Select your primary usage to find the best TI-84 model.
Your Needs
High School Math (Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calc)
Calculus & AP Calculus
Statistics & AP Statistics
Science (Chemistry, Physics, Biology)
College Math (Introductory Courses)
Basic Computation & Everyday Use
Lower (Under $100)
Medium ($100 – $130)
Higher ($130+)
Recommended Model
Select your criteria above.
Understanding TI-84 Calculator Models
The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus series is a staple in high school and early college mathematics and science courses. While they share a common lineage and core functionality, different versions offer subtle but important distinctions that can affect their suitability for various academic needs and budgets.
Key TI-84 Models and Their Features:
TI-84 Plus: The foundational model. Reliable for standard algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus.
TI-84 Plus Silver Edition: Offered increased memory and a faster processor than the original TI-84 Plus, allowing for more applications and faster calculations. Often pre-loaded with more apps.
TI-84 Plus CE: This is the most modern and popular version. Key features include a high-resolution, full-color display, a rechargeable battery, and a slimmer design. It boasts significantly more memory and processing power than previous models and comes with many built-in applications. It's generally the recommended choice for most students today due to its enhanced features and longevity.
TI-84 Plus T: Primarily a "test-approved" version for certain standardized tests, often with slightly different pre-loaded applications or features disabled to comply with testing regulations. Functionally similar to the standard TI-84 Plus.
Factors to Consider:
Course Requirements: Always check with your instructor or syllabus. Some courses or teachers may specify a particular model or series.
Display: The TI-84 Plus CE's color, high-resolution screen is a significant upgrade, making graphs clearer and data easier to read. Older models have monochrome displays.
Memory & Processing Power: More memory and a faster processor are beneficial for complex graphs, running multiple applications, or programming. The CE models excel here.
Battery: The CE's rechargeable battery is a convenience and cost-saver over replacing batteries in older models.
Budget: The original TI-84 Plus models can sometimes be found at lower price points, especially used. The CE model is typically more expensive but offers the most current technology.
Connectivity: Most TI-84 models can connect to computers or other calculators for data transfer or software updates.
Common Use Cases:
High School Math: Solving equations, graphing functions (linear, quadratic, exponential), performing matrix operations, and exploring geometric concepts.
Calculus: Graphing derivatives and integrals, numerical differentiation and integration, analyzing limits.
Statistics: Performing statistical tests (t-tests, chi-square), calculating regressions, generating probability distributions, and analyzing data sets.
Science: Unit conversions, solving physics equations, performing calculations in chemistry, and displaying data from experiments.
Programming: Creating simple programs for repetitive calculations, solving custom equations, or even developing games (though this is less common in coursework).
The TI-84 Plus CE is the most versatile and future-proof option for the majority of students due to its modern features, color display, and robust performance. However, if budget is a primary constraint and course requirements are basic, an older TI-84 Plus model might suffice.
Disclaimer: This advisor provides general recommendations. Always verify specific calculator requirements with your educational institution or instructor.
function recommendModel() {
var usageArea = document.getElementById("usageArea").value;
var graphingComplexity = document.getElementById("graphingComplexity").value;
var programmingNeed = document.getElementById("programmingNeed").value;
var budget = document.getElementById("budget").value;
var recommendation = "";
var baseModel = "TI-84 Plus"; // Default or older models
var advancedModel = "TI-84 Plus CE"; // Modern, feature-rich model
// — Recommendation Logic —
// Prioritize CE for advanced features, color display, and longevity
if (usageArea === "calculus" || usageArea === "statistics" ||
graphingComplexity === "advanced" || programmingNeed === "advancedApps" ||
usageArea === "science" && graphingComplexity !== "basic" ||
usageArea === "collegeMath") {
recommendation = advancedModel;
}
// If budget is high, lean towards CE
else if (budget === "high") {
recommendation = advancedModel;
}
// If moderate needs and budget, CE is still a strong contender
else if ((usageArea === "highSchoolMath" || usageArea === "science") &&
(graphingComplexity === "intermediate" || programmingNeed === "basicScripts") &&
budget !== "low") {
recommendation = advancedModel;
}
// If budget is medium and needs are moderate to high, CE is still likely best
else if (budget === "medium" && (usageArea !== "basicComputation" || graphingComplexity !== "basic")) {
recommendation = advancedModel;
}
// If budget is low and needs are basic, older models might be acceptable
else if (budget === "low" && usageArea === "basicComputation" && graphingComplexity === "basic" && programmingNeed === "none") {
recommendation = baseModel + " (or similar older model)";
}
// If budget is low but needs are slightly more, CE might be stretched, but still a possibility if found on sale
else if (budget === "low" && (usageArea !== "basicComputation" || graphingComplexity !== "basic")) {
recommendation = advancedModel + " (consider on sale/used)";
}
// Default to CE for general recommendation if no other strong condition met
else {
recommendation = advancedModel;
}
// — Refine based on specific combinations —
// If budget strongly suggests older model, override if not critically needed
if (budget === "low" && recommendation === advancedModel &&
(usageArea === "basicComputation" || (usageArea === "highSchoolMath" && graphingComplexity === "basic"))) {
recommendation = baseModel + " (or similar older model)";
}
// If programming is advanced, CE is almost always the choice
if (programmingNeed === "advancedApps" && recommendation !== advancedModel) {
recommendation = advancedModel;
}
// If graphing is advanced, CE is strongly recommended
if (graphingComplexity === "advanced" && recommendation !== advancedModel) {
recommendation = advancedModel;
}
// Final Check: If the recommendation is still the base model and needs are anything beyond basic, push to CE
if (recommendation === baseModel && (usageArea !== "basicComputation" || graphingComplexity !== "basic" || programmingNeed !== "none")) {
recommendation = advancedModel;
}
// Ensure budget constraint is respected if it pushes towards a cheaper option
if (budget === "low" && recommendation.includes(advancedModel) &&
(usageArea === "basicComputation" && graphingComplexity === "basic" && programmingNeed === "none")) {
recommendation = baseModel + " (or similar older model)";
}
// Output the result
var resultElement = document.getElementById("comparisonResult");
if (recommendation) {
resultElement.innerHTML = "Based on your selections, the " + recommendation + " is likely the best fit.";
} else {
resultElement.innerHTML = "Could not determine a specific recommendation. Please review your selections.";
}
}