TL;DR: Wolfram Alpha for accuracy, Photomath for camera scanning, Symbolab for steps, ChatGPT for explanations. Don't trust LLMs for computation.
Best AI for Math in 2026
Last updated: February 2026
The best AI for math in 2026 are Wolfram Alpha (accurate computation), Photomath (camera scanning), Symbolab (step-by-step), and ChatGPT (concept explanations). Key insight: LLMs like ChatGPT can hallucinate on calculations. Use computational tools for accuracy.
Best AI Math Tools
| Tool | Best For | Accuracy | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wolfram Alpha | Computation | Perfect | Free / $7/mo |
| Photomath | Camera scanning | High | Free / $10/mo |
| Symbolab | Step-by-step | High | Free / $10/mo |
| ChatGPT | Explanations | Varies | Free / $20/mo |
| Microsoft Math | Free solver | High | Free |
| Mathway | Multiple subjects | High | Free / $10/mo |
Top Picks
Wolfram Alpha
Computational engine that doesn't hallucinate. Shows work. Handles advanced math. Unbeatable accuracy.
Best for: Getting correct answers, advanced math, verification Pricing: Free (basic) / Pro $7/month Strengths: Perfect accuracy, shows steps, handles complex math Weaknesses: Less good at explaining concepts conversationally
Photomath
Point camera at problem. Get solution. Shows steps. Great for homework.
Best for: Scanning written/printed problems, homework Pricing: Free / Plus $10/month Strengths: Camera input, step-by-step, easy to use Weaknesses: Needs clear writing, Plus for full explanations
Symbolab
Step-by-step solutions. Practice problems. Covers algebra to calculus.
Best for: Learning with detailed steps, practice Pricing: Free / Pro $10/month Strengths: Detailed steps, practice mode, good for learning Weaknesses: Ads on free, advanced features locked
ChatGPT / Claude
Explain concepts conversationally. Good for understanding why, not just how. Can make calculation errors.
Best for: Understanding concepts, tutoring-style help Pricing: Free / $20/month Caution: Verify calculations with computational tools
When to Use What
Getting the answer: Wolfram Alpha Scanning a problem: Photomath Learning steps: Symbolab Understanding concepts: ChatGPT/Claude Quick calculation: Microsoft Math Solver
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FAQs
What is the best AI for solving math?
Wolfram Alpha for accuracy, Photomath for scanning, Symbolab for steps, ChatGPT for explanations.
Can ChatGPT solve math problems?
Yes but it can make errors. Use computational tools for accuracy.
Is Photomath free?
Free tier available. Plus $10/month for full features.
Related Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best AI for solving math?
Wolfram Alpha for accuracy (doesn't hallucinate). Photomath for scanning problems with camera. Symbolab for step-by-step solutions. ChatGPT for explanations and concepts. Use computational tools for answers, LLMs for understanding.
Can ChatGPT solve math problems?
ChatGPT can solve many math problems but occasionally makes calculation errors (hallucination). For critical accuracy, use Wolfram Alpha or computational tools. ChatGPT is better for explaining concepts than computing answers.
Is Photomath free?
Photomath has a free tier with basic solutions. Plus subscription ($10/month) unlocks detailed explanations and all features. Free tier works for simple problems.
