TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator, Golden Ratio (Metallic)
#12
Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator, Golden Ratio (Metallic)

Rating

Model: 84PLCE/TBL/1L1/AM
$136.49(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-29
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Product Overview

The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator is designed for middle school through college math and science. It features a high-resolution, full-color backlit display, a rechargeable battery, and preloaded apps and images. Approved for use on PSAT, SAT, ACT, and AP exams. The MathPrint feature allows for input and viewing of math symbols and fractions in textbook format. Available in a variety of colors, making it a fun and functional tool for students.

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Product Specifications

Display Size
3.2inches
Display Resolution
-pixels
Number of Functions
-functions
Graphing Functions
-types
Memory Size
3.0MB
Connectivity
-types
Power Source
Battery Poweredtype
Unit Weight
-grams
Programming Languages Supported
-languages
CAS (Computer Algebra System)
×boolean

Size & Weight

Weight
12 ounces
Hight
7.5 inches
Width
3.42 inches
Depth
0.62 inches

Features

Color Display Function

The color display function enhances the clarity of graphs and data, making it easier to distinguish between multiple plots and datasets. This is particularly useful for visual learners and for analyzing complex information.

High-Resolution Screen Function

The high-resolution screen provides a clear and detailed display of graphs and equations, reducing ambiguity and improving the overall user experience. This is especially helpful when working with intricate mathematical models or large datasets.

Rechargeable Battery Function

The rechargeable battery eliminates the need for disposable batteries, saving money and reducing waste. This is a convenient feature for students who use their calculators frequently and for extended periods of time.

3D Graphing Function

This calculator does not support 3D graphing. For visualizing three-dimensional mathematical relationships, alternative software or a different calculator model would be necessary. This limits its usefulness in advanced math and engineering courses.

Computer Connectivity Function

Computer connectivity via USB allows for easy transfer of data and programs between the calculator and a computer. This is useful for creating reports, sharing data with classmates, and updating the calculator's software.

CAS (Computer Algebra System) Function

This calculator does not have a Computer Algebra System (CAS). It cannot perform symbolic calculations, such as simplifying expressions or solving equations algebraically. This limits its usefulness in advanced mathematics courses where symbolic manipulation is required.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Score

#12
Ranked #12 out of 42 products in Category
4.3
Overall Rating

The TI-84 Plus CE is a solid mid-range graphing calculator. It offers a color screen and rechargeable battery, but lacks the advanced CAS features of higher-end models. Good for high school and some college courses.

Processing Speed and Memory
4.3
The TI-84 Plus CE offers adequate processing speed and memory for typical high school and introductory college coursework. It handles most calculations and graphing tasks smoothly, though it may struggle with very large datasets or complex simulations.
Screen Resolution and Display
4.5
The high-resolution color screen enhances the user experience, making graphs and data easier to read and interpret. The color display is particularly useful for distinguishing between multiple functions or datasets plotted on the same graph.
Functionality and Pre-loaded Apps
4.0
The calculator comes with a variety of pre-loaded apps and functions suitable for algebra, trigonometry, and basic calculus. While it lacks the advanced functionality of higher-end models, it covers the essential tools for most high school and early college courses.
Ease of Use and User Interface
4.7
The TI-84 Plus CE is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for students to learn and use. The buttons are well-labeled, and the menus are logically organized, allowing for efficient navigation and access to functions.
Connectivity and Data Transfer
3.5
Connectivity is limited; data transfer is possible via USB, but wireless options are absent. This can make sharing data or updating the calculator more cumbersome compared to models with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities.
Battery Life and Power Source
4.7
The rechargeable battery offers a convenient and cost-effective power solution. Battery life is generally sufficient for extended use in class or during homework sessions, though heavy users may need to charge it weekly.
Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
5.0
Texas Instruments is a well-established and reputable manufacturer of calculators. The TI-84 Plus CE is a durable and reliable device, and the company offers a warranty to protect against defects.
Cost Performance
4.0
The TI-84 Plus CE offers good value for its price, providing a solid set of features and reliable performance. While it's not the cheapest graphing calculator available, its color screen, rechargeable battery, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for many students.

