Best Calculator for CFA Exam in 2025

Preparing for the CFA exam can be a daunting task, and having the right calculator can make a significant difference in your study and test-taking experience. The CFA exam requires candidates to perform complex financial calculations efficiently, and a reliable calculator is essential for success. In 2025, several calculators stand out for their functionality, ease of use, and exam approval.This guide will explore the best calculators specifically designed for CFA candidates, focusing on their features, pros and cons, and what makes them suitable for the exam. Whether you need a basic financial calculator or a more advanced graphing model, our roundup will help you make an informed choice. With the right calculator, you can streamline your preparation and boost your confidence on exam day.

Best Calculator for Cfa Exam

Image Product Key Features Price CTA
Calculated Industries 3405 Real Calculated Industries 3405 Real
  • Dedicated function keys for quick financial answers
  • Instantly solves various real estate finance problems
  • User-friendly with clearly labeled keys
21.99 Check price on Amazon
Texas Instruments BA II Texas Instruments BA II
  • Solves time-value-of-money calculations
  • Performs cash-flow analysis for uneven cash flows
  • Guided display for financial calculations
55.61 Check price on Amazon
HP 12CP Financial Calculator HP 12CP Financial Calculator
  • Over 120 built-in functions
  • Efficient RPN data entry
  • Portable design for easy transport
45.05 Check price on Amazon
Casio fx-9750GIII Graphing Calculator Casio fx-9750GIII Graphing Calculator
  • Natural Textbook Display for easy reading
  • Supports various math and science applications
  • Python programming capabilities
52.45 Check price on Amazon

Top 4 Best Calculator for Cfa Exam

1. Calculated Industries 3405 Real

Calculated Industries 3405 Real

The Calculated Industries 3405 Real Estate Master IIIx is designed for quick financial calculations in real estate. With dedicated function keys, it simplifies complex calculations like payments and amortizations. This calculator is user-friendly and tailored for real estate professionals, making it an excellent choice for those in the field. It helps you provide clients with accurate financial solutions effortlessly. Dedicated function keys for quick financial answers Instantly solves various real estate finance problems User-friendly with clearly labeled keys

Key Features

  • Dedicated function keys for quick financial answers
  • Instantly solves various real estate finance problems
  • User-friendly with clearly labeled keys
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Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Quick calculations
  • Real estate focused

Cons

  • Limited to real estate calculations
  • Not suitable for general finance

Best for: Real estate professionals needing quick calculations.

Why buy: This calculator is tailored for real estate finance, making it a must-have for professionals. Its dedicated keys streamline the process, enhancing efficiency.

2. Texas Instruments BA II

Texas Instruments BA II

The Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional is a comprehensive financial calculator that excels in time-value-of-money calculations. It supports cash-flow analysis and various financial functions, making it versatile for CFA exam preparation. With an automatic power-down feature, it ensures long battery life, making it a reliable choice for students. Solves time-value-of-money calculations Performs cash-flow analysis for uneven cash flows Guided display for financial calculations

Key Features

  • Solves time-value-of-money calculations
  • Performs cash-flow analysis for uneven cash flows
  • Guided display for financial calculations

Pros

  • Wide range of financial functions
  • User-friendly display
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • May have a learning curve
  • Not graphing capable

Best for: CFA candidates needing a versatile financial calculator.

Why buy: This calculator covers all essential functions for CFA preparation. Its user-friendly design helps you perform calculations accurately and efficiently.

3. HP 12CP Financial Calculator

HP 12CP Financial Calculator

The HP 12CP Financial Calculator is robust and versatile, perfect for business and finance calculations. It features over 120 built-in functions and efficient RPN data entry. Its portable design and long battery life make it suitable for on-the-go use, ensuring you have the tools needed for your CFA studies. Over 120 built-in functions Efficient RPN data entry Portable design for easy transport

Key Features

  • Over 120 built-in functions
  • Efficient RPN data entry
  • Portable design for easy transport

Pros

  • Versatile for various calculations
  • Long battery life
  • Compact size

Cons

  • RPN may not suit everyone
  • Limited graphical capabilities

Best for: Students and professionals needing a versatile financial tool.

Why buy: This calculator offers a wide range of functions, making it ideal for CFA exam preparation. Its portability ensures you can study anywhere.

4. Casio fx-9750GIII Graphing Calculator

Casio fx-9750GIII Graphing Calculator

The Casio fx-9750GIII Graphing Calculator features a user-friendly display that shows expressions as they appear in textbooks. It’s ideal for a range of math and science applications, including CFA exam requirements. With Python integration, it allows for advanced programming, making it a versatile choice for students. Natural Textbook Display for easy reading Supports various math and science applications Python programming capabilities

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Key Features

  • Natural Textbook Display for easy reading
  • Supports various math and science applications
  • Python programming capabilities

Pros

  • User-friendly interface
  • Versatile for multiple subjects
  • Exam-approved

Cons

  • More complex than basic calculators
  • May be overkill for simple calculations

Best for: Students needing a versatile graphing calculator.

Why buy: This calculator combines advanced functionality with ease of use, perfect for CFA exam preparation. Its exam approval makes it a reliable choice for students.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Calculator for Cfa Exam

When selecting a calculator for the CFA exam, consider the specific functionalities that will aid in your preparation. The CFA curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including financial analysis, portfolio management, and quantitative methods. Therefore, a calculator that can handle time-value-of-money calculations, cash flow analysis, and statistical functions is crucial. Look for models that offer dedicated buttons for common financial operations, which can save you valuable time during the exam. Additionally, ensure that the calculator is approved for use in the CFA exam, as not all models meet the exam’s strict requirements.

Another important factor is the ease of use. A calculator with a user-friendly interface and clear display can help reduce errors during calculations. Consider models with prompted displays that guide you through complex calculations. If you are new to financial calculators, it may be beneficial to choose one that offers a learning curve, allowing you to become proficient before the exam. Portability is also key; a compact and lightweight calculator will be easier to carry around during your study sessions and on exam day.

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Lastly, battery life is a consideration that should not be overlooked. A calculator with a long-lasting battery can prevent any interruptions during your studies or the exam. Some models even feature an automatic power-down function to conserve battery life. In summary, when choosing a calculator for the CFA exam, prioritize functionality, ease of use, portability, and battery life to ensure you have the best tools at your disposal for success.

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FAQs

What type of calculator is best for the CFA exam?

A financial calculator with time-value-of-money functions, cash flow analysis, and statistical capabilities is ideal.

Are all calculators allowed in the CFA exam?

No, only specific models that meet CFA Institute guidelines are permitted.

How can I choose the right calculator for my needs?

Consider functionalities, ease of use, portability, and battery life when selecting a calculator.

Is it necessary to practice with the calculator before the exam?

Yes, becoming familiar with your calculator can help reduce errors and improve efficiency during the exam.

What features should I look for in a CFA calculator?

Look for dedicated financial keys, a clear display, and the ability to perform complex calculations.

Conclusion

Selecting the right calculator for the CFA exam is a critical step in your preparation journey. The calculators highlighted in this guide offer a variety of features tailored to meet the demands of CFA candidates. From dedicated financial functions to user-friendly designs, these tools will help you navigate the complexities of the exam with confidence.

Remember to choose a model that aligns with your study habits and comfort level. With the right calculator in hand, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the challenges of the CFA exam and achieve your professional goals.

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