Nspire CX CAS Graphing Calculator, Frustration Free Package Review
4.6/5.0
(860) reviews•
Price Range:$150 - $200+
At a Glance
Our Verdict
8.5/10
Best for
College students in advanced mathematics, engineering, and science courses requiring symbolic computation and extensive graphing.
Value
Good
View on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Overview
The Texas Instruments Nspire CX CAS is a powerful graphing calculator designed for advanced mathematics and science, featuring a full-color display, a robust Computer Algebra System (CAS), and a rechargeable battery. It excels in symbolic manipulation, complex graphing, and data analysis, making it a strong tool for college-level STEM courses.
Detailed Review
Key Features
- Integrated Computer Algebra System (CAS) for symbolic manipulation
- Full-color, backlit display (320 x 240 pixels)
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Document-based interface with multiple applications (Calculator, Graphs, Geometry, Lists & Spreadsheet, Data & Statistics, Notes, Vernier DataQuest)
- Touchpad navigation
- Extensive graphing capabilities (2D, parametric, polar, sequence, 3D graphing on CX II CAS models)
- Programming support (TI-Basic, Lua, Python)
- USB connectivity for computer link and unit-to-unit communication
Reasons to Buy
- Powerful CAS for symbolic math, ideal for advanced courses.
- Vibrant color display enhances visualization of graphs and data.
- Rechargeable battery offers convenience and cost savings.
- Comprehensive suite of applications for various STEM subjects.
- Intuitive, document-based interface for organized work.
- Strong programming capabilities, including Python support.
Reasons to Avoid
- Higher price point compared to non-CAS or basic graphing calculators.
- CAS functionality is often prohibited on standardized tests (e.g., ACT, some SAT/AP sections).
- Learning curve for users accustomed to traditional calculator interfaces.
- May be overkill for students only needing basic graphing or scientific functions.
Technical Specifications
- display type
- Color, backlit LCD
- screen size
- 3.2 inches (diagonal), 320 x 240 pixels
- battery type
- Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
- power source
- USB rechargeable
- number of functions
- Extensive, covering symbolic algebra, calculus, statistics, geometry, and more.
- programming capability
- yes
- graphing capability
- yes
- CAS
- yes
- connectivity
- USB port (for computer link, unit-to-unit)
- dimensions
- Approx. 7.5" x 3.5" x 0.6" (19.1 cm x 8.9 cm x 1.5 cm)
- weight
- Approx. 8.5 oz (240 g)
- build quality
- Durable plastic casing, designed for student use.
At a Glance
Our Verdict
8.5/10
Best for
College students in advanced mathematics, engineering, and science courses requiring symbolic computation and extensive graphing.
Value
Good
View on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.