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Okay, the heart of the matter: HP12c vs TIBAII
By Apollinaire on Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2013
If you're looking at this review, you are probably asking yourself what I was asking myself: Do I buy the HP12c or the TIBAII? A finance professor recommended the HP12c to me, then another finance professor insisted on the TIBAII. I purchased both, read 300+ pages of instruction manuals, and here's what happened: For almost every calculation, the HP12c, once you learn to use RPN (contrast with algebraic for you guys who don't know what I'm talking about) is sooooo much more comfortable and, more importantly, much faster. If I want to calculate standard deviation, I can chain the entire equation out without stopping or storing a single value--in other words, I never have to say "okay, gotta write this value down (or store it) so I can call it back up later when I need to add it to the next value". I did this on a statistics test and I was the first one done. I got worried because everyone else was still working on problems, but guess what? I was the only student using the HP12c, because no one wants to learn a new system--people are intimidated by RPN. Don't be: it's awesome. But on the other hand, the "worksheets" for the TIBAII are actually quite useful. HP12C doesn't have a default 30/360 setting for bonds (it can be programmed according to the manual in about 40 steps, which I'm still learning about). TIBAII has some conveniences like combination buttons and permutation buttons. But guess why? As I mentioned above, in the HP12c, you can chain those calculations without even thinking, so it doesn't need those buttons. TIBAII, with algebraic notation, benefits greatly from the added functions. So TIBAII appears to provide extra value that, frankly, is unnecessary if you use HP12c. I could give more examples like these. The TIBAII's worksheets allow for fool-proof entry and give a few extra results that are "useful" [meaning, useful for the TIBAII, but HP12c users are doing them quickly from memory] (discounted payback, multiple IRR, NFV--i have the plus professional-- for example). Who should use the HP12c? Well, from my experience, people who are good with numbers and want a device that keeps up with their computational instincts use the HP12c. As I mentioned before, you can chain together some seriously long computations in cool ways. If you are not that type of guy, it's not going to be that useful for you--the thing is, I would argue that the HP12c can turn you into that kind of guy. The possibilities, once the system is learned, are great. The TIBAII is definitely a "safer" calculator. It is also more technologically advanced. The worksheets have value. They give you useful outputs (useful for the CFA, yes). But the HP12c user will tell you(rightly) that some of these are crutches that will result in you forgetting how to do the calculations (combinations, permutations). Here's what I've done: I use the HP12c for everything I can, and I use the TIBAII for the 30/360 bond worksheet (and the discounted payback and a few other features that would save time on the CFA). So my goal is to use the fastest always, and to always give priority to me KNOWING a calculation--not blindly relying on a button. HP12c is the overall winner, but the TIBAII has a minor role on my desk. Buying both calculators is really not that big of an expense. One final note: the layout of the HP12c is so much more fluid than TIBAII's lame scientific-calculator look. Every time I pick up the HP12c, I esthetically enjoy it. I have the platinum version, and man does it feel good. Good with math? Need a tool that allows you to exress that? You need HP12c's RPN. Like the safety of support? Like extra features you don't have to know how to calculate yourself? Need the 4-5 things that TIBAII offers quickly (for the CFA, for example?)?: buy the TIBAII. Are you like me? Want the RPN but also need that 30/360 bond worksheet? Use HP12c 95% of the time, then pick up the cheaper-feeling, plastic-y, scientific-y TIBAII (which is, nonetheless, a good product). One final thing: Once you learn RPN, you will be ruined for algebraic. The fact that I say that should tell you a lot. When I use algebraic on the TIBAII, I find myself thinking "what idiot would actually prefer this crap over RPN?" I know I shouldn't, but I now tend to assume people who are bad at math would naturally avoid RPN and the HP12c. Again, that's a very biased statement, but one that, even acknowledging it's biased, I still say. Okay amigos, let the comments begin.
