Skip to content

Maxima vs Numbers

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

Maxima icon
Maxima
Numbers icon
Numbers

Maxima vs Numbers: 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.

Numbers: Numbers is a spreadsheet app developed by Apple for macOS and iOS. It features calculation, graphing tools, and simple table creation. A good alternative is LibreOffice Calc which is free, open source software.

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 Numbers
Sugggest Score — —
Category Education & Reference Office & Productivity
Pricing Open Source Open Source

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

Numbers
Numbers

Description: Numbers is a spreadsheet app developed by Apple for macOS and iOS. It features calculation, graphing tools, and simple table creation. A good alternative is LibreOffice Calc which is free, open source software.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

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
Numbers
Numbers Features
  • Spreadsheets
  • Charts/Graphs
  • Tables
  • Formulas
  • File Sharing

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
Numbers
Numbers
Pros
  • Clean and intuitive interface
  • Seamless integration with other Apple products
  • Powerful calculation and graphing tools
  • Can handle large, complex spreadsheets
Cons
  • Only available on Apple devices
  • Limited functionality compared to Excel
  • No VBA macros

Pricing Comparison

Maxima
Maxima
  • Open Source
Numbers
Numbers
  • Open Source

Related Comparisons

Microsoft Excel
vs Maxima vs Numbers
Google Sheets
vs Maxima vs Numbers
Excel Online
vs Maxima vs Numbers

Learn More About Each Product

Maxima
Maxima
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Numbers
Numbers
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

Maxima Alternatives
Numbers Alternatives
Browse More Software