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The Best Math Equation Solver Apps of 2022
There are ways to get those pesky equations sorted out. Ways and apps, that is. We have tested some of the most famous mobile software in the field to bring you only the absolute best.

Let's be honest here - how many of us are really good at math? Seriously, it's a tough nut to crack. Many people struggle with it in school - and later in life. Equations can be particularly problematic and the bane of just about any student's existence. Rare are those who manage well enough. We mere mortals are left to fend for ourselves. In such circumstances, a bit of help is always welcome.
Fortunately, apps made specifically for the purpose do exist. As a matter of fact, there's a surprising number of them. We took it upon ourselves to test them and make sure they are indeed able to perform to some pretty high standards. If you're mathematically challenged and need something to keep you going - keep reading!
Table of Contents
The way to go
At AppGrooves, we value simplicity and functionality above all else. In this department, Mathway excels more so than any other app we have tested.
Why we chose Mathway:
- A straightforward, to-the-point approach to every single function within the app
- Clear and concise explanations to every part of the solution
- The general majority of advanced features are available for free
- Interaction with a real, living, breathing tutor is the only feature you will need to splurge on
If you need a quick solution - or a detailed explanation - this will be your go-to. In fact, it could also prove to be the only math app you will ever need.
Read Mathway's Full ReviewPicture perfect
Snap a picture and get your problem solved in a matter of seconds. It's literally that simple.
Why we chose Photomath?
- The option to choose between being a student, a teacher, and a parent
- Perfectly suitable for all levels, including excellent prep for SATs
- Animations and interactive graphs will give the app an extra dose of charm and functionality
The photo feature may require a bit of patience (it will take you a minute or two to learn how to center the image properly) but, once you get the hang of it, everything else will be smooth sailing.
Read Photomath's Full ReviewStep by step to the top
Don't let bad memories of Internet Explorer turn you away from trying this gem from Microsoft. It truly is worth your time.
Why we chose Microsoft Math Solver?
- A visually attractive yet fully functional solution to all problems mathematical
- TOTALLY free to use for as long as you wish
- Supports English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, French, Italian, German, Hindi, Japanese, Russian, and a number of other languages
It's great for students and teachers alike, providing on-the-go solutions to even the most complex equations.
Read Microsoft Math Solver's Full ReviewEverything We Recommend
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Our Pick
Mathway: Scan & Solve Problems
4.8 Ratings 769K+ Reviews 10M+ DownloadsMathway is the world’s smartest math calculator for algebra, graphing, calculus and more! Mathway gives you unlimited access to math solutions that can help you understand complex concepts. Simply point your camera and snap a photo or type your math homework question for step-by-step answers.CostFreeFreeIn-App Purchases$0.99 - $149.99 per item$9.99 - $79.99 per item -
Runner UpLearn math, check homework and study for upcoming tests and ACTs/SATs with the most used math learning app in the world! Got tricky homework or class assignments? Get unstuck ASAP with our step-by-step explanations and animations.
We’ve got you covered from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus and geometry. You CAN do math!
KEY FEATURES
• Word problem explanations!
• Free to use
• Step-by-step explanations for every solution
• Exclusive how-to animations
• Scroll through multiple solving methods per problem
• Multi-functional scientific calculator
• Interactive graphs
MATH TOPICS COVERED
• Basic Math/Pre-Algebra: arithmetic, integers, fractions, decimal numbers, powers, roots, factors
• Algebra: linear equations/inequalities, quadratic equations, systems of equations, logarithms, functions, matrices, graphing, polynomials
• Geometry (specific textbooks only)
• Trigonometry/Precalculus: identities, conic sections, vectors, sequences and series, logarithmic functions
• Calculus: limits, derivatives, integrals, curve sketching
• Statistics: combinations, factorials
“An answer isn’t all you’ll get from this free app. Photomath also provides a step-by-step guide of how each problem is solved.” — Huffington Post
“The step-by-step guide is beneficial to students that do not have access to a tutor and struggle with solving math problems.” — Forbes
“A viral video about a new app looks like a dream come true for anyone who struggles with math.” — Time
___________________________________________
Want to boost your learning experience? With Photomath Plus, you get:
EXPERT EXPLANATIONS
High-quality teacher-approved explanations for every problem in select textbooks, including word and geometry problems! Learn or repeat math concepts at your own pace.
ANIMATIONS
Detailed animations that help you visualize and understand each math step.
