In the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, a graphical display calculator is an essential tool for many math and science courses. Two popular choices for GDCs are the TI nspire and the Casio fx-CG50. In this post, we will compare these two GDCs in the context of courses offered in IBDP.
- Display and User Interface:
The Casio fx-CG50 has a color LCD screen with a resolution of 384 x 216 pixels, while the TI nspire has a larger screen with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. The TI nspire has a touchpad and a touch-sensitive screen, while the Casio fx-CG50 has a touch screen. Both GDCs have menus and submenus that allow users to access various functions and commands.
- Functionality:
Both the TI nspire and the Casio fx-CG50 have a wide range of functions and features, including graphing, geometry, calculus, statistics, and programming. However, the TI nspire has a more advanced programming language and more powerful computational capabilities. It also has a built-in CAS (Computer Algebra System), which allows for symbolic manipulation and solving equations. The Casio fx-CG50, on the other hand, has a more user-friendly interface and simpler programming language, making it easier for beginners to use.
- Exam Mode:
IBDP exams have strict rules regarding the use of GDCs. Both the TI nspire and the Casio fx-CG50 have an exam mode that disables certain functions and features to comply with these rules. However, the Casio fx-CG50 has a more user-friendly exam mode, as it simply displays a message on the screen to indicate that it is in exam mode, while the TI nspire requires a specific key combination to activate exam mode.
- Price:
The Casio fx-CG50 is generally less expensive than the TI nspire, making it a more affordable option for students.
In conclusion, both the TI nspire and the Casio fx-CG50 are powerful and versatile GDCs that are suitable for IBDP courses. The TI nspire has more advanced programming capabilities and a built-in CAS, making it a better choice for advanced math and science courses. However, the Casio fx-CG50 has a more user-friendly interface and is more affordable, making it a better choice for beginners or those on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between these two GDCs will depend on the user’s needs and preferences. I personally recommend if you are doing MAA HL and MAI HL then TI nspire will be a better choice. For the other courses Casio is good as it is more affordable.
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