CalculatorsReviewed

TI-84 Plus CE Radical Red Review

4.6/5.0
(307) reviews
Price Range:Mid-to-High (typically $120 - $160 USD)
Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Radical Red Graphing Calculator

At a Glance

Our Verdict

8/10
Best for

High school students (Algebra I/II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Statistics, Chemistry, Physics) and those preparing for standardized tests.

Value

Good

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Overview

The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Radical Red is a widely adopted graphing calculator, primarily designed for high school mathematics and science courses. It features a vibrant color display, a rechargeable battery, and a familiar interface, making it a reliable tool for students preparing for standardized tests. While lacking a Computer Algebra System (CAS), its extensive preloaded functions and widespread acceptance in educational settings solidify its position as a go-to choice for its target demographic.

Detailed Review

Key Features

  • Vibrant, backlit color display (320 x 240 pixels)
  • Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
  • Preloaded apps for advanced math and science
  • Approved for use on SAT, ACT, PSAT/NMSQT, AP exams
  • Familiar TI-84 Plus functionality and interface
  • Graphing functions for multiple equations
  • Statistical plotting and analysis
  • Programming capability (TI-Basic)
  • Slim, lightweight design

Reasons to Buy

  • Widely accepted on standardized tests (SAT, ACT, AP)
  • Familiar and intuitive interface for students and teachers
  • Vibrant color display enhances visualization of graphs and data
  • Rechargeable battery offers convenience and cost savings
  • Extensive online resources and community support
  • Durable build quality suitable for student use

Reasons to Avoid

  • Lacks a Computer Algebra System (CAS) for symbolic manipulation
  • Higher price point compared to non-graphing scientific calculators
  • May be overkill for students only needing basic scientific functions
  • Less powerful than some competing models with CAS or more advanced features

Technical Specifications

display type
Color LCD, Backlit
screen size
320 x 240 pixels (2.8-inch diagonal)
battery type
Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
power source
USB rechargeable
number of functions
Extensive (covers algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, finance)
programming capability
yes
graphing capability
yes
CAS
no
connectivity
USB port for computer and unit-to-unit communication
dimensions
Approx. 7.6 x 3.4 x 0.75 inches (19.3 x 8.6 x 1.9 cm)
weight
Approx. 0.5 lbs (226g)
build quality
Durable plastic casing

At a Glance

Our Verdict

8/10
Best for

High school students (Algebra I/II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Statistics, Chemistry, Physics) and those preparing for standardized tests.

Value

Good

View on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.