When it comes to financial calculations, having a reliable and efficient tool is crucial. Two popular options in the market are the Sharp EL-738FB and the Texas Instruments BA II Plus, both of which are renowned financial calculators. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, capabilities, and differences between these two models to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
Design and Display
The Sharp EL-738FB boasts a sleek and compact design, weighing in at approximately 6 ounces. Its LCD display is clear and easy to read, with a 12-digit capacity that allows for precise calculations. The Texas Instruments BA II Plus, on the other hand, has a slightly larger and more ergonomic design, weighing around 7 ounces. Its 10-digit LCD display is also crisp and readable, although it may not be as spacious as the Sharp's.
Financial Calculations
Both calculators are designed specifically for financial calculations, making them ideal for professionals, students, and individuals who need to perform complex financial tasks. The Sharp EL-738FB excels in calculating amortization schedules, depreciation, and time-value-of-money (TVM) problems. It also features a built-in formula library that includes common financial formulas, such as net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR).
The Texas Instruments BA II Plus, however, is particularly strong in calculating bond yields, stock prices, and options pricing. Its TVM calculations are also highly accurate, and it includes a range of pre-programmed formulas for common financial problems. Additionally, the BA II Plus features a useful "Worksheet" mode that allows users to create and solve complex financial problems using a step-by-step approach.
Keystroke and Navigation
The Sharp EL-738FB has a relatively simple keystroke layout, with dedicated keys for common functions like depreciation and amortization. However, some users may find the navigation menu to be somewhat cluttered and confusing. The Texas Instruments BA II Plus, by contrast, features a more intuitive keypad layout and a menu-driven interface that makes it easy to access various financial functions.
Memory and Storage
The Sharp EL-738FB has a limited memory capacity, with only 4KB of storage available for user-defined formulas and data. The Texas Instruments BA II Plus, on the other hand, boasts a more generous 10KB of memory, allowing users to store a larger number of formulas and financial data.
Battery Life and Durability
Both calculators are battery-powered, with the Sharp EL-738FB requiring 2 AAA batteries and the Texas Instruments BA II Plus requiring 4 AAA batteries. The Sharp calculator has an estimated battery life of around 1 year, while the Texas Instruments model can last up to 2 years on a single set of batteries. In terms of durability, both calculators are well-built and designed to withstand regular use, although the Texas Instruments BA II Plus may have a slight edge due to its more rugged design.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Sharp EL-738FB and the Texas Instruments BA II Plus are excellent financial calculators that cater to different needs and preferences. The Sharp EL-738FB excels in calculating amortization schedules and TVM problems, while the Texas Instruments BA II Plus is stronger in bond yields, stock prices, and options pricing. Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on your specific requirements and the types of financial calculations you need to perform. If you're looking for a more compact and user-friendly calculator with a focus on TVM problems, the Sharp EL-738FB may be the better option. However, if you prefer a more comprehensive and feature-rich calculator with a wider range of financial functions, the Texas Instruments BA II Plus is likely the better choice.
