TI-83 Plus Graphing Calculator Review
At a Glance
Our Verdict
Best for
High school students in Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and Statistics who need a reliable, widely supported, and budget-friendly graphing calculator.
Value
Good
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Overview
The TI-83 Plus is a venerable monochrome graphing calculator that has been a staple in high school mathematics and science classrooms for decades. While its display and processing power are dated compared to modern alternatives, it remains a reliable and widely supported tool for algebra, pre-calculus, calculus, and statistics, often available at an accessible price point.
Detailed Review
Key Features
- Monochrome graphing display (96x64 pixels)
- Flash ROM for OS updates and applications
- Graphing functions (2D, parametric, polar, sequence)
- Statistical analysis (one-variable, two-variable, regressions, hypothesis tests)
- Financial functions (TVM solver)
- Programming capability (TI-BASIC)
- Table feature for function evaluation
- Matrix operations
- Equation solver
- Link port for connectivity to computers and other calculators
Reasons to Buy
- Widely accepted on standardized tests (SAT, ACT, AP, IB)
- Extensive online resources, tutorials, and community support
- Reliable and durable build quality
- Comprehensive feature set for high school math and science
- Often available at a lower price point than newer models
- Familiar interface for many educators and students
Reasons to Avoid
- Outdated monochrome display lacks clarity and color of modern calculators
- Slower processing speed compared to newer models
- Limited memory for complex programs or large datasets
- Connectivity via serial port requires adapters for modern computers
- No Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality
- Not ideal for advanced engineering or university-level math requiring more powerful features
Technical Specifications
- display type
- Monochrome LCD
- screen size
- 96 x 64 pixels
- battery type
- 4 x AAA (main), 1 x CR1616 (backup)
- power source
- Battery powered
- number of functions
- Over 200 (approximate, comprehensive for its class)
- programming capability
- yes
- graphing capability
- yes
- CAS
- no
- connectivity
- TI-Graph Link port (serial)
- dimensions
- 7.3 x 3.5 x 1.0 inches (approximate)
- weight
- 7.1 ounces (approximate)
- build quality
- Durable plastic casing, standard for educational calculators
At a Glance
Our Verdict
Best for
High school students in Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and Statistics who need a reliable, widely supported, and budget-friendly graphing calculator.
Value
Good
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.