It depends on the academic needs of the students, what type of calculator they want for their classes and their course level of mathematics. The ideal school calculator helps with fractions, decimals, exponents, powers, percentages and scientific notation without hiding anything.
How We Compared Them
We have evaluated these features: fractions assistance, displays, specific courses the models are intended for, ease of use, and the claims of the manufacturer regarding testing. We have not provided any ranking since the proper choice will depend on the course you teach.
TI-34 MultiView
Useful for: middle school math and science involving fractions
According to TI, this calculator is intended for use in middle school, and its features include fraction calculations, step-by-step simplifications, four-line display, statistics, scientific notation, and scientific functions.
Strengths: very good at fraction calculations; the display suits classroom math
Weaknesses: could have too many functions for basic calculations
TI-30XS MultiView
For those: students who will continue to use the same calculator in high school
A four-line scientific calculator that can do fractions, convert fractions and decimals, statistics, and MathPrint. It is designed for high school math and science.
Advantages: wide course coverage; familiar four-line display
Disadvantages: students wanting more help simplifying fractions may like the TI-34 better
TI-30XIIS
Best for: a simple, no-frills scientific calculator
A two-line display with scientific functions and statistics.
- Pros: straightforward to use
- Cons: the display and fraction workflow are less advanced than the MultiView models
Casio fx-300ES Plus 2nd Edition
Best for: students who like a textbook-style display
Casio lists Natural Textbook Display, fraction calculations, statistics, tables, GCF/LCM, prime factorization and 262 functions for the current model.
- Pros: textbook-style display; a wide set of school functions
- Cons: students switching from TI may need time to learn a different key layout
Do You Need a Graphing Calculator?
Not likely, at least not yet. Graphing calculators can plot and analyze equations, but that's rarely needed for students in grades 5 through 9 except when taking a course on graphing or advanced algebra. The other downside is that they cost more and are more difficult to use.
Quick Comparison
| Calculator | Display | Fractions | Type | Test note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TI-34 MultiView | 4-line | Advanced; simplification | Scientific | TI lists SAT/ACT/AP; verify current policy |
| TI-30XS MultiView | 4-line | Fraction math; conversion | Scientific | TI lists SAT/ACT/AP; verify current policy |
| TI-30XIIS | 2-line | Decimal conversion | Scientific | Check current test policy |
| Casio fx-300ES Plus 2nd Ed. | Natural textbook | Fraction calculation | Scientific | Casio lists SAT/ACT/AP compliance; verify current policy |
| Graphing calculator | Varies | Usually extensive | Graphing | Check your test and school rules |
Your Buying Checklist
Check the school list first. If there’s a certain model needed, buy that one and move on.
Write down the three functions that you need the most. Fractions? Statistics? Choose a calculator that suits your needs.
Take into consideration the time frame you will use this calculator for. Should the calculator be used again in algebra or science classes, go with more functions.
Consider the practical aspects: the battery life, its toughness, the ability to read the screen and replacement parts.
Check the price of the calculators today before buying extra features.
FAQs
Do I really need a calculator in all my middle school math classes?
No. It all depends on the problems you have and whether it is allowed in your school or not.
Is a scientific calculator sufficient for grade 7 or 8?
Check it according to your course and class syllabus.
Do I have to buy a graphing calculator straight away?
No. A graphing calculator is for higher classes and is not required. A basic calculator will do.
Is a calculator app on a phone okay?
No. In many cases it is not allowed.
What is a textbook display?
It is when your calculator displays fractions, exponents, and roots just as in your textbook (not everything crammed in one line). TI calls it MathPrint, while Casio calls it Natural Textbook Display.
Up next: How to Reset the TI-34 MultiView
TI34Calc is an independent educational site, not affiliated with, endorsed or sponsored by Texas Instruments. TI-34 MultiView and TI-30XS MultiView are trademarks of Texas Instruments. Always follow your teacher’s and exam board’s calculator rules.