12 best graphing calculator for precalculus

A graphing calculator for precalculus is an essential tool for students studying advanced mathematics. These calculators are specialized devices designed to assist in solving mathematical equations and graphing functions. Here's what you need to know about them:

  1. Functionality:

    • Graphing calculators are capable of performing a wide range of mathematical operations, including arithmetic, algebraic, and trigonometric calculations.
    • They excel in graphing functions, making it easier for students to visualize mathematical concepts such as functions, equations, and inequalities.
  2. Graphing Capabilities:

    • One of the primary features of these calculators is their ability to graph equations and functions in two or three dimensions. This is particularly helpful in precalculus and calculus courses.
    • Users can input equations, and the calculator will plot the corresponding graphs, allowing students to analyze the behavior of functions, find intersections, and solve equations graphically.
  3. Preloaded Functions:

    • Graphing calculators come with preloaded functions and formulas, including trigonometric functions, logarithms, exponential functions, and statistical functions.
    • These built-in functions simplify complex calculations and reduce the chances of errors.
  4. Programming Capabilities:

    • Many graphing calculators offer programming capabilities, allowing users to create custom functions and programs to automate repetitive calculations or solve specific problems.
  5. Graphical Interface:

    • These calculators have a graphical interface with a screen that displays graphs, equations, and results.
    • Users can interact with the calculator using buttons, menus, and a stylus (in some models) to input equations and navigate the interface.
  6. Memory and Storage:

    • Graphing calculators have a certain amount of memory for storing equations, programs, and data. Some models also have expandable memory via external storage cards.
  7. Standardized Testing:

    • Graphing calculators are often allowed in standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams.However, there may be restrictions on the specific models and functionalities allowed, so it's essential to check the guidelines for the particular test.
  8. Battery and Power:

    • These calculators are typically powered by replaceable or rechargeable batteries. Battery life varies depending on the model and usage.
  9. Educational Benefits:

    • Graphing calculators are valuable tools for students studying precalculus and beyond. They can help students gain a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and solve complex problems more efficiently.
  10. Popular Brands:

    • Some well-known brands that manufacture graphing calculators include Texas Instruments, Casio, and HP. Each brand offers various models with different features and price points.

In summary, graphing calculators for precalculus are versatile devices that aid students in solving mathematical problems, visualizing functions, and preparing for standardized tests. They are essential tools for anyone studying advanced mathematics and are widely used in educational settings.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best graphing calculator for precalculus on the market
  

Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator, Teal (Metallic)

Texas Instruments

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The TI-84 Plus CE makes comprehension of math and science topics quicker and easier. Ideal for middle school through college.

  • High-resolution, full-color Backlit display
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Sleek design
  • Resolution: 140 Dpi; 16-Bit Color

User questions & answers

Question: Does this calculator come with an owners manual
Answer: It works as well as an actual steam room. I use it twice a week. I sometimes sit inside the tent and cover the hole with a towel so I get a complete steam. It has a timer on it and seven levels of steam so it can be adjusted to how steamy it gets. One time I set it to level seven and it got extremely hot. So it's a very effective little steam tent and I've really enjoyed it.
Question: What is the battery life before needing recharged? How long to recharge
Answer: I have an IR sauna, and it hooks to any of the wood slats that go over the heaters.
Question: Does it come with a cover? (like previous TI-84s
Answer: You can make an aroma mist spray to mist the air with however it might leave stains in your sauna OR put the oil on a moist cloth hanging it over something such as back rest by heaters (staining might occur also) or hang it from the ceiling I'd imagine. This item/kit is nice however way overpriced in my opinion and won't work (attaching it) with all saunas. Hope that helps.
Question: My daughter's math teacher recommends to buy ti-84 plus graphing caculator. is this ti-84 plus ce graphing calculator will do same
Answer: Yes, it should work. I noticed it works very well with my Sauna, I can really smell the Eucalyptus while I am relaxing in my Infared Sauna!

