Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator vs Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator
The fx-CG50 is the graphing calculator to buy if you need to plot functions, run Python, or sit the SAT, PSAT, ACT or AP exams. The fx-991CW is a lighter, cheaper scientific calculator for everyday classwork and homework. The fx-CG50 has traded between $76.46 and $83.88 since November 1, 2026; no price was given for the fx-991CW.
Ask our shopping agent
Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator
4.8Choose the Casio fx-CG50 if you need graphs, 3D plotting, Python programming, or a calculator approved for the SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP exams.
- Plots 2D and 3D graphs in color
- Runs Python programs
- USB connection to a PC
- Approved for SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP with Exam Mode
- Natural Textbook Display and icon menu
- No computer algebra system (CAS)
- Bigger and heavier than a scientific model
- Costs more than the fx-991CW
What separates them
| Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator | Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Graphing calculator with color display | Scientific calculator, no graphing |
| Display | High-resolution color LCD, more than 65,000 colors | 4-gradation LCD with gray tone, 12 digits |
| Programming | Built-in Python | None |
| 3D graphing | Up to three 3D functions at once (sphere, cylinder, plane, line) | Not supported |
| Computer link | USB mass storage | ClassPad.net link only |
| Power | Rechargeable battery | Solar cell plus one LR44 button battery, about 2 years at 1 hour a day |
| Size and weight | Larger, heavier body | 95 g, 10.7 × 77 × 162 mm |
Price history
- Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator: lowest $76.46 on Nov 2 at eBay.
- Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator: lowest $25.99 on Nov 1.
Prices at every store
Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Casio AmericaCheck price at Casio America
- EAI EducationCheck price at EAI Education
Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator
- TeciSoftCheck price at TeciSoft
- WalmartCheck price at Walmart
Specs compared
| Spec | Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator | Casio ClassWiz CW fx-991CW Scientific Calculator |
|---|---|---|
| With USB Port | Yes | — |
| Display colours | more than 65,000 colours | — |
| PC connectivity | USB-Mass storage | — |
| Built-in programming | Python | — |
| 3D graphing | 3D Graph | — |
| Colour display | high-resolution colour display | — |
| CAS support | does not feature a C.A.S. | — |
| Test approval | SAT®, PSAT®, ACT®, and AP® tests | — |
| Exam mode | Exam Mode™ | — |
| 3D graph types | sphere, cylinder, plane, and line |
What reviewers say
Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator
Owners rate it highly, at 4.8 out of 5 from 238 ratings. Students and teachers praise the bright color screen and the straightforward menu, and many say it is easier to learn than TI models. Complaints center on the lack of a CAS and on battery life.
- Clear, colorful display that makes graphs and tables easy to read
- Icon menu and Natural Textbook Display are quick to learn
- Good value against comparable TI graphing calculators
- Python and 3D graphing are useful extras for the price
- No CAS, which limits it for some college math courses
- Batteries run down faster than on monochrome models
- Smaller add-on library and classroom support than TI has
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.
Questions and answers
- Which is better for the SAT or ACT?
- The fx-CG50. It is approved for the SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP tests and has Exam Mode. The fx-991CW is not listed for those exams.
- Do I need the fx-CG50 for algebra and geometry?
- Only if your class requires graphing. For arithmetic, fractions and basic statistics, the fx-991CW covers the work at a lower price and weight.
- Which lasts longer on power?
- The fx-991CW runs on a solar cell plus one LR44 battery rated for about 2 years at one hour a day. The fx-CG50 relies on its rechargeable battery and needs charging.
- Is the fx-CG50 worth the extra money?
- Yes if you need graphs, 3D plots, Python or exam approval. If you only need a scientific calculator, the fx-991CW does that job for less.
- Can the fx-991CW graph functions?
- No. It has a 12-digit, 4-gradation display and 540 functions but no graphing mode. Choose the fx-CG50 for plotting.
- Which is easier to carry to class?
- The fx-991CW. It weighs 95 g and is 10.7 mm thick. The fx-CG50 is a larger graphing body.
