What Calculator to Use for SAT: The Ultimate Recommender

Stop wondering what calculator to use for the SAT. Use our recommendation tool and in-depth guide to understand the official rules and find the perfect, approved calculator for your test day success.

SAT Calculator Recommendation Tool

Your Recommended SAT Calculator

Key Features:

Why it’s a good fit:

Choosing the Right Calculator for the SAT

The question of what calculator to use for the SAT is a critical part of test preparation. While the Digital SAT includes an embedded Desmos graphing calculator, many students perform better and faster with a physical, handheld device they are familiar with. The College Board has a strict SAT Calculator Policy that outlines exactly which devices are permitted and which are prohibited. Failure to follow these rules can result in your scores being canceled.

Essentially, most graphing calculators and all scientific calculators are allowed, but with a major exception: calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS) are banned. These prohibited devices can perform algebraic manipulations, which the College Board deems an unfair advantage. You also cannot use a calculator on your phone, tablet, or computer.

SAT Calculator Tiers: From Basic to Advanced

Understanding the different types of approved calculators can help you decide what calculator to use for the SAT. They generally fall into three categories.

Comparison of SAT-Approved Calculator Types

Calculator Type	Description	Best For	Typical Price Range
Scientific Calculator	Performs trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions. Great for computation.	Students on a budget or those more comfortable without graphing features. Models like the TI-30Xa are inexpensive and reliable.	$15 – $40
Graphing Calculator (Non-CAS)	Can plot graphs of equations, find intercepts, and analyze functions visually. This is the most recommended type.	Most students. The TI-84 Plus CE is the most popular calculator in U.S. high schools and a fantastic choice.	$90 – $150
Advanced Graphing (Non-CAS)	Faster processors, higher-resolution color screens, and more intuitive interfaces (like the TI-Nspire CX II).	Students heading into STEM fields who will use the calculator for AP exams and college.	$140 – $170

Practical Examples

Let’s see how different needs lead to different calculator choices.

Example 1: The STEM-Focused Student

A student is in AP Calculus, plans to major in Engineering, and has a flexible budget.

• Inputs: Math Level (Calculus), Budget (High), Future Use (Yes)
• Recommendation: Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II (Non-CAS).
• Reasoning: This calculator’s powerful processor and document-based interface are excellent for complex problem-solving in higher-level math and will serve the student well through college. It’s a top-tier, SAT approved calculator.

Example 2: The Budget-Conscious Test-Taker

A student is in Algebra 2, needs a calculator primarily for the SAT, and wants to keep costs down.

• Inputs: Math Level (Algebra 2), Budget (Low), Future Use (No)
• Recommendation: Casio fx-9750GIII or TI-36X Pro Scientific Calculator.
• Reasoning: The Casio offers most of the graphing features of more expensive models at a fraction of the price, providing the “most bang for your buck”. The scientific calculator is even cheaper and fully sufficient for solving SAT problems.

How to Use This SAT Calculator Recommender

Our tool simplifies the process of figuring out what calculator to use for the SAT. Follow these steps:

1. Select Your Math Level: Choose the highest math class you’re in. This tells the tool how complex your needs are.
2. Set Your Budget: Choose the price range you’re comfortable with. There are great options at every level.
3. Indicate Future Use: Let us know if this is just for the SAT or for future, more advanced courses.
4. Get Your Recommendation: Click the button to see the suggested model, its key features, and why it’s the right choice for you based on the official SAT calculator policy.

Key Factors That Affect Your Choice

When deciding what calculator to use for the SAT, several factors come into play. Considering them will help you make a smart investment.

• The Official Policy: This is non-negotiable. Your calculator MUST be on the approved list. Check the College Board’s list of prohibited calculators to be safe.
• Graphing vs. Scientific: While a scientific calculator is sufficient, a graphing calculator can solve problems involving functions much faster. Seeing the graph can provide instant insight.
• Familiarity and Ease of Use: The best calculator is one you know how to use. Don’t buy a complex new calculator the week before the exam. The popular TI-84 has tons of support resources because so many students use it.
• The Built-in Desmos Calculator: The Digital SAT has a great calculator built-in. Some students love it. However, using a laptop trackpad and keyboard for complex equations can be slower than a handheld device. It is best used as a backup or for specific graphing tasks.
• Battery Life: Your calculator must be battery-powered, and you are responsible for ensuring it works on test day. Some models have rechargeable batteries, while others use standard AAA.
• Long-Term Value: A high-end graphing calculator like a TI-84 Plus CE or TI-Nspire CX II will be useful throughout high school and into college-level math and science courses, making it a worthwhile investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is a graphing calculator required for the SAT?

No, it is not required. You can solve every problem with a scientific calculator or the built-in Desmos tool. However, a graphing calculator can be much faster for certain problem types.

2. What is a CAS calculator and why is it banned?

CAS stands for Computer Algebra System. These calculators can perform symbolic algebra, like solving for ‘x’ or factoring polynomials automatically. They are banned from the SAT to ensure the test fairly assesses a student’s math skills, not their calculator’s power.

3. Is the TI-84 Plus allowed on the SAT?

Yes, all versions of the TI-84 Plus (including the Plus CE) are allowed and are among the most popular choices for the test.

4. What is the best calculator for the Digital SAT?

The “best” is subjective, but top contenders are the TI-84 Plus CE for its popularity and familiarity, and the TI-Nspire CX II (non-CAS) for its power and speed. However, many students find success with more affordable options like the Casio fx-9750GIII.

5. Can I use the calculator on the entire SAT?

No. Calculators are only permitted during the Math section. You must put it away during the Reading and Writing section.

6. What happens if I bring a banned calculator?

You will not be allowed to use it. You may have to take the math section without a calculator, or your test could be canceled.

7. Does the SAT provide a calculator?

Yes, the digital testing platform has a built-in Desmos graphing and scientific calculator that you can use at any time during the math section.

8. Is the TI-Nspire CX II CAS allowed on the SAT?

No. Any calculator with “CAS” in its name is explicitly prohibited by the College Board. You must use the non-CAS version, the TI-Nspire CX II.