Top Calculators for the ACT Math Test 2023: Quick Review
Although passing the ACT math test may seem difficult, with the right calculator, your job will be much easier.
However, it is important to know that according to ACT policies, you are not allowed to have any type of calculator.
You need to know which calculator is allowed and which calculator can be the best choice.
To learn about the ACT calculator policies, visit here.
But which of the allowed calculators can be the best choice?
In this article, for your convenience in the selection, a list of the top 5 calculators for the ACT is given along with a review of each of them.
- 1- TI-Nspire CX
- 2- Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE
- 3- Texas Instruments TI-30X IIS 2-Line
- 4- Casio fx-300ES Plus
- 5- Casio fx-9750GII
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TI-Nspire CX Graphing Calculator
The TI-Nspire CX is a calculator powerful enough to cover everything you need in an ACT math test.
This device has many functions, has a beautiful design, and is lightweight.
This calculator also has a screen with a colored backlit that makes it suitable for use in low light.
Its battery is rechargeable so that it can be used for two weeks after charging.
This device has all the features needed to solve statistics, calculus, graphing, algebra, and other issues.
TI-Nspire CX may not be the best option for the SAT, but it is the best choice that can be used for both the SAT and ACT.
It is at the top of our list because it has all the necessary features for ACT test-takers.
Pros:
- Beautiful design
- Lightweight device
- Slim design
- Allowed in SAT and ACT
- Rechargeable battery
- Plenty of RAMs
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- It’s Expensive
Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Graphics Calculator
The TI-84 Plus CE is a device that is very popular among users.
The reason for this popularity is high performance while being cost-effective.
Although it may seem a bit old-fashioned in design, such minor things can be overlooked due to its ease of use, excellent performance, and other positive features.
The menu of this calculator is easy-to-use and designed to be easy for the user to remember shortcuts.
Most importantly, it has no lack of performance, and with its help, you can solve statistical, algebraic, and other complex problems.
The TI-84 Plus CE has become a reliable device for ACT takers due to all the above’s mentioned features.
Pros:
- Highly popular calculator
- Third-party codes available
- Allowed in SAT and ACT
- Easy-to-use device
- Easy-to-navigate menu
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- Compared to the TI-Nspire series, it has fewer complex functional features
- Prices vary according to color
Texas Instruments TI-30X IIS 2-Line Scientific Calculator
The TI-30X IIS is an excellent scientific calculator and is approved by the ACT.
This calculator has a 2-line display that can show both the entries and the results of the calculations simultaneously.
This device works with both solar energy and battery, which makes it economically suitable.
The TI-30X IIS is great for solving statistical and algebraic problems as well as geometry and trigonometry.
Given its low-priced range, it is natural that it has fewer features than many more expensive calculators.
However, this device can be an ideal companion for you in the ACT math test.
Pros:
- Convenient menu
- Comes in different colors
- Allowed in ACT, SAT, PSAT, and AP
- 2-line display
- Powered by solar power and battery
- Low-priced range
Cons:
- Compared to the newer scientific calculator, it has fewer complex functional features
- Prices vary according to color
Casio fx-300ES Plus Scientific Calculator
Another calculator that can help you during the ACT is the fx-300ES Plus.
This device, although not an advanced graphing calculator, supports more than 200 functions. This makes the fx-300ES Plus useful for solving a variety of math problems.
With the help of this calculator, you can solve problems related to general mathematics, pre-algebra, algebra 1 and 2, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics.
It also has a natural textbook display, which is also a large, multi-line display.
This calculator is one of the least expensive calculators for the ACT, which also uses solar energy.
Finally, it can be said that Basically, this device is the best option for you in terms of being cost-effective and does a very good job of solving mid-level math problems.
Pros:
- Natural textbook display
- Multi-line display
- Allowed in both ACT and SAT
- The least expensive calculator
- Solar-powered calculator
- Best choice for mid-level math problems
Cons:
- Doesn’t support the more advanced functions
- For some users, it’s complicated to use
Casio fx-9750GII Graphing Calculator
The Casio fx-9750GII may not be as popular as other devices on our list, but it is still one of the best to compete with them.
The positive feature of this device is that it is less expensive than many of the items mentioned.
