This roundup highlights some of the best calculators that meet AP exam requirements, ensuring students are well-equipped for success. Whether you’re a high school student or preparing for college-level courses, choosing a calculator that aligns with your study needs is crucial. In this guide, we will explore various approved calculators, their features, and what makes them stand out for AP exam preparation.
Top & Best Calculators Approved for Ap Exams — Comparison Table
| Image | Product | Key Features | Price | CTA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
HP 10bII+ Financial Calculator |
|
36.99 | Check price on Amazon |
 |
Casio fx-9750GIII Graphing Calculator |
|
49.99 | Check price on Amazon |
 |
Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus |
|
110 | Check price on Amazon |
 |
Casio fx-115ES Plus 2nd |
|
16.99 | Check price on Amazon |
 |
Casio fx-300ES Plus 2nd |
|
9.29 | Check price on Amazon |
 |
Texas Instruments TI-30XIIS Scientific |
|
14.79 | Check price on Amazon |
Top 6 Best Calculators Approved for Ap Exams
1. HP 10bII+ Financial Calculator
The HP 10bII+ is designed for students and professionals in finance and statistics. With over 100 functions, it simplifies complex calculations without needing to memorize formulas. Its user-friendly interface and dedicated keys make it ideal for quick access during exams. This calculator is approved for major standardized tests, making it a reliable choice for AP exam preparation. Over 100 functions for financial calculations Algorithmic input with dedicated keys Approved for SAT, PSAT, and AP tests
Key Features
- Over 100 functions for financial calculations
- Algorithmic input with dedicated keys
- Approved for SAT, PSAT, and AP tests
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Compact and portable
- Comprehensive financial functions
Cons
- Limited graphing capabilities
- No backlit display
Best for: Students in finance and statistics courses.
Why buy: The HP 10bII+ combines essential functions with ease of use. It’s a trusted tool for excelling in AP exams.
2. Casio fx-9750GIII Graphing Calculator
The Casio fx-9750GIII offers a natural textbook display, making it easy to visualize complex math problems. With Python programming capabilities, it’s perfect for STEM students. This calculator is exam-approved and supports a wide range of math functions, ensuring it’s versatile for various courses. Its user-friendly design makes it ideal for both high school and college-level studies. Natural Textbook Display for easy interpretation Supports Python programming Approved for AP, SAT, and ACT exams
Key Features
- Natural Textbook Display for easy interpretation
- Supports Python programming
- Approved for AP, SAT, and ACT exams
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Advanced programming features
- Wide range of functions
Cons
- May be overwhelming for beginners
- Limited battery life
Best for: STEM students needing advanced functionality.
Why buy: The Casio fx-9750GIII is perfect for students who require a versatile calculator. Its programming capabilities enhance learning and problem-solving.
3. Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus
The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE features a vibrant color display and rechargeable battery. With preloaded apps and interactive zoom features, it’s ideal for visual learners. This calculator is widely used in AP courses and is known for its reliability and functionality. Its split-screen option allows for efficient multitasking during exams. High-resolution color display Rechargeable battery Preloaded apps for enhanced learning
Key Features
- High-resolution color display
- Rechargeable battery
- Preloaded apps for enhanced learning
Pros
- Excellent display quality
- Versatile for various math subjects
- Rechargeable battery saves costs
Cons
- Higher price point
- Can be bulky to carry
Best for: Students in AP Calculus and higher-level math courses.
Why buy: The TI-84 Plus CE is a staple in AP classrooms. Its advanced features and user-friendly interface make it a top choice for serious students.
4. Casio fx-115ES Plus 2nd
The Casio fx-115ES Plus 2nd Edition is a powerful scientific calculator with over 280 functions. Its natural textbook display simplifies complex calculations, making it ideal for math and science students. This model is perfect for AP exams, offering extensive capabilities in a compact design. Its solar power feature ensures reliability during tests. Natural Textbook Display for easy reading 280+ functions for advanced calculations Solar power with battery backup
Key Features
- Natural Textbook Display for easy reading
- 280+ functions for advanced calculations
- Solar power with battery backup
Pros
- Comprehensive function set
- User-friendly design
- Solar power ensures reliability
Cons
- Limited graphing capabilities
- Smaller display compared to graphing calculators
Best for: Students in math and science courses.
