Which extensions render math equations in your browser
The most widely used extension for displaying math is MathType, which works in Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. It renders equations written in LaTeX or MathML format and lets you edit them directly in web pages. Another strong option is Desmos, available as a Chrome extension, which graphs functions and plots data alongside equation display.
For plain-text math notation, Greasemonkey (Firefox) or Tampermonkey (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) let you run custom scripts that convert ASCII math into readable symbols. These are more technical — you write or find a script that does the conversion — but they work on any website without needing a dedicated extension.
MathJax itself is not an extension you install, but many sites use it built-in. If a site doesn't, you can enable MathJax rendering through Greasemonkey or Tampermonkey by loading a public script that injects it into the page.
Key Takeaways
- MathType is the most direct option and works across Chrome, Edge, and Firefox to display LaTeX and MathML equations.
- Desmos adds graphing capability alongside equation rendering if you work with functions and data visualization.
- Greasemonkey and Tampermonkey let you run scripts that convert plain-text math notation into readable symbols on any website.
- Many websites already render math natively; an extension is only necessary if the site doesn't support it or uses a format your browser doesn't recognize.
How MathType works as a browser extension
MathType installs as a toolbar button in your browser. When you encounter a math equation on a webpage, you can click the button to open the MathType editor. From there, you can view the equation in a larger window, edit it if needed, or copy it in different formats — LaTeX, MathML, or an image.
The extension also works in reverse: if you're typing in a text field or document editor within your browser, you can open MathType, build an equation visually, and insert it into the page. This is useful on forums, wikis, or learning platforms that accept math input but don't have built-in equation editors.
MathType is not free — it requires a subscription after a trial period. The cost varies by plan, but it's the most polished option if you work with equations regularly and want a dedicated tool.
Using Greasemonkey or Tampermonkey for math notation
Greasemonkey (Firefox) and Tampermonkey (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) are script managers that run small programs on websites you visit. For math equations, you find or write a script that looks for plain-text math notation — like `x^2 + y^2` or `\frac{a}{b}` — and converts it into readable symbols.
The most common script for this is one that loads MathJax into pages that don't already have it. You install Greasemonkey or Tampermonkey, then add a public script (available on sites like Greasy Fork) that injects MathJax into every page you visit. From that point on, any LaTeX math on the page renders automatically.
This approach is free and works on any website, but it requires a few setup steps and some comfort with installing scripts. If a script breaks or stops working, you may need to find an updated version or troubleshoot why it's not running.
When to use Desmos for graphing and equations
Desmos is primarily a graphing calculator, but it also displays and evaluates equations. The Chrome extension adds a Desmos button to your toolbar that opens a graphing workspace. You can type equations, adjust variables with sliders, and see the graph update in real time.
Desmos is most useful if you're studying calculus, algebra, or any subject where visualizing a function matters. It's less useful if you only need to read equations on a page — it's a tool for working with math, not just viewing it. The extension is free, and Desmos itself is a free online tool that doesn't require the extension at all.
Checking if a website already renders math
Before installing an extension, check whether the website you're visiting already displays math correctly. Many educational sites, Wikipedia, and academic platforms use MathJax or similar tools built-in. If equations appear as readable symbols rather than code or broken formatting, the site handles it already.
If you see raw LaTeX code like `\frac{1}{2}` or broken symbols, then the site doesn't render math natively. That's when an extension becomes useful. Some sites also let you toggle math rendering in settings — check the site's preferences or help section first.
Comparing the extensions side by side
| Extension | Browsers | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| MathType | Chrome, Edge, Firefox | Subscription | Editing and inserting equations |
| Desmos | Chrome | Free | Graphing and visualizing functions |
| Greasemonkey + MathJax script | Firefox | Free | Rendering LaTeX on any page |
| Tampermonkey + MathJax script | Chrome, Edge, Firefox | Free | Rendering LaTeX on any page |
Setting up a script for automatic math rendering
If you choose Greasemonkey or Tampermonkey, the setup takes about five minutes. First, install the extension from your browser's store. Then visit Greasy Fork (greasy fork dot org), search for "MathJax", and find a script with recent updates and good reviews. Click "Install this script" and confirm in the extension popup.
Once installed, the script runs automatically on every page you visit. If you see LaTeX math that isn't rendering, refresh the page — sometimes the script needs a moment to load. If it still doesn't work, check the script's comments section on Greasy Fork; other users often post fixes for common problems.
You can disable the script for specific websites if it causes problems. Right-click the Greasemonkey or Tampermonkey icon, go to "Manage scripts", find the MathJax script, and add the website to the exclusion list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an extension if I'm just reading math on Wikipedia or Khan Academy?
No. Wikipedia, Khan Academy, and most educational sites render math natively. An extension is only necessary if you're on a site that displays raw code or broken symbols, or if you need to edit equations.
Can I use MathType on mobile browsers?
MathType has limited mobile support. Chrome and Firefox on Android support some extensions, but MathType's mobile version is not as full-featured as the desktop version. For mobile, Desmos has a dedicated app that works better than the extension.
What's the difference between LaTeX and MathML?
LaTeX is a text-based format that uses commands like `\frac{a}{b}` for fractions. MathML is an XML format designed specifically for math and is more verbose. Most extensions handle both, but LaTeX is more common on forums and in plain text.
Will a MathJax script slow down my browser?
Slightly, but usually not noticeably. The script only runs on pages with math notation, and modern browsers handle it efficiently. If you notice slowness, you can disable the script for heavy websites or use the exclusion list.
Can I use these extensions to create math equations from scratch?
MathType is designed for this — you can build equations visually and insert them into web forms. Desmos lets you create graphs and equations in its workspace. Greasemonkey and Tampermonkey only render existing math; they don't help you create it.