I know it probably makes me sound very old-fashioned, but I still sometimes use a desk calculator.   I sit in front of a computer all day long, and could use the one that Windows provides.  Heck, even my phone has a built-in calculator.   But I still revert back to my handy desktop model whenever I need to do more than a couple transactions.

The main reason for this is the screen size.  I use Mitaki's "Big Display" model HHBIGCAL.  The 3" x 1" LCD screen is great for my eyes.  And the angle of the screen adjusts.  Once set to the proper angle for my eyes, the display is extremely clear.   

I also like the large keys on this model.  The most frequently used keys (On/Clear, = and +) are twice the size of the other keys.  And, when it was new, I liked the fact that the key labels were written in a bright, bold white, which looked super-clear against the various black, gray, and orange keys.  However, my calculator is now at least 10 years old, and some of the white markings have worn off.  In fact, my decimal point key is completely blank - there's not one speck of the original marking left.  My "4" and my "6" aren't looking too pretty these days, either.   However, the other markings remain clear. 

This is a very basic calculator.  It displays 8 digits and does only the most basic of functions.  This is not a calculator for a physicist or a statistician, or anyone doing complex equations.  This is for someone like myself, who prefers to use a calculator when balancing the checkbook, rather than doing it in my head.  Beyond the basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, there is a square root button, a percentage button, and the basic memory buttons (insert, recall, clear, plus, minus).   Of course, there are the standard C and CE (clear entry) buttons.  But that's it.  Like I said, this is a basic calculator for very basic needs.

Its best feature is that it is solar-powered.  For over 10 years I have used this calculator and never once has it failed to perform for me.  This calculator does turn itself off, when not in use, and I do keep it in a well-lit area.  I'm sure those two things help keep the calculator working, even after all this time.

Mine is so old, I have no idea where I got it, or how much I paid for it.  But similar models sell now, for just a few dollars.  It's amazing that something so cheap can be so useful!  I wouldn't attempt to balance my checkbook without it!

Recommended: Yes

Purchase Price: 5