Texas Instruments TI 84 Plus Graphing Calculator Review

The industry standard calculator for both beginners and more seasoned users is typically considered to be the Texas Instruments TI 84 Plus Graphing Calculator. If you are a student in high school or college, this particular model is likely the one your classmates are clamoring to get their hands on. This is one of the few times in which going along with the crowd is the smartest choice. Stick around and check out our review to find out why the TI 84 Plus is the right choice for your first graphing calculator.

General Info About the Texas Instruments TI 84 Plus Graphing Calculator

Watching a graphing calculator at work for the first time can actually be quite exciting. For instance, you start out with a complex equation and within seconds crank out a visual representation in the form of a graph of that exact same equation. With the help of the TI 84 Plus, users can quickly graph and then analyze the function itself, finding the x- and y-intercepts, the vertex of the parabola, and more. One of the favorite features of this particular calculator is the split screen, which allows users to view both the graph and the equation simultaneously. Armed with the TI 84 Plus, students will have the power to conquer nearly any type of mathematics with ease.

Texas Instruments TI 84 Plus Graphing Calculator Product Specifications

• Easily graph various functions, including 10 rectangular functions, 6 polar expressions, 6 parametric expressions, and 3 recursively-defined sequences.
• Available plot types include XY-line, scatter, histogram, box-and-whisker, and normal probability.
• Functionality for calculus, financial math, trigonometry, logarithms, hyperbolic, and engineering.
• Various modes of analysis include advanced statistics and regression analysis, data analysis, and graphical analysis.
• Twelve preloaded applications come equipped with the calculator.
• Backward compatibility for all TI-83 applications.
• Automatic power off.
• Eight-line, sixteen-character display.
• Powered by four AAA batteries (not included) and one silver oxide battery backup (included).
• Approved for use on PSAT, SAT, and ACT exams and AP and IB tests.
• Protective sliding case included.
• Includes CD-ROM with digital manual.
• One-year limited warranty.

Pros and Cons of the Texas Instruments TI 84 Plus Graphing Calculator

PROS

• Accepted as the favorite by many educational communities.
• Many online tutorials and videos available.
• Easier to figure out than competing calculators in the Casio line.
• Split screen feature displays graphs and evaluates tables simultaneously.
• MathPrint technology allows for input of fractions and equations in the same format in which they would be written in a textbook.
• Preloaded applications make the most out of the calculator’s functionality.
• Buy this calculator just once and use it from high school through college.
• Clearly labeled buttons that maintain a good layout.
• Nice amount of memory that results in a speedy processor.
• Maintains backward capability with the TI-83.

CONS

• Pricey (but worth the cost).
• Lacks a backlit screen.
• Requires disposable batteries, rather than a standard lithium calculator battery that ensures longevity.

Common Issues with the Texas Instruments TI 84 Plus Graphing Calculator

• Overpriced.
• Sometimes difficult to see screen in certain lighting.
• Aging processor results in slower system.

Note that these few complaints lodged by various users were listed in tandem with comments of praise. This simply means that it’s difficult to find any earth-shattering issues with the TI 84 Plus. While certain lighting does make it hard to see the screen, that is simply due to the fact that the calculator screen lacks backlighting, which is the case with a majority of calculators. Besides that, user reviews generally reflected the utmost satisfaction with the unit itself, as well as a hint of surprise in the number of functions it provides.

The Verdict

While the Texas Instruments TI 84 Plus Graphing Calculator isn’t one of the newest models out there, it is certainly one of the most tried-and-true graphing calculators. Nearly all teachers recommend this calculator because of the incredible quality and power that it brings along with it. This particular calculator is the one that is sure to meet a student’s every mathematical need. So, if you want to start excelling when facing even the most complex equations, check out the TI 84 Plus.
After you get your hands on one of these, leave us a comment below and let us know how much you love it.