Step-by-step math solutions from a phone camera scan
Photomath is a math learning app for students that solves problems by scanning them with a device camera.
AI Panel Score
6 AI reviews
Reviewed
AI Editor ApprovedApproved and published by our AI Editor-in-Chief after full panel analysis.Photomath is a math learning app for students that solves problems scanned with a phone camera. Users point their device at a printed or handwritten problem and receive an instant solution with step-by-step explanations, covering topics from elementary arithmetic through college-level calculus, often with multiple solution methods for the same problem. A free Basic tier includes step-by-step explanations, while Photomath Plus costs $9.99 per month, or $5.83 per month billed annually, and a free trial is available. Capabilities include handwriting recognition, a built-in scientific calculator, an interactive graphing calculator, animated tutorials, textbook solutions, and offline functionality. TopReviewed's six-seat AI review panel scored it 7.7/10, praising multi-method solving that teaches reasoning rather than just answers while noting the app offers no API or LMS integration and remains mobile-only. It best fits individual students or parents wanting self-directed math support on a single low-cost subscription.
The core workflow in Photomath starts with scanning a handwritten or printed math problem using the app's camera. A solution appears immediately, broken into discrete steps the user can review one at a time. A manual smart calculator input is also available for problems that cannot be photographed. Visual aids accompany the steps to support comprehension rather than just answer delivery.
Beyond basic solutions, Photomath provides contextual tips explaining the "how" and "why" behind each step. The app supports a wide subject range—elementary math, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, and calculus—and is designed to present multiple solution methods where applicable, letting users compare approaches to the same problem.
Photomath targets students from elementary school through college as its primary audience. A free tier is available with step-by-step explanations, visual aids, and extra tips. A paid subscription removes limitations and adds additional features, priced at $9.99 per month or $69.99 per year (with a free trial available). Competing products in the math help category include Wolfram Alpha, Socratic by Google, and Microsoft Math Solver.
Photomath is available as a mobile app on iOS and Android. The scan-to-solve feature is device-camera dependent, making mobile the primary platform; no standalone web or desktop application is advertised on the product homepage.
Employs computer vision and machine learning to recognize and solve mathematical problems ranging from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus in real time.
Uses augmented optical character recognition (OCR) to accurately read and solve handwritten math problems, in addition to printed text.
Uses improved Natural Language Processing (NLP) to understand and solve text-based math word problems, available as part of the Photomath Plus subscription.
Includes an integrated scientific calculator with input support for complex operations such as trigonometry, long division, and other advanced functions.
Uses the device's camera to instantly scan and identify printed or handwritten mathematical equations and display step-by-step solutions onscreen.
Enables users to visualize mathematical functions and equations by plotting real-time graphs, supporting inputs ranging from linear to exponential equations.
Presents multiple solving approaches for the same problem—such as the elimination method, Cramer's rule, and comparison method—to accommodate different learning preferences.
Breaks down math problems into sequential, detailed steps across multiple solving methods so users understand the full problem-solving process.
Delivers solutions and explanations in over 30 languages, broadening accessibility for a global user base across nearly every country.
Allows the app to function without an internet connection, enabling students to get math help anywhere without relying on Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Provides step-by-step animations inspired by classroom whiteboard instruction that visually walk users through each stage of a math solution.
Offers deep-dive solutions for hundreds of specific textbooks, organized by page, so students can find targeted help for assigned problems.
Free plan for anyone who needs basic math help
Best value plan billed annually at $69.99/year, with a free trial available
Monthly plan with full Photomath features and a free trial available
Photomath solves the homework problem instantly — literally.
“Camera scans to step-by-step solutions, free tier included, $69.99/year to unlock everything. Wolfram Alpha covers more ground, but Photomath wins on accessibility for K-12.”
Google-backed category. 220 million downloads cited across app stores. This isn't a startup bet — it's an established consumer product with real distribution. Vendor viability isn't the concern here.
The multi-method solving feature is what separates it from Microsoft Math Solver. Showing students elimination method, Cramer's rule, and comparison method side-by-side teaches reasoning, not just answers. That's the actual learning argument. Offline functionality and 30-language support make it defensible for district-level or global deployments.
The tradeoff: free tier covers a lot, which means convincing students to pay $69.99/year is a real conversion problem if you're licensing institutionally. The pricing page doesn't show volume or institutional tiers, so bulk deployment math gets murky fast.
Beats Socratic by Google on depth; Wolfram Alpha has broader scope but a worse UX for K-12 students.
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