In the realm of financial calculators, two models that have garnered attention for their functionality and user experience are the Sharp EL-738FB and the Victor 6500. Both devices are designed to assist users with complex financial calculations, making them indispensable tools for professionals in finance, accounting, and business. This comparison aims to delve into the features, performance, and overall value of these two financial calculators, helping potential buyers make an informed decision.

Design and Build

The Sharp EL-738FB boasts a sleek and compact design, weighing approximately 6 ounces and measuring 3 inches in width, making it easily portable. Its keyboard layout is intuitive, with well-spaced keys that reduce the likelihood of errors during input. The device features a high-quality LCD display that provides clear visibility of calculations and results.

In contrast, the Victor 6500 has a slightly larger footprint but maintains a professional look. It weighs around 7 ounces, which, although slightly heavier than the Sharp EL-738FB, still qualifies as lightweight and portable. The Victor 6500's keyboard is also designed for ease of use, with dedicated keys for common financial functions that can enhance productivity.

Financial Calculation Capabilities

Both calculators are robust financial calculators equipped to handle a wide range of financial calculations, including time value of money (TVM) calculations, amortization schedules, and break-even analysis. However, they differ in the depth of their financial functionalities:

• The Sharp EL-738FB is particularly adept at handling TVM problems, offering quick solutions for calculating present and future values, payments, and interest rates. It also features a built-in memory for storing and recalling frequently used values, which can be a significant time-saver for repetitive calculations.

• The Victor 6500 stands out with its comprehensive set of financial functions, including the ability to calculate internal rates of return (IRR), modified internal rates of return (MIRR), and net present value (NPV). It also supports more complex financial analysis, such as calculating depreciation using different methods.

Ease of Use

The Sharp EL-738FB is known for its straightforward operation. Users can quickly navigate through menus and perform calculations with ease, thanks to its well-designed interface. The inclusion of a quick-reference guide on the back of the calculator further enhances usability for those unfamiliar with financial calculators or needing a refresher.

The Victor 6500, while slightly more complex due to its broader range of functions, still offers an intuitive user experience. It comes with a comprehensive manual that details each function and provides examples, which can be invaluable for mastering its full capabilities.

Battery Life

Both devices are energy-efficient, ensuring long battery life:

• The Sharp EL-738FB uses batteries that last approximately 2 years under normal usage conditions, providing reliability without the frequent need for replacements.

• The Victor 6500 also boasts a long battery life, estimated to be around 1.5 to 2 years, depending on usage patterns. This longevity makes both calculators suitable for daily use in professional settings.

Conclusion

When comparing the Sharp EL-738FB and the Victor 6500, it's clear that both are powerful financial calculators designed to meet the needs of finance professionals. The choice between them may hinge on specific requirements:

• For those prioritizing portability, ease of use, and a focus on TVM calculations, the Sharp EL-738FB might be the preferred choice.

• Professionals needing a broader range of financial functions, including IRR, MIRR, NPV, and depreciation calculations, may find the Victor 6500 more suitable.

Ultimately, both calculators are valuable tools in the world of finance, offering reliable performance and comprehensive financial calculation capabilities that can enhance productivity and accuracy. Whether you opt for the Sharp EL-738FB or the Victor 6500, you'll be investing in a high-quality financial calculator designed to support complex financial analysis and decision-making.