Derive vs Maxima

Struggling to choose between Derive and Maxima? Both products offer unique advantages, making it a tough decision.

Derive is a Education & Reference solution with tags like math, algebra, calculus, graphing, education.

It boasts features such as Symbolic and algebraic manipulation, 2D and 3D plotting, Matrix operations, Solving equations, Calculus and analysis tools, Statistics and probability tools, Units conversion and pros including Powerful math engine, Intuitive graphical interface, Extensive function library, Step-by-step solutions, Good for math education.

On the other hand, Maxima is a Education & Reference product tagged with algebra, calculus, equations, matrices, stem.

Its standout features include Symbolic manipulation of mathematical expressions, Numerical computations, 2D/3D plotting and visualization, Solving equations and systems of equations, Matrix operations, Integration and differentiation, Taylor series expansions, Laplace and Fourier transforms, Probability and statistics functions, Unit conversions, and it shines with pros like Free and open source, Cross-platform compatibility, Extensive mathematical capabilities, Can be extended with new functions and features, Good documentation and active user community.

Feature	Derive	Maxima
Overall Score	N/A	N/A
Primary Category	Education & Reference	Education & Reference

Product Overview

Derive

Description: Derive is a mathematical software program used for symbolic and numeric manipulation of mathematical expressions. It has a graphical user interface and can perform various calculations, plot graphs, solve equations, and assist with math education.

Maxima

Description: Maxima is an open-source computer algebra system that provides symbolic computation capabilities. It can manipulate mathematical expressions, differentiate and integrate functions, solve equations, work with matrices, graphs, and more. Useful for STEM fields like math, engineering, physics.

Key Features Comparison

Derive Features

• Symbolic and algebraic manipulation
• 2D and 3D plotting
• Matrix operations
• Solving equations
• Calculus and analysis tools
• Statistics and probability tools
• Units conversion

Maxima Features

• Symbolic manipulation of mathematical expressions
• Numerical computations
• 2D/3D plotting and visualization
• Solving equations and systems of equations
• Matrix operations
• Integration and differentiation
• Taylor series expansions
• Laplace and Fourier transforms
• Probability and statistics functions
• Unit conversions

Pros & Cons Analysis

Derive

Pros

• Powerful math engine
• Intuitive graphical interface
• Extensive function library
• Step-by-step solutions
• Good for math education

Cons

• Steep learning curve
• Limited compatibility with other math software
• Development discontinued in 2006
• Lacks some advanced features

Maxima

Pros

• Free and open source
• Cross-platform compatibility
• Extensive mathematical capabilities
• Can be extended with new functions and features
• Good documentation and active user community

Cons

• Steep learning curve
• User interface not very intuitive
• Limited capabilities for numeric computations compared to MATLAB or NumPy
• Graphics and visualization not as advanced as MATLAB or Mathematica

Pricing Comparison

Derive

• One-time Purchase

Maxima

• Open Source