Casio fx-991CW Scientific Calculator Review

The video introduces the Casio fx-991CW, a design update of the popular fx-991EX scientific calculator. Aimed at high school and engineering students, the new model attempts to be more user-friendly while maintaining the same functionality. It's part of a series of CW calculators, including the 570, 350, and 82 models. The video highlights the unique circular convex buttons, which are designed to reduce typing mistakes and are easier to press from any angle. However, this design choice leads to less space for additional key labels, resulting in a cleaner look but potentially requiring users to rely more on menus. The key placement has been altered, and the display now supports higher contrast and four shades of gray. The calculator includes an additional app called 'math box' for simulating dice rolls and coin tosses. The video also discusses the controversy over the new menu navigation system, which requires the use of cursor keys instead of numeric shortcuts.

This section delves into the design changes of the Casio fx-991CW, contrasting it with the fx-991EX. The video points out that the new model has combined several functions into a single 'format' key, which brings up a menu for selection, a change that some find controversial. The format key's behavior differs in base mode, where it toggles between bases without a menu. The video suggests that the format key's menu function may not be necessary, as users can convert values using other methods. Another significant change is the elimination of store and recall buttons, replaced by a single variable key that displays all variables in memory. This change is praised for its convenience. The video also notes that global functions and definitions have been consolidated into a single screen, and the calculator's strengths, such as support for exact answers, matrices, and equation solving, are highlighted. The weaknesses, like the inability to copy values from the calculation history and the erasure of history upon app switch or auto power off, are also mentioned. The video concludes that while the 991CW is a bold design move, it may not be necessary for power users to upgrade from the EX model.

The final paragraph discusses the broader implications of the design changes in the Casio fx-991CW. It contrasts the new model with older Casio calculators that used number-based menu navigation and similar keyboard layouts. The video appreciates Casio's attempt to innovate with the CW series and believes it will be more approachable for high school students. However, it acknowledges that the changes may not please all power users due to the trade-offs made. The video ends on a positive note, appreciating the new circular buttons, the unified number format toggle, and the new variable and function management features. It expresses interest in seeing how these features will evolve or be adopted by other manufacturers in the future. The video concludes with a call to action for viewers to subscribe and stay updated with new content.