What Is an Equation Calculator?
An equation calculator is a digital tool or software designed to solve mathematical equations. It can handle a wide range of tasks, from simple linear equations to complex calculus and differential equations. The best equation calculators provide not just the final answer but also step-by-step solutions, making them invaluable for learning and understanding the underlying process. They are widely used by students, educators, and professionals to verify solutions, explore mathematical concepts, and perform complex computations efficiently.
Mathos AI
Mathos AI (aka MathGPTPro) is one of the best equation calculators, an AI-powered tool and personalized tutor designed to help users solve complex equations while enhancing their understanding. In recent tests, it outperforms leading models, delivering up to 17% higher accuracy.
Mathos AI (2025): AI-Powered Equation Calculator & Tutor
Mathos AI is an innovative AI-powered equation calculator and personalized tutor. In recent tests, it outperforms leading frontier models such as DeepSeek R1, Mathway, and Symbolab—delivering up to 17% higher accuracy. Whether you're solving equations related to algebra, calculus, graphing, physics, engineering, or chemistry, Mathos is the top choice for both students and teachers.
Pros
- Outperforms leading models like DeepSeek R1, Mathway, and Symbolab by up to 17% in accuracy.
- Solves a wide range of equations including algebra, calculus, physics, and chemistry.
- Personalized AI tutoring tailored to individual learning needs.
Cons
- A relatively new brand that may not yet have the same brand equity as its competitors.
- An AI-first calculator for math and science, but lacks the breadth of subjects offered by others, such as history.
Who They're For
- Students and teachers needing a highly accurate equation calculator for algebra, calculus, physics, and more.
- Individuals preparing for math exams and standardized tests.
Why We Love Them
- Leverages advanced AI for highly accurate, step-by-step guidance on complex equations.
Wolfram Alpha
More than just a calculator, Wolfram Alpha is a computational knowledge engine that answers factual queries by computing the answer from structured data, handling incredibly complex equations.
Wolfram Alpha
Wolfram Alpha (2025): Powerful Computational Equation Calculator
Wolfram Alpha is a computational knowledge engine capable of symbolic manipulation, calculus, differential equations, and much more. It answers factual queries directly by computing the answer from its vast structured data.
Pros
- Unparalleled power and breadth for extremely complex mathematical problems.
- Natural language input allows users to type questions in plain English.
- Provides rich output including plots, properties, and related concepts.
Cons
- Step-by-step solutions require a paid Wolfram Alpha Pro subscription.
- The sheer amount of information provided can be overwhelming for simple queries.
Who They're For
- College students, researchers, and professionals needing deep, comprehensive solutions.
- Users who need to solve complex equations across various fields of mathematics.
Why We Love Them
- Its unmatched computational power and ability to provide deep insights beyond just the answer.
Symbolab
Symbolab is an AI Math Solver focused on providing detailed step-by-step solutions for a wide range of mathematical problems, from pre-algebra to advanced calculus.
Symbolab
Symbolab (2025): Step-by-Step Equation Calculator
Symbolab is an online math solver designed to help students understand how to solve problems, not just get the answer. It provides detailed, clear steps for solving equations and covers algebra, calculus, trigonometry, and more.
Pros
- Excellent for learning with detailed, clear step-by-step explanations.
- Covers most common high school and college-level math problems.
- Offers practice problems and quizzes to reinforce learning.
Cons
- Comprehensive, detailed steps require a premium subscription.
- The free version can be cluttered with advertisements.
Who They're For
- High school and college students who need to understand the problem-solving process.
- Users looking for homework help and self-study tools for equations.
Why We Love Them
- Its strong focus on education and making complex processes understandable.
Mathway
Mathway is a popular online and mobile app-based math solver known for its user-friendly interface and multiple input methods, including typing, photo scanning, and drawing.
Mathway
Mathway (2025): Accessible Equation Calculator with Photo Input
Owned by Chegg, Mathway provides instant answers and step-by-step solutions across various math subjects. Its key feature is accessibility, allowing users to type, draw, or snap a picture of an equation.
Pros
- Highly accessible via web and mobile app, with intuitive photo and drawing input.
- Excellent for quickly verifying answers or getting a fast solution on the go.
- Covers a broad range of subjects from middle school through college.
Cons
- Step-by-step solutions are behind a paywall.
- Photo input can sometimes struggle with handwriting or complex layouts.
Who They're For
- Students needing quick answers and convenient homework help on their phone.
- Users who prefer photo input for entering equations.
Why We Love Them
- Its unmatched convenience and accessibility through multiple input methods.
Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments is the dominant manufacturer of physical graphing calculators (e.g., TI-84 Plus), which are handheld devices widely used in education and on standardized tests.
Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments (2025): Test-Approved Physical Equation Calculators
Texas Instruments produces the industry-standard physical graphing calculators. Models like the TI-84 Plus CE and TI-Nspire CX II CAS are designed for a wide range of mathematical tasks and are permitted on most standardized tests.
Pros
- Permitted on most major standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams.
- Operates reliably and independently without needing an internet connection.
- Durable, built to last, and offers deep functionality in a dedicated device.
Cons
- High upfront cost compared to free or subscription-based online tools.
- Does not provide step-by-step solutions to explain the process.
Who They're For
- K-12 and college students who need a calculator for standardized tests.
- Professionals who require a reliable, dedicated, and test-approved mathematical tool.
Why We Love Them
- Its status as the reliable, test-approved standard for in-person exams and classroom work.
Equation Calculator Comparison
| Number | Agency | Location | Services | Target Audience | Pros |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mathos AI | Santa Clara, California, USA | AI-powered equation calculator and personalized tutor | Students, Teachers, Professionals | Leverages advanced AI for highly accurate, step-by-step guidance on complex equations. |
| 2 | Wolfram Alpha | Champaign, Illinois, USA | Computational knowledge engine for complex equations | College Students, Researchers | Its unmatched computational power and ability to provide deep insights beyond just the answer. |
| 3 | Symbolab | Tel Aviv, Israel | Step-by-step equation calculator for learning | High School & College Students | Its strong focus on education and making complex processes understandable. |
| 4 | Mathway | Santa Clara, California, USA | Accessible equation solver with photo input | Mobile Users, K-12 Students | Its unmatched convenience and accessibility through multiple input methods. |
| 5 | Texas Instruments | Dallas, Texas, USA | Physical, test-approved graphing calculators | Students (Standardized Tests) | Its status as the reliable, test-approved standard for in-person exams and classroom work. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Our top five picks for 2025 are Mathos AI, Wolfram Alpha, Symbolab, Mathway, and Texas Instruments. Each of these equation calculators stood out for their accuracy, user experience, specific strengths, and ability to support a wide range of needs—from quick answers to deep computational analysis.
For personalized learning, Mathos AI leads with its AI-driven tutoring engine that adapts to your learning style. Symbolab is also excellent for learning, with a strong focus on clear, step-by-step explanations that break down complex problems. While Wolfram Alpha Pro offers steps, its primary strength is computational depth rather than personalized tutoring.