TI-83 vs. TI-84: A Feature Comparison

When it comes to comparing the TI-83 and the TI-84, everyone has to admit that they have a lot in common. The key strokes for functions are identical and generally any differences in the calculators are small. The only real difference is that the TI-84 is newer, sleeker, and has more built in applications.

TI-83 The TI-83 is made by Texas Instruments and served as an upgraded replacement to the TI-82. This is one of the most widely used calculator by students in the world. Not only does it have all of the same functions as any other scientific calculator, the TI-83 has a lot of additional features like function graphing, polar, parametric, and sequence graphing modes, statistics, and trigonometric and algebraic equations. While it doesn't include as many calculus functions, you can download extra programs and applications from certain websites or, if you have the know how, just write your own on the calculator itself!

Texas Instruments replaced the TI-83 when they released the TI-83 Plus in 1999. The Ti-83 Plus included Flash memory which made the calculator updatable and also allowed for larger Flash Applications to be stored on the device. You can also use the Flash memory to store programs and data, just like regular memory. Eventually, in 2001, they came out with even *another* upgrade, the TI-83 Plus Silver Edition, which had nine times the amount of Flash Memory as the TI-83 Plus and over twice the processing speed.

TI-84 The TI-84 Plus is a graphing calculator that was designed by Texas Instruments. The odd thing is, is that there was no original TI-84: Only a TI-84 Plus and a TI-84 Plus Silver Edition. It's basically the same thing as the TI-83, but it does contain several enhanced features. It has about three times the memory than the TI-83 and the CPU is about 2.5 times faster. Another difference between the two calculators is that the TI-84 contains a USB port and a built in clock. Although relatively cheaper than some calculators, it's listed at $129.99.

Whatever you choose as your next calculator, these models are both good for whatever it is you need to do. Obviously the TI-84 Plus is a better choice because it's newer and has slightly more features, it costs a bit more too. Look around, though, because if you can find the TI-84 on Ebay, a yard sale, or just at your local flea market, you're stumbling on a lost treasure. I hope you enjoy your new calculator and remember: Try not to use all that algebraic computing capability for evil!

Find the lowest prices on the TI-83 Plus graphing calculator at our website Buy Calculators.