Best Scientific Calculators in the UK

The Casio FX-991EX is the company's most advanced calculator yet. Belonging to the ClassWiz series, the model can juggle 552 mathematical functions, 47 scientific constants, 40 unit conversions, 24 bracket levels, fraction calculation, coordinate transformation, trigonometric functions, hyperbolic functions, logical operations, prime factorisation, technical notation, random integers, Base-N calculations, REF/RREF functions, inequality functions, equation calculation, and more. Removing mathematics from the proverbial equation, the FX-991EX works with and can perform standard deviations (both grouped and ungrouped values), distribution functions, regression analysis, permutations (nPr), combinatorics (nCr), you name them.

Aside from its calculating prowess, this device also boasts a high-resolution LCD screen that stretches 192 x 63 pixels, much more than scientific calculators are usually offering. As always (nowadays), you can choose between orthodox and textbook-like symbols. Besides the repeat function, the model comes equipped with 9 variable memories. Wrapping an already impressive package, this device can read QR codes and enables spreadsheet calculations, putting the Casio FX-991EX among the best scientific calculators out there.

The Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView looks somewhat awkward, with the bulky body not quite instilling confidence regarding its smarts. Nevertheless, there's nothing awkward about the brain behind the brawny appearance.

To start with, the company's MathPrint™ feature makes an appearance, displaying textbook versions of fractions, expressions, and symbols. Supporting this feature will be the 4-line screen that enables entering more than 1 calculation, comparing results, and exploring patterns on the same display at the same time. To add more, the same screen will let you view scientific notations with correct superscripted exponents as well as scientific notation output.

You can explore the (x,y) value table with given functions automatically or via entering specific x values. Shifting gears, the model can do 1- and 2-variable statistics, perform fraction and decimal conversion, as well as handle overall fraction math.

Sweetening an already sweet spot, this device will allow you to edit, cut, and paste entries, so you'll feel like you're using a much more compact and, science-wise, more capable laptop. But, taking into account that this "laptop" weighs just 100 grammes, we would recommend choosing the Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView as your science exploration assistant.

The Casio FX-83GTX is not the powerhouse that the FX-991EX model is but, even so, this calculator has its moments as well. Some are not new or unique to this model, like the display that shows mathematical expressions (roots, fractions, etc) as they are in textbooks, increasing comprehension since the results become more digestible. But some are less common.

These "less common" functions may or may not include random integers, degrees/minutes/seconds ratio, exponential logarithmic, inverse hyperbolic functions, recurring decimals, radians, gradations, exponents, regression models (including quadratic, inverse, and linear regression), multi-replay parentheses, combinations, permutations, we'll stop there. Other than that, the model will let you backspace and delete separate symbols, utilise 24-variable memory, and reset individual entries or every variable at once.

Reviewing the build, the plastic keyboard feels nice and clicky, with a pleasant tactile impression. But the font is small, which's surprising considering that the 192 x 63 LCD screen is anything but small.

In short, the Casio FX-83GTX easily covers math (including calculus and trigonometry), statics, physics, and engineering, accommodating students and professionals alike.

The Aurora AX-582PK is the cheapest entry on this list. Still, aside from the model chewing through LR44 batteries like nobody's business, there's nothing cheap about this scientific calculator. First, the 14-digit, 2-line screen displays both the sum and the answer. Second, the TrueLogic algebraic entry system enables entering calculations in the same order these calculations are written.

Reaching the calculator's meat and potatoes though, you're offered 240 functions. These include multi-replay functions, fraction and decimal conversion, roots and powers, logarithms exponents, reciprocal, permutations, random numbers, combinations, gradians, radians, coordinate conversions, degrees/minutes/seconds, as well as expression editing, 9 memories, 24-level parentheses, negative indicators, backspace and delete functions, 6 regression analysis models, standard deviation, and more.

Moving towards construction, the slide-on hard case provides sufficient protection during transportation, the screw-on battery compartment makes sure the batteries do not fall out yet enables easy replacement, and the plastic keys are robust and durable. So, as long as you're not working on biology-, chemistry-, or physics-related problems that require complex calculating, there's no reason for you to overpay for something more expensive than the Aurora AX-582PK.

The Helect H1002 is blasting from the past appearance-wise without disregarding the future. We like the model's beefy profile quite a lot, including the 2-line display that fit 14 characters each and enable inputting and viewing separate calculations simultaneously. We also like that you can select between 5 colours: black, white, blue, orange, and plum. We're fine with the model measuring 16 x 8.5 x 2.2 centimetres and weighing 150 grammes since, again, there's something attractive about calculators that you can use as blunt instruments.

We're not quite fine with the keys not always registering clicks though, which is not necessarily unexpected from entry-level Helect calculators but a little upsetting regardless. There's nothing upsetting about the 1- and 2-variable statistical calculations that this model can perform, the three angle modes (degrees, radians, and graduates), and the scientific/technical notations that the H1002 handles with relative ease.

The protective case is alright too, even though this device is so tough that the case is almost unnecessary. Last but not least, the calculator automatically powers off after 2 minutes of inactivity, conserving the 2 LR44 batteries that are required to use this device.