Ti 84 Calculator for Rent

TI-84 Calculator: Rent vs. Buy Calculator

Comparison Results

function calculateRental() { var rate = parseFloat(document.getElementById('rentalRate').value); var duration = parseFloat(document.getElementById('rentalDuration').value); var buyPrice = parseFloat(document.getElementById('purchasePrice').value); var reselling = parseFloat(document.getElementById('resaleValue').value); if (isNaN(rate) || isNaN(duration) || isNaN(buyPrice) || isNaN(reselling)) { alert("Please fill in all fields with valid numbers."); return; } var totalRental = rate * duration; var netOwnership = buyPrice – reselling; var resultsDiv = document.getElementById('resultsArea'); var verdictDiv = document.getElementById('verdict'); resultsDiv.style.display = 'block'; document.getElementById('totalRentalCostDisplay').innerHTML = 'Total Rental Cost: $' + totalRental.toFixed(2); document.getElementById('netPurchaseCostDisplay').innerHTML = 'Net Cost to Own (Buy minus Resale): $' + netOwnership.toFixed(2); var breakEvenMonths = netOwnership / rate; document.getElementById('breakEven').innerText = "Break-even point: If you need the calculator for more than " + breakEvenMonths.toFixed(1) + " months, buying is cheaper."; if (totalRental netOwnership) { verdictDiv.style.backgroundColor = '#fff3cd'; verdictDiv.style.color = '#856404'; verdictDiv.innerHTML = "RESULT: Buying and reselling is cheaper! You save $" + (totalRental – netOwnership).toFixed(2); } else { verdictDiv.style.backgroundColor = '#e2e3e5'; verdictDiv.style.color = '#383d41'; verdictDiv.innerHTML = "RESULT: The costs are identical."; } }

Should You Rent or Buy a TI-84 Plus CE?

The TI-84 Plus graphing calculator remains the gold standard for high school math, college algebra, and standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. However, with a retail price often exceeding $100, many students and parents consider renting a TI-84 calculator instead of purchasing one brand new.

When Renting Makes Sense

Renting a TI-84 is typically the best option if you only need the device for a single semester or a specific exam period. Many online rental services offer monthly rates ranging from $10 to $20. If your course is only 4 months long, your total expenditure would be approximately $60—significantly lower than the upfront cost of a new TI-84 Plus CE.

• Short-term use: Single-semester courses or summer school.
• Budget constraints: Lower upfront cost compared to $120+ for a new unit.
• Maintenance: Rental companies often handle battery issues or malfunctions.

The Case for Buying (and Reselling)

While renting has a lower entry cost, buying a TI-84 can actually be "cheaper" in the long run due to the incredibly high resale value of Texas Instruments hardware. These calculators do not depreciate quickly. A used TI-84 Plus CE often sells for 70-80% of its original price on platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace.

Example Calculation:
If you buy a TI-84 for $120 and sell it a year later for $85, your "net cost" of ownership was only $35. Compared to a year of renting (which could cost $120+), buying is the clear financial winner for long-term students.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Duration: Are you taking multiple math and science courses over the next two years? If yes, buy.
2. Model Requirements: Ensure the rental is a TI-84 Plus CE (color) rather than the older, bulkier TI-84 Plus if you prefer a backlit screen and rechargeable battery.
3. School Policies: Some schools provide free loaner programs; always check with your teacher or media center before spending money.

Common Rental Sources

If you decide renting is the right path, popular sources include specialized calculator rental websites, college bookstores, and some local libraries. Always ensure the rental agreement includes a protective cover and a charging cable, as these are often required for returns.