TI-84 PLUS CE Graphing Calculator Review
At a Glance
Our Verdict
Best for
High school and early college students who need a reliable, exam-approved graphing calculator with a color display and familiar interface.
Value
Good
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Overview
The TI-84 Plus CE is a modern iteration of the ubiquitous TI-84 series, featuring a vibrant color display and a rechargeable battery. It maintains the familiar interface and extensive functionality that has made the TI-84 a classroom staple, making it an excellent choice for high school and early college students requiring a reliable, exam-approved graphing calculator.
Detailed Review
Key Features
- High-resolution, full-color backlit display (320 x 240 pixels)
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Familiar TI-84 Plus functionality and interface
- Approved for use on major standardized tests (PSAT/NMSQT, SAT, ACT, AP, IB)
- Preloaded apps including Inequality Graphing, Polynomial Root Finder, and TI-84 Plus CE App for Python
- USB port for computer connectivity and unit-to-unit communication
- Color-coded equations, plots, and objects on the display
Reasons to Buy
- Vibrant color display significantly improves readability and graph analysis.
- Rechargeable battery eliminates the need for constant battery replacement.
- Familiar interface reduces learning curve for existing TI-84 users.
- Widely accepted on standardized tests (SAT, ACT, AP, IB).
- Extensive online resources, tutorials, and teacher support available.
- Durable build quality suitable for student use.
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks a Computer Algebra System (CAS) for symbolic manipulation.
- Processing speed can be slower than newer, more powerful graphing calculators.
- Higher price point compared to scientific or non-graphing calculators.
- Interface, while familiar, can feel dated compared to modern calculator OS designs.
Technical Specifications
- display type
- Color, backlit LCD
- screen size
- 320 x 240 pixels (2.8-inch diagonal)
- battery type
- Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
- power source
- Rechargeable battery, USB charging
- number of functions
- Extensive, covering algebra, calculus, statistics, trigonometry, finance, etc.
- programming capability
- yes (TI-Basic, Python via add-on app)
- graphing capability
- yes
- CAS
- no
- connectivity
- USB (for computer, unit-to-unit)
- dimensions
- Approx. 7.5 x 3.4 x 0.7 inches (19.05 x 8.64 x 1.78 cm)
- weight
- Approx. 0.49 lbs (220g)
- build quality
- Durable plastic casing, robust for student use
At a Glance
Our Verdict
Best for
High school and early college students who need a reliable, exam-approved graphing calculator with a color display and familiar interface.
Value
Good
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.