Best Calculators for Middle School Students
The best calculators for middle school students are scientific calculators, such as the TI-30XS MultiView. They handle fractions, exponents and square roots, and teachers usually allow them. Grade 6 students can start with a fraction calculator. A graphing calculator is only worth it if your child takes Algebra 1 in grade 8.
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Quick picks
| Need | Our pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best overall | TI-30XS MultiView | Shows fractions and exponents like a textbook. Lasts into high school. |
| Grade 6 | TI-34 MultiView | Simpler than a full scientific calculator, with strong fraction tools |
| More features | Casio fx-991CW ClassWiz | A sharp display and many functions for the price |
| Lowest price | Helect two-line scientific calculator | A basic two-line scientific calculator for a spare or a locker |
| Algebra 1 in grade 8 | TI-84 Plus CE | The graphing calculator high schools use |
How to choose a calculator for middle school
- Check the supply list. Many middle schools name one model so the teacher can show the same keys to everyone.
- Get a scientific calculator. Grades 7 and 8 use exponents, square roots, negative numbers and scientific notation. A basic calculator can’t do these well.
- Look for a “MultiView” or textbook-style display. Seeing the whole problem, with fractions stacked, helps kids catch typing mistakes.
- Wait on a graphing calculator. Most middle school classes don’t need one. Buy it when your child starts Algebra 1 or Algebra 2.
Our picks for middle school
TI-30XS MultiView
Our top pick for grades 6 to 8. Its four-line screen shows fractions, exponents and square roots the way they look on paper, and you can scroll back to fix a mistake. It runs on solar and battery power, and it’s allowed on the SAT and ACT later on. This listing includes a protective case.
Best for: most middle school students, and anyone who wants one calculator through Geometry
TI-34 MultiView
A slightly simpler version of the TI-30XS. It’s strong on fractions, mixed numbers and decimals, which are the focus of grade 6. Some students outgrow it by Algebra 1.
Best for: grade 6 and students who mostly need fraction help
Casio fx-991CW ClassWiz
Casio’s ClassWiz has a high-resolution screen and many advanced functions, including an equation solver and tables. It’s more than most middle schoolers need, but it lasts well into high school science.
Best for: advanced students and future science classes
Helect two-line scientific calculator
A low-cost two-line scientific calculator. It covers exponents and square roots, but the display is less clear than the TI and Casio picks. Treat it as a spare.
Best for: a backup calculator for a locker or a second home
TI-84 Plus CE
The TI-84 Plus CE is the graphing calculator most high schools use. Only buy it now if your child takes Algebra 1 in grade 8 and the teacher uses graphing calculators. Otherwise, wait until high school.
Best for: grade 8 Algebra 1 students who will keep it through high school
Basic vs. scientific vs. graphing in middle school
| Type | Can it handle middle school math? | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Only the arithmetic. No exponents, roots or fractions. | Casio SL-300SV |
| Scientific | Yes. Fractions, negatives, exponents, roots and scientific notation. | TI-30XS MultiView |
| Graphing | Yes, but it’s more than most classes need until Algebra 1. | TI-84 Plus CE |
Keep the paper skills strong
Middle school tests often have a no-calculator section. Our lessons teach each skill by hand first, such as fractions, exponents and percentages. Use the calculator to check, not to skip the steps.
Frequently asked questions
Do middle school students need a scientific calculator?
Yes, for most grade 7 and 8 classes. Exponents, square roots and scientific notation need a scientific calculator.
Is the TI-30XS allowed on tests?
It’s allowed on the SAT and ACT, and teachers usually allow it on class tests. Check the rules for your state test.
Should my child get a graphing calculator in middle school?
Only if they take Algebra 1 in grade 8 and the teacher uses one. Otherwise, wait until high school.
More calculator guides
- Best Calculators for Elementary Students
- Best Calculators for High School Students
- Best Calculators for High School and College
- Best Calculators for College Students
- Best Graphing Calculators for School
Not sure which type you need? Start with Calculator Resources, which shows the calculator for each class and the SAT, ACT and AP rules.