What is Desmos?
Desmos is a set of free math tools that run in your browser. The best known is the graphing calculator: type an equation and the curve appears instantly, and you can add sliders to watch a graph move as a value changes. Alongside it are a scientific calculator, a four-function calculator, a matrix calculator, a geometry tool, a 3D calculator and a new Notebook that mixes text, math and graphs.
Desmos calculators are built into many major exams, including the SAT Suite, AP exams, ACT online tests and a long list of US state tests, so students can practice on the same tool they will see on test day. Everything for students and teachers is free, while Desmos Professional is a paid option for teams that want to share and collaborate on graphs at work.
Main Features
- Graphing calculator with instant plots and draggable sliders
- Scientific, four-function and matrix calculators
- Geometry tool with construction and transformation tools
- 3D calculator for curves, surfaces and points
- Notebook (beta) that combines text, math and graphs
- Save and share graphs with a free account
- Embedded in the SAT, AP, ACT and many state tests
- API for embedding Desmos tools in other products
How to Get Started with Desmos
- Go to desmos.com and click Open Graphing Calculator, or pick another tool.
- Type an equation like y = x^2 into the expression list.
- Add a slider by using a letter such as a, then drag it to explore.
- Sign up for a free account to save and share your graphs.
Desmos Pricing
All Desmos math tools, including the graphing, scientific, four-function, matrix, geometry and 3D calculators, are free for everyone, and teachers or schools can ask for a free team. Desmos Professional, for workplace teams that want secure sharing and collaboration, is offered at early access pricing of $8 per seat per month with a free trial. Enterprise options are available by contacting Desmos.
Who Should Use It?
- High school and college math students
- Teachers building visual lessons
- Students preparing for the SAT or AP exams
- Engineers and analysts sketching functions
- Math art hobbyists
Desmos Alternatives
- Wolfram Alpha: a computational engine for step-by-step answers and more advanced math.
- Mathway: a problem solver that walks through algebra and calculus questions.
- Khan Academy: free lessons and practice to learn the math behind the graphs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Desmos free?
Yes. Every Desmos calculator, from graphing to 3D, is free in the browser, and a free account lets you save graphs. Only Desmos Professional, aimed at workplace teams, is paid, at $8 per seat per month during early access.
Can I use Desmos on the SAT?
Yes. Desmos says its calculator is built into the SAT Suite and AP exams, as well as ACT online tests, IB MYP, NWEA MAP Growth, Smarter Balanced and many state tests, so practicing with it at home helps on test day.
Does Desmos have a 3D graphing calculator?
Yes. The Desmos 3D Calculator lets you plot curves, surfaces and points in three dimensions and rotate them freely. It sits alongside the 2D graphing calculator, geometry tool and the newer Notebook on desmos.com.