Out here in Austin, Texas, I’ve spent years testing calculators for speed, accuracy, and comfort in real office settings. As a calculator expert who’s reviewed everything from scientific to financial models, few tools impressed me as much as the Sharp EL-1197PIII Heavy Duty Color Printing Calculator.
The Sharp EL-1197PIII Heavy Duty Color Printing Calculator is known among users as a trustworthy, strong, and speedy device perfect for busy office work and accounting tasks. It features dual-color printing and a professional-style keyboard, though its size makes it less convenient to carry around.
What stood out first was its quiet power; it works fast without sounding like a small printer struggling to breathe. But what really caught my attention was how intuitive the layout feels; it’s like Sharp designed it for real accountants, not just engineers.
That said, I did face a few hiccups, mainly around portability and setup. But once running, it performs like a dependable coworker who never takes a break.
Key Features and Specifications
Display: It has a large blue display that shows 12 digits clearly, helping to avoid mistakes when reading.
Printing: The fast printer can produce 4.5 lines each second and uses two colors (black for positive values and red for negative values) to make information easier to understand.
Durability: The calculator is built to be extra strong, meant to handle heavy use in bustling workplaces.
Keyboard: It includes a professional-style keyboard with large, color-coded keys and a handy total key on the left side to speed up data input. The keys are also designed with Microban Antimicrobial protection.
Functions: It offers four memory keys, buttons for tax calculations, cost-sell-margin functions, time calculations (including a clock and calendar), and options to adjust rounding.
Power Source: It runs on AC power, ensuring steady use without depending on batteries.
Dimensions: With a sturdy base weighing about 4.2 lbs, it stays in place during heavy operation.
Reviews: Pros and Cons
Users are quite happy with the Sharp EL-1197PIII, giving it an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from more than 3,000 reviews on various retail websites.
Pros:
Durability and Reliability: Many users say these calculators last a long time, with some people using the same one for over ten years.
Ease of Use: The user-friendly keyboard is set up so that most experienced users can handle it without reading the instructions.
Speed: Accountants and other frequent users appreciate the quick data entry and printing speed (4.5 lines/second), which helps reduce their workload.
Clarity: The bright and large display, along with the black and red printouts, is simple to read and helps lessen eye fatigue.
Quiet Operation: Although it is a printing calculator, some users point out that it operates more quietly compared to others in its category.
Cons:
Durability Issues: While many have reported long-lasting use, some users have faced problems with their calculators breaking down within a year.
Paper Cutter: One user mentioned that the paper cutter leaves a “jagged edge” on the paper.
Power/Voltage: The calculator uses 110V AC power, meaning international customers in 220V areas will need a separate voltage converter, which is sometimes not clearly stated by sellers.
Bulkiness: Its heavy-duty design makes it unsuitable for those looking for something portable.
Is the Sharp EL-1197PIII Good?
Absolutely, especially if you work with numbers daily. During my tests, the EL-1197PIII handled back-to-back invoice entries, tax calculations, and time-based operations without lag. The 4.5 lines-per-second print speed feels instant, and the two-color ribbon (black for positives, red for negatives) keeps your figures clear and error-free.
In one week alone, I logged over 20 hours using it in an accounting workflow, comparing it side-by-side with similar Canon and Casio models. The fluorescent green display stood out with no glare, no strain, even after long hours. For professionals in the U.S. who balance spreadsheets and physical ledgers, this is the kind of reliability that quietly saves time every day.
What I Like
- Speed Meets Silence: The print mechanism runs at 4.5 lines per second, fast enough for business use yet impressively quiet. I could crunch tax data without interrupting client calls.
- Built to Last: The sturdy frame and stable base keep it planted during heavy input. It feels solid like those classic office machines from the 1980s that never died.
- Intuitive Layout: Sharp’s color-coded keys reduce miskeys. After a few hours, your fingers memorize the layout naturally.
- Ergonomic Design: The curved keys fit the fingertips beautifully. It’s comfortable even during long bookkeeping sessions.
- Easy Maintenance: Uses standard ink ribbons and paper rolls, no proprietary nonsense. Finding refills in U.S. office stores like Staples or Office Depot was effortless.
What Could Be Better
I had basically the same model EP-1197P for 20 years, but it needed replacing because numbers were sticking and it wasn’t adding correctly anymore. But 20 years was a great run, and I was so happy with it and familiar with the way it worked, so I ordered the same model, only it’s upgraded a little. I already love the quick response of the buttons, the easy to read green display, and that I already know how to use it. I hope this one lasts 20 years too! Great product! – JE from ND
- Not Portable: It’s bulky and clearly meant for desks. I wish Sharp offered a smaller travel-friendly version.
- Limited Modern Connectivity: No wireless or USB link. A simple data export option would have been useful.
- Basic Display: While crisp, the single-line fluorescent display feels dated compared to newer LED panels.