Why buy: The Casio fx-115ES Plus is a reliable tool for AP exams. Its extensive functions and user-friendly design make it a great choice.
5. Casio fx-300ES Plus 2nd
The Casio fx-300ES Plus 2nd Edition is a standard scientific calculator that features a natural textbook display. With 262 built-in functions, it’s perfect for middle and high school students. This model is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for exams. Its solar power feature ensures that it operates efficiently without frequent battery changes. 262 built-in functions for comprehensive support Natural Textbook Display for easy interpretation Solar power with battery backup
Key Features
- 262 built-in functions for comprehensive support
- Natural Textbook Display for easy interpretation
- Solar power with battery backup
Pros
- Affordable price
- Lightweight and portable
- Ideal for a range of math courses
Cons
- Limited advanced features
- No graphing capabilities
Best for: Middle and high school students.
Why buy: The Casio fx-300ES Plus is budget-friendly and user-friendly. It’s an excellent choice for students in foundational math courses.
6. Texas Instruments TI-30XIIS Scientific
The Texas Instruments TI-30XIIS is a robust scientific calculator featuring a two-line display. It handles a variety of statistical calculations and is suitable for both high school and college courses. This model is solar and battery powered, ensuring reliability during exams. Its compact design makes it easy to carry around. Two-line display for simultaneous entry and results Handles statistical calculations Solar and battery powered
Key Features
- Two-line display for simultaneous entry and results
- Handles statistical calculations
- Solar and battery powered
Pros
- Affordable and reliable
- User-friendly interface
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Limited advanced functions
- Not suitable for graphing
Best for: Students in introductory math and science courses.
Why buy: The TI-30XIIS is a dependable calculator for students. Its ease of use and affordability make it a solid choice for AP exam preparation.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Calculators Approved for Ap Exams
When selecting a calculator for AP exams, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of the exam you will be taking. Different subjects may require different functionalities, such as graphing capabilities for calculus or statistical functions for AP Statistics. Understanding these needs will help narrow down your options. For instance, if you’re taking AP Calculus, a graphing calculator with a high-resolution display and advanced graphing features would be beneficial. On the other hand, if your focus is on AP Statistics, you might want a scientific calculator that can handle statistical calculations efficiently. Make sure to check the College Board’s list of approved calculators to ensure your choice is compliant with exam regulations.
Additionally, consider the user-friendliness of the calculator. A calculator with a natural textbook display can make it easier to interpret complex equations and results, which is especially helpful during high-pressure exam situations. Look for models that offer intuitive interfaces and quick access to frequently used functions. Some calculators also come with programmable features, allowing you to save time by storing formulas and functions you use often. This can be a game-changer when you need to solve problems quickly during an exam.
Lastly, think about portability and battery life. Many calculators are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry in a backpack. A model with a rechargeable battery or solar power can also ensure that you won’t run out of power during an important test. Consider the overall build quality and whether it comes with protective cases or accessories. Investing in a durable calculator that can withstand daily use and travel is always a wise choice. By taking these factors into account, you can select a calculator that not only meets your academic needs but also enhances your performance on AP exams.
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FAQs
What calculators are approved for AP exams?
Calculators such as graphing calculators and scientific calculators are generally approved, but it’s essential to check the College Board’s official list for specifics.
Can I use a graphing calculator for all AP exams?
No, not all AP exams allow graphing calculators. It’s crucial to verify the specific requirements for each subject.
What features should I look for in a calculator for AP Statistics?
Look for calculators that can perform statistical calculations, including regression analysis, probability distributions, and have a natural display.
Are there any calculators that can be programmed?
Yes, some models allow programming, which can be useful for storing frequently used functions and formulas.
How important is the display quality of a calculator?
Display quality is very important as it affects readability, especially under exam conditions. A high-resolution display can greatly enhance usability.
Conclusion
Choosing the right calculator for AP exams is a critical decision that can impact your performance. With the variety of options available in 2025, students can find calculators that suit their specific needs, whether for mathematics, science, or statistics. Each calculator highlighted in this roundup offers unique features that cater to different subjects and exam requirements. By considering factors such as functionality, user-friendliness, and portability, students can select a calculator that will serve them well during their AP exams. Ultimately, the right tool can provide the confidence and efficiency needed to excel in these challenging assessments.
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