Product features

TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator

Familiar TI-84 Plus functionality in a sleek new design that features a crisp color screen.

Key features:

  • 30% lighter and thinner than earlier generation TI-84 Plus models
  • Vibrant backlit color screen
  • TI Rechargeable Battery
  • Available in a variety of fun colors
  • Preloaded apps and images
  • MathPrint feature

Captivating color. Optimal display.

Visualize concepts clearly and make faster, stronger connections between equations, data and graphs in full color.

  • Enhanced screen readability with high-resolution, backlit display
  • Distinguish between multiple graphs and plots with color-coded equations, plots and objects
  • Make graphs easier to read by adding grid lines

Texas Instruments TI-84 PLUS CE Graphing Calculator, Black (Frustration-Free Packaging) (84PLCE/PWB/2L1/A)

Texas Instruments

Based on 891 reviews Check latest price

Product description

With TI-84 Plus Silver Edition functionality and a high-resolution, full-color backlit display, the TI-84 Plus CE makes comprehension of math and science topics quicker and easier. Built-in Math Print feature enables students to enter and view math symbols, formulas and stacked fractions as they appear in textbooks. Includes a TI Rechargeable Battery. Ideal for middle school through college.

  • High-resolution, full-color backlit display
  • Sleek Design
  • TI Rechargeable Battery
  • Familiar 84 Plus Family Functionality
  • Ability to import and use images

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work for algebra 1 also
Answer: It will be more than enough for Algebra 1. A simple scientific calculator could also work.
Question: What is frustration free packaging? How is it different from standard packaging
Answer: this comes in retail packaging... thank you
Question: which calculators have a data button
Answer: The ones that say graphing should all have a data button.But i would check 83 and higher for higher function.time saving buttons for input.
Question: Is there international warranty
Answer: US ONLY

Product features

Approved for Exams

The TI-84 Plus CE is approved for use on the following exams:

> PSAT*, SAT*, and ACT* college entrance exams.

> AP* Exams that allow or require a graphing calculator.

> Approved for use on the IB exam.

* SAT and AP are trademarks owned by the College Board. PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. International Baccalaureate is a registered trademark of the International Baccalaureate Organization. None was involved in the production of nor endorses TI products.

Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculator, Black

Texas Instruments

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The all-purpose TI-84 Plus graphing calculator, ideal for math and science, features more than a dozen preloaded apps including functionality that encourages exploration of interactive geometry, inequality graphing, and real-world data collection and analysis. Ideal for middle school through college.



What's in the Box: 

TI-84 Plus calculator, impact-resistant protective slide case, TI connectivity/USB cable, silver oxide battery, four AAA batteries, Guidebook and free software Apps, warranty information. 

TI-Rechargeable battery

Amazon.com Product Description Building on the hugely popular TI-83 Plus, which is perhaps the best-selling calculator of all time, the TI-84 Plus is completely compatible with its predecessor. From that well-established platform, this new model adds more speed (a processor that's 2.5 times faster), more memory (24 KB RAM and 480 KB of Flash ROM), an enhanced high-contrast display (eight lines by 16 characters), and more beloved Apps.

Includes a USB Port and cable.
It also adds USB on-the-go technology (cable included) that can be used to share files with other calculators or to connect to PCs or optional presentation tools.

Comes with 12 pre-loaded Apps and supports all TI-83 Apps.
Twelve Apps are pre-loaded, including Cabri Jr., CBL/CBR, Conic Graphing, Inequality Graphing, Probability Simulations, Science Tools, StudyCards, TimeSpan, Topics in Algebra 1 Chapter 5, Topics in Algebra 1 Chapters 1-4, Transformation Graphing, and more. For students in math and sciences, the TI-84 Plus is a powerful, problem-solving tool with features for storing, graphing, and analyzing up to 10 functions. Plus, it displays graphs and evaluates tables on a split screen, allowing you to trace the graph and scroll through table values simultaneously.

