TI-84 Plus Color Silver Edition Review
The changes are mostly positive as TI takes another step forward while maintaining the classic system TI-84+ users are accustomed to.
The good:
No steep learning curve from older 82/83/84 models - just a few more additional commands, mainly revolving around color. You can pretty much pick the TI-84+ CSE up and operate it like any other version of the 82/83/84.
15 colors to work with in graphing and drawing.
Rechargeable batteries - and they are much better than TI nSpire CX's. A charge can last a week or better pending on regular use, a day on heavy use (like plotting every point on the graph screen), charges to full quickly.
Backlit screen
Current mode settings are now on top of the screen at all times.
Up to 10 pictures can are stored in archive memory and still be recalled without having to take up RAM.
The not so good:
Decrease in RAM for 24,000 bytes to 21,000 bytes. This really does not affect you unless you do a lot of programming (like me). We still have a TON of archive ROM to store programs away if you don't plan on using them for a while.
Native trig functions still do not support complex numbers.
Graph screen does not take the whole screen - there is a border.
Graphing equations is slightly slower than its predecessors; however it is not a deal breaker.
Price: around $130, depending on vendor. I got mine for $129. Will the TI-84+ CSE replace the monochrome TI-84+ Silver Edition when the color edition hits the mainstream? I do not know.
Worth buying, especially if
(1) you have not purchased an 84+ before,
(2) am a TI and/or calculator enthusiast, or
(3) want a color calculator with a classic operating structure.
Overall, I enjoy using this calculator.
I leave you with this tip and some screen shots.
Tip: Run programs in Classic mode, they run faster than programs ran in MathPrint mode. This is for any TI-84+ models.
Have a great day! Eddie
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2013
