Recommended Basic Calculators for the CPA Exam: A Buyer’s Guide

Recommended Basic Calculators for the CPA Exam: A Buyer’s Guide

Preparing for the CPA Board Exam is no small feat, and having the right calculator can make all the difference. The CPA Board Exam has guidelines on what type of calculators are permitted to ensure fairness and uniformity. 

As per guidelines of the Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy (PRBOA), 
"Only basic calculators are allowed. A basic calculator is one which only contains the keys for the basic functions (+, -, x and /). It may also have the memory keys (M+, M-, MR and MC). Calculators with TAX functions are also allowed."

In this blog post, we'll introduce you to the list of basic calculators that you may consider using in the CPA Board Exam even on your college journey. Whether you're in the midst of your preparation or just starting out, this guide will help you choose the right calculator to support your journey to becoming a Certified Public Accountant. 

Lists of Basic Calculators


There are lots of basic calculators out there, but the following lists are my personal recommendations for basic calculators that you may consider buying and using:  
  1. Casio AX120ST
  2. Casio MJ 120D Plus
  3. Canon LS123-T
  4. Casio MX-12B
  5. Casio JW-200SC
  6. Casio MS-20UC
  7. Canon TX1210
  8. Canon AS280
  9. Casio JF-120FM
Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you make purchases through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support! 
You might also check out the Casio Basic Calculators that are not mentioned in the list above. Casio offers various calculator models to suit different needs and is known for its durability and user-friendly design. Visit their store on Amazon today and might consider the perfect model for you.

Related Links: Amazon - Casio Store

I. Casio AX120ST

Casio AX120ST

Estimated Price Range: Php 800 - Php 1,000
Product Features: Adjustable Tilt Display and Compact Desk Type
Number of Digits: 12 Digits
Power Supply: Solar & Battery
Size (D x W x H): 178.50 x 107 x 26.1 mm
Weight: 170g
For more details on this model, you can explore it here.
The Casio AX120ST is available on both Shopee and Lazada.

II. Casio MJ-120D Plus

Casio MJ-120D Plus

Estimated Price Range: Php 800 - Php 1,000
Product Features: Mini Desk Type, Recheck with sound Assist and 300 Steps Checks
Number of Digits: 12 Digits
Power Supply: Solar & Battery
Size (D x W x H): 148 x 126.5 x 28.6 mm
Weight: 140g
For more information on this model, you can explore it here.
Casio MJ-120D Plus is available on both Shopee and Lazada.

Issue of this usage: Some testing centers prohibit using this calculator owing to its functionalities, while others permit it. Personally, I have experienced the proctor allowing its usage.

III. Canon LS123-T

Canon LS123-T


Estimated Price Range: Php 1,200 - Php 1,400
Product Features: Desktop Calculator and Dual Power Slim
Number of Digits: 12 Digits
Size (D x W x H): 145 x 104 x 25 mm
Weight: 119g
For more information on this model, you can explore it here.
Canon LS123-T is available at Lazada.

IV. Casio MX-12B

Casio MX-12B

Estimated Price Range: 
Php 400 - Php 600
Product Features: Mini Desk Type, Extra Large Display, and 3-Digit Comma
Number of Digits: 12 Digits
Power Supply: Solar & Battery
Size (D x W x H): 147 x 106.5 x 29 mm
Weight: 115g
For more details on this model, you can explore it here.
The Casio MX-12B is available on both Shopee and Lazada.

V. Casio JW-200S

Casio JW-200S

Estimated Price Range: Php 1,200 - Php 1,400
Product Features: Metal Faceplate, Adjustable Tilt Display, Compact Desk Type
Number of Digits: 12 Digits
Power Supply: Solar & Battery
Size (D x W x H): 183.5 x 109 x 10.8 mm
Weight: 150g
For more details on this model, you can explore it here.
The Casio JW-200S is available on both Shopee and Lazada.


VI. Casio MS-20UC

Casio MS-20UC

Estimated Price Range: Php 400 - Php 600
Product Features: Mini Desk Type
Number of Digits: 12 Digits
Power Supply: Solar & Battery
Size (D x W x H): 149.5 x 105 x 22.8 mm
Weight: 110g
For more details on this model, you can explore it here.
The Casio MS-20UC is available on both Shopee and Lazada.


VII. Canon TX1210

Canon TX1210

Estimated Price Range: Php 800 - Php 1000
Product Features: Canon Desktop Calculator
Number of Digits: 12 Digits
Power Supply: Solar & Battery
Size (D x W x H): 176 x 126 x 40 mm
Weight: 192g
For more details on this model, you can explore it here.
The Canon TX1210 is available on Shopee.

VIII. Canon AS280

Recommended Basic Calculators for the CPA Exam: A Buyer’s Guide

Estimated Price Range: Php 1000 - Php 1200
Product Features: Canon Desktop Calculator and Dual Power Large Display
Number of Digits: 16 Digits
Power Supply: Solar & Battery
Size (D x W x H): 209 x 155 x 30 mm
Weight: 230g
For more details on this model, you can explore it here.
The Casio AS280 is available both on Shopee and Lazada.

IX. Casio JF-120FM

Casio JF-120FM

Estimated Price Range: 
Php 800 - Php 1000
Product Features: Lightweight Tabletop Shape, Plastic Keys, and Metal Panels
Number of Digits: 12 Digits
Power Supply: Solar & Battery
Size (D x W x H): 181.5 x 108 x 23.4 mm
Weight: 160g
For more details on this model, you can explore it here.
The Casio JF-120FM is available both on Shopee and Lazada.


Final Thoughts

Choosing the right calculator for the CPA exam can significantly impact your efficiency and accuracy. Remember to practice with your chosen calculator well before exam day to become familiar with its functions. Ultimately, the best calculator is one that complements your study habits and helps you perform at your best. After all, basic calculators serve as only your partner or sidekick-not a teacher or a tutor. Good luck on your CPA journey!




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