TIPS & HINTS
Level up your learning by understanding “how” and “why” math problems are solved, or remember forgotten terms and concepts with our embedded glossary.
• Payment will be charged to your Google Play account at the confirmation of purchase.
• A subscription automatically renews unless it’s canceled at least 24 hours before the end of the current billing period.
• Your account will be charged for renewal within 24 hours prior to the end of the current period.
• Manage or cancel your subscription in your account settings on the Google Play after purchase.
• Offers and pricing subject to change without notice.
Suggestions or questions? Email us at support@photomath.com
Website: www.photomath.com
Facebook: @Photomathapp
Twitter: @Photomath
Terms of Use: https://photomath.com/en/termsofuse
Privacy Policy: https://photomath.com/en/privacypolicyCostFreeFreeIn-App Purchases$0.99 - $299.99 per item$2.99 - $59.99 per item -
Also GroovyMicrosoft Math solver app provides help with a variety of problems including arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, and other topics using an advanced AI powered math solver. Simply write a problem on screen or use the camera to snap a math photo. Microsoft Math problem solver instantly recognizes the problem and helps you to solve it with ⚡FREE Step-By-Step Explanations⚡, interactive graphs, similar problems from the web and online video lectures. Quickly look up related concepts. Get help with your homework problems and gain confidence in mastering 💯 the techniques ⚡It is absolutely FREE and No Ads!⚡
HIGHLIGHTS
● ✏️ Write an equation on screen as you naturally do on paper
● 📷 Scan printed or handwritten math problem
● ⌨️ Type and edit using advanced scientific calculator
● Get interactive Step-by-Step explanations 💡 & Graphing calculator 📈
● Import images with equations from gallery 🖼️
● Scan and Solve Worksheets with multiple problems
● 🔎Search the web for similar problems and video lectures
● Try word problems
● Scan and plot x-y data tables for linear/non-linear functions
● Learn mathematics in your language - supports Chinese, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and many more
SUPPORTED PROBLEMS
● Elementary: arithmetic, real, complex numbers, LCM, GCD, factors, roman numerals
● Pre-Algebra: radicals and exponents, fractions, matrices, determinants
● Algebra: quadratic & simultaneous equations, inequalities, rational expressions, linear, polynomial and exponential graphs
● Word problems on mathematical concepts, number theory, probability, volume, surface area
● Basic Calculus: Summations, Limits, derivatives, integrals
● Statistics: Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, permutations, combinations
Find out more about Microsoft Math Solver app on our website 👉 Link: https://math.microsoft.com
📧 Contact us at email: mathsupport@microsoft.com We look forward to your feedback.CostFreeFreeIn-App PurchasesNoNo
The 411 from our Appventurer
How we tested?
Numbers, equations, and such are often just plain difficult. Our tech experts may be amazing at this, but we writers will always struggle. Yours truly is a particularly good example of this. I will go so far as to admit that I almost failed a grade because of maths - even if all my other grades were pretty impressive. This pretty much makes me the perfect person to test these. If the apps can make sense to me - they will make sense to anyone.
Obviously, the usual parameters were considered in the process. Ease of use was paramount, as you don't really want to waste half an hour figuring out how to solve a simple equation. We also paid attention to the potential each app has as a learning tool. They are, after all, not glorified calculators. Quite the contrary! In addition to solving your equation problem, they should also be able to explain how the whole operation is performed.
Last but not least, we also took into account the need for in-app purchases. Anyone following us will know that we are not keen on those. The fewer of them, the better.
Why get the app?
Not everyone is blessed with a well-developed left hemisphere. Some of us are more inclined to write, paint, or devote our attention to social sciences. Math can be a problem for many - with equations holding an honorary (or dishonorable) spot as the most headache-inducing. With the right app, you can definitely fast-forward through the process and get the result you need in a matter of seconds.
There is, however, another reason you might want to have one of these stored on your smartphone. Despite obvious difficulties, some people will be eager to push through them and fully master the science of dealing with equations. To them, an app of this kind can serve as a learning tool - another way to figure out how things really work in the world of math. The ultimate goal will be to solve any equation with nothing but pen and paper. How long it will take you is fully up to you. We have better tools than anyone else in human history, so we might as well crack on and make the best of it.