Brand & Manufacturer Details

Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments is a global technology company that designs and manufactures semiconductors and various integrated circuits.

Key Highlights

  • Color display
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Approved for standardized tests
  • User-friendly interface

Considerations

  • Screen can scratch easily
  • Battery life may degrade over time
  • Limited advanced functionality

Recommended For

  • High school students
  • College students in introductory math courses
  • Teachers
  • Standardized test takers

Not Recommended For

  • Students in advanced STEM fields requiring CAS
  • Professionals needing symbolic manipulation
  • none in particular

Suitable For

  • High school math and science classes
  • Standardized testing
  • Basic graphing and data analysis
  • College algebra and pre-calculus

Not Suitable For

  • Advanced engineering courses
  • Symbolic algebra manipulation
  • Complex data modeling
  • none in particular

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q.Is this calculator approved for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT?
A.Yes, according to the product description, the TI-84 Plus CE is approved for use on the PSAT, SAT, and ACT college entrance exams, as well as AP Exams that allow or require a graphing calculator, and the IB exam.
Q.Does the color screen really make a difference, or is it just a cosmetic feature?
A.According to staff confirmation, the color screen is useful for viewing graphs, but it may not be necessary if you understand basic functions. Some staff find the color display clear and helpful, while others suggest the color isn't a necessary feature. The CE version is recommended because the color graphing is clear.
Q.How long does the battery last, and is it rechargeable?
A.The TI-84 Plus CE has a rechargeable battery. Staff confirmation mentions that the charge holds well, but it may need to be charged weekly if used frequently for spring or fall courses. Another staff confirmation stated they only charged it once in 3 months with use a few times a week.
Q.Is this calculator difficult to learn how to use?
A.Staff confirmation indicates that there's a bit of a learning curve beyond basic arithmetic and graphing. However, a straightforward manual is included, and online resources can help you learn how to use its various functions. It is considered more user-friendly than older models like the TI-83.
Q.Is the calculator bulky or easy to carry around?
A.According to staff confirmation, the calculator can feel bulky, even with daily use. However, it comes with a sliding plate for protection, so a separate case might not be necessary.
Q.Can this calculator perform advanced calculations like matrix and complex number calculations?
A.Yes, according to staff confirmation, this calculator can perform matrix calculations, complex number calculations, graph polar and parametric equations, and display answers in various formats.
Q.Is there any support available if I have trouble using the calculator?
A.Texas Instruments provides online PDF user guides and personal one-on-one math assistance through a telephone help line.
Q.Is the TI-84 Plus CE worth the extra cost compared to cheaper graphing calculators or free apps?
A.Staff confirmation suggests that if you are not a heavy user, a cheaper graphing calculator might suffice. However, the TI-84 Plus CE can do more than many free apps. It depends on your needs and how often you'll use the advanced features.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking

#1

Texas Instruments

Nspire CX CAS Graphing Calculator N3CAS/CLM/2L1

$214.46(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-29

The TI-Nspire CX CAS is a graphing calculator with a color screen, CAS, and 3D graphing capabilities.

Display Size3.5 inchesDisplay Resolution- pixels
Number of Functions- functionsGraphing Functions3D types
Memory Size- MBConnectivity- types
Power SourceLithium Metal batteries typeUnit Weight- grams
Programming Languages Supported- languagesCAS (Computer Algebra System) boolean
Color Display FunctionHigh-Resolution Screen FunctionRechargeable Battery Function3D Graphing FunctionComputer Connectivity FunctionCAS (Computer Algebra System) Function
4.6Overall Rating
4.5Processing Speed and Memory
4.7Screen Resolution and Display
4.8Functionality and Pre-loaded Apps
4.5Ease of Use and User Interface
4.6Connectivity and Data Transfer
4.7Battery Life and Power Source
5.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.0Cost Performance
#2

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TI-Nspire CX II Color Graphing Calculator

$144.11(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-29

The TI-Nspire CX II is a color graphing calculator with enhanced features for engaging students in STEM fields.

