You want to scan a single math equation and see step-by-step solutions. It's been polished for that one job for over a decade.
You take more than just math, you want concept-level explanations grounded in your professor's notes, or you want a single app for every class.
Photomath solves problems. ClassMinds explains material. They overlap on "step-by-step math" but ClassMinds covers physics, chem, bio, business, philosophy, etc. — Photomath doesn't.
Feature-by-feature
Yes / Partial / No based on each tool's public docs as of April 2026.
The honest recommendation
If you're stuck on one specific math equation — open Photomath, scan it, get a step-by-step. It's been polished for exactly that workflow for years.
If you don't understand the underlying concept — that's where Photomath falls short. It'll show you "step 1: factor the polynomial" but it won't explain why factoring is the right move, or remind you that your professor showed a shortcut for this case in lecture 6.
For non-math classes, Photomath doesn't compete. ClassMinds is the only one of these tools that handles physics derivations, chem mechanism walk-throughs, philosophy argument analysis, etc.
If you take a heavy STEM courseload, both apps make sense — Photomath for the "I just need to check this answer" moments, ClassMinds for "wait, why did we do it this way."
Why students switch from Photomath
Every subject, not just math
One app for all your classes. Bio, lit, econ, philosophy — same AI tutor that knows what each professor emphasized.
Concept explanations, not just steps
Photomath shows the steps. ClassMinds explains why those steps work, in language that matches what your prof said.
Notes that go beyond one problem
Save lectures, ask questions across them, build a real semester-long knowledge base — not just a history of solved equations.
Frequently asked
Can ClassMinds solve a math problem from a photo?
Camera-OCR is on the roadmap — works currently for typed or pasted problems. For now, Photomath has the better camera flow.
Will my professor accept ClassMinds answers?
Same rules as any AI tool — check your syllabus. ClassMinds tends to fall on the "summarize your own notes" side of the typical AI policy, but rules vary by school and instructor.
Is ClassMinds cheaper than Photomath Plus?
Free during beta. Photomath has a paid Plus subscription (check their site for current pricing). Post-beta ClassMinds plans aren't finalized.
Does ClassMinds handle calculus / linear algebra / diff eq?
Yes — same AI handles upper-division math. The difference is concept explanation: Photomath gives you steps, ClassMinds gives you steps + your professor's framing.
Can I use both?
Yes — many STEM students do. Photomath for quick scan-and-solve, ClassMinds for "explain this like my professor did."
Try ClassMinds free during beta
iOS only for now. Every subject. AI that knows your professor.