More About Mathway: Our Pick
Let us not mince words, for it is no secret that math is straight up difficult. As we have mentioned in the intro, it is the biggest obstacle for many students, an overwhelming burden that can only be moved with utmost effort. So why would anyone want to make it even more difficult by creating a complicated app for it? If you're looking to solve a problem, you should get just that - and not a whole bunch of new problems to go with it.
The creators of Mathway were definitely aware of this trap - one that a lot of other apps seem to have fallen into. Instead, the smart people from the company of the same name decided to make things as easy, as simple, as straightforward, as digestible as they possibly could. In our opinion, they have succeeded through and through.
The rule of thumb applies that the first impression is usually the best one. If the app is to be judged by how quickly it loads - Mathway would've won not just in this category but in any other. You open the program, go through the shortest tutorial in human history, and will already know what you're supposed to do and how to get everything solved on the go.
You can type in your problem, photograph it (handwriting recognition on point!), or even use your voice to dictate it. The app will then analyze the data, offer you multiple ways to approach your equation, and, in the end, give you a detailed, step-by-step explanation on how to deal with it.
Mathway covers an ENORMOUS selection of different categories - from arithmetic and fractions to roots and decimal numbers. It goes on to take care of algebra, equations, logarithms, functions, and graphics - moving to trigonometry, conic sections - and finishing off with integrals and statistics. Oh, and if that wasn't enough - it also dips its toe in the murky waters of chemistry. Impressive, isn't it?
All of this instant homework help is suitable for elementary, high school, undergraduate, and even post-graduate students. Pretty much all the basic features are available free of charge. What's not to love? If you couldn't tell by now - we are definitely smitten by this piece of software.
Certain elements of the step-by-step process, however, may only be available in the premium version - along with the very convenient tutor option. The latter will set you back $9.99 per month but will mean that you can easily access the services of a qualified teacher - day or night. If you ask us - it's totally worth it and definitely beats hiring a tutor in person (especially in the time of the pandemic).
Snags but not drags:
It is difficult to talk about downsides when there are practically none to be discussed. With its deceptively simple interface and extremely powerful functionality, Mathways leaves very little to be desired in the domain of improvements. If the developers were to ask us what ought to be changed - we'd reluctantly have to say "absolutely nothing." Perhaps, still, we could be a bit nit-picky and find one thing that may have bugged us a bit.
The option to dictate your equation through your mic is a brilliant one and will be amazing for anyone who, at the moment, doesn't have the option to write down or scan their problem. It's a good accessibility feature that, however, still suffers from somewhat mediocre execution. There are too many ways in which you can verbalize a problem, but for now, the app will recognize only a portion of them. This is definitely the segment that needs a bit of improvement - to match the absolute brilliance of the rest.
More About Photomath: Runner Up
Different people will have different problems when it comes to equations or, indeed any other segment of mathematics. A high school student, a teacher, and a parent of a 10-year-old will view things very differently. The type of pressure they may feel, the kind of problems they will face, and their potential solutions will be unique to each category. This is why it's next to impossible to approach the issue in a one-size-fits-all manner. Instead, a tailor-made app is a much better option.
Photomath tries (and, for the most part, succeeds) to bridge the gap between students and teachers, children and parents, and everyone else involved - by dividing its software into three separate units. Once you first launch the app, you will be able to enter your age, along with your status. By declaring yourself a student, a teacher, or a parent, you will face a slightly different interface and get the sort of explanations that will be beneficial for improving your lot in the world of math.
This, however, is not where the story (nor the benefits) end. The unique experience you will receive will stretch to include a quick and easy way to scan or manually input all your problems - and an efficient way of solving them. The app also boasts a good tutorial you can rely on every time you find yourself a tad confused by any of the numerous features.
In addition, Photomath has the convenient option of showing you the history of all your problems and solutions, giving you the ability to reference and cross-reference previous experience in order to improve your skills in the long run.
It's a great way to do your homework, study for tests, and prepare for SATs. It can even be helpful in college or at work, so you will benefit greatly from keeping it on your smartphone even after you've graduated.
Step-by-step instructions are, of course, included, but the app goes one step further in this department. If you commit to purchasing the premium version, you can greatly benefit from animated instructions and interactive graphs, which will make the whole experience truly enjoyable. Scroll through multiple solving methods per problem, take advantage of the multi-functional scientific calculator, and understand everything from basic math to statistics. Perhaps the only downside to it is the lack of live tutoring, which is why Photomath will remain as a runner-up in this little competition.
