Looking for the best accounting calculator? In this post, we’ll detail everything you need to know about our favorites, runner ups, and value picks to help you find your next accounting calculator.
In the financial industry, tax accountants and mortgage brokers alike have to be able to compute a lot of different functions depending on the demands of the job. Accounting is more than just simple math because there are plenty of financial aspects that need their own functions so that the accountant will be able to calculate for their values in a quick, efficient, and precise manner.
Moreover, even if you are not a professional working in the financial industry, you still need to use a tool that can help make things easier for you if you are a student looking to work as an accountant or as a financial analyst in the future. That said, the best way for you to do your job well if you are in the financial industry is to use the best calculator for accountants available in the market today.
If you want to just get back to studying, get our top pick for the best accounting calculator here.
Last update: 2024-05-03
Our Favorites for Best Accounting Calculator (the best out of the bunch)
HP 12C Platinum Calculator
The HP 12C Platinum Calculator is the upgraded version of the well-celebrated accounting calculator, the 12C, which has been one of the best-used products in the financial industry in the last three decades. This is an astounding accomplishment given that the 12C really does not have a lot of flashy features that make it stand out. It is just so popular simply because it does what it is supposed to do in the most effective manner.
What makes the 12C Platinum one of the more popular accounting calculators on the market is that it has about 130 different financial functions that are quite easy to access with just a few strokes. It also has enough memory to allow it to save up to 80 cash flows and a total of about 400 steps in all of its financial functions.
Moreover, the 12C Platinum also allows you to edit the values of your input simply with a press of a button so that it will be easy for you to make sure that you have the precise values when you are computing for taxes, investment values, loan expenses, and etc. Adding to its versatility, it allows you to enter values algebraically.
Speed and durability are essential when it comes to the fast-paced financial industry. In that regard, the 12C Platinum can calculate different financial functions up to six times faster than its competitors. And top it all off, it still retains the same shock-resistant build and long-life battery that has made the original 12C one of the best that the market has ever offered. It can survive a hard fall on concrete and will more than likely last on one single battery life for an entire decade.
That said, the HP 12C Platinum will help you do your job effectively without all the fuss and the complicated features that come with other calculators. And when you factor in how durable and long-lasting of a product it is, there is no wondering why it has been around for a long time.
What makes it unique:
- It is much faster than most other accounting calculators on the market.
- Quite durable and can survive with a few cracks and scratches if it falls on hard concrete.
Why choose this accounting calculator:
- It does not come with a lot of fuss but it will help you do your job effectively and efficiently.
- It is an upgraded version of a time-tested product that many financial experts have been using for decades.
- Keystroke programming, up to 400 steps
- Simple, easy-to-read 1-line-by-10-character display
- Rpn and algebraic data entry
Last update: 2024-05-03
Texas Instruments BAIIPLUS Financial Calculator
When it comes to the calculator industry, the name Texas Instruments has always been synonymous with efficiency and top-of-the-line features. The BAIIPLUS Financial Calculator continues that trend as this accounting calculator comes with different advanced features that all make it a breeze for the accountant to do his or her job. It also serves as a good scientific calculator for accounting students.
The one thing that makes the BAIIPLUS stand out is that it is effective at doing both financial and standard or basic math. If you are focusing on the advanced financial functions, you can benefit well from its worksheet mode, which allows you to set up amortization, depreciation, and bond tables in a way that is organized and very easy for the eyes. To that end, you do not have to use a computer or a manual written table since all you need is one advanced calculator to do the job for you.
You will also find that the BAIIPLUS has all the essential financial functions such as cash flow analysis, depreciation, amortization, interest rate conversion, and etc. On top of that, it is quite powerful in terms of its computing capabilities and its memory. It can store previous worksheets so that you do not have to manually input them again later on.
Other than its advanced and fundamental functions, you will also appreciate the basic yet enjoyable aspects of the BAIIPLUS. This accounting calculator has an easy-to-read 10-digit screen that is easy to read. Its battery is not the best in the market but it does well at conserving power because of its automatic shutdown function, which saves you money in the long run. And, of course, it comes with a slide case that improves its durability.
The BAIIPLUS is simply a reliable accounting calculator that professionals and students alike can enjoy using because of its functionality and its overall appeal as a tool used for businesses and financial courses. It has everything you need to get things started and to do get the job done without the hassle and the heavy price tag.
What makes it unique:
- Comes with a worksheet mode that allows you to tabulate different functions and values.
- The battery has an automatic off function that is great for conserving power.
Why choose this accounting calculator:
- It mixes price, durability, and functionality really well in one single package.
- The advanced features make it easier for you to do your job and to calculate different financial functions.
