Push my buttons baby!

I purchased the TI 34 II because I needed a simpler calculator for everyday use in some of my classes here at school. (I also own a TI 92, which I will review in the future.)

I must admit, I purchased this calculator partly based on its looks. (How lame do I sound?) The thing is, it said on the package that it was replacing some other Texas Instruments calculators, but with the confusing numbering system that they use (TI 32 Extra performance package equipped solar antenna array blah, blah, blah...I think you know what I'm talking about if you've ever look at TI calculators.) Anyway, this one LOOKED the newest, so I bought it. I was in a hurry and didn't have time to look over every single one to see what the big differences were.

So, here are the differences that I noticed AFTER buying it. For one thing there are no buttons for the Trig functions. Instead, you have to go into a menu and choose them. Not really that handy, especially since Trig was listed as something this calculator was designed for. The buttons also aren't that responsive. Sometimes it's as if I can work faster then the calculator. I'll be adding a series of numbers...but it won't be.

It does keep all of your calculations in memory, however, and that can be somewhat nice. The solar/battery power is also nice. I guess I did forget to mention one other thing that did sway my opinion toward this particular calculator when I was looking at it...the two line display. It was the only one there that had it. My old calculator had a two line display and I don't know how I lived without one!
This allows you to see what you've typed in, as well as the answer.

This calculator is good for younger children, possibly up to middle school, or for use around the house (I have one I can sell you!!!). I would look elsewhere if you need to do some serious number crunching.