Calculators have been a fundamental tool for students and professionals alike, especially in the field of statistics. With the increasing demand for data analysis and computation, calculators have become even more important.
However, choosing the right calculator can be a tricky task as there are so many options out there. Like anything else, calculators are designed with varying features and capabilities.
In this article, we’ll explore the 7 best calculators for statistics to help you make the right choice.
In this Article
1. Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus
Looking to get a calculator that is both, reliable and feature-rich? Get this.
The Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus is one of the most popular calculators used by high school and college students. This calculator has proved its utility for generations and is easily the most popular choice across colleges.
It has a wide range of features that make it ideal for statistics courses. The TI-83 Plus has built-in functions for statistical analysis, including regression, hypothesis testing, and data analysis. It also has a large memory, allowing you to store and recall data sets, which makes it easy to work with large amounts of data.
Pros:
- Feature-packed calculator with functions like statistical analysis, regression, hypothesis testing and data analysis
- You can graph 3 recursively-defined sequences; TVM, cash flows, amortization, and complex numbers
- It can be linked with laptop/PC using the unit-to-unit link cable for updates and software downloads
Cons:
- The storage capacity is a bit dated i.e. 160KB
- The screen size might be a bit smaller than more recent options
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2. Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus
If you want to get a no-headache easy-to-use calculator, this is the one.
The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus is a new and improved version of its predecessor, the TI-83. If you love the previous model than this is an easy buy as it has all the feature of the former model and more.
However, what really sets it apart is the large color display that bring added visual clarity to the most popular calculator. The only catch is that it’s a bit costlier than the older version.
Pros:
- Refined UI that is easy to use
- Bright color screen makes everything more clear
- Rechargeable battery
- Preloaded apps and multiple graph styles
Cons:
- Costs more than other color screen options
- Could be faster given the price point
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3. HP Prime
Don’t want to spare any feature? You cant do better than the HP Prime.
The HP Prime is basically the rolls Royce of graphing calculators. If you want the best of the best then this is your best best. This calculator has a nice 3.5 inch color display that is bright and sharp.
Moreover, it has the fastest performance of any calculator on this list along with the largest storage as well i.e. 256 MB. It is sleek and looks premium which shouldn’t be a surprise given its hefty price tag.
Pros:
- High-res color touch screen
- Long lasting rechargeable battery
- High storage space i.e. 256 MB
- Tactile keypad
Cons:
- High cost compared to other color calculators
- Complicated UI
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4. Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II CAS
The TI-Nspire is the next best thing if you don’t have the bucks for the HP Prime
The Texas instruments TI-Nspire is an improvement over the tried and tested TI-84. Every feature that you know and love about the TI-84 has been upgraded in this model.
The screen is brighter and more sharp and the same is true for the storage memory that’s quite a bit bigger than the previous model. It also has a track pad that let’s you move around the cursor with ease. This is the closest competitor to the HP prime and is a quite a bit cheaper.
Pros:
- Full backlit color screen with high resolution
- Touchpad for easy navigation
- Supports python
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons:
- A bit fragile than other TI calculators due to its sleep design
- Requires a learning curve due to the immense functionality
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5. HP 50g
The HP 50g is old-school cool with plenty of features
The HP 50g is a high-end calculator that is perfect for professionals and college students in the field of statistics. This calculator features a large screen, making it easy to read data and perform complex computations. It also has a large memory, so you can store large data sets and recall them when needed.
The HP 50g can do everything what you’d expect of a statistics calculator like data analysis of large data sets, graphing/sequencing, and matrix handling etc. Additionally, it also has color display which is always a better option for easy readability.
Pros:
- Large screen with easy readability
- Feature-rich package with the ability to connect to PC/Laptop
- SD-card slot for additional storage
- Vast equation library
Cons:
- The UI might be a bit overwhelming for beginners
- A tad slower interms of processing compared to newer models
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6. Casio fx-9750GII
No one does it like it Casio when it comes to reliability and practicality
The Casio fx-9750GII is a reliable choice for students looking to get there first professional calculator. The UI is streamlined and a breeze to use. The calculator looks and feel quite premium and has the performance to match its looks.
It has a large display and a variety of functions for statistical analysis, including regression functions, data analysis, 2-D templates for fractions and more. This calculator also has a built-in spreadsheet, which makes it easy to work with large amounts of data. Additionally, the Casio fx-9750GII is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around.
Pros:
- High visibility natural color screen that mimics textbook
- Ability to run python
- 200+ hours of battery life
- 3MB storage and USB connectivity
Cons:
- Lack of color screen at this price point
- No expandable storage
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7. Sharp EL-W516XBSL
Just starting out and don’t want to spend a ton? Get this.
The Sharp EL-W516XBSL is a mid-range calculator that is perfect for students who are just starting to study statistics. This calculator has a narrow display that is geared towards beginners. It contains all the must-have tools and functions to get you started but don’t expect advanced features like the more expensive models.
You can also programme the four keys for quick actions as well as use the 556 different scientific functions. The Sharp EL-W516XBSL is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and costs next to nothing.
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners with easy to use UI
- Cheap yet reliable
- Programmable keys
- Solar powered
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy work flow
- Slower than other more recent models
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