REDUCE

At a glance

• Editor score
  6.4 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Mature algebraic computation
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Founded
  1963
• Facts checked
  22 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Exact arithmetic, arbitrary precision, and symbolic algebra
  • Calculus, equation solving, factorization, matrices, and plotting
  • Free, open-source, and available on Windows, macOS, and Linux

• Where it doesn't

  • Less suited to photo input or handwriting recognition
  • Does not center step-by-step explanations
  • May require mathematical or programming familiarity

Our verdict on REDUCE

REDUCE is a free, open-source computer algebra system for mathematicians, scientists, engineers, students, teachers, and developers. Its scope covers exact arithmetic with integers and fractions, arbitrary-precision numerical approximation, polynomial and rational-function algebra, calculus, equation solving, matrix operations, graphing, and programmable symbolic modes. REDUCE runs interactively or in batch mode, with graphical and command-line interfaces, and is available for Windows, macOS, and GNU/Linux.

Its strongest fit is mature algebraic computation. Users can differentiate and integrate expressions, solve single and simultaneous equations, factor and expand polynomial and rational functions, and control expression simplification automatically or manually. The system also supports non-commutative algebra, two- and three-dimensional function plotting, and specialist mathematical packages. Integrations with gnuplot, Run-REDUCE, TeXmacs, and GNU Emacs extend its place in established mathematical and technical workflows. These capabilities make it a strong choice for users who value breadth, exact results, arbitrary precision, and programmable computation over a simplified calculator experience.

REDUCE’s open-source model keeps the product free of charge, and source code and documentation are included with distributions. Its cross-platform availability suits individuals and teams working across major desktop operating systems. The trade-off is focus: REDUCE is designed around computer algebra rather than image-based problem capture or guided educational presentation. Buyers seeking photo input, handwriting recognition, or step-by-step explanations should consider a different type of math app. Choose REDUCE for symbolic depth, flexible computation, and long-established algebraic work; choose an alternative when visual problem entry or tutorial-style solutions are central.

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REDUCE pricing

REDUCE fact sheet

REDUCE integrations

REDUCE lists 4 integrations on its own site.

• gnuplot
• Run-REDUCE
• TeXmacs
• GNU Emacs

Alternatives to REDUCE

• MCMaple CalculatorA broad mobile solver with camera and handwriting input, plus offline graphing.9.4
• SymbolabA broad math study tool pairing worked solutions with practice, graphing and photo input.9.2
• GeoGebraA broad, free mathematics toolkit with adaptive practice, classroom tools, and offline apps.9.1

See all REDUCE alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

REDUCE is listed in our Math Solver Apps directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update