The 6 Best Calculators in 2025

The Casio FX-991ES is a noteworthy contender in the scientific calculator category, earning its stripes through practical design and functionality. One of its standout features is the Natural Textbook Display, which mirrors what you see in textbooks, making it easier to visualize and comprehend mathematical problems. With 417 functions at your disposal, it’s equipped to handle everything from basic trigonometry to complex statistical calculations.

In terms of usability, the calculator is designed with a color-coded keypad. This thoughtful design touch makes it simple to navigate, especially during intense study sessions or exams. Another practical addition is the slide-on hard case, providing the device with much-needed protection.

While it boasts the same functionalities as its predecessor, the Casio FX-991ESPLUS 1st edition, it still marks itself as a reliable and user-friendly tool. Though it doesn't introduce revolutionary new features, it does what it promises with elegance and efficiency, which is all you really need in a scientific calculator.

The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator is truly a standout device, particularly notable for its high-resolution, full-color backlit display. This feature not only enhances visibility in various lighting conditions but also enriches the user experience by allowing vibrant and distinct graph presentations. The calculator’s ability to use horizontal and vertical split-screen options is incredibly handy for multitasking, making it easier to view equations and graphs simultaneously.

Another impressive aspect is its rechargeable battery, which saves the hassle and expense of frequent replacements. The preloaded apps and images, along with fourteen interactive zoom features, add to the calculator's versatility. Its lightweight design belies its durability, ensuring it can endure the rigors of classroom use. While the calculator offers seven different graph styles for better differentiation, it maintains a user-friendly approach with the MathPrint feature, supporting clear and simple input.

Although the compatibility with devices like CBR 2 motion sensors may not be crucial for all users, it certainly showcases the calculator's capacity for extended functionality. Overall, the TI-84 Plus CE combines reliability, innovation, and fun, all wrapped up in a sturdy package, making it a top choice for students and professionals alike.

When it comes to financial calculators, the HP 12CP is a standout choice, thanks to its robust and versatile design. One of its most noteworthy attributes is the use of Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) for data entry. This feature streamlines the calculation process and is particularly valued by professionals accustomed to this efficient method.

The HP 12CP packs an impressive range of over 120 built-in functions, catering to a wide array of needs—be it finance, business, mathematics, or statistics. Users can even perform date calculations effortlessly, which is an essential feature for financial planning and analysis.

Despite its powerful capabilities, the calculator maintains a compact size, making it a portable companion for on-the-go calculations. Plus, the calculator boasts a long battery life, minimizing the need for frequent replacements. While it might not have the latest digital display, its overall performance and reliability make it a favored tool among financial professionals.

The Casio fx-9750GIII stands out in the budget graphing calculator category for its blend of useful features and user-friendly design. One of the notable elements is its high-resolution LCD display, which makes visualizing graphs and data clearer and more approachable for students and professionals alike. The availability of a rechargeable battery adds a level of convenience not always seen at this price point, minimizing interruptions caused by frequent battery replacements.

Equipped with 3MB Flash Memory, this calculator accommodates essential data storage and quick access. Its natural textbook display is particularly beneficial for accurately viewing fractions and mathematical expressions as they appear in textbooks, enhancing the learning experience. It offers practical spreadsheet functionality and USB connectivity, making file sharing a breeze. With features like quick pie charts, bar graphs, built-in conic equations, and a P statistics feature, it handles a range of mathematical tasks with ease. While some menu systems could be more intuitive, the overall performance of the Casio fx-9750GIII makes it a stellar choice for budget-conscious users seeking a robust tool.

The HP Prime Graphing Calculator stands out in the touchscreen category with its sleek, brushed metal design that not only looks modern but also offers a robust performance. Its slim profile and slide-on cover make it a practical choice for students and professionals who are frequently on the go, ensuring it stays protected during transit.

The 3.5-inch multi-touch display is a defining feature, providing a responsive and intuitive experience that enhances usability. The calculator’s HP alphanumeric keypad feels familiar and accessible, making complex calculations less daunting. With a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, users can rely on it for extended sessions without the frequent need for charging.

A remarkable aspect of the HP Prime is its ability to integrate into a unique STEM ecosystem, allowing users to enhance its capabilities with additional accessories like the HP Prime Wireless Kit and HP Connectivity Kit. While its memory and processing might not outperform top-tier models, the features it offers make it a top contender in its category, especially for its convenient and user-friendly design.

If you're venturing into the world of advanced mathematics, the Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II CAS is a remarkable ally to have by your side. Its standout feature is undoubtedly its vibrant color screen, which brings graphs to life with a resolution that ensures clarity and precision. The visual experience is further enhanced by the six graph styles and fifteen color options, allowing for seamless differentiation and personalization.

The TI-Nspire CX II CAS doesn’t just stop at aesthetics—its functionality is top-notch too. The rechargeable battery is a thoughtful touch, offering convenience with its impressive longevity, lasting up to two weeks on a single charge. This means fewer interruptions during those intense study sessions.

While it’s lightweight and boasts a convenient design, the real game-changer is its handheld-software bundle. This addition significantly elevates its graphing capabilities, making complex calculations and visualizations a breeze. While its design could be considered standard, it's the combination of its intuitive interface and powerful features that really makes this calculator shine in the realm of advanced math tools.