Short answer: Both are suitable for GCSE Maths. The Casio fx-83GT CW is the market-standard calculator, with more functions (290+) and a Natural Textbook Display that shows fractions and roots the way they look in a textbook. The KAPEK Mathematics Set is the better all-in-one buy: for £14.99 you get a scientific calculator plus a full geometry set, a case and a built-in clock, in Pink, Blue or Black, with free UK delivery. Want the most calculator for the money? Go for the Casio. Want everything for maths lessons in one case? Go for KAPEK.
What are you comparing?
The two products are not quite the same kind of thing, and that matters when you compare prices.
- The Casio fx-83GT CW is a calculator on its own. It's part of Casio's ClassWiz range and is the upgraded version of the fx-83GT X. Casio describes the fx-83 as the UK's best-selling scientific calculator.
- The KAPEK Mathematics Set is a complete maths kit. It's a sturdy case holding a detachable scientific calculator and a full geometry set (compass, protractor, rulers and more). It also has a built-in 24-hour digital clock and a slide-on protective fascia.
So the Casio is a calculator. KAPEK is a calculator plus everything else on a GCSE Maths paper's "You must have" list.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | KAPEK Mathematics Set | Casio fx-83GT CW |
|---|---|---|
| What's included | Scientific calculator + full geometry set (compass, protractor, rulers etc.) in a case | Calculator with clip-on hard cover |
| Calculator functions | 240+ | 290+ |
| Display | Two-line LCD (input and answer shown together) | Natural Textbook Display (high definition) |
| Fractions | Yes | Yes, shown in textbook format |
| Memory | 9 variable memories, multi-replay | Variables list, expression editing |
| Extras | Built-in 24-hour digital clock, detachable calculator, slide-on fascia | QR code for graph display, "Maths Box" dice/coin simulations, prime factorisation, HCF/LCM |
| Colours | Pink, Blue, Black | Black, Blue, Grey, Pink |
| Power | See product page | 1 × AAA battery (supplied), auto power-off |
| Levels | GCSE, Scottish Nationals & Higher, Irish Junior & Leaving Cert (not A-Level) | Key Stages 3 & 4: GCSE, National & Higher, Junior & Leaving |
| Price | £14.99 (calculator and geometry set) | £16.49 from Casio UK; retailers from about £12 |
| Delivery and guarantee | Free UK delivery, money-back guarantee | 3-year Casio guarantee |
| Customer rating | About 4.8★ on kapek.net (100+ reviews per colour); 4.4★ on Amazon | Not compared here |
Casio prices checked October 2026. Retailer prices change often.
Where the Casio fx-83GT CW wins
To be fair, the Casio is the calculator many UK maths teachers expect to see, and there are good reasons for that.
- Natural Textbook Display. Fractions, roots and powers appear as they do in a textbook. That helps students check they've typed a calculation correctly.
- More functions. Casio lists 290+ functions, including statistics with regression, tables of values, equivalent ratio, prime factorisation, HCF and LCM.
- Classroom familiarity. Because the fx-83 is so widespread, teachers often demonstrate key presses on a Casio. If your child's class uses one, matching it can make lessons a little easier.
- Long guarantee. Casio includes a free 3-year guarantee.
If your child is aiming for the top grades and wants the most capable GCSE calculator, the fx-83GT CW is a very safe choice.
Where the KAPEK Mathematics Set wins
KAPEK's strength is value and convenience.
- The geometry set is included. GCSE Maths papers list a ruler, protractor and pair of compasses as required equipment. Buy a Casio and you still need to buy those separately. With KAPEK, they come in the case.
- Everything stays together. The calculator and tools live in one case, so it's harder to lose the compass the night before a test. The calculator detaches, so you can use it on its own.
- Lower price for the whole kit. At £14.99 with free UK delivery, the full KAPEK set costs less than Casio's list price of £16.49 for the calculator alone.
- Colour choice. Pink, Blue or Black. That makes it a good gift and easy to tell apart from a classmate's.
- Built-in clock. The 24-hour digital clock is useful for timing revision sessions and past papers at home.
- Well reviewed. Every colour on kapek.net averages around 4.8 stars from 100+ reviews.
KAPEK was established in 2015 and says it has sold over 15 million sets worldwide.
Which is best for GCSE?
Each one suits a different kind of student.
- Choose the Casio fx-83GT CW if you already own a geometry set, your teacher specifically recommends the Casio, or you want a textbook-style display and the extra functions.
- Choose the KAPEK Mathematics Set if you're starting from scratch, want calculator and geometry tools in one go, are buying on a budget, or are buying a gift.
Plenty of families end up with both: KAPEK as the everyday kit for lessons and homework, and a second calculator as a spare.
Exam-day tip: under JCQ rules for 2026/27, watches aren't allowed in the exam room and pencil cases must be see-through. If you use a KAPEK set, detach the calculator and take it, with your compass, protractor and ruler, in a clear pencil case. Leave the case with its built-in clock outside. Whichever calculator you use, check with your teacher or exams officer that it's allowed for your exam. Our GCSE Maths equipment checklist covers the full list.
Shop the KAPEK Mathematics Set
- KAPEK Mathematics Set – Blue (£14.99)
- KAPEK Mathematics Set – Pink (£14.99)
- KAPEK Mathematics Set – Black (£14.99)
Every set comes with free UK delivery and our money-back guarantee. Got a question? See our FAQ page.
Frequently asked questions
Is the KAPEK calculator allowed in GCSE exams?
The KAPEK Mathematics Set is designed for GCSE, Scottish Nationals & Higher, and the Irish Junior and Leaving Certificate. As with any calculator, check with your school's exams officer before exam day. For the exam itself, detach the calculator and leave the case, which has a clock, outside the room.
Is the Casio fx-83GT CW allowed in GCSE exams?
Yes. Casio states it is allowed in every UK exam where a calculator can be used, and recommended for Key Stages 3 and 4, including GCSE.
Can the KAPEK calculator do fractions?
Yes, the KAPEK calculator handles fraction calculations. It uses a two-line display rather than the Casio's textbook-style display.
Is either one suitable for A-Level Maths?
The KAPEK Mathematics Set isn't suitable for A-Level. Casio positions the fx-83GT CW for Key Stages 3 and 4 and recommends its more advanced fx-991CW for A/AS Level.
Which is better value?
If you need a geometry set too, KAPEK usually works out cheaper, because the calculator, compass, protractor and rulers come in one set for £14.99 with free UK delivery. If you only need a calculator, the Casio gives you more functions.