Ti-85 VS Ti-84 Calculator - Which One to Go With? - Calculator Advice (2024)

Ti-84 and Ti-85 both are the best calculators for solving complex equations. This makes it difficult for newbies to choose the right one. In this article, we will try to contrast and compare the important features of these two calculators ti-85 and ti-84 plus.

The Ti-84 Plus proves a significant improvement over the Ti-85, offering enhanced functionality, a user-friendly interface, and powerful processing capabilities, making it the ideal choice for tackling complex equations and mathematical tasks efficiently. Though slightly pricier, the comprehensive features of Ti-84 justify the investment for those seeking a reliable calculator for advanced mathematical applications.

In This Article

Ti-85 VS Ti-84 Calculator Comparison

So here are the main differences between both of these calculators:

Ti-85Ti-84
ProcessorZilog Z80 6 MHZZilog Z80 15 MHZ
RAM28K128KB
Screen Resolution128×64 pixels320×240 pixels
Display21 characters per eight lines16 characters per 8 lines
Graphing TechnologyOBSOLETEADVANCED
Major FunctionsEngineering & CalculusMaths, Interactive Geometry, Algebra, Calculus, Statistics, Graphing
Ratings4.34.7

Ti-85 Calculator

The Ti-85 was launched in the ’90s as Ti’s second graphing calculator. Not only can it cater to the needs of the students majoring in engineering and calculus. However, this calculator works in solving math, statistics, and science equations.

Ti-85 VS Ti-84 Calculator - Which One to Go With? - Calculator Advice (1)

Equipped with graphing capabilities, the unit is loaded with up to 99 defined graphing functions. It helps you to plot and analyze parametric equations and polar equations simultaneously. It can also compute differential equations.

Ti-85 is ideal for solving pre-algebra and basic statistical functions. It can compute mean, median and mod can solve powers to logarithm, exponents, quadratic polynomial, cubic polynomial, matrix, and regression analysis.

The unit can solve trigonometric functions like cos, sin, tan, and cotan.

This Ti-85 calculator comes with the Zilog Z80 6 MHz processor for faster calculations.

This calculator has a wide display of 8 lines long and 21 characters wide. Such a huge display omits the need to scroll the screen while entering and analyzing data.

This calculator has 28KB RAM to perform multiple mathematical operations without slowing down.

The I/O port design helps to create a connection with other compatible devices such as Ti-86.

The Ti-85 calculator is powered by x4 AAA lithium batteries. Lastly, there’s a year of warranty from Texas Instruments for the Ti-85 calculator.

Pros

  • It has a user-friendly interface.
  • It is designed for basic engineering and calculus.
  • It is programmable.
  • It comes with a comprehensive how-to-use guide.

Cons

  • It has meagre storage memory.
  • The device is not rechargeable.
  • A limited range of other functions.
  • The device does not support the latest updates and has obsolete features.

Ti-84 Calculator

The Ti-84 calculator is among the advanced versions of Ti calculators. This calculator was launched back in the year 2000. Ti-84 Plus is an ample device for those entering high school or college.

Ti-85 VS Ti-84 Calculator - Which One to Go With? - Calculator Advice (2)

Ti 84 plus supports all the apps of Ti models specifically Ti 83. The calculator is good for statistics, science tools, interactive geometry, calculus, probability, and regression analysis. It also has upgraded graphing technology.

Unlike Ti-85 the unit has an upgraded Zi log Z80 15 MHZ processor and 128 KB RAM, providing enough memory to run the programs without glitches.

What makes Ti-84 different from its predecessors is its easy-to-use interface. Its math print technology allows you to insert the equations and their expressions in proper math format.

Its captivating 320×240 pixels high-resolution LCD visualizes results in a readable form.

Among its pre-loaded apps, graphing is one of the vital functions the unit offers. Ti-84 calculator uses an advanced interface to plot iconic graphing and inequality graphing.

This calculator can draw graphs in six patterns namely scatter, box-and-whisker, XY-line, histogram, and normal probability plots.

The split-screen function previews the equation, its graph, and the coordinates. At the same time. Along with that one can navigate to any point on the graph.

Ti-84 Plus can solve the negative of complex numbers, a function that all the previous Ti models lacked.

The Ti-84 calculator, renowned for its advanced features and reliable performance, is powered by four AAA alkaline batteries, ensuring prolonged usage without frequent battery replacements.

One silver oxide battery is also included to back up the data in case of battery failure.

This calculator also has an I/O port with a USB port to transfer data to your computer.

Pros

  • The device is three times faster than its predecessors.
  • It provides ample functions at such an economical price.
  • The backlit screen makes the device easier to work in dim light.
  • The unit has a maximum storage of 128kb.
  • Its I/O port helps it to communicate with other Ti devices.
  • The unit supports almost all the apps of Ti models specifically ti-83.
  • It is approved for PSAT, SAT, and ACT.

Cons

  • It is a non-rechargeable device.
  • Its monochrome screen can be damaged if under pressure.

FAQS

Is Ti-84 Plus an older version or Ti-85?

Ti-84 Plus was launched several years after the Ti-85 calculator.

Is there any major difference in the working of Ti-85 and Ti-84 Plus?

Yes, Ti-85 is specifically designed for the basic calculations of engineering and calculus. The graphing functions provided by this device are limited and obsolete.