Top critical review
Not really what I wanted
By Caleb Steinbaugh on Reviewed in the United States on February 5, 2025
I do like the 12c and actually have no issues with it, but what I really wanted was a 15c and am quite disappointed that it seems to be available nowhere.
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Okay, the heart of the matter: HP12c vs TIBAII
By Apollinaire - Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2013
Verified Amazon Purchase
If you're looking at this review, you are probably asking yourself what I was asking myself: Do I buy the HP12c or the TIBAII? A finance professor recommended the HP12c to me, then another finance professor insisted on the TIBAII. I purchased both, read 300+ pages of instruction manuals, and here's what happened: For almost every calculation, the HP12c, once you learn to use RPN (contrast with algebraic for you guys who don't know what I'm talking about) is sooooo much more comfortable and, more importantly, much faster. If I want to calculate standard deviation, I can chain the entire equation out without stopping or storing a single value--in other words, I never have to say "okay, gotta write this value down (or store it) so I can call it back up later when I need to add it to the next value". I did this on a statistics test and I was the first one done. I got worried because everyone else was still working on problems, but guess what? I was the only student using the HP12c, because no one wants to learn a new system--people are intimidated by RPN. Don't be: it's awesome. But on the other hand, the "worksheets" for the TIBAII are actually quite useful. HP12C doesn't have a default 30/360 setting for bonds (it can be programmed according to the manual in about 40 steps, which I'm still learning about). TIBAII has some conveniences like combination buttons and permutation buttons. But guess why? As I mentioned above, in the HP12c, you can chain those calculations without even thinking, so it doesn't need those buttons. TIBAII, with algebraic notation, benefits greatly from the added functions. So TIBAII appears to provide extra value that, frankly, is unnecessary if you use HP12c. I could give more examples like these. The TIBAII's worksheets allow for fool-proof entry and give a few extra results that are "useful" [meaning, useful for the TIBAII, but HP12c users are doing them quickly from memory] (discounted payback, multiple IRR, NFV--i have the plus professional-- for example). Who should use the HP12c? Well, from my experience, people who are good with numbers and want a device that keeps up with their computational instincts use the HP12c. As I mentioned before, you can chain together some seriously long computations in cool ways. If you are not that type of guy, it's not going to be that useful for you--the thing is, I would argue that the HP12c can turn you into that kind of guy. The possibilities, once the system is learned, are great. The TIBAII is definitely a "safer" calculator. It is also more technologically advanced. The worksheets have value. They give you useful outputs (useful for the CFA, yes). But the HP12c user will tell you(rightly) that some of these are crutches that will result in you forgetting how to do the calculations (combinations, permutations). Here's what I've done: I use the HP12c for everything I can, and I use the TIBAII for the 30/360 bond worksheet (and the discounted payback and a few other features that would save time on the CFA). So my goal is to use the fastest always, and to always give priority to me KNOWING a calculation--not blindly relying on a button. HP12c is the overall winner, but the TIBAII has a minor role on my desk. Buying both calculators is really not that big of an expense. One final note: the layout of the HP12c is so much more fluid than TIBAII's lame scientific-calculator look. Every time I pick up the HP12c, I esthetically enjoy it. I have the platinum version, and man does it feel good. Good with math? Need a tool that allows you to exress that? You need HP12c's RPN. Like the safety of support? Like extra features you don't have to know how to calculate yourself? Need the 4-5 things that TIBAII offers quickly (for the CFA, for example?)?: buy the TIBAII. Are you like me? Want the RPN but also need that 30/360 bond worksheet? Use HP12c 95% of the time, then pick up the cheaper-feeling, plastic-y, scientific-y TIBAII (which is, nonetheless, a good product). One final thing: Once you learn RPN, you will be ruined for algebraic. The fact that I say that should tell you a lot. When I use algebraic on the TIBAII, I find myself thinking "what idiot would actually prefer this crap over RPN?" I know I shouldn't, but I now tend to assume people who are bad at math would naturally avoid RPN and the HP12c. Again, that's a very biased statement, but one that, even acknowledging it's biased, I still say. Okay amigos, let the comments begin.
