The Ultimate FE Exam Calculator Selector

Don’t guess. Find the NCEES-approved calculator that’s perfect for you.

Find the Best Calculator for the FE Exam

What is the Best Calculator for the FE Exam?

Choosing the best calculator for the FE exam is not about finding the most powerful calculator on the market; it’s about selecting from a very specific list of approved devices. The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) maintains a strict calculator policy to ensure fairness and exam integrity. Bringing a non-approved calculator, like a TI-89 or any graphing calculator, will result in you not being able to use it. The best calculator is one that is on this approved list, that you are deeply familiar with, and that has the functions you need to solve problems efficiently. Your goal should be to make the calculator an extension of your own problem-solving skills, not a hurdle to overcome during the high-pressure exam.

How This Recommendation Works

Since there isn’t a single “best” model for everyone, this tool acts as a decision helper. It uses a set of rules based on the factors most engineering students consider when making a choice. Instead of a mathematical formula, it uses logic to suggest a model based on your stated preferences for brand familiarity and key features.

Decision Factors for the FE Exam Calculator Selector

Variable	Meaning	Unit	Typical Range
Brand Preference	The manufacturer you are most comfortable using.	Categorical	Any, Casio, Texas Instruments, HP
Feature Priority	The main factor driving your decision.	Categorical	Power, Ease of Use, Cost

Practical Examples

Example 1: The TI loyalist who wants power

A student has used Texas Instruments calculators throughout college and is very comfortable with their input style. They want the most powerful and feature-rich TI calculator allowed.

• Inputs: Brand Preference = Texas Instruments, Feature Priority = Most Features & Power
• Recommended Result: The Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro.
• Reasoning: It’s the top-tier approved TI model, known for its excellent multi-line display and robust set of functions, including matrix and vector operations.

Example 2: The budget-conscious student with no brand preference

An engineer-in-training is looking for a reliable, NCEES-approved calculator that gets the job done without a high price tag. They have no previous attachment to any brand.

• Inputs: Brand Preference = No Preference, Feature Priority = Best Value / Lowest Cost
• Recommended Result: The Casio fx-115ES Plus.
• Reasoning: This calculator offers an incredible range of functions for its price point, including a natural textbook display, and is one of the most popular and affordable options for the FE exam.

Comparison of Top FE Exam Calculators

To help you understand the landscape, here is a comparison of the top contenders. All these models are approved by NCEES.

Comparison of NCEES-Approved Calculators

Model	Brand	Key Strengths	Best For
TI-36X Pro	Texas Instruments	Excellent multi-line “MathPrint” display, intuitive interface, strong solver capabilities.	Users familiar with TI, and those who want a powerful all-around option.
Casio fx-115ES Plus	Casio	“Natural Display” shows equations as written, great value, comprehensive functions.	Budget-conscious users and those who prefer Casio’s display style.
Casio fx-991EX	Casio	Higher resolution screen than the fx-115ES, faster processor, includes a spreadsheet mode.	Users wanting the most powerful approved Casio.
HP 35s	Hewlett-Packard	Supports both RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) and algebraic entry, programmable.	Engineers who prefer RPN entry or need light programmability.

Chart: Relative feature score of top recommended calculators. This is a qualitative assessment for comparison.

How to Use This FE Exam Calculator Selector

1. Select Your Brand Preference: Choose the calculator brand you have the most experience with. If you have none, select “No Preference.” Familiarity with the button layout can save critical seconds on exam day.
2. Choose Your Priority: Decide what matters most. Do you want the model with the most built-in solvers and functions (“Most Features & Power”), the one that’s easiest to pick up and learn (“Easiest to Learn”), or the most cost-effective option (“Best Value”)?
3. Click “Find My Calculator”: Our tool will process your choices and provide a primary recommendation along with a brief explanation.
4. Review the Results: The output will give you a specific model name and the rationale behind the choice. It’s the first step in finding the best calculator for your FE exam preparation.

Key Factors That Affect Your Choice

• NCEES Approval: This is non-negotiable. Your calculator MUST be on the NCEES list. The current policy allows specific models from Casio (fx-115 and fx-991 series), Texas Instruments (TI-30X and TI-36X series), and HP (HP 33s and HP 35s).
• Familiarity and Speed: The exam is timed. Using a calculator you know well is a significant advantage. Don’t switch brands a week before the exam.
• Display Type: Multi-line or “textbook” displays that show your entire equation are highly recommended. They make it easier to spot input errors.
• Solver Capabilities: Top-tier approved models can solve systems of equations, derivatives, and integrals numerically, which can be a huge time-saver.
• Power Source: Some calculators are battery-only, while others are dual-powered (solar with a battery backup). A dual-power model provides extra peace of mind.
• Key Layout: The physical feel and layout of the keys can impact your speed and accuracy. This is a matter of personal preference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a graphing calculator like the TI-89 or TI-Nspire?

No. All graphing calculators are explicitly banned by the NCEES calculator policy. Their advanced capabilities, including storing text and graphing functions, are considered an unfair advantage.

2. What is the most popular calculator for the FE exam?

The Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro and the Casio fx-115ES Plus are widely considered the two most popular choices due to their powerful features, ease of use, and competitive pricing.

3. Do I need to know how to use every function on my calculator?

While you don’t need to be a master of every single function, you should be proficient with all the core operations: trigonometry, logarithms, matrix operations, and especially the numerical solvers for integrals and systems of equations. Practice is key. For more information, check out our fe exam study guide.

4. What happens if I bring a non-approved calculator to the exam?

You will not be allowed to use it. Test center staff will check your calculator, and if it’s not on the approved list, you will have to take the exam without it or use the basic on-screen digital calculator.

5. Is the HP 35s a good choice?

The HP 35s is an excellent and powerful calculator, but it’s primarily for users who are comfortable with Reverse Polish Notation (RPN). If you don’t know what RPN is, it’s better to stick with a Casio or TI model.

6. Is there an on-screen calculator available during the exam?

Yes, a digital version of the TI-30XS is available on-screen during the exam. However, it is far less efficient to use than a physical calculator. You should always bring an approved handheld calculator you are familiar with.

7. Where should I buy my calculator?

Approved calculators are widely available from online retailers like Amazon, as well as office supply and big-box stores. Be sure to purchase it early to give yourself plenty of time for practice. Need help with the exam itself? Look into our ncees calculator policy page.

8. Should I clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?

Yes, it’s a good practice and may be required by the proctors. The HP models have programming capability, and although limited, you must clear all programs before entering the exam room.