Open Source Physics
Open Source Physics: A broad, free toolkit for physics teaching, modeling, analysis, and simulation authoring. Ranked #9 of 89 in Physics Simulation Software by our editors (8.0/10); pricing: Open source; best for broad, free physics authoring and simulation.
At a glance
- Editor score8.0 / 10
- PricingOpen source
- Best forBroad, free physics authoring and simulation
- Paid fromFree
- Delivery modeHybrid
- Founded2002
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free, open-source toolkit with simulation and authoring capabilities
- Combines EJS, LaunchBuilder, Tracker, Data Tool, and 3D visuals
- Available across web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
Where it doesn't
- Multiple tools and formats can create a steeper learning path
- Java, JavaScript, XML, and CSV workflows may require technical familiarity
- Its broad project structure may not suit users seeking one focused workflow
Our verdict on Open Source Physics
Open Source Physics (OSP) is an educational project and collection of related tools for physics educators, students, researchers, and authors creating computational or simulation-based learning activities. It combines ready-to-run Java and JavaScript simulations with modeling, authoring, video analysis, data analysis, and curricular resources. Its hybrid delivery model includes web access, desktop platforms, and mobile platforms, with offline access available as part of its feature set.
OSP’s strongest distinction is the depth of its authoring and analysis toolkit. EJS supports physics modeling with minimal programming, while LaunchBuilder helps users edit and package curricular materials. Tracker adds video analysis and particle modeling, and Data Tool works with XML and CSV datasets. The platform also includes ODE solvers, fields, plots, custom visualizations, a three-dimensional drawing framework, and the ability to save simulation states and curricular data as XML. This makes it suitable for users who need more than ready-made simulations and want to create or adapt learning activities.
The breadth is useful for institutions and educators building varied physics materials, but it also means OSP is not a single-purpose simulator with one streamlined workflow. Users may need to choose among several tools and become familiar with different file formats, programming environments, and authoring approaches. Those seeking a broad, free, open-source environment for teaching, modeling, experimentation, and curriculum development should consider OSP. Users who want a narrowly focused simulator or a unified commercial application may prefer a more specialized alternative.
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Open Source Physics pricing
Open Source Physics fact sheet
| Free plan | Not verified |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Delivery mode | Hybrid |
| Lesson library | Yes |
| Authoring tools | Yes |
| Assessment tools | Not verified |
| 3D visuals | Yes |
| Offline access | Yes |
| Data export | Yes |
| Deployment | Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Support | Email, Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Open source |
| Website | compadre.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Open Source Physics
- COMSOL MultiphysicsA broad desktop environment for coupled physics, engineering models, and custom simulation apps.9.4
- Ansys FluentA deep CFD and HPC environment for demanding industrial simulation work.9.3
- SimScaleA broad browser-based multiphysics platform with flexible cloud workflows and tiered access.9.1
See all Open Source Physics alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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