Phenomenal Calculator
By RagTag - Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2024
Verified Amazon Purchase
Compared to the HP-12C, this bad boy is the elder brother. For instance, it has extra memory for programming -- 399 steps vs 99 steps for the 12C. It also is much faster, supposedly 6 times as fast as the 12C. These features alone make it worth buying. However, it does not seem to be as well built as the old 12Cs built in the US and Singapore (I still have my Singapore-built 12C. It's 30+ years old. And works fine. LOL.) -- though it does not seem bad at all. Time will tell. Nevertheless, for $40ish, this does feel like an excellent buy. It has that same HP-12C beautiful key feel! Get it!
I love the HP RPN methodology
By FJL - Reviewed in the United States on March 18, 2025
Verified Amazon Purchase
I started using the HP 12C calculator while still working 20+ years ago. Since then I have purchased 2 of them, the most recent being this month. My prior calculator still works, but I have to take it with me when doing my volunteer work. So I bought this new HP 12C to have at home. The reason I love HP is because it uses RPN (HP Reverse Polish Notation). The RPN calculator, pioneered by the HP-35 in 1972, uses a mathematical notation where operators follow the operands, allowing for efficient calculations without parentheses, and is known for its stack-based operation. I find it much more intuitive than other calculators and will only by HP.
Very fast computations
By pbk63 - Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2013
Verified Amazon Purchase
Update of previous review as of September 6, 2013. Have now used the Platinum for a while. The case coming with it is quite nice, leather and easier to get in and out than older cases with Gold model. And it is lightening fast. I notice that the on button seems to take a little more holding down to come on than on my Gold models. Not a big deal but could explain some of the reviews indicating problem with buttons. I have found no problem with other buttons. The Gold model I bought 6 years ago has the 0 and the + signs nearly worn off but the one I bought 31 years ago still has all the white letters clear as day I bought it. Must be change in paint and hopefully they corrected in Platinum. But will not know for some time about that. Also I notice that the size of the numbers is slightly larger in the Platinum model but they are also slighter fainter than Gold model. Not an issue indoors and have not used outside. I have owned HP calculators since first produced in the 1980's starting with the HP80 and buying one of the first HP12c models. That one is still working although its rubber feet have been replaced but otherwise has worked fine with only two battery changes in 31 years. Several years ago bought a second of these for a second office and it too works fine. My daughter dropped her HP12c recently and so decided to give her my gold model and replace mine with the Platinum (although she may talk me into keeping mine and giving her this one!). The Platinum model comes with a nice case with place for business card, which is nice if lost and someone honest finds it! Also place to engrave your name on the back. Has the usual quick start formulas on the back too although I find with age those get harder and harder to read without magnifying glass. Takes two, easy to find, inexpensive CR2032 batteries which are very long lasting in the lithium form. What impressed me most vs the gold models I have (more recent may be fast too) is just how fast the calculations are done. Having an undo and back button will be handy and while understand their including both RPN and Algebraic entry form anyone who has gotten used to RPN not likely to go back. Comes with a quick start guide and a user manual in pdf form. Usually do not like those but found this one loaded quickly on computer and should be relatively easy to use. Fortunately still have my manuals for when they put them out in paper form. But for formulas you use infrequently but are complicated having in pdf and ability to print out those formulas could be extremely handy, better than having the complete user manual. Can always laminate them or put in plastic sleeves in notebook for ones you use a great deal. Companies put out this way to save paper and money but in this case it might actually be an improvement! It is amazing that in this world of technological change that this calculator has changed so little since its introduction 31 years ago. I cannot think of another technological product that has survived this long. True it is faster now but otherwise its functionality remains the same. Easy to recommend for anyone that has need for a top of the line financial calculator. And over the years the price has dropped too. Have noted some have questioned the quality but so far have seen nothing that indicates to me that this is a problem. Should I find that to be the case I will come back and revise this review.
