Surge in Counterfeit Casio Scientific Calculators

Intrigue of Casio Counterfeits

Scientific calculators have revolutionized handheld devices, evolving from simple arithmetic tools into mini-computers capable of handling everything from statistics to algebra. These devices are extremely popular among students, and Casio has established itself as a recognized brand thanks to its use of traditional algebraic notation (VPAM), in contrast to the reverse Polish notation (RPN) utilized by other brands such as TI.

However, similar to the retro Casio watches, Casio calculators have begun to be counterfeited, as highlighted by a YouTube channel. Advanced models like the fx-991 are updated every few years, with the subsequent letters in the model name indicating the release year; for instance, the fx-991EX was launched in 2015. This version was purchased online and turned out to be fake. Although the fx-991CW is a newer model, it completely alters the interface and has faced criticism from users, making it arguably the worst scientific calculator from Casio in history.

Upon analyzing how the current Casio fx-991 model came to be, one might wonder why not simply use smartphones equipped with a "scientific calculator" app instead. The answers lie in the contexts of examinations, reduced complexity, and the tactile experience that aids in muscle memory development. Nevertheless, due to the issues surrounding the CW model and the disregard for muscle memory, the EX model continues to be endorsed by educators. This dynamic opens the marketplace to counterfeiters, especially since Casio aimed for everyone to switch to the CW model, while parents consistently search for bargains on school supplies.

These counterfeit EX models suffer from a range of issues depending on their components. Some are noticeably slower, exhibit omissions, and even display glaring errors in their firmware, rendering them inefficient for various calculations. This complicates matters for both teachers and parents in their search for reliable Casio scientific calculators, even as Casio has reversed some controversial changes from the CW model, acknowledging the problems it caused. We hope Casio will fully revert to the EX interface style in its next calculator from the 991 series and find a means to curb the spread of low-quality clones of its successful scientific calculator.