It can also be used in addition to the ACT in SAT and PSAT.
This device has a high-resolution LCD screen.
It is highly efficient because it has a high-speed CPU that helps you easily move from one function to another.
Using this device is simple and you do not have to memorize certain keys.
Shortcuts are simple and formulas are not hidden in complex menus.
Casio fx-9750GII is suitable for solving algebra, statistics, graphing, and trigonometric problems.
As a result, it can be a suitable calculator to make your work easier during the ACT.
Pros:
- USB connectivity
- Mid-range price
- Allowed in both ACT, PSAT, and SAT
- Straightforward navigation
- High-resolution LCD screen
- High-speed CPU
- More than 200 hours of battery life
Cons:
- Doesn’t have all of a top calculator’s functionality
- Lack of memory space
- Fewer third-party apps
Now that you know the 5 top ACT calculators, you have taken another important step in preparing for the ACT math test.
Also, keep in mind that it is not enough to have the best calculator, but the skill in using it is also very important. You need a calculator that is completely familiar with all its functions.
No matter which one you choose, learn to use it well before the actual test day.
Best ACT Math Prep Resource
What Types of Calculators Are Approved for ACT Mah Test?
You are only allowed to use these three types of calculators on ACT Math Test day:
- Four-function calculators
- Scientific calculators
- Graphing calculators
Which Type of Calculator Is the Best Choice for the ACT Math Test?
Although you do not need a calculator for ACT calculations, it is still advisable to bring one of the suggested calculators with you if possible. As you know, graphing calculators usually have more capabilities than scientific calculators. However, a good scientific calculator can also meet your computational needs for the ACT math test.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Graphing Calculator for the ACT Math Test?
Using the right graphing calculator on the day of the ACT will greatly speed up your calculations.
Graphic calculators have many shortcut keys that make your work easier to calculate.
With the help of a good graphing calculator, it will be possible to find the point of intersection of two graphs and convert decimals to fractions with the push of a button.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Scientific Calculator for the ACT Math Test?
In the absence of a graphing calculator, a scientific calculator can meet all your needs for faster calculations during the ACT Math test.
The essential keys you need can also be found in a scientific calculator. These keys are for parentheses, pi, and trigonometric functions.
What Functions Should You Look For in an ACT Calculator?
- Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and division
- Parentheses
- Trigonometric Functions
- Pi
Which Calculators You May NOT Use for The ACT Math Test?
The calculator you are allowed to use for the ACT math test should not be the following calculator:
- Calculators that have CAS functionality
- Computers, tablets, mobile phones, and handheld
- Calculators or tablets that they have a pen or stylus
- Smartwatches or calculators which are wearable-technology devices
- Calculators which have QWERTY or computer-style keypad
You can use the following calculators if you modify them as noted:
- You can use calculators with programs or documents if you remove all of the programs or documents that have computer algebra system functionality
- You can use calculators that have paper tape, if you remove the tape
- You can use calculators that can make noise or play audio if you turn off the sound
- You can use calculators with an infrared data port if you cover this port with duct tape
- You can use calculators with power cords if you remove all power or electrical cords
The List of Prohibited Calculators for ACT Math Test
- All Texas Instruments model numbers that begin with TI-89 or TI-92
- TI-Nspire CAS
- HP Prime
- HP 48GII
- All Hewlett-Packard model numbers that begin with HP 40G, HP 49G, or HP 50G
- fx-CP400 (ClassPad 400)
- ClassPad 300 or ClassPad 330
- Algebra fx 2.0
- All Casio model numbers that begin with CFX-9970G
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More from Effortless Math for ACT Test …
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Have a look at our comprehensive ACT Math Worksheets to help you practice and prepare for the ACT Math test.
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Looking for FREE ACT Math websites to find free online resources?
Here is our complete list of the Top 10 Free Websites for ACT Math Preparation.
Need a practice test to help you improve your ACT Math score?
Have a look at our Full-Length ACT Math Practice Test and Free ACT Math Practice Test.
Do you know the key differences between SAT Math and ACT Math?
Find your answer here: SAT Math vs. ACT Math: the key differences.
The Perfect Prep Books for the ACT Math Test
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