Comparison

Algebra Fun vs CareerTEC

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

Algebra Fun

This app makes learning algebra fun and intuitive for children aged 8 and up. Using a visual balance model with pawns and cubes, students develop a deep understanding of algebraic concepts rather than just memorizing rules. It offers a proven, engaging approach to mastering equations typically taught in middle school.

Highlights
  • Visual balance model for equations
  • Hands-on manipulation of pawns and cubes
  • Step-by-step learning of algebraic notation
  • Develops understanding of equivalence
  • Covers equations with subtraction and parentheses
  • Builds confidence in solving algebra problems
Read full description

Hands-On Equations Level 1 is the fun way to learn algebra for kids age 8 and up. The physical version of the program has been successfully used by more than a million students in the United Sates. 1. Imagine your child CONFIDENTLY solving algebra equations such as 4x + 3 = 3x + 9 after just three lessons, while having fun! Using blue pawns, numbered cubes, and a visual balance model, students quickly discover that algebra can be clear, intuitive, and enjoyable. Instead of memorizing rules, they develop a genuine understanding of the mathematical concepts they are learning. The Hands-On Equations math app transforms algebra into an engaging math learning experience. Along the way, they experience the excitement and satisfaction of solving equations such as 4x + 3 = 3x + 9 in just three lessons, and equations such as 2(2x + 1) = 3x + 10 in just six lessons. These equations are typically not introduced to students until middle school. Yet, your child, age 8 and up, can experience success and joy in solving these algebra equations! These equations are typically not introduced to students until middle school. Yet, your child, age 8 and up, can experience success and joy in solving these algebra equations! ________________________________________ 2. Why children love Hands-On Equations Every lesson builds on previous success through carefully sequenced activities that make abstract algebra visual and easy to understand. Students don't simply learn procedures—they understand why each step works. The elegant instructional design and intuitive app experience make learning algebra both rapid and enjoyable. Students find that this visual learning enables them to solve algebra equations in a few short lessons. Students love the ease with which they can manipulate the blue pawns and numbered cubes, sliding them on and off the balance scale as they solve increasingly challenging equations. The app's elegant simplicity creates a pleasant, intuitive, and highly satisfying learning experience. ________________________________________ 3. What Students Learn in the Hands-On Equations Level 1 App Throughout the six carefully sequenced lessons and one review lesson, students learn: • the meaning of equivalence • algebraic notation • how to check solutions • legal moves with pawns and cubes • equations involving subtraction • equations involving parentheses • confidence that lasts long after the lessons are completed ________________________________________ 4. Proven Success More than one million students have experienced success with the Hands-On Equations Learning System. Originally developed using physical game pieces and classroom instruction, this proven educational approach is now available in an app that makes learning algebra both intuitive and enjoyable. ________________________________________ 5. Who Should Use It? • Gifted children age 6+ • Elementary students ages 8 and above • Middle school students • Struggling high school students • Adults who never really understood algebra ________________________________________ 6. Give Your Child the Confidence to Succeed Whether your child is discovering algebra for the first time or you are finally returning to a subject that once seemed impossible, Hands-On Equations will give your child a memorable, enjoyable, and confidence-building experience with algebra. ________________________________________ 7. Questions or Support? Email: info@borenson.com Visit: www.borenson.com

About

CareerTEC

Features
Read full description

The CareerTEC app is a great way to conveniently access the most recent news, announcements, and events. Users also have quick access to important contacts using the Staff Directory where they can contact employees at CareerTEC. Contact Us provides maps of locations, a convenient way to dial important phone numbers, and provide other helpful information. Users will be able to stay up to date on current events, and receive important announcements with push notifications.

Screenshots

Algebra Fun4 screens
CareerTEC4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is price: CareerTEC at Free against Algebra Fun's $7.99. CareerTEC also leads on iOS requirement (11.0 vs 13). Algebra Fun's advantage is update cadence (every 3 months vs every 38 months). On ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

CareerTEC is free to download; Algebra Fun costs $7.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

Algebra Fun ships an update every 3 months, CareerTEC every 38 months. The most recent releases landed on November 8, 2026 and November 7, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard3 real differences · 7 level
Algebra Fun versus CareerTEC: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterAlgebra FunCareerTEC
Price$7.99Free — better
Rating4.5 (104 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews88.3% of reviews—
Number of ratings104 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 3 months — betterEvery 38 months
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesNoNo
MonetizationPaid—
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPodiPhone, iPad, iPod
Requires iOS1311.0 — better
Further details — not scored
Size564 MB1 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperHands On EquationsCareer & Technical Education Consortium

Bugs and requests

Algebra Fun

Reported bugs

9 issues
  • Video audio not working despite system audio functioning
  • Videos won't play or load
  • App crashes on iOS 9 and later versions
  • App crashes when entering answers
  • Video lesson loops infinitely blocking progress
Show 4 more
  • UI elements (pieces) display in wrong location
  • Number wheel difficult to control and stop on correct value
  • Compatibility issues with newer iOS versions
  • Interface not intuitive for answer entry

Requested features

10 requests
  • More advanced levels and lessons beyond current content
  • Text-based teaching materials as alternative to videos
  • Ability to input custom equations
  • Audio sound effects for user interactions
  • Scales that visually move to show equation imbalance
Show 5 more
  • Continuation app for more complex algebra
  • Diverse user profile icons
  • Faster auto-check functionality
  • Offline functionality
  • Support for additional math subjects

CareerTEC

Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.

In-app purchases

None

Algebra Fun

No in-app purchases

None

CareerTEC

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is Algebra Fun free?
Algebra Fun costs $7.99, with no in-app purchases.
Is CareerTEC free?
CareerTEC is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do Algebra Fun or CareerTEC have ads?
Neither Algebra Fun nor CareerTEC shows ads.
Which is updated more often, Algebra Fun or CareerTEC?
Algebra Fun ships an update every 3 months, and CareerTEC every 38 months. Most recently, Algebra Fun was updated on November 8, 2026 and CareerTEC on November 7, 2026.

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