More About Microsoft Math Solver: Also Groovy
In recent years, Microsoft has had a somewhat rocky relationship with the general public. Of course, many still use Windows as their main operative system but will always find reasons to complain about it. Some other of the company's products have suffered an even worse fate, with Internet Explorer and its successor Edge becoming objects of ridicule. Still, the good old MS is still perfectly capable of creating something functional - and even great.
Microsoft Math Solver is a perfect example that, on occasion, the company will deliver. The app covers the same topics as all the others on our lists - from basics to trigonometry, even statistics are included - and uses an AI-powered math solver to fix any issues you may have. You can scan, draw, or type - it's perfectly up to you. A superbly intuitive mechanism is able to recognize even some pretty messy handwriting.
All of this functionality is hidden behind a rather attractive facade. In fact, we can say this is the most visually appealing of all the entries. Where our winner offers stern simplicity, Microsoft Math Solver aims to be beautiful and engaging.
This impression, however, is not just superficial veneer but, instead, runs deep. In addition to all the standard features, the app boasts a collection of quizzes, online video lectures - all of this coming totally free of charge. No in-app purchases, no ads, no subscriptions - just purely free services of amazing quality. The app goes so far as to allow you to scan and solve complex worksheets, search the web for similar problems, and do all this in well over 20 different languages.
So what's the problem? Why is this stunning piece of software not at the very top of the list? For one, there are no live tutors you can connect with, which is something Mathway is very proud to present as its main selling point. In addition, Microsoft's app can sometimes be a bit slower than the others, taking up to 10 seconds to deal with more complex equations.
This, however, doesn't mean that you should simply skip it. Quite the contrary! If you're looking for a totally free solution that is both comprehensive and efficient - and looks amazing doing it! - you can't go wrong with this one.
Other Apps Considered
Symbolab presents itself as a moderately comprehensive solution - but with one stand-out feature. Unlike many other programs, here, you can easily copy/paste any answer back into the "enter a problem" bar and continue developing the basic idea further. This brings the app into the university-level category, which we absolutely love. However, connectivity issues have absolutely ruined it for us. Enormous lag and inability to download updates make the whole experience rather frustrating. If it weren't for this massive downside, Symbolab would be among our top 3 for sure.
This little piece of software offers some pretty decent step-by-step instructions. They are easy to understand (well, as easy as anything in the realm of mathematics can be), more detailed than most, and accessible at all times - free of charge. Unfortunately, you won't always find the same level of quality when it comes to problem solutions. More than a couple of times, we ended up with the dreaded "Cymath is having trouble solving this problem." We are not exactly sure what could be the reason for this - especially since we made sure to use the exact same problems to test out all the other apps.
Nothing beats a real teacher, and Gauthmath aims to provide just that. Connecting you with tutors from across the globe, it gives you a chance to have your problems solved not by a machine but by living, breathing humans. This is, of course, a paid feature. What has made us question the usefulness of this particular platform is the fact that it seems to be geared more towards high school students. Those in college may need to look elsewhere, especially if they are doing their masters in engineering.
The app seems comparatively smooth but has some minor issues when solving logarithmic problems. In addition, it has a somewhat annoying tendency to plug in its premium features where you don't want them - pushing and prodding and nudging you to pay - every chance it gets. This is a massive pet peeve of ours at AppGrooves, and we definitely wish this sort of thing was approached in a less obnoxious fashion. We gave up after two days of testing.
Stefan Racic
My phone tends to be filled to the brim with apps I am either trying on for size of using on a regular basis. I use them for a variety of tasks, including sketching and creating art, keeping in touch with friends, being up to date with the latest news, learning about diverse spiritual practices and, of course, playing games!
With over 10 years of experience as a translator and writer, I channel my creativity into writing about things I enjoy. My education in business (I hold a bachelor's degree in operations management) is but one part of expertise. I have worked for art magazines, spiritual blogs, news and business sites, and now I explore the fascinating world of apps.
My previous work is as diverse as my interests. Fresh out of college, I was employed as a translator and interpreter at the fringes of the corporate world and the NGO sector. After switching to writing, I first focused on business news, then shifted to working for a series of art magazines (WideWalls perhaps being the most well known), and even wrote content for a couple of spirituality-focused apps for Labyrinthos Academy. Little did I know that I would eventually devote a good chunk of my time to writing about all sorts of interesting new apps out there.
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hanifa
That was very good person