- BAII Plus Financial Calculator, 10-Digit LCD
Last update: 2024-05-03
The Runners-Up for Best Accounting Calculators (still good but a little lacking)
Calculated Industries 3405 Real Estate Master IIIX
While this was not made to be used as an accounting calculator, the Calculated Industries 3405 Real Estate Master IIIX is still effective for accountants and students who are trying to make it into the financial industry. That is because it comes with basic functions that work well for accountants but excels more for those working as mortgage and real estate professionals.
The 3405 Real Estate Master IIIX has all the basic tax and insurance functions that allow accountants to compute for those values in an effective manner. You can also easily calculate mortgage payments as well as interest with just a few strokes of the keys. And since it was made primarily for real estate professionals, you can calculate sales price and downpayments instantly. The calculator can even store your local tax and insurance rates for a more customized use so that you no longer have to manually input the rates whenever you are using this calculator.
You will also find that the 3405 Real Estate Master IIIX is very comfortable to use as its keys are soft to the touch and are not difficult to press down. It does not come with a rechargeable battery but it has a battery life that lasts quite long especially if you factor in its very affordable price tag.
Although its functions were made for mortgage and real estate accountants can still very much benefit from this calculator as it makes it easier for them to solve for values related to mortgage. Moreover, the automatic tax and insurance rates save a lot of time for those who do not want to manually input interest rates on a consistent basis. Of course, because of how affordable it is, it is a good basic option for accountants, real estate professionals, and students alike. It might not necessarily be the best calculator for bookkeepers or the best calculator for accounting classes but it covers the necessities and checks all the basic boxes.
What makes it unique:
- It comes equipped with functions that were specifically made for real estate professionals and for those calculating for mortgage rates and related values.
- Comes with a function that automatically solves prices while factoring interest and insurance rates.
Why choose this accounting calculator:
- Great for those who are working as accountants in the real estate industry.
- Makes life easy for you because of how it already saves interest and insurance rates.
- DEDICATED FUNCTION KEYS means quickly and confidently providing financial answers and options for your clients, whether in the office, in the car or at an open house. Compare loan options and provide payment solutions to give your client choices
- INSTANTLY SOLVE the financial questions your clients have whether they are buyers, investors or renters; increase your perceived professionalism and close more home sales by quickly answering real estate finance problems including remaining balances
- SPEAKS YOUR LANGUAGE with keys labeled in residential real estate finance terms like Loan Amt, Int, Term, Pmt; calculator is super easy to use as an analyst on financing matters to determine a mortgage loan that works for your client
Last update: 2024-05-02
Canon Office Products HS-1200TS Business Calculator
If you are looking for a basic and affordable option for your accounting calculator needs, the Canon Office Products HS-1200TS Business Calculator is a solid choice that can be used all around not only by account professionals and students but also by businessmen and by those who simply who to make financial computations easy.
The HS-1200TS has all of the basic business functions that even accountants need on a regular basis. It allows you to solve for taxes effectively and efficiently while also carrying a cost/sell/margin functionality for those who are doing accounting for a business. That makes it a very versatile calculator to use whether you are still a student, running your own business, or doing simple accounting for a startup.
In terms of its design, there are a lot of things to like about the HS-1200TS. This calculator was ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the palm of your hands. Pressing the keys is also very easy as the keys are large enough to prevent you from accidentally pressing them. You could say that the keys feel like laptop keys because of their size. As such, it will easy for you to input numbers without committing mistakes that could very well adversely affect your job and the business you are doing accounting for.
Of course, the display was also designed ergonomically. It comes with a tilted angle view that makes it easy for you to see the 12-digit display without having to move or tilt your head forward. Moreover, the numbers are large enough that you can see them from several feet away. This makes it a calculator that is simply very pleasing to use regardless of its functions.
Overall, the HS-1200TS will not wow you with its features and its power but will make you fall in love with its thoughtful, ergonomic, and simple yet appealing look and feel. It does not do a lot but it has all the basic features and the great design that makes it more than worth the light price tag it comes with.
What makes it unique:
- Comes equipped with basic business and tax functions.
- Ergonomically designed to make it easy for your eyes to read.
- Keys are pretty large and are very easy to press while minimizing errors.
Why choose this accounting calculator:
- It is affordable and effective while sporting an appealing design that will make up for its lack of advanced features.
- Ideal for all-around use because of how students, businessmen, and accountants alike can find it very useful and efficient.
- Profit margin calculation
- Quick and easy tax calculation
- Square root, sign change, and memory keys
Last update: 2024-05-02
The Value Pick for the Best Accounting Calculator (good and affordable)
Casio DM-1200BM Business Calculator
When going for a basic calculator you can use for business and simple accounting, you really do not have to choose the most basic type of calculator that fits your budget because the Casio DM-1200BM Business Calculator is there for your needs. It might be tagged as a basic business calculator but the DM-1200BM has more than enough features that make it the best choice for you if you are looking for something that does not come with a hefty price tag.
Made by Casio, another world leader in the calculator industry, the DM-1200BM has a lot of basic features that will allow you to do simple accounting jobs for a startup business and for your own personal finances. It allows you to calculate for profit margin percent, taxes, as well as do basic cost/sell/margin calculations.
