12C Review
4.6/5.0
(75) reviews•
Price Range:$50 - $80 USD
At a Glance
Our Verdict
8/10
Best for
Experienced financial professionals and students committed to mastering RPN for efficient financial calculations.
Value
Good
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Overview
The HP 12C is a venerable financial calculator renowned for its Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) input, robust build, and comprehensive suite of financial functions. It remains an industry standard for professionals despite its decades-old design, offering unparalleled longevity and reliability for specific financial computations.
Detailed Review
Key Features
- Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) input
- Comprehensive financial functions (TVM, NPV, IRR, bonds, depreciation, statistics)
- Keystroke programming (up to 99 steps)
- Durable, professional-grade build quality
- Long battery life
- Compact and portable design
Reasons to Buy
- Industry standard for financial professionals, particularly in real estate and finance.
- RPN input offers efficiency for experienced users.
- Exceptional durability and long-term reliability.
- Excellent battery life.
- Compact and easy to carry.
- Approved for most certification exams (CFA, CFP, etc.).
Reasons to Avoid
- RPN input has a steep learning curve for those accustomed to algebraic entry.
- Single-line, non-backlit display can be limiting.
- Lacks modern features like multi-line display, USB connectivity, or advanced graphing.
- Limited scientific functions compared to dedicated scientific calculators.
Technical Specifications
- display type
- 10-digit LCD
- screen size
- n/a (10-digit single line display)
- battery type
- 2 x CR2032
- power source
- Battery
- number of functions
- Extensive financial, business, and statistical functions (e.g., TVM, cash flow, bonds, depreciation, statistics, date calculations)
- programming capability
- yes
- graphing capability
- no
- CAS
- no
- connectivity
- None
- dimensions
- Approx. 5.0 x 3.1 x 0.6 inches (12.7 x 7.9 x 1.5 cm)
- weight
- Approx. 3.9 oz (110g)
- build quality
- Durable plastic casing with a professional finish; known for longevity
At a Glance
Our Verdict
8/10
Best for
Experienced financial professionals and students committed to mastering RPN for efficient financial calculations.
Value
Good
View on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.