Preparing for the Chartered Accountancy (CA) or Company Secretary (CS) exams demands precision, efficiency, and adherence to specific guidelines—especially when it comes to selecting the right calculator. With the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) permitting only basic, non-programmable calculators featuring up to six functions, choosing an appropriate device becomes crucial for compliance and optimal performance.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve curated a list of the top calculators suitable for CA and CS exams in 2025. Whether you’re seeking affordability, durability, or specific functionalities like dual displays and tax calculation keys, our recommendations cater to diverse needs. From trusted models like the Casio MJ-12D and DJ-120D to advanced options such as the HP 12C Platinum and Texas Instruments BA II Plus, we’ve got you covered.
Explore our detailed comparisons to find the calculator that best aligns with your exam requirements and study preferences.
ICAI Calculator Guidelines You Must Know
ICAI strictly allows only basic, non-programmable calculators during CA exams. The calculator must not perform advanced functions like matrix operations, financial modeling, or equation solving.
Key requirements include:
- Up to six functions and 12 digits.
- Only one calculator per candidate is allowed.
- No printing, wireless, or programmable capabilities.
- Models like the Casio MJ-12D and Orpat OT-512GT comply with these rules.
Violating these guidelines may result in disqualification. Always double-check the ICAI’s latest circular before your exam.
TOP CA Exam Calculator Models for 2025
| Product | Dimensions | Weight | Power Source | Calculator Type |
| Casio MJ-12GST GST Calculator | 15 x 12.3 x 3 Centimeters | 135g | 1 Lithium Ion battery | Financial |
| Casio Inc. JF-100BM | 7 x 4 x 1 inches | 5.5 ounces | 1 LR44 battery | Basic Finance |
| Casio FX-82ES Plus | 6.38 x 3.15 x 0.55 inches | 3.53 ounces | 1 Lithium Ion battery | Financial |
| Casio DV-220 | 10.16 x 7.28 x 1.65 inches | 9 ounces | 1 LR44 battery | Financial |
| Orpat Ot-512Gt Calculator | 5.12 x 0.94 x 5.12 inches | 3.84 ounces | 1 LR44 battery | Basic Finance |
| Texas Instruments BA II Plus Advanced | 9.84 x 1.18 x 6.69 inches | 0.01 ounces | 1 Lithium Metal Battery | Financial |
| HP 12CP | 6 x 3 x 1 inches | 5.6 ounces | 1 CR123A Battery | Financial, Business |
| HP 12C Platinum | 3.1 x 6 x 5.1 inches | 3.7 ounces | 2 CR123A Batteries | Financial |
| Casio FC-200V | 8.39 x 5.91 x 1.38 inches | 3.88 ounces | Solar & Battery Backup | Financial |
| HP 17BII+ | 6 x 3 x 1 inches | 3.88 ounces | 2 Lithium Metal Batteries | Financial, Business |
1. Casio MJ-12GST GST Calculator (Black) – Overall Best Pick
The Casio MJ-12GST calculator is a popular choice among CA students for exam preparation, but its suitability for actual Chartered Accountancy exams requires careful consideration.
The MJ-12GST is designed with GST-specific functions, including five dedicated GST keys for common Indian GST slabs, GST+ and TAX- modes, and a GST grand total key. These features make it highly useful for practicing GST-related problems, which are a significant part of CA coursework and exams.
The calculator’s ability to handle Indian number formatting (lakhs and crores) and rounding options also aligns well with the typical accounting and taxation problems CA students face.
Its large 12-digit display, memory functions, and step-check capabilities (up to 150 steps) help students track complex calculations and reduce errors during study sessions, enhancing accuracy and confidence in exam-like scenarios.
Anecdotal evidence from CA students suggests that enforcement varies by exam center. Some students report using similar GST calculators without issues, while others caution strict centers may disallow them. Still, the official stance is clear: calculators with tax functions like the MJ-12GST are not permitted during exams.
For CA exam preparation and practice, the Casio MJ-12GST is highly relevant and beneficial. Its GST-dedicated features and user-friendly design help students master GST calculations efficiently.
In conclusion, the Casio MJ-12GST is an excellent study tool for GST-heavy CA topics but should be replaced with a simpler, ICAI-approved calculator on exam day to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
Pros
- It has an easily readable screen.