Aside from its basic functions, the other appealing aspect of the DM-1200B is its design. The screen really looks like it was made to be very friendly to the user. It has a 12-digit display that has numbers that are clear and large enough for anyone to see from a few feet away. Moreover, the screen is also tilted at an angle that makes it very visible so that you no longer have to be the one to tilt forward just to see the values on the screen.
Meanwhile, it comes with keys that are large and easy to press so that data entry comes efficient and precise enough to prevent you from making any costly mistakes. It also does not move around so much because of how its rubber feet make it very stable on top of any desk. And lastly, you do not have to always worry about its battery running out because it comes with a solar-powered backup battery.
So, if you are looking for a no-fuss basic calculator for your basic accounting needs, look no further than the DM-1200B. It is simple, sturdy, efficient, and very friendly towards users who want to perform basic accounting functions for small businesses or for personal finances. It certainly will not surprise you but everything it comes with will make you think that it should be worth more than its very affordable and light price.
What makes it unique:
- Has a large and ergonomically designed display that makes it easy for you to see the numbers.
- Comes with large keys that allow you to press the numbers precisely while minimizing the risk of making mistakes.
Why choose this accounting calculator:
- It does not come with a heavy price tag but comes with a well-designed build and has functions that are ideal for basic accounting.
- This calculator is very easy to use and is quite friendly towards most types of users.
- Extra Large 12 Digit Display
- Cost/Sell/Margin & Tax Keys
- Desktop Calculator with kick stand
Last update: 2024-05-02
FAQ When Buying Accounting Calculators
Why Buy an Accounting Calculator?
The main reason why you need to buy an accounting calculator is that it has functions and features that were made to be geared towards solving different types of accounting and financial problems. While regular calculators will be enough to help you solve the basic mathematical problems in accounting, the more advanced problems will require you to do advanced computations that will take time when you use regular or scientific calculators. In that regard, it is highly recommended that you use a calculator that was specifically made for accounting, business, or finance.
What are the Key Advantages and Disadvantages of an Accounting Calculator?
Advantages:
- Has functions and features that were made for accounting and financial problems.
- Comes with affordable prices that make them a lot cheaper than the scientific calculators used by math and engineering students.
- They were made to be very easy to use and will not require you to have an advanced knowledge in math to know how to use them.
- Most of them are light and portable enough for you to carry around.
Disadvantages:
- Using an accounting calculator on a regular basis and even on very simple mathematical and accounting problems will make you tend to rely on the calculator too much that you will forget how to do basic math.
- They do not come with the more advanced mathematical features of scientific calculators.
- You might not be able to use them in problems that are not related to accounting, finance, or business.
Does Battery Life Matter for an Accounting Calculator?
For the most part, battery life matters when it comes to accounting calculators because of how most accountants and people working in the financial industry tend to work on these calculators for extended periods of time. Accounting problems and financial computations will take time because of all the numbers and processes involved. In that sense, you may have to use them for several hours straight. That means that battery life does matter because you do not want the calculator suddenly dying out in you in the middle of a series of complicated computations.
Other Considerations When Choosing an Accounting Calculator
- Choose an accounting calculator that is somewhere within the $40 to $60 range because these are the ones that come equipped with the right functions and are not too heavy on your wallet.
- Make sure to buy an accounting calculator that you can use for the CPA, CFA, and CFP EXAMS.
- Always see to it that the accounting calculator comes with the basic accounting keys (TAX, Currency Conversion, COST/SELL/MARGIN).
Summary for Best Accounting Calculators
Wrapping everything up, here are the accounting calculators we went over today:
Last update: 2024-05-03
It is important to note that accounting calculators actually exist to make life easier for accountants and for those studying to be one. In that case, the best accounting calculators should be able to help you perform tasks and solve problems in the most efficient and precise way possible because a simple mistake in work or in a problem can ultimately lead to losses and bigger errors.
As simple as the HP 12C Platinum might look like, there is a reason why its predecessor has long been the favorite for accountants or experts in the financial world. It is straightforward, easy to use, durable, and has already covered all the basics you need from an accounting calculator. The Texas Instruments BAIIPLUS is also just as reliable because of its power, functions, and versatility as a good calculator for accountants and for normal everyday use.
If those two choices are not available or if they are too expensive for you, the Calculated Industries 3405 Real Estate Master IIIX and the Canon Office Products HS-1200TS Business Calculator are solid choices that might not have the same features as our top picks but will also serve accountants and accounting students really well. But if budget is really an issue, then the Casio DM-1200BM Business Calculator is the friendliest choice because it is not only affordable but is quite appealing in terms of its functions and its design as well.
Did you find this helpful? If so, you may enjoy our other calculator and school supplies reviews here.
You may find our guides on the best programmable calculators or best financial calculators also useful.
