Comparison · Math and graphing software
GNU Octave vs Photomath: which is better in 2026?
GNU Octave ranks higher in our list of math and graphing software (#5 against #6, score 81.0 against 76.0).
Choose GNU Octave if you want
Free MATLAB-style numerical computing.
Free software for numerical computing that runs many MATLAB scripts with little change, on Linux, macOS and Windows. It has fewer toolboxes than MATLAB and suits numerical work more than graphing.
Choose Photomath if you want
Checking homework step by step on a phone.
A camera solver with step-by-step explanations for math from elementary school to college, with a free basic tier. It works more as a solver than a tutor, and it runs on phones only.
The main differences
- Only GNU Octave runs on Linux.
- Only GNU Octave runs on Windows.
- Only GNU Octave runs on macOS.
- Only Photomath runs on iOS.
- Only Photomath runs on Android.
- GNU Octave is open source; Photomath is not.
Side by side
 GNU Octave |  Photomath | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 81.0 | 76.0 |
| Rank in list | #5 of 6 | #6 of 6 |
| Price | Free and open sourceFree software under GPL-3.0; donations accepted | Free plan, paid upgradesFree basic tier; paid plans from $9.99 a month or $69.99 a year |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | No |
| Platforms | LinuxmacOSWindowsLinux, macOS, Windows | iOSAndroidiOS, Android |
| Made by | GNU Project | Not stated |
| Main use | Numerical computing | Homework solver |
| Where it runs | Linux, macOS and Windows | iOS and Android |
| Scripting or programming | Yes | No |
| Best for | Free MATLAB-style numerical computing | Checking homework step by step on a phone |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about GNU Octave vs Photomath
- Is GNU Octave better than Photomath?
- GNU Octave ranks higher in our list of math and graphing software (#5 against #6, score 81.0 against 76.0). GNU Octave is best for: free MATLAB-style numerical computing. Photomath is best for: checking homework step by step on a phone.
- Which is cheaper, GNU Octave or Photomath?
- GNU Octave: Free software under GPL-3.0; donations accepted. Photomath: Free basic tier; paid plans from $9.99 a month or $69.99 a year.
- Do GNU Octave and Photomath run on the same platforms?
- GNU Octave supports Linux, macOS, Windows. Photomath supports iOS, Android.