring system to be flawed, thus making the whole article less useful for me.

    You don’t use/mention the same criteria/points, for all calculatirs in the same category/of the same type.

    You said what you don’t like about the Ti-84 Plus is that it’s not ideal for Mechanical Engineering but you don’t mention Mechanical Engineering in the other calculators…

    Reply

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