Mathematics can be frustrating sometimes; it is one of the subjects that most students struggle with. According to experts, math anxiety affects 20 to 30 percent of students, and most teachers are starting to see it as a real problem.
So it is a no-brainer why students try to look for tools that can make their learning process easier. One of these tools is Photomath.
At least one in five people has tried or even heard about this app, but is it the best option for students in 2025?
Key Takeaways
- Using math solvers is a good way to learn on your own
- Photomath works well for basic to intermediate math problems
- The free version has its limitations
What Is Photomath?
Photomath is a digital math tutor that gives answers to math problems step by step.
In 2014, Damir Sabol designed the educational application to assist his children and other students who have difficulties with their math homework.
As an engineer, Damir thought to create a product that could explain hard concepts of calculations in an easy and approachable way.
Never Worry About AI Detecting Your Texts Again. Undetectable AI Can Help You:
- Make your AI assisted writing appear human-like.
- Bypass all major AI detection tools with just one click.
- Use AI safely and confidently in school and work.
Photomath enables you to scan math assignments with your mobile phone and solve them.
The platform offers solutions to many fields of mathematics, including algebra, geometry, calculus, and trigonometry. It is also famous because of its step-by-step decomposition and simplification of complicated problems.
The Photomath calculator works on everything from basic arithmetic to calculus. That is, it works on every possible math question you can think of.
The app is also popular because many users find it easy to use, and the feature of solving questions via photos is a good advantage.
Photomath is easily accessible. You can choose to use Photomath online through their website or download the mobile app.
The idea behind Photomath is simple: scan the problem and solve.
The platform is based on artificial intelligence and understands handwritten or printed math problems, so sometimes, you do not need to type the questions.
Photomath was acquired by Google in May 2022 and is still an independent app in the Google catalogue.
Key Features of Photomath
Here are the features users of Photomath enjoy:
- Camera Recognition: The selling point and best feature of Photomath is that you can just take a picture of your math problem. There is no need to type out complicated questions. Just snap the question, and Photomath solves it. Even when the lightning is bad, the app turns on the flash so that users can clearly scan the questions in a dark environment.
- Step-by-Step Solutions: Photomath doesn’t just give you the answer; It breaks down the solution process so that you can learn. You can easily figure out the next simple equation once you know how the final answer is reached.
- Multiple Solution Methods: Math questions usually have more than one way to solve them, and Photomath can show you different methods of solving a problem. That way, you can pick the approach that fits your learning style.
- Graphing: Photomath does not solve equations alone; it has a feature that can create graphs for functions and equations.
- Handwriting Recognition: You can use Photomath to scan handwritten questions. You also have the option to edit your handwriting if it is not fully recognized.
- Web and Mobile Access: You can use Photomath online free through their website or download the Photomath app from your app store.
- Records: Photomath allows you to view previously scanned questions. It also lets you bookmark questions according to your preference.
Pros of Photomath
Here are the advantages of the Photomath app:
- Easy to Use: Photomath is very user-friendly. You do not have to go through a complicated procedure to answer your math problems. Just take a photo of the mathematical problem you are trying to solve, and the app will give you the solution. There is no need to write out complicated equations and symbols.
- Perfect for Re-checking: When you already know how to solve the problem yourself, you can always use Photomath to re-check your answers and find out whether you are right.
- Visual Learning: The application does not simply provide the final answer but will also give a breakdown of the steps. This is very helpful when you need to understand the process to solve similar questions in the future.
- Covers a Wide Range of Topics: Photomath can handle topics like basic arithmetic, pre algebra, calculus, algebra, trigonometry, Statistics, and text problems
- Available for Offline Use: The app can be used offline, and this can be helpful, especially when you have an unstable Internet connection.
- Free to Use: You can use the free version of Photomath, especially if you are a student on a budget. However, the free version has its limitations. The premium version offers additional features.
- No Hidden Cost: Beyond the known premium price, Photomath does not charge extra hidden costs.
Cons of Photomath
Yes, Photomath has exciting advantages. However, nothing is perfect. Here are the cons of the Photomath app:
- Limited Free Features: You can use Photomath without subscribing, but you only enjoy limited features. Some features, like access to a step-by-step solution for every problem, are only available in the premium version.
- Accuracy Issues: Photomath is generally accurate, but it can sometimes make mistakes. The app sometimes struggles with advanced math problems.
- High Risk of Dependence: Sometimes it is easy to get too reliant on the app. You start to focus more on getting answers without actually learning the topics. It starts to feel like a means to get by instead of a learning tool.
- Recognition Issues: The app may struggle to recognize messy handwriting. This can cause it to give the wrong solution. It works best with printed text.
- Subscription Costs: It is costly to enjoy the full features of the app. So if you are a student on a budget, it might not be a good choice for you.
- Limited to Math: Photomath is only for math. If you need solutions to other subjects, it is not for you.
Premium Feature: Photomath Pricing
The Photomath app has a freemium model. You can access Photomath online for free, but with very limited features.
The basic free version gives you solutions, and you also get step-by-step explanations.
The official price for Photomath Premium is US $9.99 per month for a monthly plan, but if you desire to subscribe to the annual plan, that costs US $69.99.
