Texas Instruments TI-84 Evo vs Sharp EL531XT Scientific Calculator
Buy the TI-84 Evo if you need a graphing calculator for algebra, calculus, statistics or a standardized test that allows it. Buy the Sharp EL531XT if you need a cheap scientific calculator for everyday classwork and homework. The TI-84 Evo's lowest price was $69.99 on November 2, 2026, versus $14.99 for the Sharp EL531XT on November 1, 2026. That is about a $55 gap, and the Sharp does not graph.
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Texas Instruments TI-84 Evo
Choose the TI-84 Evo if you need to graph functions, work with matrices, or take a test that requires a graphing calculator.
Pros
- Graphs functions in 15 colors
- Stores up to 10 20x20 matrices
- Lists hold up to 999 elements
- USB connection to a computer
- Rechargeable battery included
Cons
- Costs about $55 more than the Sharp
- Only 21KB of available RAM
- Overkill for basic arithmetic and science class
What separates them
| Texas Instruments TI-84 Evo | Sharp EL531XT Scientific Calculator | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Graphing calculator with 15 graph colors | Scientific calculator with a 2-line display |
| Price | $69.99 lowest on November 2, 2026 | $14.99 lowest on November 1, 2026 |
| Power | Rechargeable TI battery, included | Solar powered |
| Memory | 3.5 MB flash ROM and 21KB RAM | Not specified beyond 10 digits and playback |
| Connectivity | USB port for computer connection | None listed |
| Number bases | Not a listed feature | Binary, octal, decimal and hexadecimal |
| Weight and size | Handheld with impact-resistant slide case | 0.1 lb, 7.20 x 3.54 x 0.87 in |
| Warranty |
Price history
$76.99$14.99
- Texas Instruments TI-84 Evo: lowest $69.99 on Nov 2 at PayMore Cary.
- Sharp EL531XT Scientific Calculator: lowest $14.99 on Nov 1 at eBay; $14.99 on Nov 2.
Prices at every store
Texas Instruments TI-84 Evo
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Sharp EL531XT Scientific Calculator
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Specs compared
| Spec | Texas Instruments TI-84 Evo | Sharp EL531XT Scientific Calculator |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Handheld | Handheld |
| Screen size | 320 x 240 pixels (2.8" diagonal) | — |
| Screen resolution | 140 DPI; 16-bit color | — |
| Flash memory | 3.5 MB FLASH ROM | — |
| RAM memory | 21KB of available RAM | — |
| Connectivity | USB port for computer connectivity | — |
| Battery type | TI Rechargeable Battery (included) | — |
| Case | Impact-resistant slide case | — |
| Clock | Internal Clock with date and time display | — |
| Graph colors | 15 colors for function graphing | — |
Questions and answers
- Which is better for a statistics class?
- The TI-84 Evo. It graphs distributions and stores lists of up to 999 elements, which the Sharp cannot do. The Sharp covers basic statistics functions only.
- Which lasts longer?
- The Sharp runs on solar power, so it has no battery to recharge. The TI-84 Evo uses a rechargeable TI battery that is included but will need charging.
- Is the TI-84 Evo worth the extra money?
- Only if you need graphing, matrices or USB transfer. For arithmetic, fractions and basic science, the Sharp at $14.99 does the job for far less.
- Can the Sharp EL531XT be used on standardized tests?
- It is a scientific calculator, so it fits most test rules that ban graphing calculators. Check your specific test's allowed list before test day.
- Does the Sharp handle fractions?
- Yes. It supports fraction calculations and number-base conversions between binary, octal, decimal and hexadecimal.
- Which is easier to carry?
- The Sharp. It weighs 0.1 lb and measures 7.20 x 3.54 x 0.87 in. The TI-84 Evo is a larger handheld with a slide case.