Split screen lets you view a graph and its equation at the same time.
With the TI-84 Plus, you can view an equation, its graph, and the coordinates all at one time. Jump from point to point by entering a number. Several useful plot types are available, including scatter, box-and-whisker, XY-line, histogram, and normal probability plots. Advanced statistics and regression analysis, graphical analysis, and data analysis are readily accessed, along with features for calculus, engineering, financial, logarithm, trigonometry, and hyperbolic functions--all crucial tools for advanced analysis. With its clear display and fast processing, the calculator incorporates graphing tools for mathematics and science course work, including statistics and finance.

The included normal slide case is great for desktop work.
The TI-84 Plus is powered by four AAA alkaline batteries (not included) and one silver oxide battery (included) for backup, with an automatic shutoff to save energy. It also comes with a hard normal slide case and is supported by a one-year limited warranty.

What's in the Box

TI-84 Plus, normal slide case, TI connectivity cable/USB cable, silver oxide battery, TI Product CD-ROM with full reference Guidebook and free software Apps, warranty information; four AAA batteries not included, alkaline recommended

  • All-purpose graphing: pre-algebra, algebra 1, 2, geometry statistics, biology, physics, business and finance
  • Preloaded apps, 480 KB ROM, 24 KB RAM
  • Function visualization, 96 x 64 display resolution
  • Proactive case and USB cable included

User questions & answers

Question: Does this calculator come with a carrying case
Answer: It comes with the slide on case but not a carrying case.
Question: would this be good for machining math like fractions decimals and geometry
Answer: Yesss
Question: How do i return this ? It's the wrong item
Answer: I don't know know if you already figured out but if you go to your order history you'll see the calculator and a return option is available there
Question: Is this calculator approved to use on the ACT test
Answer: According to Texas instrument education.ti.com yes

Casio fx-9860GII Graphing Calculator, Black

Based on 941 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • REF/RREF function, random integers, unit conversion, new types of regressions, chi-squared GOF function, 9 new probability functions, pie charts & bar graphs, graph X=f(Y) and much more
  • 1500 KB Flash ROM
  • Built-in eActivity and spreadsheet applications
  • Icon-based menu adds to overall intuitive usability
  • Direct connection to Casio projectors
  • Data transfer from unit-to-unit and from unit-to-computer
  • New LCD backlight for superior visibility
  • New manager software available

User questions & answers

Question: does this come with the protective case, cover and cd
Answer: I don't think you can, as I searched through the manual, I only found you can use QR code for help on functions. There are other ways to transfer spreadsheets for it though. You can save a spreadsheet as a .csv and transfer to your computer using a usb cable (in US sold separately, but you may try one mini usb cable from amazonbasics and see if it works.
Question: is it programmable
Answer: Yes it does. Trig functions are included .
Question: Does this calculator come with a protective case and USB cable
Answer: Yes.
Question: Does this calculator have built-in computer algebra system
Answer: It doesn’t have an EE key. It’s the 10^x key, bottom row, third key from the left.

Texas Instruments TI83PLUS TI-83Plus Programmable Graphing Calculator, 10-Digit LCD

Texas Instruments

Based on 752 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ideal for the algebra classroom. Lets students graph and compare functions, as well as perform data plotting and analysis. Horizontal and vertical split screen options. Advanced functions accessed through pull-down display menus. Includes tools for finance. I/O port for communication with other TI products.

  • Sold as 1 Each.
  • Ideal for the algebra classroom. Lets students graph and compare functions, as well as perform data plotting and analysis.
  • Horizontal and vertical split screen options.
  • Advanced functions accessed through pull-down display menus.
  • Includes tools for finance.

