PhET Interactive Simulations

Overview

PhET Interactive Simulations is a collection of interactive activities for exploring science and mathematics concepts. It is a strong fit for students and educators who want visual experiments for learning or teaching; its broad free access is tempered by platform limits and a commercial-use license requirement.

Key features

Simulations let learners investigate ideas through interaction, visual models, multiple representations and real-world connections. Virtual experiments and guided lessons make the collection useful for classroom activities as well as independent exploration, though it is not a substitute for a complete course. PhET says it evaluates simulations for educational effectiveness through student interviews and classroom observation, a relevant distinction for teachers choosing instructional material.

All simulations are open source. Most are written in HTML5 and can run online or be downloaded; some older titles use Java or Flash. The desktop app includes HTML5 and Java simulations and translations for offline use on Windows and macOS. The iOS and Android apps include HTML5 simulations and translations, and automatically download new HTML5 simulations. Android is not officially supported for browser-based HTML5 simulations, so Android users should use the app for a supported route. Linux is not officially supported.

PhET states it collects no personally identifiable information when simulations are used on its website, apps, embedded elsewhere or from downloads. It says communications are served over HTTPS by default, access to personal information is restricted to essential personnel under confidentiality obligations, and it uses no ads or ad-tracking technologies. Educators can create accounts using Clever; PhET for Schools apps can be deployed through Google Admin Console, Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager.

Pricing

The Free simulations plan costs nothing. Students and teachers can use the simulations online or download them, and the collection is open source. That makes it a practical starting point for individual learning and classroom use without a subscription. Commercial use requires a commercial license from the University of Colorado Boulder, so businesses should not assume the free educational access covers their use.

Platforms

PhET supports web browsers, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and select Chromebooks. Offline coverage differs by app: the desktop app covers HTML5 and Java simulations on Windows and macOS, while the mobile apps cover HTML5 simulations on iOS and Android. Android browser-based HTML5 simulations and Linux are not officially supported, which narrows the options for users who need browser access on those platforms.

Who it's for

Designed primarily for preschool, K–12 and university learners, PhET suits students who benefit from visual, interactive ways to investigate science and mathematics, and educators who need flexible activities for lessons. It is less suitable for commercial users unwilling to obtain a license or for learners who require officially supported Linux or Android browser access.

Pros and cons

Pro: Free access for students and teachers includes online use and downloads, making simulations usable in class and beyond.

Pro: Offline apps provide access to simulations and translations without relying on an internet connection.

Pro: No ads or ad tracking, and PhET says it collects no personally identifiable information during simulation use.

Con: Mobile apps cover HTML5 simulations, while the desktop app also includes Java simulations; users seeking legacy content on a phone or tablet may not find it there.

Con: Android browser simulations and Linux lack official support, limiting options for those setups.

Con: Commercial use requires a separate University of Colorado Boulder license.

Alternatives

For broader science-learning choices, browse Science Learning Software; for a chemistry-focused shortlist, see Chemistry Simulation Software.

mozaik3D is another freemium option, with a free account capped at five educational tools or games and five 3D scenes or videos weekly. Beyond Labz offers free instructor access for teaching, previewing and building assignments, alongside a one-time Chemistry plan. Inq-ITS may fit schools seeking tiered school or district plans priced by student count, including district-wide and multi-year options.

PraxiLabs has a free plan with one month of access to three simulations and basic real-time guidance, while its paid monthly plan is 6.99 USD. ExploreLearning Gizmos offers a free account with a limited Gizmos collection and paid school or district packages by quote. Generation Genius may suit homeschool science users seeking video lessons, with its Science Only plan at $250 a year.

Labster is a paid alternative without a free plan; institutional or department engagements typically begin at $5,000 a year. MindLabs offers a homeschool learning bundle at 109.00 USD one-time for one educator and up to five students, with a one-, two- or three-year access period.

Verdict

Choose PhET for free, open-source science and mathematics simulations that students and teachers can also use offline through its apps. Its classroom flexibility and privacy stance are compelling; look elsewhere if you need Linux or Android browser support, or if commercial use without a separate license is essential.