Our in-house experts and I have spent more than 100 hours testing and analysing the top AI-powered math apps to create our 2025 recommendations.
After rigorous testing, Photomath comes out on top as the best overall AI math app, thanks to its ease of use, step-by-step guidance, and accuracy in solving problems.
Whether you’re in high school struggling with algebra, or a university student grappling with calculus, these apps provide the reliable support you need to improve your math skills quickly and effectively.
Here’s our quick summary of the top 7 math AI apps this year:
| Rank | Math AI App | Best For | Price | Free Version |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Photomath | Best Overall | Free (Pro: $9.99/month) | Yes |
| #2 | Socratic by Google | Best for Understanding | Completely Free | Yes |
| #3 | Microsoft Math Solver | Best Detailed Explanations | Completely Free | Yes |
| #4 | Cymath | Best for Quick Solutions | Free (Premium: $5/month) | Yes |
| #5 | Brainly | Best Community Support | Free (Plus: $24/year) | Yes |
| #6 | Mathway | Best for Advanced Problems | Free (Premium: $19.99/month) | Yes |
| #7 | Chegg Math Solver | Best for College Students | From $9.95/month | Limited |
Why Use Math AI Apps for Homework?
As students, math homework can often feel frustrating and confusing. With teachers and tutors not always available when you need them, it’s helpful to have reliable assistance at your fingertips. Math AI apps offer:
- Instant Answers: No waiting—get immediate solutions to complex problems.
- Clear Explanations: Learn step-by-step methods that show exactly how solutions are reached.
- Confidence Boost: Quickly verify answers, helping you feel more prepared and less anxious.
- Convenience: Work at your own pace, anytime, anywhere.
Top 7 Best Math AI Apps You Need in 2025
1. Photomath: Best Overall AI Math App
Photomath uses your smartphone’s camera to instantly solve math problems, providing clear, step-by-step instructions.
During testing, Photomath consistently offered the quickest solutions with easy-to-follow explanations.
Pros:
- Camera scanning for instant solutions.
- Step-by-step breakdowns.
- Covers a wide range of problems, including algebra, calculus, and geometry.
- Free basic version.
Cons:
- Advanced explanations are behind paywall.
💰 Price: Free (Pro: $9.99/month)
2. Socratic by Google: Best for Understanding Concepts
Backed by Google’s powerful AI, Socratic helps you understand concepts through text, visuals, and videos. It excels at breaking down complicated concepts into simple explanations.
Pros:
- Comprehensive concept explanation.
- Visual learning support.
- Completely free.
Cons:
- Lacks deeper, advanced-level math support.
💰 Price: Free
3. Microsoft Math Solver: Best for Detailed Explanations
Microsoft Math Solver offers detailed explanations and interactive graphs. It supports algebra, calculus, statistics, and more.
Pros:
- Step-by-step explanations.
- Graphing calculator.
- Support for handwriting input.
Cons:
- Occasional inaccuracies with handwriting recognition.
💰 Price: Free
4. Cymath: Best for Quick Solutions
Cymath helps solve math problems efficiently and instantly. Ideal for fast-paced homework sessions, it delivers solutions quickly and accurately.
Pros:
- Quick answers.
- Step-by-step explanations.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons:
- Advanced features require premium subscription.
💰 Price: Free (Premium: $5/month)
5. Brainly: Best Community Support
Brainly connects students worldwide, providing instant community support for challenging homework questions.
Pros:
- Community-driven support.
- Fast answers from real people.
- Covers wide range of subjects beyond math.
Cons:
- Quality of answers can vary.
💰 Price: Free (Plus: $24/year)
6. Mathway: Best for Advanced Problems
Mathway tackles advanced math problems effectively, making it ideal for students at higher education levels.
Pros:
- Extensive math problem coverage.
- Detailed solutions for advanced problems.
- Reliable and accurate solutions.
Cons:
- Step-by-step solutions available only with subscription.
💰 Price: Free (Premium: $19.99/month)
7. Chegg Math Solver: Best for College Students
Chegg Math Solver targets university-level math problems, ideal for college students needing higher-level math help.
Pros:
- College-level problem-solving.
- Reliable expert explanations.
- Extensive knowledge base.
Cons:
- Subscription necessary for full access.
💰 Price: From $9.95/month
How to Choose the Right Math AI App for Your Homework Needs
Choosing the right math AI app can significantly improve your learning experience and transform homework sessions from frustrating to productive.
With multiple options available, each designed with distinct features, selecting the best one for your specific requirements is essential.
A careful approach ensures you pick an app that complements your learning style, provides the functionality you genuinely need, and offers the greatest value for your investment of time and, potentially, money.
Below are the main considerations to keep in mind while selecting the ideal math AI app:
1. Consider Your Grade Level and Math Difficulty
Not every app is built for every level of mathematics. It’s essential to align the math AI app you select with your current grade and the complexity of your coursework.
For instance, elementary or middle-school math differs significantly from calculus or advanced algebra taught in high school or college.
Selecting an app tailored specifically to your academic level will ensure that explanations and problem-solving techniques are relevant and understandable.
Quick Checklist:
- Elementary to Middle School:
- Focus on basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, geometry, and basic algebra.
- Ideal Apps: Photomath, Cymath, Brainly.
- High School Students:
- Algebra, calculus, trigonometry, geometry, statistics, and precalculus.
