Head-to-head · Math Solver Apps
SolveStep vs Photomath
SolveStep leads on 0 checks, Photomath on 0, and 4 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 4 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreSolveStep · 8.7/10
- Free planboth
SolveStep scores higher on our rubric for math solver apps: 8.7 against 8.5 out of 10; our editors rank them #6 and #8.
On platform coverage, Photomath gives you Mobile where SolveStep offers Web.
SolveStep is the better fit for private, free browser-based solving. Photomath is the better fit for learners who want camera-first mobile math help.
- SolveStep fits best
Private, free browser-based solving
- Photomath fits best
Learners who want camera-first mobile math help
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Side by side
| Feature | SolveStep 8.7/10 Visit ↗ | Photomath 8.5/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 8.7 | 8.5 |
| Ranking | #6 in Math Solver Apps | #8 in Math Solver Apps |
| Best for | Private, free browser-based solving | Learners who want camera-first mobile math help |
| Pricing model | Free | Free plan + paid |
| Starting price | Free | $69.99/yr |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Cloud | Mobile |
| Platforms | Web | iOS, Android |
| Features SolveStep 3/4 · Photomath 3/4 | ||
| Photo input | ✓ | ✓ |
| Handwriting input | ✓ | ✓ |
| Step-by-step explanations | ✓ | ✓ |
| Offline mode | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Subject coverage | Broad | Broad |
| Platform coverage | Web | Mobile |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
| Our verdict | SolveStep is a free, browser-based math solver for students, parents, and tutors. It accepts typed, pasted, or photographed problems and returns ordered working rather than just a final answer. Coverage spans algebra, quadratic equations,… Read the review → |
Photomath is a mobile math-solving app for learners, parents, and teachers who want help working through problems. On iOS and Android, it can scan problems with a device camera, including handwritten work and word problems, or accept input… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
SolveStep — where it wins
- Step-by-step solutions with no paywall on steps
- Photo input supports typed and handwritten problems
- Local browser processing requires no account or server upload
Where it doesn't
- Web-only, with no downloadable native app
- The offering has one Free plan and no paid tier
- Its scope is math-specific rather than general study support
Photomath — where it wins
- Scans printed and handwritten problems, including word problems
- Explains solutions step by step and offers multiple methods
- Covers topics from elementary math through calculus
Where it doesn't
- Available on iOS and Android, not desktop platforms
- Custom visual aids and extra how-and-why tips require Plus
- Plus costs $9.99 monthly or $69.99 annually
- SolveStep8.7/10 · Free plan
A private, free web solver for worked math solutions, photo input, and broad subject coverage.
Visit SolveStepFull verdict → - Photomath8.5/10 · Free plan
A camera-first math solver with free explanations and paid visual aids.
Visit PhotomathFull verdict →
More comparisons
- Maple Calculator vs SolveStep
- Maple Calculator vs Photomath
- Symbolab vs SolveStep
- Symbolab vs Photomath
- GeoGebra vs SolveStep
- GeoGebra vs Photomath
- MathPad vs SolveStep
- MathPad vs Photomath
All math solver apps comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update