Get this for your exam
By SloMo - Reviewed in the United States on February 7, 2014
Verified Amazon Purchase
I am not ashamed to admit that one of the primary reasons that I prefer this calculator - really the HP 12c series in general - to the alternatives is the fact that it looks like an instrument designed for professional use, as opposed to what one might find in an eighth grade science class. Of course, there are plenty of other reasons that this calculator is king. I used the HP 10bII Financial Calculator for years, and was quite content. It was only after I signed up to sit for one of my industry's designation exams that I realized the poor old 10bII was not an approved model. My options were the Texas Instruments BA II Plus Financial Calculator and the HP 12c. Due to my aforementioned desire to avoid looking like I was using the same calculator I owned in grade school, I went with the 12c Platinum. While I was initially frustrated by the calculator's use of Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) - which can be switched to an Algebraic mode on the Platinum model - I have come to appreciate the much more efficient RPN. I realize that time is rarely of the value that it is in a test taking environment. However, if you are considering this calculator for an exam, I can assure you that it will save you time which, when it comes down to it, will probably be much more valuable to you than the $40 price differential between the BA II and the 12c. Even outside of the exam room, if numbers and calculations are your business, it just makes life a little easier. The manual that accompanies the calculator is great. It provides everything that one needs to understand the full operating capacity of the calculator, as well as some helpful walk-through examples. I do wish that it was a physical manual instead of a CD. Not a huge drawback, though. Again, if you are purchasing this calculator for an exam, it will be well worth the effort to spend some time perusing the manual to determine which functions and shortcuts will make your life easier. Believe me when I say that, if used properly, some of the ignored functions of the 12c can be a real boon in certain situations. I do have to say that I have had an opportunity to handle a 12c from what was probably 20 years ago. It did feel like it was of a higher build quality than the 12c Platinum that I recently purchased. It is unfortunate that the new calculators do not possess that same feel, but the reality is that even the new 12c series calculators are, in my opinion, of a higher quality than their peers. Not as good as they were, perhaps; but still the best currently available. Do yourself a favor and get this calculator. I honestly do not believe that you will regret it.
best modern HP12C version
By Scott C. Locklin - Reviewed in the United States on April 4, 2007
Verified Amazon Purchase
The HP12C is as emblematic of financial calculators as the zippo is to cigarette lighters. It is a sort of "ultimate machine" in its class. It is small, handy, robust, and it has ridiculously long battery life. Quite simply, you cannot buy a better calculator for finance than the HP12C. If you can't find an unused older "made in USA" HP12C, this is the best one you can own. In some ways, it is arguably the best one to own, as it has some improved features over the original HP12C (a version of which is also still made, believe it or not: that's how good these things are -though the modern Chinese version is inferior in construction to the old American and Brazilian versions). I'm docking it a star (it should be more like a half star) as the old versions were somewhat better made, and because the new version could have far more features without detracting from utility or functionality. For example: I'd rather have a numeric integrator and matrix math like in the old HP15C, than algebraic notation. Algebraic notation is only useful for loaning the thing to your friends, which is not something you will want to do. Also included in my one star off is the case, which is almost completely useless. It is giant! And it has a magnet in it, which could destroy your credit cards if they are rattling around in the same bag as your calculator. I do use the case, but only to let it rattle around in my briefcase with other junk; otherwise, if it had the old leather glove style case, it would go in a shirt pocket (though it also could be used to rattle around anywhere, without taking up so much space or having a magnet in it). It is important that anyone looking to buy a 12C establish its provenance; the platinums came in three versions. The first version was garbage. The second was acceptable. The third, the platinum anniversary, is the best of the lot thus far, excepting the case. The book is excellent as well; I've seen it touted as a useful tutorial into accounting theory in quantitative finance forums. You will probably need to read the book if you have not used an HP calculator in RPN before. Who should buy one? Anyone who deals with finance on any level needs one of these. The legend goes, you can get 50 basis points off your loan just for showing up with this calculator.