- Ideal Apps: Photomath, Socratic, Microsoft Math Solver, Mathway.
- College Students:
- Advanced calculus, statistics, linear algebra, differential equations, discrete mathematics.
- Ideal Apps: Mathway, Chegg Math Solver, Microsoft Math Solver.
2. Understand the Types of Problems You Need Help With
Different apps specialise in different types of mathematics problems. Some excel in algebraic equations, while others might provide clearer insights into calculus or geometry. Knowing your precise homework needs allows you to select an app with strengths matching your specific challenges.
Problem Type Examples and Recommended Apps:
| Problem Type | Description | Recommended Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra | Solving equations, simplifying expressions | Photomath, Mathway, Cymath |
| Calculus | Derivatives, integrals, limits, and series | Mathway, Microsoft Math Solver, Chegg |
| Geometry | Angles, shapes, proofs, and theorems | Photomath, Cymath, Microsoft Math Solver |
| Statistics | Probability, distributions, data analysis | Microsoft Math Solver, Chegg |
| General Math Concepts | Basic arithmetic, fractions, percentages | Socratic, Brainly, Photomath |
3. Evaluate the App’s User Interface and Ease of Use
The ideal math AI app should provide solutions efficiently and present the information clearly. A user-friendly interface contributes significantly to understanding the explanations provided.
Consider downloading and trying out a few apps yourself to see which interface feels the most intuitive and straightforward for your learning style.
Key Features of an Easy-to-use Interface:
- Clear, step-by-step explanations.
- Quick loading time and reliable performance.
- Minimal ads and distractions.
- Simple and intuitive navigation.
- Accessibility options like camera scanning and handwriting recognition.
4. Analyse Pricing and Available Features
While several math AI apps provide free versions with basic functionality, more advanced explanations and tools often require paid subscriptions.
Compare the features of the free versions with the premium upgrades to ensure the app provides genuine value for the price you pay.
Pricing Comparison Table (2025):
| App Name | Free Version | Paid Version Pricing | Recommended for Paid Version |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photomath | Yes | $9.99/month | Detailed explanations, practice problems |
| Socratic by Google | Yes | Completely free | – |
| Microsoft Math Solver | Yes | Completely free | – |
| Cymath | Yes | $5/month | Step-by-step advanced problem solutions |
| Brainly | Yes | $24/year | Priority answers, no ads |
| Mathway | Yes | $19.99/month | Advanced step-by-step explanations |
| Chegg Math Solver | Limited | From $9.95/month | Advanced college-level explanations |
5. Check Accuracy and Reliability
The most crucial factor in a math app is accuracy. Incorrect solutions or unclear explanations can lead to confusion and negatively impact your homework and exams.
Our testing has confirmed high reliability among the apps we’ve selected, but it’s always wise to verify accuracy by cross-checking a few problems initially.
Steps for Checking Accuracy:
- Solve a known problem manually or via textbook solutions.
- Cross-check the solution provided by the app.
- Verify if the app regularly updates for improved accuracy and reliability.
6. Consider Availability of Additional Learning Resources
Certain apps not only solve your homework problems but also offer additional resources like instructional videos, interactive quizzes, practice tests, and community forums.
These extra resources can deepen your understanding and strengthen your math skills over time.
Apps With Additional Learning Resources:
- Socratic: Includes educational videos and visuals for conceptual learning.
- Brainly: Provides a community-driven approach, allowing interaction and problem-solving with peers.
- Photomath (Pro): Offers interactive practice problems and quizzes.
- Chegg: Expert-written solutions, live tutoring sessions, and extensive practice materials.
Quick Summary: How to Choose (At a Glance):
- ✅ Identify your grade level (Elementary, High School, College).
- ✅ Understand your math topics and difficulty level (Algebra, Calculus, Geometry, etc.).
- ✅ Consider ease of use and user interface (Clear explanations, fast loading, easy navigation).
- ✅ Balance cost and features (Free vs Premium, check for extra resources and value).
- ✅ Verify accuracy and reliability (Cross-check answers initially).
- ✅ Look for additional resources (Instructional videos, quizzes, peer support).
Taking a structured approach when selecting a math AI app ensures you pick the most effective tool for your unique academic needs.
By aligning your requirements with each app’s capabilities, you’ll make your math homework significantly less stressful and more productive.
FAQs about Math AI Apps:
Can Math AI apps solve all my homework questions?
Most can solve common math problems, but advanced or specialised problems may require premium services.
Are Math AI apps accurate?
Accuracy is very high, especially among apps we’ve tested and recommended here.
Are these apps free or paid?
Most offer free basic features, with premium options for deeper or advanced features.
Can teachers detect if I’m using Math AI apps?
If you copy solutions directly, teachers may notice. Use apps to learn and check understanding.
Are Math AI apps allowed in exams?
Usually not—always check your school’s policy.
Final Verdict: Which Math AI App Do We Recommend?
Key Takeaways 🔍
- Photomath tops our list for general use, intuitive features, and accuracy.
- Socratic by Google is perfect for students who want to deepen conceptual understanding.
- Microsoft Math Solver provides detailed explanations and clear graphing functions.
- Brainly offers community-based support for broader questions and insights.
- Mathway and Chegg handle advanced problems effectively, ideal for higher education students.
No matter your math struggle, these apps offer practical, immediate, and reliable assistance to make homework manageable and even enjoyable.
