Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
Best overallTexas Instruments
The classroom standard: familiar menus, strong exam acceptance, and a large ecosystem of tutorials.
- Colour screen
- Rechargeable
- Widely supported
Calculators
Best Graphing Calculators for Students
Overview
A graphing calculator is a significant purchase, usually required for senior math, calculus, and some science courses. It is also the calculator a student is most likely to keep into university, so buying the right platform matters.
The TI-84 remains the closest thing to a classroom standard in Canada, but Casio and HP offer strong alternatives at lower prices. The deciding factor is usually which model the teacher demonstrates and which one the exam permits.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Pick | Best for | Why it stands out |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE | Best overall | The classroom standard: familiar menus, strong exam acceptance, and a large ecosystem of tutorials. |
| Casio FX-9750GIII | Best value | A capable graphing calculator at a lower price than the TI-84. |
| Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II | Best for advanced courses | A more powerful platform with a computer-like interface for calculus and statistics. |
| Casio FX-CG50 | Best colour display | A colour graphing calculator with a clear screen and good graphing speed. |
| HP Prime | Best for power users | A premium graphing calculator with a touchscreen and fast performance. |
The Best Graphing Calculators for Students in Detail
Casio FX-9750GIII
Best valueCasio
A capable graphing calculator at a lower price than the TI-84.
- Lower price
- Good display
- Solid battery
Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II
Best for advanced coursesTexas Instruments
A more powerful platform with a computer-like interface for calculus and statistics.
- Advanced features
- Colour display
- Rechargeable
Casio FX-CG50
Best colour displayCasio
A colour graphing calculator with a clear screen and good graphing speed.
- Colour screen
- Fast graphing
- Good value
HP Prime
Best for power usersHP
A premium graphing calculator with a touchscreen and fast performance.
- Touchscreen
- Fast
- Advanced math
The buttons on this page are Amazon.ca affiliate links. If you buy after clicking, PublicSchools.ca may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What to Look For
Match the teacher's model
Graphing calculators differ in menus and keystrokes. Using the same model as the classroom demonstration saves hours of confusion.
Check exam and course rules
Some courses restrict CAS models or require a specific device. Confirm before spending, because opened calculators are hard to return.
Battery and charging
Rechargeable models are convenient, but replaceable batteries are easier to manage during exam season.
Consider used and refurbished
Graphing calculators hold up well and are often sold used after a course ends.
Best Graphing Calculators for Students FAQ
Is the TI-84 still the best graphing calculator?
Do I need a graphing calculator for high school?
Should I buy a used graphing calculator?
Related Buying Guides
More Student Guides
Browse all school product buying guides or see the back-to-school supplies checklist for the full list of what Canadian students need.