TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator, Golden Ratio (Metallic) Review

At a Glance
Our Verdict
Best for
High school and early college students in algebra, pre-calculus, calculus, and statistics who need a reliable, test-approved graphing calculator.
Value
Good
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Overview
The TI-84 Plus CE Golden Ratio is a reliable and widely accepted color graphing calculator, primarily designed for high school and early college mathematics and science courses. It offers a vibrant backlit display, a rechargeable battery, and a familiar interface, making it a solid choice for students needing a robust tool for algebra, calculus, and statistics, while also being approved for major standardized tests.
Detailed Review
Key Features
- Vibrant, full-color, backlit display (320x240 pixels)
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Preloaded apps and images for real-world data analysis
- Approved for use on SAT, ACT, PSAT/NMSQT, AP exams
- Familiar TI-84 Plus keypad and navigation
- Thin, lightweight design
- USB connectivity for computer transfer and charging
- Supports TI-Basic programming and Python (via OS updates)
Reasons to Buy
- Widespread acceptance and familiarity in high school classrooms
- Approved for major standardized tests (SAT, ACT, AP)
- Vibrant color display enhances graph interpretation and readability
- Rechargeable battery eliminates need for disposable batteries
- Robust build quality suitable for student use
- Intuitive interface for those familiar with TI-84 series
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks a Computer Algebra System (CAS) for symbolic manipulation
- User interface can feel dated compared to newer models from other brands
- Price point is relatively high for a non-CAS calculator
- Not ideal for advanced engineering or university-level mathematics requiring CAS features
Technical Specifications
- display type
- Color, backlit LCD
- screen size
- 2.8-inch diagonal (320 x 240 pixels)
- battery type
- Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
- power source
- USB rechargeable
- number of functions
- Extensive mathematical, statistical, and graphing functions
- programming capability
- yes
- graphing capability
- yes
- CAS
- no
- connectivity
- USB (mini-B port)
- dimensions
- Approx. 7.5 x 3.4 x 0.7 inches (19.05 x 8.64 x 1.78 cm)
- weight
- Approx. 8.8 oz (249 g)
- build quality
- Durable plastic construction with a metallic-look finish
At a Glance
Our Verdict
Best for
High school and early college students in algebra, pre-calculus, calculus, and statistics who need a reliable, test-approved graphing calculator.
Value
Good
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.