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by: Derek Walborn, BestReviews Staff

by: Derek Walborn, BestReviews Staff

While adding machines, sometimes referred to as printing calculators, may seem outdated and obsolete, they remain indispensable for offices all over the world. In spite of the abundance of computer-based options and bookkeeping apps, many prefer the tangible, permanent records that adding machines let them keep and review.

The Sharp EL-1197PIII Heavy Duty Color Printing Calculator is a feature-packed adding machine that includes a backlit display and large, quiet keys. Its rubberized feet keep it firmly in place on your desk and it can print in two colors for easy-to-read record keeping.

Benefits of using a printing calculator include:

Depending on your record keeping and business model, digital alternatives to adding machines may better suit your needs. While some offices run their records exclusively on software, many also use adding machines so they can instantly have a physical record.

Adding machines require rolls of paper to print their work. While this may seem trivial, office costs can add up over the course of a year, so you need to consider your budget. Determine if the record-keeping convenience of a printing calculator will offset the cost of adding another critical office supply to keep in stock.

Adding machines print receipts in one of two ways:

Select a machine with a large, vibrant display. Some models use illuminated displays while others rely on LCDs that need an external light for viewing. The bigger and more legible the display, the less strain it will cause while using.

Larger keys make adding machines easier to use. They also make it less likely that those with bigger fingers will accidentally press the wrong key, disrupting their workflow. While larger keys result in a larger device, most users happily sacrifice an extra inch or two of desk space to get a more user-friendly machine.

Thermal printers are generally faster than those that use ink, though their paper is more expensive and they can only print in one color. Ink printers sometimes allow both black and red ink, letting you print negative numbers in red, which makes your data easier to see and interpret.

Select an adding machine that prints quietly and has buttons that won’t disturb others while being pressed. This is especially important in shared work environments where noisy typing and printing can be disruptive.

Choose a printing calculator that has functions that will let you conveniently run your most common equations without having to spend the time to do all the work manually. While there may be a learning curve to understanding how to make the best use of your machine, the time saved in the long term will pay for itself. 

Select a machine that lets you run it off of AC power but still use a battery as a backup. The mechanical nature of printing can quickly drain batteries.

Budget adding machines can be purchased for less than $40. Most fully-featured models will cost between $60-$80.

A. Some can, making it easy to share information across files and ensure that your data won’t be lost if your printout is misplaced.

A. Yes. Many have features that greatly reduce the likelihood of a paper jam, but when it does happen it will require some disassembly to get it back on track.

A. No. Adding machines are used for numerical equations only — their keypads do not have alphabetical characters. To print notes, you will require a label maker or other small printer with a full keyboard.

Sharp EL-1197PIII Heavy Duty Color Printing Calculator

What you need to know: This machine from a leader in electronics is packed with useful features.

What you’ll love: It runs on AC power and features a backup battery. It prints in two colors, has a bright, illuminated display and is loaded with functions that make record keeping a breeze. Key presses are quiet and easy.

What you should consider: It’s noisy while printing and has a large footprint.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Staples

Casio HR-170RC Plus, Min-Desktop Printing Calculator

What you need to know: This machine prints in two colors and is half the price of most of the competition.

What you’ll love: It can run off of battery power or an AC adapter. It features a large display and includes equation and function features that make your work quick and easy.

What you should consider: Its display is not backlit, and it seems much larger than it has to be, with a lot of unused space between keys.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Staples

Victor 1310 Big Print Commercial Printing Calculator

What you need to know: This machine has a backlit screen and can print large characters on thermal paper without needing ink. 

What you’ll love: Quiet and fast, this printing calculator’s screen is easy to read. It has the option to print large characters, making equations and numbers easier to see.

What you should consider: Its display has a limited viewing angle. It uses thermal paper as opposed to ink, which may shorten the lifespan of your printouts and increase supply costs.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Staples

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Derek Walborn writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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Using an adding machine in your office allows you create an instant, permanent record of your accounting.