10 Best Calculators 2026 in the United States

The Sharp EL-1197PIII is a robust business calculator designed for heavy-duty use. It features a large 12-digit blue fluorescent display, which is bright and easy to read. The calculator includes a fast 4.5 lines per second, two-color ribbon printer, making it ideal for those who need to keep hard copies of their calculations. The professional keyboard with a left-side grand total key is user-friendly and designed for efficiency, particularly for frequent calculations.

This calculator is AC-powered, so you don't have to worry about battery life during extended use, though it also requires a CR2 battery for backup power. The machine's extra heavy-duty build ensures durability for power users who need a reliable device over a long period. However, its large size and weight (4.2 pounds) make it less portable and more suitable for stationary use in an office setting. The addition of calendar, clock, and time functions add convenience for business users.

The use of replaceable Victor ink ribbon 7010 and an included starter size paper roll are definite pluses, but you will need to purchase replacements over time. With a 4.7-star rating from over 3,000 customer reviews, it is well-regarded by users for its performance and reliability. This calculator is best suited for business professionals who need a sturdy, high-performance printing calculator.

The HP Prime Graphing Calculator is a powerful tool designed for students and anyone needing advanced math capabilities. It features a bright 3.5-inch multi-touch color display, which makes viewing graphs and equations more interactive and easier to understand thanks to pinch-to-zoom and touch controls. This calculator stands out with its Computer Algebra System (CAS), allowing you to work symbolically with equations—something very useful for higher-level math like calculus and algebra. It's approved for major exams like the SAT, AP, and IB, making it suitable for high school and college use.

Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it avoids the hassle of constantly replacing batteries, and its durable brushed metal design with a slide-on cover helps protect it during everyday use. The calculator also supports wireless connectivity and app integration, so teachers can interact with students during class and you can access calculator features on your phone or computer.

With 256 MB of memory, it can store many programs and data, which is great for creating customized calculations or saving exam setups. However, its advanced features and touchscreen might have a learning curve for beginners or those used to simpler calculators. It is also a bit heavier and larger compared to basic models, which might affect portability. The HP Prime is a feature-rich graphing calculator suited for students taking advanced math courses or exams, offering great display quality, strong functionality, and modern connectivity options, though it may take some time to get familiar with all its capabilities.

The HP Prime Graphing Calculator II is a high-performing and sleek device suitable for advanced mathematics and scientific computations. It is IB Diploma Programme exam approved, making it a reliable choice for students. The brushed metal design not only looks stylish but also comes with a slide-on cover for protection when not in use. The calculator features a large 3.5-inch multi-touch display, providing a user-friendly interface that's easy to navigate with its familiar HP alphanumeric keypad, which can be especially beneficial during complex calculations or exam settings. Additionally, the lithium-ion rechargeable battery ensures long-lasting use and is convenient as it eliminates the need for frequent battery replacements.

The calculator also boasts 256 MB of flash memory, which is ample for storing various functions and data. Another notable feature is its inclusion in the unique STEM ecosystem, compatible with the HP Prime Wireless Kit and HP Connectivity Kit, enhancing its versatility and connectivity options. On the downside, the product might be on the heavier side at 8 ounces and could feel bulky to some users. Given its range of advanced features, it may also come with a steeper learning curve for those not familiar with graphing calculators.

It’s a great tool for students and professionals who require extensive mathematical functionality and appreciate modern design, though it might be a bit overpowered for basic office use or casual needs.