MoleculAR vs MolView

MoleculAR is a free augmented-reality app for chemistry learning on Android and iOS. Users scan QR codes to open three-dimensional models of molecules, molecular geometries, and orbitals, then rotate and zoom them for different views. The app focuses on VSEPR molecular geometry and visualizing complicated molecules. A downloadable QR library provides available structures at no cost. Its reference includes molecules, s, p, d, and f orbitals, plus animations for Newman projection, the SN2 reaction, and ring flip. The maker describes MoleculAR for students and educators in chemistry education and accepts feedback or requests for new molecules by email. The privacy policy says the app does not collect data, while third-party services may collect identifying information. Error logs may include an IP address, device name, operating-system version, and usage date and time. The service does not address individuals under age 13.

MolView is a web application for sketching and viewing small molecules, with API access and molecular modeling support. Its canvas handles structural formulas, reaction arrows, electron-pushing arrows, configurable styles, and keyboard shortcuts. A 3D viewer updates automatically as you edit a molecule. Chemical searches accept common names, IUPAC names, SMILES, InChI, InChIKey, and molecular formulas. Depending on the plan, you can save and load sketcher or viewer content, create shareable links, export structural data or SVG files, use transparent backgrounds, and set image resolution. Developers can embed the sketcher web component in vanilla JavaScript or React and customize its toolbar and diagram style. The free plan needs no sign-up and supports searching, sketching, and viewing, but cannot save diagrams. Paid plans include Student at $9.00 per year, Publisher at $250.00 per year, Academic at $4919.00 per year, and Standard at $9919.00 per year.