Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator vs TI-84 Plus CE
Buy the Casio fx-CG50 if you want a color screen, 3D graphing and Python for less money. Buy the TI-84 Plus CE if your class, teacher or test prep is built around the TI-84 interface and you want the familiar keystroke path. The Casio has been selling around $76 to $84 on its lowest daily price since November 1, 2026, while the TI-84 Plus CE carries a premium for its ecosystem. Neither has a computer algebra system, so both are allowed on the SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP exams.
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Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator
4.8Choose the Casio fx-CG50 if you want the most features per dollar, including a 65,000-color display, 3D graphing and built-in Python.
Pros
- Color screen with over 65,000 colors makes graphs easier to read
- 3D graphing for planes, spheres, cylinders and lines
- Built-in Python for coding work
- Lower street price than the TI-84 Plus CE
- Approved for SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP
Cons
- No computer algebra system
- Less common in US classrooms, so teacher instructions may not match
What separates them
| Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator | TI-84 Plus CE | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | High-resolution color, more than 65,000 colors | 320 x 240 pixels, 16-bit color, 140 DPI |
| 3D graphing | Yes, up to three 3D functions at once (sphere, cylinder, plane, line) | No 3D graphing |
| Programming | Built-in Python | TI-BASIC only |
| Computer algebra system | None | None |
| Memory | USB mass storage for file transfer | 3.5 MB flash, 21 KB RAM |
| Battery | 4 AAA batteries (typical for the Prizm line) | Rechargeable battery included |
| Exam approval | SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP | SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP |
| Classroom familiarity |
Price history
$110.44$76.46
- Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator: lowest $76.46 on Nov 2 at eBay.
- TI-84 Plus CE: lowest $110.44 on Nov 1 at Amazon.
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
TI-84 Plus CE
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Best BuyCheck price at Best Buy
- CalculatorsCheck price at Calculators
Specs compared
| Spec | Casio fx-CG50 Color Graphing Calculator | TI-84 Plus CE |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | — |
Questions and answers
- Which is better for AP Calculus?
- Both are allowed on the AP exam and both handle calculus graphs and tables. The Casio adds 3D graphing and Python; the TI-84 Plus CE matches what most AP teachers demonstrate in class.
- Does either have a CAS?
- No. Neither the Casio fx-CG50 nor the TI-84 Plus CE has a computer algebra system, which is why both are allowed on the SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP tests.
- Which lasts longer?
- The TI-84 Plus CE ships with a rechargeable battery, so you recharge instead of buying batteries. The Casio runs on AAA batteries, which you replace but can carry spares for.
- Is the TI-84 Plus CE worth the extra money?
- Only if your class or teacher is built around TI-84 menus. If not, the Casio gives you a better screen, 3D graphing and Python for less.
- Can I use either on the SAT or ACT?
- Yes. Both are on the approved list for the SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP exams, and both have an exam mode.
- Which is easier to learn?
- The TI-84 Plus CE is easier if you have seen it before, because most US math classes use it. The Casio's icon menu is quick to pick up but may not match your teacher's keystrokes.
