AP Physics students need calculators that can handle scientific notation, trigonometry, exponents, roots and multi-step science problems. A scientific calculator works for many students, while graphing calculators may help with visualizing functions and data.

Recommended Features

Scientific notation: Important for physics values.
Trig functions: Useful for vectors and motion problems.
Graphing support: Helpful for data and function analysis.
Exam approval: Confirm AP rules before test day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to common questions about this product category.

A scientific or graphing calculator is useful for AP Physics, depending on course rules and student preference.

Yes, scientific notation is very useful for AP Physics calculations.

Comparison Table

Model	Brand	Action
Sharp EL-W516TBSL Advanced Scientific Calculator with WriteView™ 4 Line Display & Solar Power	Sharp	Details View at Retailer
Texas Instruments BA II Plus Professional Financial Calculator	Texas Instruments	Details View at Retailer
Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Color Graphing Calculator, Mint	Texas Instruments	Details View at Retailer
Sharp 12-Digit Print Calculator Desktop Size Adding Machine, Perfect for Everyday Use and Office, Bright, Large Easy-to-Read Numbers on Both the Display and the Two-Color Printed Tape (EL2196BL)	Sharp	Details View at Retailer
Casio FX-9910CW-PK-W-IT Scientific Calculator	Casio	Details View at Retailer
Casio fx-CG100 ClassWiz Color Graphing Calculator with 3D Graph & Python \| Large High-Res Display, Basic & Advanced Functions \| Ideal for Exams, STEM, Programming & Advanced	Casio	Details View at Retailer
Casio fx-300ES Plus 2nd Edition - Standard Scientific Calculator \| 262 Functions, Natural Textbook Display \| Ideal for Middle School, High School Math, Statistics & Algebra \| Blue	Casio	Details View at Retailer
CATIGA Financial Calculator Business Analyst Master, TVM, IRR, NPV, Cash Flow, Amortization & Break-Even, Perfect for Real Estate, Banking, Accounting & Finance Professionals, 10-Digit LCD, CF-300	CATIGA	Details View at Retailer
Scientific Calculator, w/Equation Recall, 3-1/5" x 6-1/10" x 3/4", Sold as 1 each	Texas Instruments	Details View at Retailer
Scientific Calculators with Graphing Calculator, iPepul Desktop Math Calculator for College Students, 10 Modes/ 4 Graphing Functions, School Supplies for Middle High School Teachers Office	iPepul	Details View at Retailer
Casio fx-55PLUS Fraction Calculator – Elementary/Middle School Math Made Easy \| Fractions, Mixed Numbers, Simplification \| Great for Classroom Learning	Casio	Details View at Retailer
Victor 1190 Executive Desktop Calculator, 12-Digit LCD	Victor	Details View at Retailer

Top Picks

Buying Notes

AP Physics Calculator Guide

Recommended Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What calculator is best for AP Physics?

Do AP Physics students need scientific notation?

Comparison Table