Poor Product Quality and Apathetic Customer Service

I have used HP calculators since 1980 (HP-41C and HP-32SII). I was holding off purchasing the HP-33 for taking the PE Exam because of its untraditional layout. I was excited to hear of the new HP-35S and to hear that it was approved for the PE Exam.

My excitement has been dampened after purchasing and having to return two 35's because of poor product quality. The first had a defective key. The second looked like a refurbished calculator. The back of the case was scratched and the LCD display had yellow discoloration along the bottom.

My disappointment was only compounded by HP's robotic, apathetic customer service. Will I buy another? Begrudgingly yes, only because of the exam. Will I be giving up my older models. Not a chance.

My recommendation: If you have to mail order one, get it from an outlet with a local store (i.e., Sears,Wal-Mart or Circuit City) so you won't have to pay return shipping if you have a similar experience to mine.