Casio fx-85GTX Scientific Calculator, Black

This calculator, released in January 2019, is Casio's replacement for the fx 85 GT Plus, which has been the most popular calculator for GCSE Maths in the UK for some years. The new version has many similarities to the old, including its overall size and most functionality. The differences are (1) the carbon fibre look of the front, (2) an improved, larger and higher resolution display, (3) a faster processor, (4) 14 more functions, mostly statistics-related, and (5) tweaks to the configuration options including menus. It is still powered by the combination of a solar cell and a 2032 battery. Casio has also released the similar, and generally slightly cheaper, fx-83 GTX calculator, which differs only in that it has no solar panel, and uses 2 AA batteries. All the other functionality is identical, so this review can be considered to cover that calculator too. Note that this calculator is *not* suitable for A level Maths, which now requires some additional statistics functions in a calculator. Get the Casio fx-991EX or a graphics calculator for A level Maths. The fx-95 GTX is still fine for A level science subjects requiring a calculator. At university level, it's hard to generalise, but this calculator can be recommended for many courses that require one. What is the competition like? Casio's own fx-991EX has a number of additional functions and is suitable for A level Maths too (as mentioned above) and is allowed by all the exam boards for GCSE, although not all schools seem to have got the memo on this. The other mainstream manufacturers of suitable calculators for GCSE are Sharp and Texas Instruments, each of which have various decent models. While I love my HP calculators, they are not very competitive in this particular market. You probably do not want to buy a GCSE scientific calculator from anybody other than the first 3 manufacturers listed: there are very basic, even cheaper, scientific calculators around which are almost invariably a false economy. Casio dominates the GCSE calculator market with good reason. They produce robust cheap calculators with just the right level of functionality. I can see no reason why this new model wouldn't be the new best seller. In summary, if you already have a Casio fx-85GT Plus (or fx-83GT Plus) there's no urgent need to upgrade to this new one. But if you are buying a calculator for GCSE Maths for the first time, or replacing a lost one, this is the safe choice, and will be absolutely ubiquitous before long.

Nice product in perfect conditions

As always from Casio, they never fail to make brilliant calculators! Throughout my academic career, I have always used Casio calculators, particularly the older “FX-83GT” model during my GCSE & A-Level Exams. Now in university, I decided to invest in a brand new calculator, this time choosing the newer “FX-85GTX” mode with a solar panel, hopefully making it last longer. Upon quick arrival, the calculator is packed very well, in a nice, compact box. It comes with a nice shell which matches the colour of the calculator to protect it when not in use, like the original! The calculator itself is very nice also! I like the newer dark grey colour, as opposed to the lighter grey colour of the older model. In addition, the pink ‘ALPHA’ buttons are a nice touch! It comes with all the essential functions that would be required in GCSE, A Level and Higher Education exams (excluding A Level and Higher Mathematics, obviously). Overall, I would definitely recommend this product, especially for such a low price (at the time of this review it was £11.00)!

My son had a private tutor this has been a great tool in preparation for maths and science exams. Has all the scientific needs and is very robust. Great bit of kit and great value for money

It's easy to use and is recommended by my daughter's school. These calculators are accepted in British exams that permit use of a calculator. It's light, which is important in a school bag. The range of functions is excellent. It can work with fractions directly. The solar cell should reduce spending on batteries. My only criticism is that the cover is removeable, which means it will probably be lost within about a week !

I bought this for a University module in Maths and it is ideal. The calculator is simple to use, once you get used to the multiple functions it has to offer, and the dual power mode (battery and solar power) means that there is plenty of life in the product. The display is nice and clear and the results are interchangeable, making it perfect for all types of comples calculations. This calculator is also valid for all exams in the UK, so is a good value product for both course work and exams.

Its a calculator just think about it, it adds up

I only wanted a very easy straightforward calculator for my needs but I have now familiarised myself with it. Does seem a little complicated for setting up for more difficult tasks but probably ideal for students and school children as it is authorised for use in all major exams. Has a good look and feel about it and it is made by Casio the calculator experts.