Symbolab Review: Best for Step-by-Step Math Solutions?
Our technical evaluation reveals Symbolab's strengths in detailed mathematical explanations and calculus solutions, though with a steeper learning curve than competitors.
Overview
Symbolab stands out in the math solver market with its exceptional step-by-step solution breakdowns, particularly for advanced mathematics. The 2025 version enhances its calculus and linear algebra capabilities while maintaining its signature detailed explanations that help students truly understand mathematical concepts rather than just getting answers.
Version Tested
Symbolab 10.3 (June 2025)
Platform
Web, iOS, Android
AI Technology
Symbolic Computation Engine
Free Tier
Basic solving available
Note: Symbolab Pro unlocks full step-by-step solutions and practice features starting at $6.99/month.
Key Features
Symbolab offers comprehensive math solving with these powerful features:
Step-by-Step Calculator
Detailed breakdowns showing every step of the solution process.
Advanced Math Topics
Covers calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and more.
Graphing Calculator
Interactive graphs with multiple function plotting.
Practice Problems
Generated exercises with solutions for targeted learning.
Cheat Sheets
Quick-reference guides for formulas and concepts.
Math Notebook
Save and organize your solved problems and notes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Most detailed step-by-step explanations available
- Excellent for advanced mathematics and engineering
- Clean interface with specialized keyboards
- Practice problem generator with solutions
- Web version doesn't require installation
- More affordable than some competitors
Cons
- Steeper learning curve than Photomath
- No camera input for problem solving
- Limited word problem capabilities
- Mobile app less polished than web version
- Fewer visual learning aids than competitors
- Basic statistics features
Pricing & Plans
Symbolab offers a free version with basic functionality and Pro subscriptions for full access:
Free
- Basic problem solving
- Limited step explanations
- Graphing calculator
- Ad-supported
- No practice problems
Pro Monthly
- Full step-by-step solutions
- Practice problems
- Cheat sheets
- Math notebook
- No ads
Pro Annual
- All Pro features
- 42% savings
- Priority support
- Exclusive content
- No ads
Note: Student discounts are available with valid .edu email verification.
How It Compares
Symbolab leads in detailed math explanations but has different strengths than competitors:
| Feature | Symbolab | Photomath | Mathway | Wolfram Alpha |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step Explanations | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Advanced Math | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Ease of Use | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Visual Learning | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Practice Problems | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Pricing | $$ | $$ | $$$ | $$$$ |
Best Use Cases
Symbolab excels in these educational scenarios:
Calculus Students
Detailed derivative and integral solutions with full working.
Engineering Math
Matrix operations, differential equations, and vector calculus.
Concept Mastery
Learn through comprehensive step explanations rather than just answers.
Homework Verification
Check your work with complete solution processes.
Exam Preparation
Generate practice problems similar to your coursework.
Quick Reference
Access formula sheets and cheat sheets for various math topics.
Expert Tips
Get the most from Symbolab with these professional techniques:
Use Special Keyboards
Take advantage of math-specific keyboards for faster input.
Study the Steps
Don't skip straight to answers - learn from each solution step.
Explore Alternatives
Some problems offer multiple solving methods - compare them.
Save to Notebook
Organize important solutions for later review.
Graph First
Visualize functions before solving to build intuition.
Practice Daily
Use generated problems for regular skill maintenance.
Alternatives to Consider
While Symbolab excels in detailed math solutions, these alternatives may suit specific needs:
Photomath
Best for: Camera solving, visual learners
Limitations: Less advanced math coverage
Mathway
Best for: Quick answers, word problems
Limitations: Expensive, less detailed steps
Wolfram Alpha
Best for: Research-level mathematics
Limitations: Not beginner-friendly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Symbolab Pro worth the subscription cost?
+For STEM students using it regularly, absolutely. The detailed step-by-step solutions provide significantly more educational value than the free version. At $6.99/month (or less with annual), it's more affordable than many competitors while offering superior explanations for advanced math.
Can Symbolab solve word problems?
+Symbolab has limited word problem capabilities compared to its equation solving. It works best with clearly formulated mathematical expressions. For word-heavy math problems, Mathway may be a better option, though with less detailed explanations.
Does Symbolab show work for all problems?
+The free version shows basic steps for many problems, while Pro provides comprehensive step-by-step solutions for nearly all problems, including advanced calculus and linear algebra. Some extremely specialized problems may have limited explanations.
What's the difference between Symbolab and Wolfram Alpha?
+Symbolab focuses on educational step-by-step solutions with a cleaner interface, while Wolfram Alpha is a computational knowledge engine with broader capabilities but less focus on pedagogy. Symbolab is generally better for learning, Wolfram for research.
Can Symbolab help with physics problems?
+Symbolab can solve the mathematical components of physics problems (equations, calculus operations), but doesn't interpret physics concepts directly. For full physics solutions, Wolfram Alpha or dedicated physics solvers may be better options.
Ready to Master Advanced Mathematics?
Symbolab provides the most detailed step-by-step solutions for serious math students.
Try Symbolab NowLast Updated: June 20, 2025 | Suggest an Update