Best of · updated Oct 2026

Best calculators for students

The right calculator depends on the exam as much as the subject. These four cover school, university and the desk. Written by the Calculators Wiki team.

Disclosure

Links marked “View on Amazon” are affiliate links. If you buy, we earn a small commission. It costs you nothing and does not change what we pick.

Quick picks

Casio fx-991EXBest scientific calculator for studentsScientificView on Amazon
TI-84 Plus CEBest graphing calculator, widely accepted in examsGraphing · colourView on Amazon
TI-36X ProBest allowed-almost-everywhere scientific calculatorScientific · multi-lineView on Amazon
Casio HR-100RCBest printing desk calculatorPrinting · 12 digitsView on Amazon

01

Casio fx-991EX

Best scientific calculator for students

The fx-991EX shows fractions and roots the way a textbook does, and puts statistics, matrices and equation solving a menu away. It does not graph, so if your course wants graphs, look at the TI-84 instead. Always check your exam rules before buying.

What works

  • +  Natural textbook display
  • +  Solar and battery power
  • +  Good value for what it does

What doesn’t

  • –  Does not graph
  • –  The menus take a little time to learn
View on AmazonRead the review

02

TI-84 Plus CE

Best graphing calculator, widely accepted in exams

The TI-84 Plus CE is a graphing calculator that many teachers know well, which makes it easy to get help. A colour screen makes graphs easier to read and it has a rechargeable battery. It costs much more than a scientific model, so buy it only if your course asks for graphing.

What works

  • +  Widely used in classrooms
  • +  Colour graphs
  • +  Rechargeable battery

What doesn’t

  • –  Costs much more than a scientific model
  • –  Heavier to carry
View on AmazonRead the review

03

TI-36X Pro

Best allowed-almost-everywhere scientific calculator

The TI-36X Pro is a scientific calculator with a multi-line display. It is often chosen because it is accepted on many exams where graphing models are not. Check your own exam rules, as they differ.

What works

  • +  Multi-line display
  • +  Often accepted where graphing models are not

What doesn’t

  • –  Plainer look than the fx-991EX
View on AmazonRead the review

04

Casio HR-100RC

Best printing desk calculator

A printing calculator keeps a paper record of every entry, which is useful for bills, bookkeeping and checking long sums. It is a desk tool, not something to carry around.

What works

  • +  Prints a paper tape
  • +  12-digit display

What doesn’t

  • –  Not portable
  • –  Needs paper rolls
View on AmazonRead the review

Not ready to buy?

Use our free calculators, with the formula shown, while you decide.

Open calculators