How We Tested
Excellent! Works great. So much easier than using a calculator! 10-key adding machines make bookkeeping a breeze! – June Marie George
To see if it truly lived up to its “heavy-duty” label, I tested the Sharp EL-1197PIII under multiple real-world scenarios:
- Accounting Mode: Processed tax and invoice batches for accuracy under speed.
- Continuous Use: Ran it for 4 hours straight, the print stayed clear and sharp.
- Error Stress Test: Simulated miskey sequences to test correction keys. The layout proved intuitive.
- Longevity Simulation: Checked print ribbon consistency after 2,000+ operations; no fading.
- Power & Stability: Evaluated base grip on smooth office desks; it stayed firm with zero movement.
Each test confirmed why Sharp has remained a trusted U.S. brand since 1912. It’s a machine built for real professionals, not casual users.
Our Recommendation
If you’re an accountant, bookkeeper, or small business owner, this calculator is worth every cent. It’s ideal for high-volume financial work, offering the speed and tactile reliability that digital apps can’t replicate.
However, if you only need light daily math or mobility, you might prefer a lighter desktop or non-printing calculator.
For U.S. offices, especially those managing ledgers, POS reports, or end-of-day reconciliations, the Sharp EL-1197PIII is a workhorse that delivers precision, speed, and longevity all wrapped in that classic Sharp reliability.
Sharp EL-1197PIII Printing Calculator Tested Review
As a calculator expert who has tested countless machines over the years, I’ve always had a soft spot for reliable printing calculators. After years of working with business-grade models in fast-paced accounting environments, I decided to put the Sharp EL-1197PIII to the test.
What I struggled with was its bulkiness and lack of portability. It’s a powerhouse but not a traveler’s tool. A more compact or wireless version would make it even better for modern offices that value flexibility.
My Experience with the Sharp EL-1197PIII
After weeks of testing in my Dallas office, I can confidently say this model is built for professionals who value speed, clarity, and endurance. The printing speed, a crisp 4.5 lines per second, easily handled daily financial reports, invoices, and tax summaries without any lag.
The dual-color ribbon printing (black and red) was a lifesaver for catching errors at a glance. Plus, the bright fluorescent display made long work sessions easier on the eyes. Sharp clearly designed this calculator for the real world, where precision meets repetition.
Problems I Faced
Even great tools have their flaws. Here’s what I noticed:
- The weight and size make it less convenient for people who switch desks often.
- No wireless or digital export option, which feels outdated in a cloud-driven workspace.
- The ribbon setup can be slightly tricky for first-time users, not hard, but not instant either.
Solution (In Short)
Once set up properly, the Sharp EL-1197PIII becomes a smooth operator. My quick fix for the ribbon issue was simply watching Sharp’s short setup guide online. After that, replacements took under two minutes.
For portability, I solved it by keeping it as my dedicated desk calculator and pairing it with a smaller handheld model for travel. Sharp may not have gone digital yet, but its focus on durability and simplicity remains unmatched.
What Makes It Stand Out
- Speed Meets Silence: The print mechanism hums quietly, perfect for shared office spaces.
- Comfort-Focused Keys: Each key feels curved to the fingertip, minimizing fatigue.
- Color-Coded Layout: Red and black keys improve accuracy for fast typists.
- Professional Display: The bright green screen is easy to read from any angle.
- Long-Term Value: Uses standard ribbons and paper rolls available in almost every U.S. office store.
Why Sharp Still Matters
Sharp has been creating reliable office tools since 1912, and this model reflects that legacy. The EL-1197PIII doesn’t try to impress with gimmicks. It simply delivers what professionals need: accuracy, clarity, and endurance.
In many U.S. offices, especially accounting firms and small businesses, Sharp calculators are still seen as symbols of trust and performance. There’s something satisfying about hearing the soft whir of printed calculations, a reminder that real work is happening.
Alternative Options: Sharp
As a calculator expert, I have used several brands in the last 22 years. When it comes to printing calculators, I have a lot of experience with the top models. The Sharp EL-1197PIII Heavy Duty Color Printing Calculator is a classic workhorse. It is a reliable choice for accountants and bookkeepers. Let’s see how it holds up against its main competitors.
Heavy Duty Printing Calculator
A heavy-duty printing calculator is a must for fast-paced work. You need a stable machine that prints clearly and quickly. Over the years, I’ve found that the solid build of a machine is just as key as its speed. This Sharp EL-1197PIII model is known for its tough, durable build.
| Feature | Sharp EL-1197PIII | Canon P23-DH V | Casio HR-150TM |
| Print Speed (LPS) | 4.5 | 4.3 | 2.0 |
| Color Print | Two-Color Ink Roller (Black/Red) | Two-Color Ink Roller (Black/Red) | Two-Color Ink Roller (Black/Red) |
| Display | Fluorescent Display | LCD | LCD |
| Best Feature | Fast, durable, bright display | Compact, fast printing | Portable, easy to use |
| My Rating (Out of 10) | 8.5 | 8.0 | 7.5 |
The Sharp EL-1197PIII Heavy Duty Color Printing Calculator is slightly faster than the others. The Canon is a great, solid alternative. The Casio is a good option if you need to move your calculator often.
