PCalc review
A feature-rich calculator for Apple users who want programmable functions and multiple modes.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
PCalc is a scientific calculator for Apple devices, aimed at people who need more than basic arithmetic, including students, engineers, and other solo users. Its calculation modes cover scientific and engineering notation as well as hexadecimal, octal, and binary. Optional reverse Polish notation, a multi-line display, unit conversions, and editable constants let users shape the calculator around different kinds of work. Programmable and editable functions, along with shareable calculator layouts, make it particularly suited to people who want a customized tool rather than a fixed interface. PCalc dates to 1992 and spans Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro, and Apple Watch.
The feature set reaches beyond calculation into Apple automation. Siri Shortcuts scripting is available on Apple devices, while the Mac version supports AppleScript and Shortcuts. Handoff can carry an in-progress calculation across Apple platforms, and a simulated paper tape provides a record of calculations. These capabilities make PCalc a natural fit for someone already working across Apple devices or building repeatable calculator workflows. Buyers looking for a calculator on non-Apple platforms should look elsewhere; PCalc's platform coverage is confined to Apple's ecosystem.
According to the vendor's pricing information, PCalc Lite is free for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, with additional full-version features available as in-app purchases. The full PCalc iOS version costs $9.99 one time and is a universal purchase for iPhone, iPad, Apple Vision Pro, and Apple Watch. The Mac edition also costs $9.99 one time, but is a separate purchase. Prices vary by country. Choose PCalc if programmable functions, multiple number systems, and Apple automation justify a paid app; choose a free broader-platform calculator if Apple-only coverage or separate Mac pricing does not fit.
PCalc pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports scientific, engineering, hexadecimal, octal, and binary modes
- Adds programmable functions, editable layouts, and calculation history
- Siri Shortcuts, AppleScript, Shortcuts, and Handoff support Apple workflows
- Where it doesn't
- Full iOS and Mac versions each cost $9.99 one time
- Mac version is a separate purchase from the iOS version
- PCalc Lite is limited to iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch
PCalc fact sheet, pricing and score →
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