Best Alternatives to Overleaf for Math Papers
Date Published
What Math Papers Need
Writing math papers isn't like writing regular documents. You need:
• Complex equation support (multiline, aligned, numbered)
• Theorem environments (theorem, lemma, proof, corollary)
• Proper mathematical typography
• Fast compilation for iteration
• Cross-references that work
Overleaf handles these, but increasingly slowly. Here are better options for math-heavy work.
#1: Octree — Best Overall for Math
Why it works for math:
• Full AMS-math support out of the box
• AI understands mathematical LaTeX
• Sub-second compilation even with heavy equations
• One-click fixes for common math errors
Standout feature: AI can generate equations from descriptions. "Write the equation for Bayes' theorem" → proper LaTeX generated.
Best for: Researchers who want speed and AI assistance with mathematical writing.
#2: TeXstudio — Best Free Local Option
Why it works for math:
• Excellent equation preview
• Math symbol toolbar
• Customizable snippets
• Integrated PDF viewer
Drawback: No cloud sync, no AI features.
Best for: Budget-conscious users who prefer local editing.
#3: LyX — Best for Visual Editing
Why it works for math:
• WYSIWYM (What You See Is What You Mean)
• Equation editor feels like Word
• Still outputs proper LaTeX
Drawback: Learning curve for LaTeX export, limited advanced customization.
Best for: Users who prefer visual editing over code.
#4: TeXmacs — Best for Pure Math
Why it works for math:
• Mathematical typesetting as you type
• No compilation needed
• Beautiful real-time output
Drawback: Not actually LaTeX (exports to it), smaller community.
Best for: Pure mathematicians who want real-time preview.
Feature Comparison for Math
| Feature | Octree | Overleaf | TeXstudio | LyX |
|---------|--------|----------|-----------|-----|
| Equation preview | Real-time | After compile | Side panel | WYSIWYM |
| Compile speed | <1s | 10-60s | Local | N/A |
| AMS-math | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| AI equation help | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Theorem envs | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cloud sync | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
Common Math Paper Pain Points
Pain: Equation numbering breaks
Octree solution: AI detects numbering issues and fixes cross-references automatically.
Pain: Aligned equations are tedious
Octree solution: "Align these equations on the equals sign" → AI reformats.
Pain: Compilation is slow
Octree solution: Sub-second incremental compilation, even with heavy math.
Our Recommendation
For serious mathematical writing, Octree offers the best combination of speed, AI assistance, and full LaTeX power. The ability to describe equations in natural language and have AI generate proper LaTeX is a game-changer.
Write beautiful math faster. Try Octree free at https://useoctree.com