- It keeps track of the previous entries and allows modifying them.
- In case of sudden failure of batteries, you can switch to a solar source.
Cons
- The keys make noise due to wobbly touch.
2. Casio Inc. JF-100BM Standard Function Calculator for CA – Best Budget Pick
The Casio JF-100BM is a reliable calculator for CA students. It is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry. The sturdy metal faceplate adds durability.
It has a large 10-digit display that is easy to read. The keys are big and well spaced for quick input. This reduces errors during calculations.
The calculator performs basic functions like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentage, and square root. It also has memory keys to store values. These features help with multi-step problems.
There are tax, cost, sell, and margin keys included. These are useful for accounting tasks. However, some exam centers may not allow tax keys.
The calculator runs on both solar and battery power. It has an automatic shutoff to save energy. This ensures long-lasting use during study sessions.
Overall, the Casio JF-100BM is a practical choice for CA exam preparation. It is easy to use and durable. Just check exam rules about tax keys before using it in exams.
Pros
- Durable.
- It comes with a previewable display.
- Comes with six basic functions which are allowable for CA exams.
- It is cheaper than most of the calculators that offer the same features.
- Best for travelers, businessmen, and students.
Cons
- Expensive
3. Casio FX-82ES PLUS 2nd Gen Non-Programmable – Best Scientific Calculator for CA Exam
The Casio FX-82ES PLUS 2nd Gen is a popular scientific calculator. It shows expressions like in textbooks. This makes calculations easier to understand. The calculator is compact and lightweight. It is easy to carry around.
It has 252 functions. These include basic math, fractions, and trigonometry. It also handles logarithms, exponentials, and statistics. Advanced features like prime factorization and combinations are included. The multi-replay function lets you review and fix entries quickly.
The calculator uses one AAA battery. It has a long battery life. There is an auto power-off feature to save energy. The display shows 10 digits plus 2-digit exponents. The screen is high-resolution and easy to read. A hard slide-on case protects the calculator. The keys are plastic and comfortable to press.
Overall, the Casio FX-82ES PLUS 2nd Gen is great for CA exam prep. It is non-programmable and reliable. The wide range of functions helps with complex problems. Its clear display and simple design make it easy to use. It is a solid choice for study and exams.
Pros
- All the basic mathematical calculations are efficiently performed by this gadget.
- As the device is non-programmable, it can be taken for CA Exams.
Cons
- The final result is not separated by commas.
4. Casio DV-220D – Best Casio Calculator for CA/CPA
The Casio DV-220 is a desktop calculator with two displays. Each screen shows 12 digits. This helps compare numbers easily. You can do two calculations at once.
It runs on solar power and battery backup. This means it works in low light. The display is large and clear. The design is compact and light. The keys are responsive and easy to press.
The calculator has useful functions like tax and currency conversion. It can calculate profit, cost, and selling price. It also does percentage and rounding calculations. You can save totals and copy numbers between screens.
It has a backspace key to fix mistakes. The calculator turns off automatically to save power. Numbers show with commas for easy reading. Overall, the Casio DV-220 is practical and easy to use. It is great for work, study, and daily tasks.
Pros
- Bigger keys help you to enter data as fast as you can.
- It is shock-resistant.
- It is durable.
Cons
- It is bulky in design.
5. Orpat OT-512GT Calculator (Black) – Best Compact Calculator for CA
The Orpat OT-512GT is a good calculator for CA students. It has a large 12-digit display that is easy to read. This helps reduce mistakes during long calculations.
It offers a 120-step check and correct function. You can review and fix errors in your work. The auto replay feature lets you go through calculations quickly.
Special keys like Grand Total (GT) and Mark Up (MU) help with accounting tasks. These are useful for CA exam problems involving tax and profit.
The calculator runs on solar and battery power. This ensures it works well in any lighting. It also has a hard cover for protection during travel.
Its quick key sensing and sturdy build make it reliable for exam use. The Orpat OT-512GT is practical, accurate, and easy to use. It suits CA students who need a dependable calculator for practice and exams.
Pros
- It is a good product at a low price.
- The battery of this calculator comes with 3 3-year warranty policy.
- It is easy to use.
Cons
- It lacks advanced functions.
