Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator vs TI-84 Plus CE
Buy the Casio ClassWiz fx-991CW for high school and early college math, science and exam work where a non-graphing scientific is allowed. Buy the TI-84 Plus CE if your course requires a graphing calculator, especially for SAT/ACT, AP Calculus or statistics. The Casio is far cheaper; the TI costs several times more and needs recharging. Check current prices at each store before buying.
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Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator
Choose the Casio ClassWiz fx-991CW if you need a compact, solar-assisted scientific calculator for algebra, trig, stats and exams that ban graphing models.
- 540 functions cover algebra, trig, statistics and constants
- Solar cell plus battery means little charging or battery swapping
- New OK and Back keys and grouped layout are easy to learn
- MathBox learning mode and ClassPad.net link help in class
- Light at 95 g and slim enough for a pocket
- No graphing, so it fails courses that require a graph screen
- Small monochrome 4-gradation display
What separates them
| Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator | TI-84 Plus CE | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Non-graphing scientific with 540 functions | Color graphing calculator with preloaded apps |
| Display | 4-gradation LCD, 12 digits, no color | 2.8-inch 320x240 color screen, 140 DPI |
| Power | Solar cell plus LR44 button battery, about 2 years at 1 hour/day | Rechargeable TI battery, charged over USB |
| Memory | 9 variable storage slots | 3.5 MB flash, 21 KB RAM, 10 matrices up to 20x20 |
| Connectivity | Links to ClassPad.net for ICT classes | USB port for computer and unit-to-unit transfer |
| Size and weight | 95 g, 10.7 x 77 x 162 mm, slim | Slim body, larger screen, heavier than the Casio |
| Exam acceptance | Allowed on most tests that bar graphing calculators |
Price history
- Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator: lowest $25.99 on Nov 1.
- TI-84 Plus CE: lowest $110.44 on Nov 1 at Amazon.
Prices at every store
Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator
- TeciSoftCheck price at TeciSoft
- WalmartCheck price at Walmart
TI-84 Plus CE
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Best BuyCheck price at Best Buy
- CalculatorsCheck price at Calculators
Specs compared
| Spec | Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator | TI-84 Plus CE |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Gray | — |
| Power requirements | Built-in solar cell; button battery LR44 × 1 | — |
| Battery life | 2 years (based on one hour of operation per day) | — |
| Operating temperature | 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F) | — |
| Dimensions | 10.7 (H) × 77 (W) × 162 (D) mm | — |
| Dimensions (imperial) | 7/16” (H) × 3 1/16” (W) × 6 3/8” (D) | — |
| Weight | 95 g (3.4 oz) including the battery | — |
| Display type | quadruple graded LCD display | — |
| Scientific constants | 47 | — |
| Measurement conversions |
What reviewers say
Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator
Owners and reviewers generally rate the fx-991CW as a capable, well-built scientific calculator, but many long-time ClassWiz users say the new menu system takes getting used to compared with the fx-991EX. Teachers like the clearer display for showing entry order.
- Clear 4-gradation screen that highlights the active entry
- Fast, accurate calculation across functions
- Good key feel and sturdy build
- Solar power with battery backup
- Menu-driven layout is slower than the fx-991EX's direct keys
- Some functions take more button presses than before
- Display is small and not backlit
TI-84 Plus CE
Owners rate it 4.3 out of 5 across 11 ratings. Most praise the color screen and rechargeable battery; complaints center on price and the learning curve for the many menus.
Questions and answers
- Which is better for high school algebra and trig?
- The Casio fx-991CW handles algebra, trig and stats well and costs much less. Pick the TI-84 Plus CE only if your teacher requires graphing.
- Which lasts longer?
- The Casio runs about 2 years on an LR44 at one hour a day, with solar backup. The TI-84 Plus CE uses a rechargeable battery you top up over USB, so lifespan depends on charging habits.
- Is the TI-84 Plus CE worth the extra money?
- Yes if your course or exam requires graphing, color graphs, apps or program storage. No if you only need scientific functions.
- Can I use the Casio on the SAT or ACT?
- Yes. Both tests allow scientific calculators like the fx-991CW, and the TI-84 Plus CE is also permitted.
- Which is easier to carry to class?
- The Casio at 95 g and 10.7 mm thick slips into a pocket. The TI-84 Plus CE is slim but larger and heavier.
- Do either connect to a computer?
- The TI-84 Plus CE has a USB port for transfer and charging. The Casio links to ClassPad.net for ICT classwork but has no USB port.
More comparisons
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