ihateDesmos vs Symbolab
Symbolab is a step-by-step equation solver with a graphing calculator alongside. ihateDesmos is a graphing calculator with a computer algebra system alongside. The emphasis is reversed, and so are the strengths.
Use Symbolab when you want a full worked solution for a textbook-style problem, in the format a teacher expects, and you are happy with its paid plan for full steps.
Use ihateDesmos when the graph is the point: exploring functions, fitting data, slope fields, 3D surfaces and figures for reports, with algebra one tab away, all free.
Feature by feature
| Feature | ihateDesmos | Symbolab |
|---|---|---|
| Full worked solutions for many problem types Full steps require a paid Symbolab plan. ihateDesmos shows steps free for common derivatives, integrals, limits, factoring and equations. | Partly | Yes |
| Derivative steps | Yes | Yes |
| Graphing calculator | Yes | Yes |
| 3D graphing | Yes | Not documented |
| Regression with standard errors and confidence bands | Yes | Not documented |
| Slope fields and phase portraits | Yes | Not documented |
| Exports: SVG, PDF, TikZ, STL, video | Yes | Not documented |
| Price | Free | Free tier, paid Pro plan |
Products change. If something here is out of date, tell us and we will correct it. Sources are listed at the end of the page.
Solver first or graph first
Symbolab is organised around problem types (solve this equation, integrate this function, find this limit) and its strength is presenting a worked solution line by line. ihateDesmos is organised around a graph: everything you type becomes a row on the same canvas, and the algebra panel works on the rows you have.
Which to use
If you are learning a technique and want to see each step written out, a step-by-step solver is helpful, as long as you work the problem yourself first. If you want to understand what a function does, check an answer visually, or produce a figure, use a graphing calculator. The two complement each other well.
Frequently asked questions
Does ihateDesmos show steps like Symbolab?
Is ihateDesmos free?
Sources
ihateDesmos is an independent project. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Desmos Studio PBC. Desmos is a trademark of its owner, used here only to identify that product.
Open both side by side with the same graph. It takes a few seconds, and nothing needs installing.