6. Texas Instruments BA II Plus – Best for Professionals CA Students
If you’re shopping for a CA exam calculator, you’ve probably seen the BA II Plus recommended a lot. Here’s the real talk on whether it’s worth it for you.
The good stuff first: This calculator is built for finance work. Time value of money, cash flows, bond calculations – it handles all that smoothly. The keys feel solid, and the display keeps things clear even when you’re working through complex problems.
For CA students, it really depends on your papers. If you’re dealing with financial management, advanced accounting, or costing, the specialized functions can be a big help. But if your exams are more about basic calculations and GST, a simpler (and cheaper) calculator might do the job just fine.
The learning curve is worth mentioning. You’ll need to spend some time getting comfortable with the functions – it’s not something you want to figure out during exams.
Battery life is reliable, and the build quality means it should last through all your exams (and beyond).
Great for finance-heavy papers, but probably overkill if you just need basic calculations. Think about your specific needs before deciding.
Pros
- It includes a slide case to protect the screen from damage.
- It comes with a detailed how-to-use guide.
- It is portable.
- It is sleek in design.
Cons
- The recheck option is missing.
7. HP 12CP Financial Calculator – Best for CFA & CFP Exams
This device shines for complex number crunching. Need to calculate bond yields or depreciation schedules? It handles those effortlessly. The unique RPN input system (where you enter numbers before operations) might feel strange at first, but many find it speeds up calculations once mastered.
For your CA journey, consider your paper requirements. Those tackling financial management or advanced investment topics will appreciate its specialized functions. But if your syllabus focuses more on straightforward accounting, you might not need its full capabilities.
The hardware on this calculator feels premium – sturdy keys and reliable performance. Just note the display is more compact than some alternatives.
Pros
- It has easy to use layout.
- It comes with a detailed user manual.
- It comes at an affordable price.
- The unit is portable.
Cons
- The brightness of the screen cannot be adjusted.
8. HP 12C Platinum – High-End Financial Calculator for CA, CFA, and CPA
The HP 12C Platinum is a popular financial calculator. It supports both RPN and algebraic entry modes. This gives users flexible ways to input data.
It has over 130 built-in functions. These include loan payments, interest rates, and cash flow analysis. It also handles bond pricing and statistical calculations.
The calculator is faster and has more memory than older models. It can store up to 80 cash flows and 399-step programs. Undo and backspace keys help fix errors easily.
The display shows one line with 10 characters. The contrast is adjustable for clear viewing. It runs on a CR2032 battery lasting about two years.
The HP 12C Platinum is compact and durable. It has a sleek design with plastic and aluminum parts. It is allowed in many professional finance exams.
Overall, it is a trusted tool for finance students and professionals. It helps solve complex financial problems quickly. This makes it ideal for CA students focusing on finance topics.
Pros
- It comes with a quick start guide.
- A protective case is included in the package.
- The brightness of the screen can be adjusted according to need.
Cons
- It lacks mathematical functions.
9. HP 17 BII+ Financial Calculator – Best for Finance Courses
The HP 17bII+ is a financial calculator for students and professionals. It has over 250 built-in functions. These include loans, interest rates, cash flow, and bonds.
The calculator supports algebraic and RPN entry. This gives users flexible input options. The 2-line, 22-character display is clear and easy to read.
It includes a clock, calendar, and appointment features. With 28KB memory, it stores data and equations. This helps with complex financial problems.
The HP Solve app lets you solve for any variable. It also handles amortization, depreciation, and currency conversions. Statistical analysis functions are included too.
The calculator runs on batteries and has auto power-off. It comes with a protective case for durability. The interface is user-friendly with menu prompts.
For CA students, it covers key finance topics well. It is useful for exam prep and professional work. The HP 17bII+ is reliable and easy to use.
Pros
- It allows adjustment of LCD brightness as per day and night light.
- It can easily switch from RPN to algebraic entry mode.
- It returns output efficiently and accurately.
- It is affordable.
Cons
- It lacks trigonometric and other advanced financial functions.
10. Casio FC-200V – Best Solar-Powered Financial Calculator
The Casio FC-200V is a powerful financial calculator for students and professionals. It has a clear multi-line display for easy input and review. It runs on solar power with battery backup.