An Excellent, Versatile Addition to the Venerable HP12C Line
By DancersMom - Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2015
Verified Amazon Purchase
For HP12c Fans or newly inspired Fans, this is a really good calculator investment. Some think they can always use their notebook computer, tablet or smart phone for all such calculations and that handheld calculators--such as the Best of the Best HP12C--are outdated. While I admit I've used an HP12C for more than 30 years--so, yes, I am experienced (not old)--I disagree, respectfully, that the HP12C is a dinosaur or outdated. It is a tool, and a very important tool, as many a financial professional--such as CFP's, CFO's and CPA's will tell you. I am not one of those. Although I hold a BBA in Finance, I am a business litigation trial attorney, representing companies and consumers and customers alike in business disputes. And I have long-used an HP12C to compute damages and cross examine damage experts. So, more than enough about me. The HP12CP--Platinum version 2 with the black keyboard face (do not get the one with the silvery keyboard face--too many reported bugs and flaws) and wider 2-CR2032 battery compartment--is an excellent investment in my view. While it is no where near as lightning fast as the new HP12C's (and 30th Anniversary Limited Edition) that have the blazing fast Atmel ARM processor, the Platinum (although it is without the ARM) is much, much faster than the original 12C processor, particularly with TVM calcs, especially for i and for IRR. And the Platinum v2 (black keyboard face) has much expanded memory registers (80 cash flows vs 20 and 399 keystroke programming vs. 99 and the Platinum also adjustable LCD contrast where the 12C both old and new has none), especially handy when using the programming capabilities. And no reported, as I understand it, bugs in the firmware of HP12CP v 2 or beyond--I think the 25th anniversary edition is beyond the 12CP v2. Also, for when you are dealing with customers, experts or witnesses who do not know how to use the imminently more elegant and efficient RPN, the HP12CP can toggle into Algebraic mode--picture a normal calculator with an = sign. Very handy to have one calculator toggle between both modes to hand to the less RPN comfortable. But do you really want to hand over your notebook computer or smart phone to use to make your calculation point? So, if speed is your passion, you know RPN and you already love the 12C, then I strongly suggest the new (post 2011?) HP12C with the ARM processor. But if you want more memory and calc mode options, including algebraic vs RPN, an "undo" "backspace" and also parenthetical functions when using Algebraic mode, then the HP12C Platinum is for you. Enjoy!
My first 12C (coming from an 11C)
By Tim - Reviewed in the United States on February 11, 2025
Verified Amazon Purchase
I've been using an 11C for probably the last 40 years (and on maybe the 2nd set of batteries?), and really love it. I got tired of carting it between my two places, so decided to get a second calculator... but sadly the 11C is not available anymore. I opted for the 12C Platinum, and first impressions are very positive! Keys feel slightly different, but not in a bad way... in fact, I may prefer them. And the calculator is definitely faster. Certain functions are streamlined (e.g., no longer have to hit f-7-# to change decimal settings... just f-#, which is nice). It also comes with a leather case, and a drink coaster with a hole in the middle (seriously, what is the point of that?). The batteries are different, though, so will be curious to see how long these last. Got it delivered about 16 hours after ordering it, and a relative bargain price-wise.
Tried and true. Trusty tool.
By Rene 1 - Reviewed in the United States on March 23, 2025
Verified Amazon Purchase
This replaced an HP I bought in 1986. It was still working intermittently. Old keys would stick. Once you buy the math logic here other calculators are awkward.
At last, I get back RPN
By John P Jones - Reviewed in the United States on February 22, 2025
Verified Amazon Purchase
First quality HP calculator. An old friend. And I love the RPN option as it is so much more intuitive. I am old school HP, and I'm so glad replacement devices like this are still available.
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