The free version works just fine, but if you are struggling with math and need more detailed explanations, you might have to opt for the paid version.
Here is a breakdown of Photomath pricing:
| Plan | Price | Features |
| Basic | Free | Step-by-step explanations |
| Monthly | $9.99/month | Step-by-step explanationsCustom visual aidsExtra “how” and “why” tips |
| Annually | $69.99/year | Step-by-step explanationsCustom visual aidsExtra “how” and “why” tips |
There are mixed opinions about the Photomath pricing.
Some people feel the free version covers their basic needs and they do not need an upgrade, while some feel the premium version is worth the price, especially when studying for exams.
There is also no long-term contract. You can always cancel before your next renewal.
Photomath does not refund payment except under special circumstances.
You can also check out the 7-day free trial before paying for the free version. It is a good way to compare the free vs. premium features.
How Photomath Compares to Alternatives
While Photomath is a good math question solver, it is advisable not to rely on one solver alone.
There are other tools that perform the same functions, and sometimes with the help of artificial intelligence.
The alternatives to Photomath include:
Undetectable AI Question Solver
This tool performs the same math-solving functions as Photomath.
It allows you to input your question and provides a detailed explanation of the answer.
The functions of the Undetectable AI’s AI Question Solver are not limited to math solving. It can provide answers to questions on any subject you can think of.
The Undetectable AI is perfect for students, teachers, researchers, and professionals. As long as you have a question that needs answering, our Question Solver is for you.
Decopy AI
This tool also simplifies mathematical problems into clear steps. You can solve Algebra, calculus, and Geometry by just uploading a photo or typing your question.
It is completely free, and you are not required to log in to access its features.
Wyzant
This is an online tutoring platform that provides help with over 300+ subjects, such as math and engineering. Unlike Photomath, which is an app, Wyzant connects students with real-life tutors for a fee.
Wyzant provides one-on-one teaching via video call or in person. It covers topics beyond just maths. It is more expensive than Photomath because it works beyond just solving maths.
It is good for students who need custom, live help.
Chegg
Chegg offers textbook solutions; however, it is a full subscription service. That means if you do not pay, you cannot enjoy any of the platform’s services.
The least subscription amount for Chegg is about $14.95 per month, which includes step-by-step solutions to problems from many textbooks and access to ask experts questions.
Unlike Photomath, Chegg provides a broader range of subjects, not just maths. It also offers human assistance.
Chegg also relies on typing or uploading the question, unlike Photomath, where you can always use your phone camera.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy is not an app. It is a non-profit learning platform that offers lessons in math and other subjects.
It provides users with educational tutoring videos. Instead of solving your question for you, Khan Academy gives you detailed instructions on how to do so yourself for free.
Unlike Photomath, Khan Academy is more about learning the concepts instead of just solving the problem. Both platforms can be used side by side since they perform different functions but have the same goal.
Why Our AI Question Solver Outperforms Photomath
Photomath is a decent app, but there are better solutions, one of which is the Undetectable AI Question Solver.
Our tool doesn’t just solve math questions; it can give answers to questions across multiple subjects.
You can trust the Undetectable AI Question Solver to give you answers to Chemistry, History, English, or Biology questions.
Our all-in-one package is the best option because you do not have to go from one site to another to find answers to your questions.
We use advanced language models to understand context and process results so you can be assured that you are getting accurate and reliable answers.
Our character recognition feature can also extract text from even handwritten or complex images.
Apart from the AI Question Solver, we also have a humanizer, Detector, Essay Writer and rewriter. Our tools work together to provide you with perfect results.
Our AI Humanizer can help you create less robotic essays.
You can use our AI Detector to check for AI and avoid penalties.
Our AI Essay Writer can also help you turn that English essay into a masterpiece.
All our tools are in one place, and from a cost perspective, it makes more sense. You don’t need to have multiple subscription packages across websites.
Whatever tool you need, you can get for less from use.
Best Practices for Using Photomath (or Alternatives)
Even if you are sticking to the Photomath app or using other alternatives, here is what you need to know:
- Don’t just copy the answer. Make sure you recheck each step for hidden errors.
- Try to actually study the steps and understand the logic behind the process.
- After getting help with one problem, find similar questions and solve them yourself.
- You can attempt to solve problems first and then use the Photomath app to verify your work.
- Avoid over-reliance. You won’t have access to these tools during an exam, so learn how to rely on your own knowledge.
- Combine these tools with other studying methods.
Give our AI Detector and Humanizer a try in the widget below!
Conclusion
Deciding if the Photomath app is the best option for students depends on what you need the app for. For basic to intermediate math problems, the app works well enough.
However, if you think about it well, you need more than just a math solver for schoolwork. You need tools that can provide solid assistance across all subjects.
One-purpose tools like Photomath are restrictive. You need more as a student.
That is why Undetectable AI offers an AI Question Solver, AI Essay Writer, AI Humanizer, and AI Detector. All in one platform to support your academic journey.
While Photomath is not a bad tool, there are better and more comprehensive options out there. You just need to find the one that fits your needs.
Try Undetectable AI today and experience the all-in-one solution built for students.