Gas or Hybrid? Find out with CommuterCalc
CommuterCalc ($0.99) by Pfalzgraf is a simple calculation app that allows users to compare the cost of two cars over a period of one to ten years. This is particularly useful if you’re debating whether or not to invest in a hybrid vehicle. Instead of speculating about supposed savings, this app will compare the long-term costs for you.
The app requires eight data points about fuel costs, car usage, and payment options for its calculations. Each data point has a sliding bar next to it for users to input values. There is also a link feature for changing both data bars at the same time, useful for changing constant values. This method of data entry is inefficient. Scrolling is not accurate and the bars skip numbers, so exact values cannot be used. It would be better if users could type in their data.
After inputting data, the app displays either a bar chart or line graph with the costs per year. This allows for easy visualization of how much each option would cost. These two chart comparisons are useful, but there should be more chart options. I would also like a bottom line function that displayed total cost of each option.
Overall, I like the simplicity of CommuterCalc but I wish there were more features. The method entry should also be improved. The ability to compare costs of two cars is handy, but this app could be more refined.
