TI-89 graphing calculator for 124$

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the pricing and value of the TI-89 graphing calculator, particularly a clearance deal at Walmart for $124. Participants explore whether this is a good price compared to other retailers and consider the calculator's features in relation to their needs, especially in the context of engineering studies.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that $124 is a good deal compared to prices at other retailers, which range from $140 to $170.
  • There is a discussion about whether to buy the calculator now or wait for a potential price drop, with concerns about stock availability.
  • One participant questions the necessity of the TI-89, suggesting that a less expensive model might suffice for certain needs.
  • Another participant mentions that while the TI-89 has many features, they may not be necessary for all users, particularly those who already own a TI-83.
  • Some participants highlight the advantages of the TI-89, such as its built-in solver and better handling of complex calculations, arguing that it may be worth the investment for engineering students.
  • A participant shares their personal experience of needing a calculator for important tests, which influenced their decision to purchase the TI-89.
  • One participant expresses satisfaction with their purchase of the TI-89 at the discussed price.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the necessity and value of the TI-89 compared to the TI-83, with some advocating for the upgrade while others believe it may not be worth the cost. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best choice for potential buyers.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not provide specific details about their intended use of the calculator, which may influence their opinions on its value and necessity. There is also a lack of consensus on the importance of the additional features of the TI-89 compared to the TI-83.

TMNT
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is that a good deal? Not even opened, its on clearence at a local walmart near my house.
 
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Not bad. I just googled "TI 89" and "sale" and see that Best Buy has them for $150. other stores seem to range from $140 to $170.
 
HallsofIvy said:
Not bad. I just googled "TI 89" and "sale" and see that Best Buy has them for $150. other stores seem to range from $140 to $170.

yah i was bargain hunting around also i saw the same range as you did, but walmart has like about 5-7 in stock, and i doubt it anyone will buy a TI-89, so should I just wait and check back every week to see if the price drops, or should just buy it right now?
 
TMNT said:
yah i was bargain hunting around also i saw the same range as you did, but walmart has like about 5-7 in stock, and i doubt it anyone will buy a TI-89, so should I just wait and check back every week to see if the price drops, or should just buy it right now?

Is 5 or 10 dollars worth the wait while also running the risk that they WILL be sold out? How badly do you want it?
 
Tide said:
Is 5 or 10 dollars worth the wait while also running the risk that they WILL be sold out? How badly do you want it?

i don't need it that badly, but eventually i will need it in the future, i went there to check they got the same quantity and the same price for it, I am just going to check every week, meantime i can also save up money to get it
 
You didn't mention what you would be using the calculator for or what your needs are. A TI-89 could be overkill while a $14 TI-XII30 may be adequate.
 
Tide said:
You didn't mention what you would be using the calculator for or what your needs are. A TI-89 could be overkill while a $14 TI-XII30 may be adequate.

well I'm a civil engineering major, and my uncle is an engineer also whenever he helps me out with tutoring he uses his ti-89 all the time and tells me to get it, cause i will need it eventually

and i already gota ti-83, but he reccommended me getting a ti-89 instead
 
The ti-89 is an amazing calculator but it does have a lot of features i can't see myself ever using. i paid $197CDN for mine, but i think it was worth it.
 
TMNT said:
well I'm a civil engineering major, and my uncle is an engineer also whenever he helps me out with tutoring he uses his ti-89 all the time and tells me to get it, cause i will need it eventually

and i already gota ti-83, but he reccommended me getting a ti-89 instead
the TI-89's are nice, no doubt, but there's not a whole lot more they can do than the 83. i don't think it would be worth the money for the upgrade.

by 89 standards though, that is a pretty good price for a new one.
 
  • #10
i am having one rite now.
I bought it simply because my ti83 was broken 1 week b4 the AP test during my senior year. I passed so many tests with it. Though, i don't get to even touch it at all since that year... It is because now my calculations are done on computer and can be done on computer/by hand only...lol
 
  • #11
syko sykes said:
the TI-89's are nice, no doubt, but there's not a whole lot more they can do than the 83. i don't think it would be worth the money for the upgrade.

by 89 standards though, that is a pretty good price for a new one.
I would have to disagree.

They have a built-in solver. The pretty print makes it a lot easier to read expressions. From what I understand it's able to evaluate derivatives/integrals easier. The overall feel of the calculator is better.

Those are just the basics. There are plenty of other capabilities the 89 has that the 83+ lacks for things like matrices and beyond.

I used an 83+ and I used an 89 and I have to say it just makes sense to get the 89 right away instead of spending the money to upgrade later on.
 
  • #12
hey guys thanks for the input, i really apreciate it, i bought the 89 today, i got it for 124 :smile:
 
  • #13
^ congrats

nice price too

Cowabunga!
 

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