Best Calculator For The SAT
Which calculator should I get for the SAT in 2019?
The math portion of the SAT has two sections, a calculator portion and a non-calculator portion. It varies but the calculator section of the test takes up more than half of the questions.
First off we would like to say, The best calculator to use on the SAT is the one that you are most familiar with. If you have been using a calculator in school for the past couple of months or more, that is the best one to use on the test. Most graphing calculators are more than enough for you to do great on the SAT. The most immediate problem is getting to know how to properly use whatever calculator have.
With that in mind, below are some of our top recommendations for calculators you should use on the SAT. Each one has it’s strengths and weaknesses for the SAT and we’ll point those out. Also feel free to check out the full review of each calculator for a more detailed look at the features.
TI-84 Plus CE: The Tried and True
The TI-84 Plus CE is the newest version of the TI-84 Plus. The TI-84 Plus is by far the most commonly used calculator in schools across the world. It would be very surprising if you went to high school in the U.S. and had never used one of these calculators. For this reason, this will be the best calculator for a lot of people. Like we said before being familiar with the calculator that you use on the SAT is the most important part. The TI-84 is built for high school math curriculum so it has all the features you will need. The interface is also very easy to use and if you need any help there are a ton of internet sources to teach you how to use this calculator.
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TI-Nspire CX II CAS: The Most Capable
The TI-Nspire CX II CAS is arguably the most advanced device that you can use on the SAT. It has a computer algebra system (CAS).This means that it can do things like factor expressions, solve equations, simplify expressions, simplify radicals, and give all answers in exact form. The CAS is not found on either of the other calculators on this list. The CAS is by no means necessary but it could save you in some cases. For example, if you couldn’t solve a particular algebra problem, you could just type it in to your calculator. Check out our full review of this calculator to learn more on the CAS.
The Nspire is more than you need for the SAT but if you end up studying math in college or taking calculus in high school this calculator will really come in handy. The TI-Nspire CX II CAS’s major downside is usability. It is harder to use than the other two calculators on this list, so make sure you allow yourself some time to practice with it before bringing it on the test.
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Casio fx-9750GII: The Best Bang For Your Buck
If you just need a graphing calculator for the day of the SAT, this is the way to go. The Casio fx-9750GII is comparable in capabilities to the TI-84 Plus CE but it’s much cheaper. Prices vary, but you could pick this calculator up on Amazon for under $50 and sometimes under $40. This is much cheaper than any TI-84 Plus which will most likely set you back over $100. It does lack some features like a color screen, but other than that it can do almost anything the TI-84 Plus can do. The fx-9750GII is also on of the easiest calculators to use and a good alternative for someone who is more familiar with Casio.
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More on the SAT
Once again if you have a graphing calculator that you’re already familiar with use that one. The SAT is timed, so you want to be familiar with whatever device you are using. You don’t want to waste time searching menus for a function, or trying to figure out how to do something. If you are planning on buying a new calculator for the test, make sure you get it a couple months in advance. This way you’ll have some time to practice with it before using it on the SAT.
Here’s the SAT calculator policy for more approved calculators
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Full Individual Review of The TI-nspire CX CAS >>
Individual Review of The TI-84 Plus CE >>
Full Individual Review of The Casio fx-9750GII >>
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