What is Socratic by Google?
Socratic is Google’s free homework-help app for K-12 students. Point your phone camera at any question — math, science, history, English — and the app uses Google’s AI models layered over web search results to surface step-by-step explanations, curated videos, and definitions. No account required, no subscription, no paywall.
Photomath, also now under Google’s umbrella (acquired in 2022), takes a narrower but deeper approach: it focuses exclusively on math, from arithmetic through calculus, and generates its own step-by-step solutions rather than pulling from web results.
Key Features
Socratic by Google
- Multi-subject coverage — math, science, social studies, and English literature all supported
- Camera and voice input — snap a photo of a question or ask verbally
- Google Search overlay — explanations sourced from trusted web results, Khan Academy videos, and Wikipedia
- No account needed — open and use immediately
- Completely free — no subscription tier, no ads
Photomath
- Math-only depth — arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry, and calculus with multiple solution methods
- Camera scanning — reads both handwritten and printed equations
- Native step-by-step engine — solutions generated internally, not pulled from web search
- Animated tutorials (Plus) — visual walkthroughs for harder concepts
- Textbook-specific solutions (Plus) — matches answers to your exact edition
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Socratic by Google | Photomath |
|---|---|---|
| Subjects covered | Math, Science, History, English | Math only |
| Free tier | Fully free, no ads | Free core solver, no ads |
| Paid plan | None | $9.99/month or $69.99/year |
| Solution source | Google Search overlay | Native engine |
| Explanation depth (math) | Moderate | High |
| Animated tutorials | No | Plus tier only |
Pricing
Socratic by Google
Completely free. No subscription, no in-app purchases, no ads. Available on iOS and Android.
Photomath
The core step-by-step math solver is free with no ads and no time limits, covering most K-12 and introductory college math. Photomath Plus adds animated tutorials and textbook-specific solutions for $9.99/month or $69.99/year, with a 7-day free trial to evaluate whether the upgrade suits your needs.
Pros and Cons
Socratic by Google — Pros
- 100% free with no hidden tiers or upsells
- Covers every major K-12 subject, not just math
- Backed by Google’s search index for broad, reliable sourcing
- Great for understanding the conceptual “why” behind an answer
Socratic by Google — Cons
- Math explanations are shallower than Photomath’s for complex problems
- Answer quality depends on the quality of underlying web results
- No animated tutorials or interactive practice mode
- Less effective for advanced math (pre-calculus and beyond)
Who Should NOT Use Socratic
If your primary need is deep, step-by-step math solving — especially for algebra, trigonometry, or calculus — Photomath’s native engine will outperform Socratic in that specific lane. Socratic is also not the right pick if you want textbook-matched solutions or animated visual explanations, both of which require Photomath Plus.
College-level STEM students who need rigorous, multi-method solution paths will likely find tools like Wolfram Alpha or Photomath Plus more suitable for their level.
Verdict
Socratic by Google wins on breadth and price. It is the best free, all-subjects homework app for K-12 students who need help across multiple subjects without spending anything. Its Google-backed sourcing makes explanations reliable enough for the vast majority of assignments.
Photomath wins on math depth. If your problem is a math equation and you want the cleanest, most detailed step-by-step breakdown, Photomath’s free tier is more focused and its Plus tier adds clear value for heavy math users.
Bottom line: Use both. Socratic for science, history, and English; Photomath for math. Neither costs money at the free tier, and together they cover nearly every K-12 homework scenario — making this a genuinely free, full-coverage study stack.
Sources checked: Unstar.app — 5 AI Homework Apps Ranked 2026 · MyEngineeringBuddy — Photomath Review 2026 · AISO Tools — Photomath vs Socratic · AI Tools Atlas — Socratic vs Photomath 2026
FAQ
Is Socratic by Google still free in 2026?
Yes. Socratic remains completely free with no subscription plans of any kind.
Does Photomath cost money?
The core math solver is free with no ads. Photomath Plus costs $9.99/month or $69.99/year and adds animated tutorials and textbook-specific solutions, with a 7-day free trial.
Which is better for high school math?
Photomath offers deeper, natively generated step-by-step explanations for math-heavy assignments. For a student who needs help across all subjects, using both apps together is the optimal strategy.
Can Socratic help with subjects other than math?
Yes — Socratic covers science, social studies, and English literature in addition to math, making it significantly more versatile than Photomath for general K-12 homework help.
Who owns Photomath and Socratic?
Both are under Google’s ownership. Google developed Socratic directly and acquired Photomath in 2022. They remain separate apps with distinct approaches.