RayLab vs Optics Simulator
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
RayLab
Design and simulate optical systems with this powerful tool. Explore 2D and 3D models, perform advanced ray tracing, and analyze optical performance. Ideal for learning or professional design.
- 2D/3D optical modeling
- Geometric ray tracing
- Sequential and non-sequential analysis
- Advanced optical elements
- Polarization ray tracing
- Design optimization
- Glass catalogs
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RayLab is an application for design and simulation of optics. It can be used either as a learning tool or for the design of real optical systems. Basic version includes: • Ability to model 2D lenses and mirrors • Full control over placement and shape of optical components • Full control over aspheric surface shape parameters • Full geometric ray tracing • Sequential and Non Sequential analysis • Front Focal Length, Back Focal Length, Principle Surface calculations • Sample Models Upgrade to RayLab Pro enables: • 3D Modeling • Advanced Optical Elements such as Lens Arrays, Diffraction Gratings, Prisms, Fresnel Lenses, etc. • Polarization Ray Tracing * Ray Splitting / Beam Splitter modeling • Multi-Configuration Manager and animation functionality • Ability to perform optimizations of design parameters • Ray Transfer Matrix calculation • Various commercial glass catalogs • Zemax Importer • Multiple Analysis Windows: -- Fan Ray Diagram. -- Wavefront Error Plot. -- Grid Distortion Plot. -- Spot Diagram. -- Chromatic Aberration. -- Gaussian Spot Size. -- Polarization Analyzer. Upgrade is available with in-app purchases of various modules OR as a full featured subscription. • The subscription offers a 7 day free trial period. Subscription begins immediately but payment will only be charged to iTunes Account at the end of the trial period. • Subscription automatically renews unless auto-renew is turned off at least 24-hours before the end of the current period. • The account will be charged for renewal within 24-hours prior to the end of the current period, at the same monthly price as the original subscription. • You may manage your subscriptions and auto-renewal may be turned off by going to your iTunes Account Settings after purchase. • No cancellation of the current subscription is allowed during active subscription period. • Any unused portion of a free trial period will be forfeited if the subscription is cancelled. Privacy Policy and Terms of Use: https://www.raymak.com/wp/privacy-policy
Optics Simulator
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Optics Simulator turns the equations of clinical optics into live, interactive ray diagrams. Move an object, slide a lens along the optical axis, change diopters, rotate a prism — and watch the geometry, focal points, image position, and magnification update in real time. Each simulator displays its governing equation in textbook serif math, with the current numerical values substituted alongside, so you can connect the picture to the formula. A built-in practice section quizzes the underlying concepts with parameterised diagrams (the answer is hidden in the stem and revealed once you check your work). INCLUDED SIMULATORS • Snell's Law and Total Internal Reflection — refraction at an interface • Vergence and Thin Lenses — draggable object and lens, full three-ray construction • Schematic Eye — cornea + crystalline lens + axial length; lens shape changes with power • Refractive Errors — myopia and hyperopia with a spectacle at adjustable vertex distance • Lens Effectivity — see how moving a lens toward the eye changes effective power • Astigmatism — the Conoid of Sturm with a cross-section explorer • Telescopes — Galilean and Keplerian, both lenses are draggable • Simple Magnifier — at, inside, or beyond the focal length • Mirrors — concave, convex and plano, with C and F marked • Prisms — clinical prism diopters and geometric minimum-deviation REFERENCE • A formula sheet with every equation the app uses, typeset in serif math • Built-in practice problems organised by section DESIGN • Black-and-white interface so the colored rays remain the most prominent thing on screen • Adaptive layout: simulator stays visible alongside the controls in landscape • No accounts, no ads, no tracking, no internet connection required For health-profession students, ophthalmology residents, optometry students, and anyone who would rather see optics work than memorise formulas.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is price: RayLab at Free against Optics Simulator's $1.99. RayLab also leads on iOS requirement (11.0 vs 26.4). Optics Simulator's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 10) and ads (none vs shown). On 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
RayLab is free to download; Optics Simulator costs $1.99 up front. RayLab sells 10 in-app purchases, starting at $3.99 per month. Optics Simulator asks for nothing beyond the download.
| Parameter | RayLab | Optics Simulator |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free — better | $1.99 |
| Rating | 4.6 (63 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 75.0% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 63 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 6 weeks | — |
| Ads | Yes | No — better |
| In-app purchases | Yes | No — better |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod — better | iPhone, iPad |
| Requires iOS | 11.0 — better | 26.4 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 39 MB | 1 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | Kamyar Ghandi | My Call Bag LLC |
In-app purchases
RayLab
- RayLab Pro Subscription7 Days trial$3.991 Month
- RayLab Pro UpgradeFree
- Schott Glass Catalog$0.99
- Custom Glass Editor$0.99
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- Advanced Optical Elements$1.99
- Source and Lens Arrays$1.99
- Solver/Optimizer Module$3.99
- 3D Modeling$4.99
- RayLab Pro 2$19.99
- RayLab Pro Bundle$19.99
Optics Simulator
No in-app purchases
Questions
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Is Optics Simulator free?
Do RayLab or Optics Simulator have ads?
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