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REDUCE review

Free#29 of 68 in Math Solver Apps

A mature, programmable choice for broad symbolic and numerical algebra.

6.4/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

REDUCE pros and cons

  • 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

REDUCE fact sheet, pricing and score →

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