The 6 best scientific calculator apps for you and your students
- Ben Gabriel
- Oct 17, 2017
- 3 min read
Not every math class is lucky enough to be supplied with their very own class set of scientific calculators. Not every math class is lucky enough to have families who can afford to provide their son/daughter with a scientific calculator.
Somehow, though, literally every child over the age of 6 seems to have a smart phone, so there is a solution to this problem.
There are a load of calculator apps out there for both Android OS and Apple OS! Here are a list of the top 6 I could find. Each App will have its own list of PROS and CONS.
Oh, one more thing...I'm and Android guy, so, unfortunately, only one of the Apps I tested has an Apple version. Luckily, It's a gooder. Sorry, not sorry. Go Android!
1. ClevCalc: Android Version Apple Version
Pros
Simple, efficient interface
Easy input for trigonometric functions (including inverses)
Not missing anything as far as functionality
Adjustable decimal places
14 other types of calculators (Unit converter, currency converter, fuel efficiency, loan calculator …to name a few)
Cons
Only basic buttons and functions shown on default screen, “…” reveals special buttons and functions
2. HiPER Calc: Android Version
Pros
22 days of free pro use (gives you access to expression mode, calculation details, complex numbers, up to 100 digits of significand and 9 digits of exponent, high quality themes) Cost of pro is $3.09
All buttons and functions are shown on the screen, just like a real scientific calculator
Shift function
“Details” shows a lot of cool info, like radian values, gradians, prime factorisation, and scientific formats for numbers
Cons
Feels a bit congested/busy
Pro use expires, leaving you without some functions once the free version remains
3. Multi Calculator: Android Version
Pros
Bright, easy to use interface
Swipe to use the different calculators. Basic, Scientific, and BMI (Body Mass Index)
No missing functions between the two "mathy" calculators
Cons
BMI calculator seems unnecessary
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Changes the lock screen of your phone...this was pretty brutal in my opinion)
4. CalcTastic: Android Version
Pros
Comprehensive list of constant values
“Calculator” feel
Extensive “Stats” about the values
Expansive unit converter options
Basic mode available as well
Cons
Full version includes Polar form complex numbers, Landscape format, More themes, and comprehensive developer mode (1.29)
5. RealCalc: Android Version
Pros
Big, clear display, resembles top of the line scientific calculators
All buttons are large and easy to use
Memory functions
RPN mode
Full-screen ability
Cons
Pro version for full functionality (Cost is $3.49, provides you with ...Fractions, degrees/minutes/seconds, home screen widget, Samsung multi-window support, and 12 digit display, just to name a few)
Trigonometric function entry is backwards (in my opinion), similar to iPhone and some calculators. Values need to be entered first, then the trigonometric function button you are using.
6. ChampCalc: Android Version
Pros
"Help" function to learn proper entry methods for various topics/equations, etc
Memory function
Constants for many applications
Parameters
Ability to quick change the view of the calculator...gives you a higher contrast view
Cons
Pro version (Cost is $4.09 and provides you with...Extreme precision, 50 digits of floating decimal point, different themes, and more)
Very advanced appearance, some buttons are unknown to me (could be considered a "pro" for some people...but I’m a bit of a commoner)
Give these a shot and let me know which one(s) you and your students like best!
And if you're looking for a REAL scientific calculator, this (to the left, to the left) is the best one of all time. I've had mine since I was in grade 9. GET IT.
You got dis. I believe in you. You're all Rock-stars and Legends and I love you.
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