CalcTape Paper Tape Calculator App Reviews
FANTASTIC
I’ve got this app in my iPhone, iPad, Galaxy Note 4 and now in my Mac. The best calculator ever. Congratulations.
Finally!!
I’m so excited! My favourite calculator app is finally on the Mac, and it doesn’t disappoint. Thank you!!
I don’t recommend purchasing this application until the developers address a number of shortcomings. While the interface is clean and straightforward, a few obvious features were missing and it was a big disappointment for a $10 calculator (vs. a buck). 1. Previously entered, and calculated, numbers cannot be converted into variables, stored in memory, or otherwise easily reused. While the user can single click a number move the cursor to the top of the application, click copy, move the cursor to the insert location, and click paste, this is not an efficient maneuver, nor is it practical for a large number of inputs. a) any number should be declared a variable by either: i) right-clicking and setting ii) dragging to the variable panel b) any number should be reused by dragging to a formula, or right-clicking and selecting an option like "use this" 2. Tapes are renamed by editing files in Finder (being careful to close those tapes, and reopen them after renaming them), or (as I later found out b/c its not so obvious) by using the menu, or a drop down arrow on the title bar. What ever happened to clicking on the name itself? I missed this, but feel it didn’t have to be this way. 3. Exports are limited to calc files. Truly, this is more of an "attach file" feature than an export. Granted, it does have a hover label that says “share” but the icon looks like an export to me. Please, offer text as a minimum. Note: it is possible to print to PDF but not control over formatting is available. 4. No scientific buttons. This calculator could so easily be the killer app for technical, engineering, and other professions… but it’s not, hopefully yet.
This app is very good. You can have a printable copy of your all your calcuations and notes. Works with iOS as well (additional purchase) and syncs with iCloud across devices.
I had a long string of emails with Thomas Klütsch from Schoettler software and acting customer service for this app, which resulted in little help. After showing constant and consistent syncing issues with their software with version v1.1.2 on the mac (screen shots, videos and notes) and the fact that the app can retrieve a document that was synced using an iphone with the cloud, but does not retain the info in the document list so as to make it easy to open the sync document and reuse again, they came back with this gem of a quote, ”Unfortunately you are the only user currently experiencing problems with CalcTape and iCloud Drive synchronization. And we are not able to see this behavior on any of our test systems right now.” Clearly that is BS, as dexoticaqua posted back in march a similar issue with synching. Come on Schoettler!!! Fix your product. It used to work and ever since your update from 1.0, I have been unable to successfully sync or keep cloud data present in the document list on the Mac software.
Finally the best calculator!
Finally. So glad you guys developed this! It is by far the best clculator with and ediable tape!!!!!!! AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A Great Tape Calculator!
I have used this app on as long as I can remember! It just doesn’t get any better for running tape style calculations!
It’s my prefered calculator in mi iOS devices and at last in the mac, I think its the best calculator for Mac and it syncs on iCloud. Keep the good job ! ! ! !
I’m Not happy that the mac version does not sync with the ipad and iphone but, after emailing the persons making this app, I’ve been reasured that they are working a fix for this problem(after having the ipad and iPhone version for a long time) I believe they will follow through on this much needed feature. That brings me back to the app itself. It is even better than the verisons on the ipad and iPhone, and just like the review I wrote for those apps I believe this is by far the best tape calculator.
Overal Good Tape Calc Program
1.1.0 New update now not in english. What’s up? Not pleased with this. Have I just lost $5.99 in the US?
Current Version Not Showing Menus In English
I think the localization may have gotten botched. Seems to be a good program, but I can’t read the menus or dialogs enough to really know.
It was fine until the last update...
Great program but last update shows everything in German and ask that you please fix.
Love the concept, could use a little tweaking to get it up to par. - Window will not remember size and position between launches. (fixed with this update, much better) - Still not taking focus when mouse is hovered over app when not the top window. (Try clicking the close button when not the top window)
Macbook retina pro. I run it, open it, put figures into it and everytime I attempt to close it I get frozen spinning wheel. Everytime. Kinda renders it useless. Now what? What for the update.