User questions & answers

Question: Can a 7th grader use this caculater
Answer: I bought this to see if it would remove dirt, it did an awesome job! I haven’t vacuumed my pool for over a month so there was a lot of dirt . I was surprised how well this product cleaned my pool. I have an 16x8ft rectangular pool so i vacuumed it about three times before completely cleaning all the dirt.
Question: Can you program this
Answer: This item can be washed.
Question: Is it good
Answer: Many times different colored items just cost more due to popularity. I noticed that with clothes, life proof phone cases and other items. It’s all the same, just different colors
Question: Can a 7th grader use this Calculator
Answer: I'm 6'3" and it fits me fine. The chair is purposely very low and positioned to keep your head at the right height for the opening on the top.

Sharp EL-506TSBBW 12-Digit Engineering/Scientific Calculator with Protective Hard Cover, Battery and Solar Hybrid Powered LCD Display, Great for Students and Professionals, Black

Sharp

Based on 99 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EL-506TSBBW is an advanced 2 line scientific calculator with Direct Algebraic Logic (D.A.L.) display, which allows calculations to be displayed as written on paper. Perfect for students studying higher level math and science including pre-algebra, algebra I & II, geometry, precalculus, calculus, trigonometry, statistics, biology, chemistry, and physics. This model features a glossy black finish with white accents. The home key allows users to start fresh from any screen. The EL-506TSBBW has eight temporary memories, four formula memories, one independent memory, and one last answer memory. This calculator also allows equation editing & playback, 1, 2 & 3 variable statistics, normal & stat modes, six regression types, and N-BASE calculations: HEX, BIN, DEC, OCT, PEN. Other functions include: logarithms, reciprocals, powers, roots, factorials, normal probability, trigs, and hyperbolic trigs. Includes a 3D light reflecting, protective hard case and operates on hybrid power (solar and battery).

  • Large 12 Digit, 2 line LCD display perfect for easy viewing and shows Calculation entry and result at the same time
  • Perfect for students studying general math and science, pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, biology, and chemistry
  • 470 Functions and 6 Modes: Normal, Stat, Equation, Complex Number, Matrix, and List
  • Features: Quadratic and Cubic Equation Solvers, Substitute Algebra with Simulation Calculations, Matrix Calculations, Complex Calculations, N-Base Calculations, List Calculations, Differential and Integral Functions, and Formula Memories, and a Home key that allows users to start fresh from any screen by clearing previously entered data and settings
  • Includes a durable gloss black finish with white accents, acrylic display protection to prevent cracks and a 3D light reflecting cover.

User questions & answers

Question: What size is it
Answer: it should work with a garden hose.the gargen hose is sold separately.
Question: Does it come with instructions
Answer: That orange and gray connector is one of those pull-release valves. The connector screws onto the end of your hose and then clips into the vacuum.
Question: Can it perform negative log
Answer: If you are referring to other full sized pool accessories the answer is no.

Product features

Sharp EL-506TSBBW Advanced Scientific Calculator

Higher level math and science including pre-algebra, algebra I & II, geometry, pre-calculus, calculus, trigonometry, statistics, biology, chemistry, and physics.

All the features and functions students and teachers need

The EL-506TSBBW has eight temporary memories, four formula memories, one independent memory, and one last answer memory.

This calculator allows equation editing and multi-line playback. It has 6 modes (Normal, Stat, Equation, Complex Number, Matrix, and List) as well as 1&2 Variable Statistics, 6 regression types,N-BASE calculations (HEX, BIN, DEC, OCT, PEN) and more!

Home Key & Other Features

The home key allows users to start fresh from any screen. This is particularly helpful when getting a group to the same settings, resetting and clearing the calculator, or starting over when needed.

TEXAS INSTRUMENTS Graphing Calculator - USB - 10 Digits + 2 exponents - Battery - Matte Black

Texas Instruments

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

TI84 Plus CE Matte Black

  • With a high-resolution screen and preloaded apps, the TI-84 Plus CE color graphing calculator provides you with the tools you need to quickly solve a variety of equations and problems. The slim design of this Texas Instruments calculator makes it easy to carry with you from class to class.
  • 320 x 240-pixel color screen displays graphs in detail.
  • 154KB RAM and 3MB flash ROM memory help you quickly solve equations and generate graphs.
  • Preloaded apps are designed to help you solve a wide range of problems. Tackle logarithm functions, hyperbolic functions, matrix functions, forecasting functions and more.
  • Useful for a wide range of courses, including pre-algebra, algebra 1 and 2, geometry, statistics, pre-calculus, calculus, biology, chemistry, physics and business and finance.

Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus Silver Edition Graphing Calculator - BLUE (Renewed)

Texas Instruments

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price
  • TI-84 Plus Silver Edition-Blue.
  • Graphing-Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1&2, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics, Pre-Calculus.
  • Can also be used for Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Business and Finance.
  • Display size 64x96, Memory ROM/RAM 1.5MB/24K.
  • Includes a protective slide case, complete manual on CD, Backup and 4 AAA batteries.

Mr. Pen- Scientific Calculator, 2 Line, Calculator Scientific, Fraction Calculator, Scientific Calculators, Statistic Calculator, Science Calculator, Chemistry Calculator, Calculator, Math Calculator

Based on 41 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • Professional Grade Scientific Calculator With 240 Scientific Functions. 
  • 10+2-Digit Widescreen HD Display
  • It Has 2-Line Display Shows Entry And Calculated Result At Same Time
  • Protective Hardcover Prevents Scratches And Dings
  • Meets The Ergonomics Design And Offers A Comfortable Grip

  • Professional Grade Scientific Calculator With 240 Scientific Functions.
  • 10+2-Digit Widescreen HD Display
  • It Has 2-Line Display Shows Entry And Calculated Result At Same Time
  • Protective Hardcover Prevents Scratches And Dings
  • Meets The Ergonomics Design And Offers A Comfortable Grip

EZ Graphing Purple Hard Slide Cover for TI 84 Plus CE (See Description for Details)

EZ Graphing

Based on 75 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Note: all new TI-84 Plus CE calculators already come equipped with a plastic cover. Please purchase our product with this in mind. Thank you for shopping EZ Graphing! Spot your calculator from across the room! EZ Graphing slide cases are the only patented slide cover on the market that offers functionality to a calculator cover. Say 'hello' to beautiful lines with the EZ Graphing slide case for the TI-84 Plus CE. Keep a straight edge wherever you bring your calculator! Featuring a 6 inch side ruler, a 6 centimeter top ruler, an XY axis template that will cut down time graphing axes and 12 Math functions that are important for any mathematician (middle school to college). Not only can the XY axis template help you graph, but it can draw perfect rectangles, 3-4-5 right triangles, isosceles triangles, parallel lines and much much more. Great for Geometry, Algebra, Precalculus and Calculus classes. Please visit the product features tab at the ezgraphing website for geometry directions. Every slide case is made in the USA!

  • Fits the TI-84 Plus CE only. Note: all new TI-84 Plus CE calculators from Texas Instruments come with a plastic cover. Please purchase our product with this in mind. Thank you for shopping EZ Graphing!
  • 6 inch side ruler, 6 centimeter top ruler, XY axis template for quick axes, 12 Math functions
  • Perfect for students taking Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry, Precalculus, Calculus
  • Made in the USA, invented by a high school math teacher
  • Save $$$ by eliminating the need for graphing paper

User questions & answers

Question: One of the reviewers stated that the cover slides off too easily; if it does not stay put, that might happen in my backpack's pocket
Answer: There is also an app manual:https://www.amazon.com/Graphing-Calculator-Manual-TI-84-Plus/dp/B01MYF33Q4Maybe this is also interesting for you. Also available on Google Play and iOS.
Question: Will this case fit the ti-nspire cx cas graphing calculator? if not, is there one that will fit it
Answer: I conducted a test where I left the calculator running on max brightness non-stop until it died. It took over 30 hours before the battery was completely drained. Since no one runs their calculator non stop for 30 hours straight, this equates to a month of normal use at max brightness. If you want to extend it to two months or more, be sure to keep the brightness turned down. It takes 1-2 hours to charge from a dead battery.
Question: would this work for a ti
Answer: Yes. I got the black model,and it came a light grayish colored cover.
Question: is this cover sturdier then one that comes with the calcullator? (It does not do a good job protecting the screen when the calculator is compressed
Answer: Good evening. This is the new TI-84 Plus CE model that replaces the Ti 84 Plus and comes with new functions and in different colors. I have pink, purple, gray, blue and black.

