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Maxima vs Microsoft Mathematics

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Maxima icon
Maxima
Microsoft Mathematics icon
Microsoft Mathematics

Maxima vs Microsoft Mathematics: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Maxima: 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.

Microsoft Mathematics: Microsoft Mathematics is a free software program that allows students to solve math problems and graph functions. It includes a graphing calculator, equation solver, triangle solver, unit converter, and other tools to help with math and science.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Maxima Microsoft Mathematics
Sugggest Score
Category Education & Reference Education & Reference
Pricing Open Source Free

Product Overview

Maxima
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.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Microsoft Mathematics
Microsoft Mathematics

Description: Microsoft Mathematics is a free software program that allows students to solve math problems and graph functions. It includes a graphing calculator, equation solver, triangle solver, unit converter, and other tools to help with math and science.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

Maxima
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
Microsoft Mathematics
Microsoft Mathematics Features
  • Graphing calculator
  • Equation solver
  • Triangle solver
  • Unit converter
  • Tools to help with math and science

Pros & Cons Analysis

Maxima
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
Microsoft Mathematics
Microsoft Mathematics
Pros
  • Free
  • Useful math and science tools
  • Helpful for students
Cons
  • Limited features compared to paid alternatives
  • Only available on Windows
  • Not as robust as dedicated graphing calculators

Pricing Comparison

Maxima
Maxima
  • Open Source
Microsoft Mathematics
Microsoft Mathematics
  • Free

Ready to Make Your Decision?

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