The app is nice. I like the visual of the ‘running tape’ string of numbers to check my work. I like the variables one is able to set up. My only complaint so far is how to get an update from v. 1.1.1 Purchased on the Apple App Store to the newer v. 1.1.2? I emailed the company and they replied that I would get the update through the Apple App Store. I don’t see an update option anywhere. "Hi, updates should be handled via the AppStore-App on your Mac. If you purchased V1.1.1, the update to 1.1.2 is free. Kind regards, Thomas Klütsch schoettler Software GmbH"
Love it but…
I am so tired of CalcTape popups asking me if it should save on iCloud or locally. It doesn’t matter which I select. CalcTape constantly forgets.
iCloud or Local
It seems that no matter how I set the “Storage” option in settings, I continually get a message when using the program telling me to set the storage to Local or iCloud. I like the App but it’s getting annoying.
Not compatible with Sequoia 15.6.1?
It doesn’t accept the = key input. Need to click on the = key in the calculator keyboard. Annoying. It may be Sequoia, I read that it doesn’t work well with outside calculators. That, after they ruined their basic desktop calculator. CalcTape does have a beautifully clear paper tape window and font.
Love it, but…
I have enjoyed using CalcTape for years since I purchased it, but recently on my M4 Pro MacMini, it keeps locking up repeatedly when I add the tax rate and then edit the rate to the proper percentage. Is this app using Rosetta or is it Apple Silicon native? In the resulting crash submission dialogue, it mentions Rosetta… I suspect that may be at least part of the issue.
Best calculator
This is one of the best calculators out there! I have tried several calculators and CalcTape is my number 1 choice! It does not offer a ton of functions, but it does more than what I require!
Excellent, Just Needs Larger Text
My only suggestion: the numbers and math symbols are quite small. For seniors or anyone with less-than-perfect vision, a font size option with larger, clearer text would make a big difference.
Using it since 2020
Hasn’t disappointed once.
Love this app
I've been using it (and others) for a while and it's become my goto laptop calculator - much better (for me and the way I work), than any of the others.
CalcTape Update
6 Aug 2024 _ I am now using v. 6.0.3. This app still rocks. I like the intuitive nature of calculating; the ability to go back and correct a figure and have the calculation update take place automatically; I like the ability to 'Save' the work and have it available hours, days, months, even years later; I have come up with Key Characters to substitute for those that are 'read' as math functions and are not able to used in typing characters, such as: I use the [~] in place of the [-] and the [\] in place of the [/]. Although one is able to do much the same math calculations using the included Apple macOS app 'Calculator' and the 'tape history' is available, it isn't as slick and easy-to-use as CalcTape. (older) The app is nice. I like the visual of the ‘running tape’ string of numbers to check my work. I like the variables one is able to set up. My only complaint so far is how to get an update from v. 1.1.1 Purchased on the Apple App Store to the newer v. 1.1.2? I emailed the company and they replied that I would get the update through the Apple App Store. I don’t see an update option anywhere. "Hi, updates should be handled via the AppStore-App on your Mac. If you purchased V1.1.1, the update to 1.1.2 is free. Kind regards, Thomas Klütsch schoettler Software GmbH” **UPDATE: I now have Version 1.3.0 and all is good in the world. Well, maybe not the entire globe. I find this app to be especially great at keeping a running log for my checkbook as well as previous accounting events. I find the app extremely easy to use with a good user interface. I would like to have the ability to enter Text along-side numerical entries without having to avoid any character that might be used in the numerical column. For instance (/, *, -) are not able to be entered as text when writing a Comment as they will jump back to the numerical column and initiate an action.
Excellent
I am very happy with my purchase. I really needed something like this for my business, and taxes and it has really helped me. Please do not change anything, but fix as needed. This is really perfect!
iCloud became corrupted
A complete clean install of macOS was the only solution to a corrupted iCloud syncing. Not sure if the app or the OS was as fault, but days later almost back to where I was.
Great app
Great and VERY useful app. You will be able not only make your calculations, but also easily annotate and make it clearly visible. Great job, guys.
Great Software
Excellent software, the only thing its missing is automatic decimal to make it more like an adding machine. Accountants and business owners would love this feature.
Finally. A clean, simple calculator...
