If you or your children are about to start an advanced math or science course, you’ll need a graphing calculator. These handy machines have a large screen, ideal for displaying graphs, and allow you to enter multiple equations and handle complex calculations. They cost a lot more than the scientific calculators you may have used in the past, so be prepared for a little shock. To make sure you spend your money on the model that best suits your needs, read on for specific buying criteria and our top recommendations.
The best graphing calculators
What to consider?
Graphing calculators have more advanced capabilities for higher-level math than scientific calculators, with larger, more dynamic screens for graphing functions and plotting coordinates. Before you shop, it is essential to consider the age of the person you are buying for and their grade level, if applicable.
Besides graphing calculators designed to handle middle school algebra to calculus, mathematical calculators for upper-level students are available in two types, while primitive models, which are only useful for skimming the surface of advanced concepts, are not suitable for young children.
You can opt for a model that specifically matches what your child will be learning. In addition, teachers may recommend using a specific brand and model, especially for students in smaller grades. For older high school students, keep in mind that we accept some calculators for various AP and college entrance exams and others are not. There are some models that are more suitable for specific tests than others.
Graphing calculators come with black-and-white or color LCD screens, many have rechargeable batteries and offer USB connectivity, and some come pre-loaded with apps.
How we chose
All the graphing calculators in our selection come from top brands and have an average rating of at least 4.5 out of 5 stars. Besides combing through customer reviews, we consulted expert sources, including Techradar and black-and-white displays, starting at around $40 and going up to around $140. We also compared and highlighted the features of each graphing calculator we cover.
1. TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculator
Reasonably priced, this versatile graphing calculator offers great value and is a solid choice for high school students. It comes pre-loaded with a wide range of functions and features a multi-line display with vertical and horizontal split screen options, so you have all the information you need right in front of you.
The calculator also offers 14-digit accuracy and 10 graphing functions, and you can save and work on up to 10 graphs at a time. Given its higher price, the lack of a color screen is a definite drawback, though not prohibitive, and the calculator is also heavy.
Buy: TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculator
2. FX-9750GII graphing calculator
The price of this graphing calculator is unbeatable. Plus, students can use it from middle school to high school, and even in some early college classes. This user-friendly Casio model has an icon-based menu, including all the basic functions students need to get started in pre-algebra, as well as essential functions for later courses like trigonometry and geometry, to advanced calculus.
Features include a high-resolution back-lit LCD screen and high processing speed. It is lightweight and offers 230 hours of battery life on a single charge.
Buy: FX-9750GII graphing calculator
3. PRIZM FX-CG50 Color Graphic Calculator
How could you not love this calculator? Not only does it 3d and color graphing, but it also has many features that are not present on its much more expensive competitors; don’t waste your money on Texas Instruments when this one is half the price and does so much more! I’ve only scratched the surface of this calculator’s capabilities, but I can’t wait to learn what else it can do!
Buy: PRIZM FX-CG50 Color Graphic Calculator
4. TI-Nspire CX II CAS Color Graphing Calculator
This slim graphing calculator may be pricey, but its full-color interactive visuals and 3-D graphing capabilities make it one of the best models on the market for higher-level math - and it earns an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 5,800 customers.
One of its key features is its CAS (formal calculus system), which makes it possible to understand and solve more complex equations. Other highlights include six different styles and 15 color options for graphics, as well as its impressive processor speed and easy touchpad navigation.
The calculator also has a rechargeable battery that can last up to two weeks on a single charge.
Buy: TI-Nspire CX II CAS Color Graphing Calculator
5. TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator
The popular TI-84 Plus CE is a favorite calculator for high school and some college students because it’s easy to use and has a full range of features, a bright display and a sleek design.
For starters, this graphing calculator comes with many pre-loaded applications and can graph images. Plus, its battery life is exceptional: it can run for a month with average use on a single charge (via USB cable) and even longer in standby mode.
Another bonus is that it is available in eight attractive colors, which most of the competition lacks.
Buy: TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator
6. TI-89 Titanium CAS graphing calculator
This graphing calculator is ideal for middle schoolers taking advanced math classes - and at just 5.3 ounces, it won’t weigh down your backpack.
It features an impressive 2.7 MB of flash memory, 3D graphics, CAS and a large screen for split-screen views, as well as optional applications to add from the Texas Instruments website. It also has a user-friendly menu system, making it easy to navigate.
Another major plus is file sharing with other calculators and computers via a USB cable, which is included in the package. The calculator also comes with a one-year warranty.
Buy: TI-89 Titanium CAS graphing calculator
7. Graphing Calculator
With its simple, minimalist white design, this eye-catching graphing calculator has a modern, smartphone-like look that sets it apart from others. It’s small and lightweight, and has a simple interface that’s easier to navigate than some of the more traditional options.
There are three navigation areas on the keyboard, advanced functions and the number pad, and it has six built-in apps for high school math and science classes. The calculator has a micro-USB port and cable for charging. In standby mode, it lasts for several weeks.
Buy: Graphing Calculator
