In HP graphing calculators, between my beloved high school model (48GX) and the latest hotness (Prime) was the 50g. I thought I’d try to live without one but it actually has advantages over both of those models in programmability and data access (USB, SD card).

The 48GX has the best keyboard, RPN stack interface, and function library, and I love its colors. Huge 3rd party free software library. It’s too slow and low res by modern standards, and uses proprietary connectivity (serial cable, software).

I love the HP Prime as a fast and modern device, excellent keys (though the orange color is hard to read), great UI and keyboard design. On-board Python is good enough for its intended purpose, PPL is not a bad language, but no assembly/C. Few community-made games.

Also the Prime’s screen is installed “upside down” so it’s viewing angle is lousy from the user’s perspective. :/

There was a 49g that I’ve heard had lousy keys. The 50g is basically the same with an improved keyboard, and I’m delighted to discover that it’s great, better than it looks in photos. Alas mine has a scratch on the screen that casts an ugly shadow under a desk lamp.

I just got it and don’t have a full review but I’ll pause by pointing out that, dangarang, the 50g is expensive after market. NOS going for $300+, used $150. A new Prime is less. Weird for the 50g to go ballistic so soon after it was discontinued, no junk trough pricing.

… You know, the period after electronics is discontinued where everyone prefers the latest and it’s not old enough to seem vintage or unobtainable. 50g is best of a generation, I guess; Prime is too different to replace it in hearts and minds.

(Originally posted to Twitter on June 9, 2021. It received 1 likes.)