...with ability to customize for fonts large enough to read, a choice of display colors/contrasts so it is easy on my eyes. And I can easily save the results. AND it can show numbered items, which is so nice, as I collect yearly bills and figure out yearsly and monthly totals. If I accidentally skip one, mistake is visible. (Still reylying on this a year later.)
Great App - Would LIke to See Some Updates
This is a great calculator the the ability to add separate scratchpads is very useful. When rebooting I am always asked where I want to store my snippets even though I already have iCloud selected in my preferences. I would like to see this fixed so it doesn't need to be selected each time. It would also be nice to have a note feature for each scratchpad so you could write more about the calculations you are running to refresh your memory when reviewing later. I'd rather keep these separate from the titles for privacy reasons. I hope the author continues to update and improve this calculater as it's very useful.
Solid
I needed a calculator after the apple widget died. (why?) This one has an older interface but functions well, which is all anyone wants with a calculator.
Simply The best App ever
very very good for work
Nice Features, Want Adding Machine Entry
I use this frequently and like the option to export, print, add notes and change amounts. But - I want the option to enter like the old adding machines where you enter the amount and the plus/minus function after the number. I see other calculators offer this feature, it would be most helpful under the options settings please.
Great Little App!
Just perfect for having a calclator with a paper record of the numbers being added, and ability to edit, etc. Good job to the developer!
Great Support
I had a glitch with Monterey and my M1 Macbook, support was very responsive and issued an app update a few days later. Have been using this program for years. Would give them 6 stars if I could.
It does not function as an adding machine
If you are an accountant looking for basic adding machine function, keep looking. You have to enter your calculations like a pocket calculator. It is not as advertised.
SIMPLE AND I DON'T GET LOST IN THE NUMBERS
THE ONLY REASON I GAVE IT 4 STARS IS THAT IT WOULD BE NIC IF THE /-/= SYMBOLS WERE EASIER TO SEE
Want to rate higher
I would love to rate this a 5 out of 5, but in its current state it is too frustrating to warrant more than a 2. I wrote support back on January 17, 2021 about the program not updating its state file correctly. I didn't get a response until March 2. I immediately responded asking if the response meant they were working on the issue, but still haven't received a response to the followup question on 2021-05-03.
Fantastic multi-function calculator app!
I love this app, especially the scratchpad. I can see the figures I’ve entered and make adjustments if I need to. In addition to the regular functions, a user can set up their own buttons. I haven’t used that yet because all of the other functions serve my need. Great app!
like it quite a lot, would be nice to have additional features
I use CalcTape on my phone and on my Macbook... I like it a lot, it is SuperUseful for me to docuent purchases, etc... would like to see a couple of additional features in future releases, if possible... would be nice to have a Search function... and the phone app on my iPhone - when you move off the app and back in, it defaults to the end of the document... would be better for me to just leave it at the last place the user scrolled to when they moved off the app, etc...
Great app, a bit rough around the edges.
I love this app. Makes a cumbersome spreadsheet obsolete for many quick 'back of the napkin' calulations. The ability to mix in text with calulations is fantastic. Looking forward a BigSur update that cleans up UI bugs. (Window titles are illegible, '=' button does not scale with rest of keypad, app icon is now oversized, etc).
Great for Tax time
I gave it 5 stars because I cannot find a flaw to date. Calctape lets me input discriptions of my figures and print the tape to maintain a record of my calculations. The visual of the running tape allows me to keep a check on my input as I can go fast on an adding machine; this little calctape keeps up with me.
Don’t use a computer without it - nothing else like it I know of.
The amazing versatility and utility of this software is nothing short of amazing; it makes the Android’s and Apple’s poor excuse for a calculator look more like just pure unexcusable TRASH.
It really does everything I need
Althought this wonderful calculator does everything I need it to do, the numbers and math symbols are too small and are hard to see.
Great App, wish better way to hit " "
Great App, especially to verify correct data entry. Just wish there was a easier way to hit " " than keyboard shift /= or using mouse.
Exactly what I needed
I am a remodeling contractor. When I need to work up a quick cost estimate for a proposal this app allows me to use both numbers and text descriptions. So, I can add up a bunch of items while notating what they are for. I can then add my markup and get a total. Additionally, I can save them and edit them. Worth 2x the price!
