Is the TI-84 Plus CE allowed on the SAT?

Yes. The TI-84 Plus CE (and all TI-84 family calculators) are on the College Board's approved calculator list for the SAT. They are also approved for the ACT, AP Calculus, AP Statistics, and most state-level standardized tests. Always verify with your exam's official list before test day.

What's the difference between TI-84 Plus and TI-84 Plus CE?

The TI-84 Plus CE is the current generation. It has a high-resolution color backlit screen (320x240 px vs. 96x64 px monochrome), weighs about 30% less, and has a rechargeable lithium battery instead of 4 AAA batteries. It runs the same programs and apps as the original TI-84 Plus, but is faster and much easier to read.

Do graphing calculators need WiFi?

No. Graphing calculators are intentionally offline devices — WiFi or internet connectivity would disqualify them from exams. The TI-Nspire and TI-84 Plus CE can connect to computers via USB for program transfers and updates, but they do not connect to the internet.

Best Graphing Calculators for Students in 2026

Graphing calculators are one of the biggest back-to-school investments students make — and unlike a phone or laptop, a good graphing calculator can last all the way through high school, college, and even professional exams. The right choice depends heavily on your class requirements: many standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams have specific allowed-calculator lists.

Texas Instruments dominates the classroom market, and for good reason — TI calculators are approved on virtually every major exam, and teachers build their curricula around TI functions. Casio offers a strong alternative at a lower price point, and the TI-Nspire is the powerhouse option for students going deep into calculus and STEM coursework. Here are the four best options across all tiers.

What to Look For

Check exam compatibility first: Before buying, verify that your calculator is approved for the exams you'll be taking. The SAT, ACT, AP, IB, and state Regents exams each maintain approved-calculator lists. TI-84 Plus CE is approved for all of them; some newer CAS models are not.
CAS vs. non-CAS: CAS (Computer Algebra System) calculators can solve equations symbolically, factor expressions, and simplify fractions algebraically — great for learning, but banned on many standardized tests. TI-84 is non-CAS (allowed everywhere). TI-Nspire CX II has both CAS and non-CAS versions.
Color screen vs. monochrome: Color screens make graph analysis significantly easier — especially when graphing multiple functions. The TI-84 Plus CE has a backlit color screen and is about 30% lighter than the older monochrome TI-84 Plus.
Battery type: The TI-84 Plus CE has a rechargeable lithium battery (USB-C charging). Older TI-84 Plus models run on 4 AAA batteries. Rechargeable is more convenient, but keep the charging cable in your bag.
Apps and programs: The TI-84 ecosystem has thousands of pre-written programs for everything from chemistry to finance. Check your school's approved programs policy — many teachers provide class-specific programs to load at the beginning of the year.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator

Color backlit screen · Rechargeable battery · SAT/ACT/AP approved · 3.5MB RAM

$99–$119 View on Amazon →

Best Budget

Casio fx-9860GIII Graphing Calculator

High-resolution LCD · USB connectivity · Exam mode · AA battery powered

$69–$89 View on Amazon →

Best for STEM

Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX II Graphing Calculator

High-res color display · 3D graphing · Python programming · Rechargeable

$129–$149 View on Amazon →

Best Scientific

Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView Scientific Calculator

4-line display · MathPrint · Solar + battery · SAT/ACT approved

$15–$20 View on Amazon →

Bottom Line

For most high school and college students, the TI-84 Plus CE is the right choice — it's approved everywhere, has a vibrant color screen, and the rechargeable battery means you never get stuck during an exam. If you're in advanced STEM coursework and your school allows it, the TI-Nspire CX II is a serious upgrade. Budget-conscious students who need Casio compatibility should look at the fx-9860GIII.