<p>Which calculator is best for the SAT & ACT? I am used to using the TI-83 Plus edition, but are there any other models that are better for these tests? Any models that have better programs than the other?</p>
<p>TI-83 is great if you really know it. You really don’t need any more than that to get an 800. TI-84 what most people I know use, although there are definitely some 89 and nSpire users as well. 89 and nSpire are quite a bit more complicated to learn then 83/84 though they are also considerably more powerful. You can try an 89/nSpire if you’ve got the time to figure it out though.</p>
<p>Be aware that the TI-89 and NSpire CAS (and any other calculator with a Computer Algebra System) aren’t allowed on the ACT (but are allowed on the SAT).</p>
<p>I don’t even think TI-89s and above are allowed on SATs, though most proctors don’t check. The TI-89 is unnecessary for SAT math.</p>
<p>^TI-89’s and above (i.e. CAS calculators) are allowed on the SAT (but not the ACT). I’m sure of this.</p>
<p>On the ACT page it specifically has a page that lists calculators that are not allowed. TI-89 in Nspire are on the list of not allowed.</p>
<p>TI-83, TI-84 etc are allowed.</p>
<p>Interesting that ACT disallows the TI-89 and Nspire but the College Board does not. Then again, SAT problems never require a calculator (and often aren’t amenable to one) whereas some difficult ACT problems could be sidestepped with a high-end calculator.</p>
<p>^^The non-CAS NSpire is allowed on the ACT. ACT bans all calculators with a built-in CAS.</p>
<p>A TI-83 or TI 84 is best for the ACT (you never know if a proctor will know the difference in a non-CAS NSpire) and will be sufficient for the SAT even though you can use a TI 89 or NSpire.</p>
<p>I just use the basic old TI-30. :)</p>