However, Ti-84 is equipped with advanced graphing technology. Moreover, it is flooded with the essential features to compute math, statistics, calculus, trigonometry, algebra, differential and integral equations, etc.

Verdict, Ti-85 or Ti-84?

The Ti-84 Plus outshines the older Ti-85 calculator with its superior features and user-friendly interface. With a more advanced processor and a broader range of functions, the Ti-84 Plus is a powerhouse for tackling complex equations and mathematical tasks.

While the Ti-85 excels in its expansive display, the Ti-84 Plus offers a comprehensive package that justifies its slightly higher price point. If you’re seeking a calculator to handle intricate equations with ease, investing in the Ti-84 Plus is undoubtedly worthwhile.

Also Read About:

  • Casio fx 9750gii vs Ti 84 Plus CE
  • Difference between Ti 83 Plus and Ti 84 Plus calculator
  • Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro Review
  • Free Online Math-Solving Tools

Ti-85 VS Ti-84 Calculator - Which One to Go With? - Calculator Advice (3)

Sheema Ahmed

Sheema Ahmed is a passionate writer and educator, specializing in crafting content tailored for individuals preparing for challenging exams such as CSS, SAT, and ACT. Born with a fervour for education, Sheema’s journey began at Hazara University, where she graduated with distinction, solidifying her commitment to academic excellence.

Ti-85 VS Ti-84 Calculator - Which One to Go With? - Calculator Advice (2024)

FAQs

Is the TI-89 better than the TI-84 Plus CE? ›

While the TI-89 is more expensive, it also has the most powerful processor (for the Titanium version). Yet, while we do find strength in numbers, it is important to understand that the difference in computing speed is not likely something you will notice while you are using any of the above-mentioned devices.

What replaced the TI 85 calculator? ›

The TI-85 is a graphing calculator made by Texas Instruments based on the Zilog Z80 microprocessor. Designed in 1992 as TI's second graphing calculator (the first was the TI-81), it was replaced by the TI-86, which has also been discontinued.

Should I buy TI-84 Plus or CE? ›

TI-84 Plus CE: The TI-84 Plus CE offers a more generous 3MB of user memory, allowing for more apps, programs, and data storage. This makes it a better choice for those who require extensive storage capacity.

Are TI-86 calculators still used? ›

The TI-86 has been discontinued.

Why is the TI-84 so popular? ›

We are here to tell you that part of the TI 84s popularity is the fact that you can easily use it as a quadratic solver. We have devised a set of tips, tricks, and instructions - a sort of quadratic equation tutorial for dummies.

What graphing calculator should I buy for college? ›

Graphing calculator: For engineering, computer science, physics, or other majors that require extensive math and graphing capabilities, a graphing calculator is essential. Texas Instruments and Casio both make graphing calculators, with the TI-84 Plus and Casio fx-9750GII being popular choices.

Is TI-86 better than TI-84? ›

Compared to the TI-84, it has a bigger screen (128×64 pixels), uses long variable names (up to 6 symbols), and has superior handling of matrices, lists, and vectors. Compared to the TI-89 and the Voyage 200, the TI-86 has a much more intuitive interface, especially when programming your own functions and programs.

Is the TI-84 outdated? ›

Texas Instruments has enjoyed a near monopoly on graphing calculators for nearly three decades. But new technology may be threatening the company's empire. Texas Instrument's best-selling graphing calculator, the TI-84, is a woefully outdated piece of technology.

Are TI-84 calculators overpriced? ›

The TI-84 Plus C Silver Edition is slightly more expensive than the base model, has a color screen, rechargeable battery and significantly more memory. Even with a 320×240 pixel screen, 128 kilobytes RAM and 4 megabytes ROM, overall the TI-84 line of calculators appears unnecessarily expensive given the components.

What is the most popular TI calculator? ›

The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE is a popular and widely used graphing calculator designed for high school and college students.

What is the difference between TI calculators? ›

TI graphing calculators come in a variety of models, with the biggest differences between devices being symbolic math capabilities and the amount of RAM and ROM space available. (To learn more about RAM and ROM, take a look at our article on RAM vs. ROM on TI Calculators.)

What is a TI-83 calculator used for? ›

Easy-to-use graphing calculator for math and science that lets students graph and compare functions, as well as perform data plotting and analysis. Its Flash™ ROM memory allows students to update and add software applications (apps).

Is the TI-89 Titanium worth it? ›

Why I recommend the TI-89 Titanium. The first reason to use the TI-89 Titanium is its feature set. This is one of the most advanced graphing calculators ever made. Its CAS will allow you to solve very advanced problems where a TI-84 or Casio Prizm, neither of which has a CAS, won't cut it.

Is the TI-86 better than the TI-84 Plus? ›

Compared to the TI-84, it has a bigger screen (128×64 pixels), uses long variable names (up to 6 symbols), and has superior handling of matrices, lists, and vectors. Compared to the TI-89 and the Voyage 200, the TI-86 has a much more intuitive interface, especially when programming your own functions and programs.

Can you put games on a TI-89? ›

Install it on your computer and grab your GraphLink Connection cable (USB cable) to plug in your calculator. Then you can start downloading any of our programs and games (Wow! There's a lot!) from our libraries to transfer and install them to your calculator. Have fun!

What can a TI-89 do? ›

Solve equations symbolically; factor and expand variable expressions; complete the square; and find anti-derivatives, computer limits and exact solutions in irrational forms on a powerful CAS platform.

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