Simple and makes it easy to correct mistakes
Between being able to jack up the font sixe, edit entered numbers, and see everything you have done so far, this calcuator makes it easy to get your numbers right. I haven't even gotten to the power user features yet. As useful as a spreadsheet without the hassle of a spreadsheet.
Great App
Does what it says it will and completely user friendly. Syncs w/ phone and computer
Great!
Most useful calculator I've ever had, and I've tried a lot of them. Use it all the time.
Fixed decimal
Hey guys, what about "fixed decimal" which you added with the recent update on Windows? Will you add that same option on iOS and Mac?
Love It! One Humble Request...
Five Stars. Absolutely love it! My only request is the ability to dim the paper or even revert -- I would LOVE a white font / black background option ... or various combinations of font and color. Ideally, a simple ability to set background and font color on the tape would be awesome. I work at night with the lights dimmed -- I keep the CalcTape window on top and it's BRIGHT! ;-) THANKS for considering and for the great app.
Great App!
Great functionality. Intuitive.
Best Calculator App I’ve ever used!
If you want calculator that allowes you to easily edit long calculations, this is it! I searched a long time for an app like this.
My favorite calc with all the best functions
Love the editing function. Very functional and practical for business or everyday use.
Keeps me straight
With the notation feature later I can see what that figure was for. Saving and printing is a bonus. Thanks Jim
Good But…..
This app has many great features, but it is hard to read the calculator numbers and symbols, expecially on a laptop like the MacBook Pro. What is weird is that the scrollable window on the left is easy to read, but the numbers and symbols on the calculator are so small and not bold like what is on the tape. I usually need to hold down the Control and Option keys to see what what I am clicking on :) As large as the calculator keys are, the numbers and symbols could even be larger than what is on the tape. You can even see the problem in the picture above.
Excellent Calculator with tape
I’ve use this app for several years now, and I love it. It’s my goto calc on my desktop and on my iPhone. I can have several tapes going at the same time, and I can print out a tape. I can also make notes for item entries. Give it a try. You’ll be happy you did.
Joan
I have been using this applicagtion for a while now and like it very much. I can save tapes when I want to and add a new tape for other calculations when I need one. I especially like the preset button to add my local tax and the option to create an additional tax button in my buttons. I also like the features to print, or send to notes, text, etc. so I can save any tape I want.
Sync still does not work- 5 months and counting
I had a long string of emails with Thomas Klütsch from Schoettler software and acting customer service for this app, which resulted in little help. After showing constant and consistent syncing issues with their software with version v1.1.2 on the mac (screen shots, videos and notes) and the fact that the app can retrieve a document that was synced using an iphone with the cloud, but does not retain the info in the document list so as to make it easy to open the sync document and reuse again, they came back with this gem of a quote, ”Unfortunately you are the only user currently experiencing problems with CalcTape and iCloud Drive synchronization. And we are not able to see this behavior on any of our test systems right now.” Clearly that is BS, as dexoticaqua posted back in march a similar issue with synching. Come on Schoettler!!! Fix your product. It used to work and ever since your update from 1.0, I have been unable to successfully sync or keep cloud data present in the document list on the Mac software.
wouldn’t close
Macbook retina pro. I run it, open it, put figures into it and everytime I attempt to close it I get frozen spinning wheel. Everytime. Kinda renders it useless. Now what? What for the update.
It was fine until the last update...
Great program but last update shows everything in German and ask that you please fix.
Overal Good Tape Calc Program
1.1.0 New update now not in english. What’s up? Not pleased with this. Have I just lost $5.99 in the US?
Hopefully sync soon for iPad and iPhone
I’m Not happy that the mac version does not sync with the ipad and iphone but, after emailing the persons making this app, I’ve been reasured that they are working a fix for this problem(after having the ipad and iPhone version for a long time) I believe they will follow through on this much needed feature. That brings me back to the app itself. It is even better than the verisons on the ipad and iPhone, and just like the review I wrote for those apps I believe this is by far the best tape calculator.
At last ! ! !
It’s my prefered calculator in mi iOS devices and at last in the mac, I think its the best calculator for Mac and it syncs on iCloud. Keep the good job ! ! ! !