Texas Instruments TI-NSpire Math and Science Handheld Graphing Calculator (Renewed)

Texas Instruments

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price
  • Ideal for Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1 & 2, Geometry, Trigonometry, Precalculus, Calculus, Statistics
  • Required or permitted for use on SAT,* ACT and AP* exams
  • Intuitive, computer-style interface and cursor controls provide easy navigation between screens and functions
  • Multiple representations offer different views of the same problem, at the same time, on one large screen
  • Dynamic linking instantly reflects changes to one representation in real time to other representations of the same problem

Sharp EL-W516TBSL 16-Digit Advanced Scientific Calculator with WriteView 4 Line Display, Battery and Solar Hybrid Powered LCD Display, Black & White, Black and Silver, Model Number: ELW516TBSL

Sharp

Based on 521 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Advanced, 4-line scientific calculator with WriteView display, allows calculations to be entered and displayed as written they would appear in a textbook. With 640 functions, the EL-W516TBSL is ideal for professionals and students studying general math and science, pre-algebra, algebra I & II, geometry, pre-calculus, calculus, trigonometry, statistics, biology, chemistry, and physics. Features a durable matte black finish with silver accents and operates on twin-power (solar with battery backup).

  • Large 16 Digit, WriteView 4 Line LCD Display
  • 7 Modes: Normal, Stat, Drill, Complex, Matrix, List & Equation with 640 Functions
  • Home Key Allows Users To Start Fresh From Any Screen
  • Quadratic & Cubic Equation Solvers and 3 Variable Linear Equation Solvers
  • Durable, Gloss Black FInish with Silver Accents and Protective Hard Case

User questions & answers

Question: Does it solve functions? does it store formulas/equations like the el-506xbwh
Answer: This is the recommended calculator for my 7th grader from his Algebra teacher.
Question: Does it save entered data (stat lists, results after the =, etc
Answer: Yes you can definitely program this.
Question: Can it use more than one variable at a time
Answer: This calculator was for my grandson. He said that it worked good. He showed me an example of how it works.
Question: Is this an rpn calculator? similar to hp35s
Answer: For most of schools, a graphing calculator from the TI-83 is optional for students in 7th grade Algebra. However, your child will also use it in high school. Unlike some of the other more elaborate calculators, TI-83 calculator is allowed for use on the standard testing, such as PSAT, ACT, SAT, etc.

Product features

Sharp EL-W516XBSL Advanced Scientific Calculator with WriteView 4 Line Display

General math and science, pre-algebra, algebra I & II, geometry, pre-calculus, calculus, trigonometry, statistics, engineering, biology, chemistry, and physics

WriteView Display

The WriteView display allows users to see expressions, fractions, and symbols the same way they would see them in a textbook. The ability to show your work is important for students learning in any level of math, and the WriteView display helps students do so.

Advanced Scientific Functions

Perform advanced scientific calculations. Trig functions, logarithms, reciprocals, powers, and roots are just some of the calculations you will be able to handle with the EL-W516TBSL.

Testing Approved

The EL-W516TBSL is permitted on many tests required of students anywhere from middle school to college. Standardized testing organizations approved the EL-W516XBSL scientific calculator for SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, APChemistry, AP Physics, and Mach IC & IIC exams.

Built to Last

The EL-W516TBSL scientific calculator is built to last for years of use. The protective hard case enables students to use this calculator from the start of their high school career all the way through college.

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