Abacus vs. Calculator — What's the Difference?

The abacus (plural abaci or abacuses), also called a counting frame, is a calculating tool. It has been used since ancient times.

An electronic calculator is typically a portable electronic device used to perform calculations, ranging from basic arithmetic to complex mathematics. The first solid-state electronic calculator was created in the early 1960s.

A manual computing device consisting of a frame holding parallel rods strung with movable counters.

An electronic or mechanical device for the performance of mathematical computations.

(Architecture) A slab on the top of the capital of a column.

A person who operates such a machine or otherwise makes calculations.

A table or tray scattered with sand which was used for calculating or drawing.

A set of mathematical tables used to aid in calculating.

A device used for performing arithmetical calculations; (rare) a table on which loose counters are placed, or (more commonly) an instrument with beads sliding on rods, or counters in grooves, with one row of beads or counters representing units, the next tens, etc.

A mechanical or electronic device that performs mathematical calculations.

(architecture) The uppermost portion of the capital of a column immediately under the architrave, in some cases a flat oblong or square slab, in others more decorated.

(dated) A person who performs mathematical calculation

A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments for holding bottles, cups, or the like; a kind of buffet, cupboard, or sideboard.

A person who calculates (in the sense of scheming).

A table or tray strewn with sand, anciently used for drawing, calculating, etc.

(obsolete) A set of mathematical tables.

A calculating table or frame; an instrument for performing arithmetical calculations by balls sliding on wires, or counters in grooves, the lowest line representing units, the second line, tens, etc. It is still employed in China.

One who computes or reckons: one who estimates or considers the force and effect of causes, with a view to form a correct estimate of the effects.

The uppermost member or division of the capital of a column, immediately under the architrave. See Column.

A small machine that is used for mathematical calculations

A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments, for holding cups, bottles, or the like; a kind of cupboard, buffet, or sideboard.

An expert at calculation (or at operating calculating machines)

A tablet placed horizontally on top of the capital of a column as an aid in supporting the architrave

A calculator that performs arithmetic functions by manually sliding counters on rods or in grooves