The calculator offers many financial functions like interest calculations, NPV, IRR, and payback period. It also supports amortization, bond pricing, depreciation, and break-even analysis. Statistical and date calculations are included too.
It has direct keys for quick access and a SOLVE button for fast results. Shortcut keys speed up repetitive tasks. The calculator is compact, durable, and comes with a hard case.
For CA students, it covers key finance topics well. It helps with complex cash flow and investment problems. The Casio FC-200V is reliable and easy to use for exams and work.
Pros
- It has easy to use interface
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Cons
- It does not display a comma to differentiate the place values of the digits.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Calculator for CA/CFA/CPA
Well if you are a CFA or CPA professional you must consider a device with dedicated function keys like interest rates, tax returns, etc. It must be capable of solving cash flows, Net present value amortization, etc.
However, if you are a CA student then you must invest your money in a basic calculator having not more than six functions. As per CA exam rules electronic devices supporting Bluetooth, WIFI, and financial functions are not allowed.
Before purchasing a calculator for your CA exams, it’s crucial to review the latest calculator guidelines provided by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The ICAI periodically updates its rules and regulations regarding calculator usage in exams, so stay informed about the approved calculator models and features
1. Carefully Read the Policies of the Institute
Choose according to the rules of your certified institute. You must check whether the product you are buying coincides with the policies your institute has issued for taking the exam.
2. Financial Functions
It must contain mostly used financial functions in it. These functions encompass a range of capabilities, including interest calculations, present value, and future value calculations, net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR) computations, depreciation calculations, and bond price/yield calculations.
3. Price
Check whether it suits your budget or not. But investing your money in a valuable product will never end you in disappointment.
4. Battery timings
Well, no matter if you are a student of CA or any other discipline related to finance. Know that these calculations are lengthy. So you must choose the product with durable life.
TI vs Casio vs Orpat: Which Brand is Best for CA Students?
Casio leads in exam-approved models with fast input, sturdy builds, and good layouts. Orpat offers affordable alternatives with competitive features, making them ideal for budget-conscious students. Texas Instruments (TI) offers advanced calculators, but most are not ICAI-approved for exams.
| Brand | Exam Approval | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Casio | ✅ Yes | Balanced features, reliability |
| Orpat | ✅ Yes | Budget buyers, fast input |
| TI | ❌ No | Finance, CFA, study prep only |
FAQs
Are calculators allowed for CA foundation exams?
Well, the rules vary from country to country. However, most of the CA-taking authorities do not allow any electrical device in the examination center.
It is often mandatory to bring a calculator with a 12-digit display having not more than six functions.
Simply calculators with no scientific functions are allowed in the exam. Devices with up to six functions, twelve digits, and a maximum of 2 memories are acceptable.
Are financial calculators allowed for certification exams like CFA, CPA, CFP, and FINRA?
If you are enrolled with a reputed accounting institute, they only allow calculators with specific financial functions in the examination hall. So before purchasing a calculator, you must go through their policies briefly.
For the accounting exams like CFA, and CPA only certified sets of calculators having special financial functions are allowed.
Can a scientific calculator help in solving financial problems?
Basic-level calculations in which simple functions are required can be solved with the help of a scientific calculator. However advanced computations in which financial formulae are required can only be evaluated by financial devices.
What is the difference between financial calculators and scientific calculators?
Just like a scientific calculator is designed to solve the problems of math, science, algebra, statistics, trigonometry, etc.
Special features regarding these subjects are made part of its programming to return the output efficiently and accurately. Well, you can solve accounting problems manually using its basic functions, but it will consume most of your time.
On the other hand, a financial calculator has dedicated financial features. It has financial prompts that help you to enter the data directly and process it without any hassle.
Does my graphing calculator work for finance or accounting problems?
Graphing calculators like Ti-83 Plus, Ti-84 Plus, and its successors have excellent graphing capabilities.
They have a special feature called spreadsheets. This feature helps you to program formulae of your own choice.
It can help you solve multiple financial equations. But once again extra time will be spent to program such a calculator
Sheema Ahmed is a passionate writer and educator, specializing in crafting content tailored for individuals preparing for challenging exams such as CSS, SAT, and ACT. Born with a fervour for education, Sheema’s journey began at Hazara University, where she graduated with distinction, solidifying her commitment to academic excellence.