Comparison
SparkMentor vs Socratic: the tutor that took up the name's idea
Socratic by Google was a much-loved homework app: snap a question and get explanations and links. Google has since retired the standalone app and moved its homework help into Google Lens. SparkMentor takes the Socratic idea literally: it asks you questions until you can solve it yourself.
Why SparkMentor wins
- You miss Socratic and want a dedicated study app
- You want guided, step-by-step tutoring rather than search results
- You want review, a mistake log and exam plans in one place
Same question, two approaches
The difference is easiest to see on one problem.
Same question: Solve x² − 5x + 6 = 0
Illustrative example written by us to show the two approaches. It is not a capture of Socratic, which can also explain step by step when asked.
Side by side
| Feature | SparkMentor | Socratic |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free to start (1,000 credits, then 300 a month). Standard $14.99/month (₹899), Pro $19.99/month (₹1,499) | Free (homework help in Google Lens) |
| Status | Active, web and installable app | Standalone app retired; homework help now in Google Lens |
| How it helps | Tutors you step by step | Visual search, explanations and web results |
| Snap a problem | Yes | Yes, via Google Lens |
| Tracks your learning | Mistake log, review cards, exam plans | No |
In more detail
01
What happened to Socratic
Google acquired Socratic in 2018 and later folded its homework features into Google Lens. The standalone app is no longer offered in the app stores, though Lens still answers photographed questions.
02
Search vs tutoring
Lens looks up explanations for a question. SparkMentor starts a conversation: it explains, asks you for the next step, and remembers what you got wrong.
03
Free to try
Google Lens is free. SparkMentor starts free too, with 1,000 credits and 300 more each month.
The features behind this comparison
Each has its own page with how it works and what it costs.
Questions
Is the Socratic app still available?
The standalone Socratic app has been retired; Google moved its homework help into Google Lens and the Google app.
What's a good Socratic alternative?
SparkMentor. It reads your photo like Socratic did, then tutors you step by step and tracks your progress.
Is SparkMentor free like Socratic was?
SparkMentor starts free with 1,000 credits plus 300 a month and no card. Paid plans add more credits and the voice tutor.
More comparisons
See for yourself, free
1,000 free credits to start, plus 300 every month. No credit card.