Side by side
MoleculAR vs Polychem
Both stand on chemistry simulation software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhone
MoleculAR combines QR-linked 3D models with a downloadable reference of molecules, orbitals, and selected animations. Its privacy policy notes possible third-party collection, including error logs, and says the service does not address under-13s.
Visit MoleculAR Free plan MacWindows
Choose Polychem if you need a broad chemistry teaching resource with simulations and tools for building and managing assessments. Check its stated Mac OS support before choosing it for a Mac, and consider the $295, paid once site licence if you need that plan.
Visit PolychemThe facts
| MoleculAR | Polychem | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone | Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Site licence: $295, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | chagunda.github.io | polychem.org |
| On chemistry simulation software | #12 of 33 | #16 of 33 |
MoleculAR: what it does well
- Free on Android and iOS
- Models can be rotated and zoomed
- QR structure library is free to download
- Includes molecular and orbital structures
- Provides animations for selected chemistry topics
What to know first
- Does not address individuals under age 13
- Third-party services may collect identifying information
- Error logs may include device and usage details
Polychem: what it does well
- Includes notes, questions, simulations, activities, games, demonstrations, and videos.
- Teachers can create and print tests with model answers.
- Notes and examination questions can be edited.
- Most activity marks can be recorded with names, dates, and times.
What to know first
- The download is more than 280 MB zipped and about 500 MB unzipped.
- The free copy needs internet access to initialize at each use.
- The download page describes Mac support only up to Mac OS 10.6.
- Network access may slow loading and digital video.
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