Color Printing Calculator
A color printing calculator is vital for easy reading of reports. Red ink for negative numbers helps you spot losses right away. I have always preferred two-color printing for this reason. The fluorescent display on the Sharp EL-1197PIII also makes the numbers easy on my eyes.
| Feature | Sharp EL-1197PIII | Canon MP27-MG | Casio HR-170RC |
| Display | Fluorescent Display | Fluorescent Display | LCD |
| Printing Method | Ink Roller | Ink Roller | Ink Roller |
| Special Keys | Cost-Sell-Margin | Clock/Calendar | Re-Print Function |
| Best Feature | Clock/Calendar, great key feel | Very clear, big display | Compact, simple re-printing |
| My Rating (Out of 10) | 8.5 | 8.0 | 7.0 |
Sharp and Canon both offer great fluorescent displays. The Sharp EL-1197PIII includes a helpful clock and calendar. The Casio has a handy re-print function for checking your work.
Business Calculator
For any serious business or accounting work, you need a high-quality business calculator. You need a tool that is fast and error-free. The Sharp EL-1197PIII is made for pros who use the 10-key by touch. The color-coded keys help muscle memory kick in, which reduces mistakes a lot.
| Feature | Sharp EL-1197PIII | Victor 1270-3 | Monroe 8130X |
| Print Speed (LPS) | 4.5 | 4.6 | 5.0 |
| Keyboard | Intuitive, color-coded | Contoured, sturdy | Commercial-grade, extra large |
| Durability | Heavy Duty | Heavy Duty | Extreme Heavy Duty |
| Best Feature | Comfortable keys, great print quality | Fast, classic, reliable | Fastest speed, heavy-duty build |
| My Rating (Out of 10) | 8.5 | 8.5 | 9.0 |
The Sharp EL-1197PIII Heavy Duty Color Printing Calculator is a fast and comfortable machine. The Victor is a classic, durable option. The Monroe model is for those who need the absolute fastest printing speed.
Final Verdict
The Sharp EL-1197PIII Printing Calculator is a heavy-duty classic that continues to earn its reputation. It’s perfect for accountants, bookkeepers, and financial professionals who value tactile reliability over flashy tech.
Sure, it’s not portable and lacks modern connectivity, but for those who need speed, precision, and physical records, it’s one of the most dependable machines you can buy today.
In short, this calculator doesn’t just calculate, it works with you, not against you.
FAQs
To print the grand total on most Sharp printing calculators, press the G/T (Grand Total) key. This key will calculate and print the final total amount.
Yes, Sharp still makes calculators. They produce many models, including basic, scientific, and heavy-duty printing calculators.
For many Sharp scientific calculators, you press the MODE key and then a number like 0 or 1 to select the NORMAL mode. This clears special settings.
Your calculator might not be working because the batteries are low. It could also have a system error. Resetting the calculator can often fix an error.
Most Sharp calculators do not have a single factory reset button. You usually reset them by using a key combination. You might also use a small RESET hole on the back.
To reset a Sharp EL model, you generally use the 2nd F key followed by the M-CLR key. Then you choose a clear option like ALL to fully reset the machine.
You can reset your calculator to its normal settings by clearing its memory. On many models, look for a C\cdot CE or M-CLR function.
The Sharp EL-1197PIII functions include two-color printing and time-value calculations. It has keys for COST, SELL, MARGIN, and a built-in CLOCK and CALENDAR.
To set the decimal on the Sharp EL-1197PIII, use the slide switch marked with F, 6, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0. Set it to the number of decimal places you want.
To reset the Sharp EL-1197PIII, look for the AC\cdot CE key. Pressing this can clear the current entry and calculation. A full factory reset may require finding a tiny RESET button.
Co-Founder, Owner, and CEO of MaxCalculatorPro.
Ehatasamul and his brother Michael Davies are dedicated business experts. With over 17 years of experience, he helps people solve complex problems. He began his career as a financial analyst. He learned the value of quick, accurate calculations.
Ehatasamul and Michael hold a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Financial Technology from a prestigious university. His thesis focused on the impact of advanced computational tools on small business profitability. He also has a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics, giving him a strong foundation in the theories behind complex calculations.
Ehatasamul and Michael’s career is marked by significant roles. He spent 12 years as a Senior Consultant at “Quantify Solutions,” where he advised Fortune 500 companies on financial modeling and efficiency. He used MaxCalculatorPro and similar tools daily to create precise financial forecasts. Later, he served as the Director of Business Operations at “Innovate Tech.” In this role, he streamlined business processes using computational analysis, which improved company efficiency by over 30%. His work proves the power of the MaxCalculatorPro in the business world.
Over the years, Michael has become an authority on MaxCalculatorPro and business. He understands how technology can drive growth. His work focuses on making smart tools easy to use. Michael believes everyone should have access to great calculators. He writes guides that are simple to read. His goal is to share his knowledge with everyone. His advice is always practical and easy to follow.