Display Size2.83 inchesDisplay Resolution- pixels
Number of Functions- functionsGraphing Functions- types
Memory Size- MBConnectivity- types
Power SourceBattery Powered typeUnit Weight- grams
Programming Languages SupportedPython, TI-Basic languagesCAS (Computer Algebra System)× boolean
Color Display FunctionHigh-Resolution Screen FunctionRechargeable Battery Function3D Graphing FunctionComputer Connectivity FunctionCAS (Computer Algebra System) Function
4.6Overall Rating
4.5Processing Speed and Memory
4.8Screen Resolution and Display
4.7Functionality and Pre-loaded Apps
4.3Ease of Use and User Interface
4.6Connectivity and Data Transfer
4.7Battery Life and Power Source
5.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.0Cost Performance
#3

Texas Instruments

TI-Nspire CX II CAS Color Graphing Calculator

$149.99(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-29

The TI-Nspire CX II CAS is a color graphing calculator with a rechargeable battery and student software bundle.

Display Size3.5 inchesDisplay Resolution320 x 240 pixels
Number of Functions- functionsGraphing FunctionsAnimated path plot, Dynamic coefficient values, Points by coordinates types
Memory Size- MBConnectivity- types
Power SourceRechargeable battery typeUnit Weight- grams
Programming Languages SupportedTI-Basic languagesCAS (Computer Algebra System) boolean
Color Display FunctionHigh-Resolution Screen FunctionRechargeable Battery Function3D Graphing FunctionComputer Connectivity FunctionCAS (Computer Algebra System) Function
4.5Overall Rating
4.5Processing Speed and Memory
4.7Screen Resolution and Display
4.6Functionality and Pre-loaded Apps
4.4Ease of Use and User Interface
4.0Connectivity and Data Transfer
4.7Battery Life and Power Source
5.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.2Cost Performance
#4

Texas Instruments

TI-84 Plus CE Silver Graphing Calculator TI84PLSCESILVER

$154.89(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-29

Enhanced screen readability with high-resolution backlit display. Lighter and thinner than earlier generations.

Display Size2.8 inchesDisplay Resolution- pixels
Number of Functions- functionsGraphing Functions- types
Memory Size3.0 MBConnectivity- types
Power SourceBattery Powered typeUnit Weight- grams
Programming Languages Supported- languagesCAS (Computer Algebra System)× boolean
Color Display FunctionHigh-Resolution Screen FunctionRechargeable Battery Function3D Graphing FunctionComputer Connectivity FunctionCAS (Computer Algebra System) Function
4.5Overall Rating
4.5Processing Speed and Memory
4.7Screen Resolution and Display
4.3Functionality and Pre-loaded Apps
4.6Ease of Use and User Interface
4.0Connectivity and Data Transfer
4.7Battery Life and Power Source
5.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.2Cost Performance
#5

Texas Instruments

TI-89 Titanium Graphing Calculator

Out of StockStatus as of 2025-09-29

The TI-89 Titanium is a graphing calculator with advanced functions, suitable for calculus, algebra, and statistics.

Display Size2.8 inchesDisplay Resolution100 x 160 pixels
Number of Functions- functionsGraphing FunctionsBasic, Parametric, Polar, Sequence, 3-D, Differential-equation types
Memory Size2.7 MBConnectivityUSB types
Power Source4 A batteries typeUnit Weight- grams
Programming Languages Supported- languagesCAS (Computer Algebra System) boolean
Color Display FunctionHigh-Resolution Screen FunctionRechargeable Battery Function3D Graphing FunctionComputer Connectivity FunctionCAS (Computer Algebra System) Function
4.5Overall Rating
4.7Processing Speed and Memory
4.5Screen Resolution and Display
4.8Functionality and Pre-loaded Apps
4.5Ease of Use and User Interface
4.6Connectivity and Data Transfer
3.7Battery Life and Power Source
5.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.0Cost Performance