The SAT (digital format since 2024) has a built-in Desmos graphing calculator on every math question — but you can also bring your own. For students who prefer physical calculators or need extra speed on long problems, the right pick can save real time. Here is the approved list and how to choose.
What's allowed on the SAT
The College Board permits any non-CAS graphing calculator and most scientific calculators. Specifically allowed:
- Graphing: TI-84 family, TI-83 family, TI-Nspire (non-CAS only), Casio fx-9750/9860, HP 39gII, HP Prime (non-CAS).
- Scientific: TI-30XS MultiView, Casio fx-991EX (note: Casio rules vary; check most recent SAT calc list at College Board), HP 35s.
- Built-in: Desmos graphing calculator on every digital SAT math question.
Not allowed: any calculator with a CAS (Computer Algebra System) — TI-89 family, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime CAS, and Casio ClassPad. Phones, tablets, smartwatches are also banned during the test.
Top picks by use case
1. Best overall — TI-84 Plus CE ($130)
Industry standard in U.S. high schools. Clean color screen, USB rechargeable, allowed on every U.S. standardized test (SAT, ACT, AP, IB). The instructions in your SAT prep book and almost every YouTube tutorial assume this calculator.
2. Best value graphing — Casio fx-9750GIII ($45)
SAT-allowed and one-third the price of a TI-84. Slightly different button layout, monochrome screen, fewer apps. But it does everything a high-school student needs and is dramatically cheaper. Worth considering if budget matters more than peer-pressure conformity.
3. Cheapest option — TI-30XS MultiView ($20)
Scientific (non-graphing) calculator. SAT-allowed, fast for arithmetic and trig. Doesn't graph, but the digital SAT now has Desmos for graphing — many students who only need quick numeric work do fine with the TI-30XS. The cheapest exam-allowed option.
4. Most powerful (still SAT-allowed) — TI-Nspire CX II ($150)
Bigger color screen, faster CPU, better menu design than the TI-84. Make sure to buy the non-CAS version — the CAS version is banned. Useful for AP Calculus and IB Math beyond the SAT.
Comparison table
| Calculator | Price | Type | SAT? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TI-30XS MultiView | $20 | Scientific | Yes | Cheapest option |
| Casio fx-9750GIII | $45 | Graphing | Yes | Best value graphing |
| TI-84 Plus CE | $130 | Graphing | Yes | Industry standard |
| TI-Nspire CX II (non-CAS) | $150 | Graphing | Yes | Power users |
| HP Prime (non-CAS) | $160 | Graphing | Yes | Color, fast, premium |
| TI-89 Titanium | $150 | Graphing CAS | No | Banned — engineering only |
Should I buy a graphing calculator at all?
The digital SAT has Desmos built in. Many students don't need a separate graphing calculator on test day. A scientific calculator like the TI-30XS handles most numeric problems faster than navigating Desmos for them.
Buy a graphing calculator if:
- You want to practice extensively before the test.
- You are also taking AP Calculus, AP Stats, or AP Physics — these often require a physical graphing calculator.
- You prefer the tactile experience of a physical device.
Save money on a scientific calculator if:
- Your school doesn't require a graphing calculator for daily class work.
- You're comfortable using Desmos (online, free).
- You only need it for the SAT/ACT.
Test-day rules
- Bring fresh batteries (or fully charged for USB-C models). Proctors won't pause your section if your calculator dies.
- Bring a backup if possible.
- No external memory or programs that solve test problems.
- No Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular connections active.
Practice with the online version
Our free TI-84 calculator works in any browser and handles the same scientific functions you'll need on the SAT. Use it for homework practice; bring the physical calculator on test day.