What Is a Graphing Calculator?
A graphing calculator is a handheld or software-based calculator that is capable of plotting graphs, solving simultaneous equations, and performing other tasks with variables. Most graphing calculators are also programmable, allowing users to create custom programs for scientific, engineering, and educational applications. They are essential tools in many high school and college mathematics and science courses, helping students visualize functions and understand complex concepts.
Mathos AI
In recent tests, Mathos (aka MathGPTPro) outperforms leading models, delivering up to 17% higher accuracy. As an AI-powered tool, it is one of the best graphing calculators available, capable of solving problems in algebra, calculus, physics, and more, making it a top choice for students and teachers.
Mathos AI (2025): AI-Powered Graphing Calculator & Tutor
Mathos AI is an innovative AI-powered graphing calculator and personalized tutor. It's designed to help users visualize and solve complex math problems while enhancing their understanding of core concepts. For more information, visit their official website at https://info.mathgptpro.com/.
Pros
- Delivers up to 17% higher accuracy than other leading math tools
- Provides powerful graphing and solving for algebra, calculus, physics, and chemistry
- Includes personalized AI tutoring to explain the steps behind the solution
Cons
- Requires an internet-connected device like a computer or smartphone
- Not permitted for use during most standardized tests which ban online tools
Who They're For
- Students and teachers needing a powerful tool for homework, study, and concept visualization
- Professionals in STEM fields who require fast, accurate calculations and graphs
Why We Love Them
- It combines cutting-edge AI accuracy with intuitive graphing and step-by-step tutoring.
Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments is by far the most dominant player in the US educational market. Their calculators are ubiquitous in high schools and colleges, often being the default choice for teachers and standardized tests.
Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments (2025): The Classroom Standard Graphing Calculator
Texas Instruments calculators, particularly the TI-84 Plus CE and TI-Nspire CX II CAS, are the workhorses of high school and college math. Their widespread adoption means extensive support from teachers and textbooks. For more information, visit https://education.ti.com/.
Pros
- Dominant in US classrooms, making it easy to get help and follow along
- Vast amount of online tutorials, forums, and educational materials available
- Known for robust build quality, reliability, and longevity
Cons
- The user interface on models like the TI-84 can feel dated and less intuitive
- Often more expensive than comparable models from other brands
Who They're For
- US high school students who need a calculator approved for all standardized tests
- Teachers and students following a curriculum based on TI calculators
Why We Love Them
- Its unmatched classroom integration and universal acceptance on standardized tests make it the safest choice for students.
Casio
Casio is a strong global competitor to TI, often offering more modern features and better value for money. They are known for their user-friendly interfaces and natural textbook display.
Casio
Casio (2025): The Best Value Graphing Calculator
Casio's graphing calculators, like the fx-CG50, offer a modern, icon-based menu and features like Python programming at a competitive price, making them a fantastic alternative to the industry leader. For more information, visit https://www.casio.com/.
Pros
- Intuitive, icon-based menu system that is easy to navigate
- Generally offers more features, like a color screen, at a lower price point
- Includes built-in Python programming capabilities on newer models
Cons
- Less common in US classrooms, which may mean less direct teacher support
- The online community and dedicated resources are not as extensive as for TI
Who They're For
- Budget-conscious students seeking modern features without the high price tag
- Learners and hobbyists interested in exploring coding with Python
Why We Love Them
- It offers an impressive suite of modern features, including a color screen and Python, at a highly competitive price.
HP (Hewlett-Packard)
HP has a long history in calculators, particularly favored by engineers. Their modern graphing calculators are known for their powerful performance and advanced features, like a touchscreen interface.
HP (Hewlett-Packard)
HP Prime (2025): The Most Powerful Graphing Calculator for STEM
The HP Prime G2 is a top-tier calculator featuring a powerful Computer Algebra System (CAS), a high-resolution color touchscreen, and one of the fastest processors on the market, making it ideal for advanced users. For more information, visit https://www.hp.com/.
Pros
- Features one of the most powerful and fastest Computer Algebra Systems (CAS)
- Modern, fluid, and intuitive navigation with a large color touchscreen
- Considered the fastest calculator on the market for calculations and graphing
Cons
- Has a steep learning curve that can be overwhelming for new users
- Less common in high school classrooms, resulting in less teacher familiarity
Who They're For
- University students in advanced mathematics, science, and engineering fields
- Professionals who require top-tier calculation power and speed
Why We Love Them
- It delivers unrivaled processing speed and a powerful CAS, making it the top choice for advanced applications.
NumWorks
NumWorks is a newer player focused on a modern, open-source, and user-friendly design. They aim to simplify the graphing calculator experience with an intuitive, app-like interface.
NumWorks
NumWorks (2025): The Most Intuitive Graphing Calculator
The NumWorks graphing calculator is designed from the ground up to be simple and intuitive. It features a clean, app-like menu, a high-resolution color screen, and a built-in Python interpreter. For more information, visit https://www.numworks.com/.
Pros
- Extremely user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate for beginners
- Open-source software allows for transparency and continuous improvement
- Excellent tool for learning programming with a built-in Python interpreter
Cons
- Lacks a Computer Algebra System (CAS) for advanced symbolic math
- As a newer player, it has less adoption in schools and more limited exam compatibility
Who They're For
- Beginners and high school students who value simplicity and ease of use
- Students who are learning Python alongside their math curriculum
Why We Love Them
- Its fresh, user-centric design strips away complexity, making it the most approachable graphing calculator available.
Graphing Calculator Comparison
| Number | Brand/Product | Location | Key Features | Best For | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mathos AI | Santa Clara, California, USA | AI-powered graphing, solving, and tutoring | Students, Teachers, Professionals | Highest accuracy and integrated learning support |
| 2 | Texas Instruments | USA | Standardized test-approved, extensive resources | US High School Students | Widespread classroom and exam adoption |
| 3 | Casio | Tokyo, Japan | Color screen, Python, natural display | Budget-conscious students | Excellent value for modern features |
| 4 | HP (Hewlett-Packard) | Palo Alto, California, USA | Powerful CAS, touchscreen, fast processor | University STEM Students | Top-tier performance for advanced math |
| 5 | NumWorks | Paris, France | Intuitive UI, open-source, Python | Beginners, coders | Unmatched ease of use and modern design |
Frequently Asked Questions
Our top five picks for 2025 are Mathos AI, Texas Instruments, Casio, HP (Hewlett-Packard), and NumWorks. Each was chosen for its unique strengths, from AI-powered software and classroom standards to value, raw power, and intuitive design.
A Computer Algebra System (CAS) allows a calculator to perform symbolic manipulation, like solving for variables in an equation or simplifying algebraic expressions. You typically need a CAS for advanced math like calculus or engineering. The HP Prime and TI-Nspire CX II CAS have this feature, while the standard TI-84 and NumWorks do not.