Which Calculator to Buy

CFA Level I
#1

Hi All,

I was wondering if you guys could give me your opinion of which calculator to buy when sitting the level 1 exam?

Would you recommend the Texas Instruments BA II Plus, or the BA II Plus Professional?

Thanks in advance.

#2

About all the Pro model does that most people will ever use is Net Future Value. It also is easier to change the battery (no need for a screwdriver) on the fly. Other than that, it has much stiffer keys, which some prefer (as an old 2+ user, can;t stand them). So, I’d go with the 2+ (non-professional).

#3

Buy anyone,Proffesional has some added benifits.

But the benifits you can not use in CFA exams.

You can buy 2 Plus

#4

You’re good with either one.

I’m an old school fan of the HP 12 C. It’s a great long-term calculator. Unfortunately, it does have a steeper learning curve. Now isn’t the time to worry about RPN.

#5

My .02 - There is almost no difference between the two calculators. The differences are primarily aesthetic in nature. There are only two functional differences (NFV and battery-changing), and even these will probably never be an issue.

NFV is not tested in CFA exam. In fact, the only time I’ve ever heard of it is when discussing the differences in calculators. I don’t know if you’ll ever use it, even in real life.

It takes 10 minutes to change batteries with the “regular”, and you need a tiny screwdriver. It takes 10 seconds with the Professional, and you don’t need any tools. (But if you change your batteries a week before the exam, then this is a moot point.)

Some people complain bitterly about the “stiffer keys”. I’ve never noticed it.

I think that the display is SLIGHTLY easier to read with the Professional.

The Professional weighs more and has rubber feet, so it doesn’t slide across the desk like the “regular” one. Whether this is an added benefit depends on your preference. (Personally, I like this.)

#6

BA II Plus Professional for me. i like the look it is less nerdy and it’s a one time cost, get one that looks nicer.

#7

+1 for this. I like how the Pro looks on my desk at work.

#8

12C it’s how the old pros use it

#9

Buy whichever one’s on sale.

#10

Don’t buy the 12C.

If you’re on an internet forum asking “Which calculator do I buy”, then you don’t understand how to use the 12C. If you did, then you wouldn’t ask the question.

Let me repeat–do not buy the HP-12C.