1. What’s the difference between MathType and Equation Editor?
The short answer is that all of the features discussed on this web site are exclusive to MathType or are significantly improved over the same feature in Equation Editor. There have been no significant changes to Equation Editor since we licensed it to Microsoft in 1991. MathType, on the other hand, has been continually upgraded and improved.
2. Will others who don’t use MathType be able to read my equations?
Windows users need to download and install the MathType fonts available free on our web site. Alternatively, both Mac and Windows users can download our free MathType 30-day trial which will install the fonts and work as a better Equation Editor even when the 30 days are up.
3. Will I be able to edit MathType equations with Equation Editor?
No, but if you download the free, MathType 30-day trial, you will be able to edit all MathType equations. At the end of the trial period, MathType will revert to MathType Lite and you will always be able to view and edit MathType and Equation Editor equations.
4. If I install your 30-day demo of MathType and decide not to buy it, can I go back to using Equation Editor?
Yes, if you prefer. However, you should know that after the 30-day trial period MathType becomes MathType Lite, which is better than Equation Editor. You get to keep all of MathType’s additional fonts, letting you collaborate with both MathType and Equation Editor users. MathType Lite is free forever.
5. How do I type a space into an equation? Why does it beep when I hit the spacebar?
MathType automatically applies spacing as you type according the rules of mathematical typesetting. This involves 6 different space widths, none of which are the width of a normal space. Since people are so used to hitting the spacebar while typing, we disable it when math is being entered. However, MathType also has a Text mode which allows you to type in a plain English phrase or sentence in the middle of an equation. And, of course, the spacebar works in Text mode.