Casio HR-8TM Plus Handheld Calculator Review

Searching for a calculator that offers portability in combination with printer functionality? If so, the Casio HR-8TM Plus can deliver just that and so much more. Throughout the following review, we are going to take a closer look at the specs, pros, and cons in regard to this calculator. So, if you’d like to know whether or not the Casio HR-8TM Plus could be the one for you, stick around and find out.

General Info about the Casio HR-8TM Plus

The Casio HR-8TM Plus is the perfect option for any on-the-go calculations. Whether you freelance as a CPA and need to balance some numbers or freelance in any other capacity and need to provide receipts to your customers, this handheld printing calculator has enough power to handle it all.

For instance, some users mention how handy this calculator is to have while working at craft fairs – within seconds, you can have something of a professional level to hand to your customer and certainly raise yourself in the ranks compared to other freelancers. Quickly work out the accurate amount for any tax, cost, and more on this portable unit.

Casio HR-8TM Plus Product Specifications

12-digit, 1-line easy-to-ready LCD display with eye-angled viewing.
Handheld-sized body with non-stick plastic keys.
Prints up to 1.6 lines per second on 2 1/4-inch paper roll.
Cost/sell/margin calculation.
Tax and currency exchange function.
3-key memory functionality.
Automatic shutdown.
Powered by AC adapter (included) or 4 AA batteries (not included).
Measures 7.5 (W) by 3.8 (L) by 1.8 (D) inches.

PROS and CONS of Casio HR-8TM Plus

PROS

Dual power via AC adapter and batteries.
Good bang for the buck.
Nice feature set with good functionality.
Accurate calculations.
Can set calculator to print two zeros after decimal point.
Very quiet when printing.
Easy to replace the paper roll.
Nice handheld size.
Printouts are dark and legible.
Stable build that stays put while typing on a desk.
Convenient double zero button.
Large keys despite small overall build.

CONS

Includes only a small paper roll and small amount of ink (replacements needed quickly).
LCD display lacks backlighting.
Prints only in black ink.
Very small and not very helpful user guide included.
Does not include date or time on printouts.
Counterintuitive placement of the zero key.
Paper roll sometimes jams.

Common Issues in Casio HR-8TM Plus User Reviews

Takes some time to get used to the keyboard layout.
Includes nearly useless instructions.

The keyboard layout is the issue that most plagues users of the Casio HR-8TM Plus — the zero key sits at the bottom left, while the double zero key is in the spot where the zero key is typically placed on most units. Unfortunately this can lead to typos while first getting used to the calculator.

Besides that, the instructions that are provided with this calculator configuration are mostly useless. If you aren’t at all familiar with the unit, you will likely need to seek out further instructions and tutorials through online research. That being said, users generally prefer this calculator compared to other similar models — some highlights of the unit include the clarity of the printouts, accurate calculations, and the convenient handheld size.

Verdict

If you often find yourself needing to perform on-the-go calculations, the handheld unit of the Casio HR-8TM Plus is definitely one that should not be overlooked. Although it’s a small machine overall, it definitely packs a punch and provides a nice feature set with good functionality. It’s a solid choice for anyone working with numbers on a regular basis. If you decide to go for the Casio HR-8TM Plus, leave us a comment below and let us know how it goes.