Both are from Art of Problem Solving and teach problem-solving over memorization. Beast Academy (elementary) is colorful and comic-based. AoPS (middle school) is serious and rigorous. Same philosophy, different intensity.

Beast Academy

$150–$300 per year

Grades 3–6

★★★★ 4.7/5

AoPS Prealgebra & Algebra

$200–$400 per course

Grades 7–10

★★★★ 4.8/5

Engagement Winner: Beast Academy

Beast Academy's comic format is irresistibly engaging. Kids beg to do it. AoPS is more serious — brilliant kids love it, average kids find it overwhelming.

Rigor & Challenge Winner: AoPS Prealgebra & Algebra

AoPS is uncompromisingly rigorous. Beast Academy is rigorous but more playful. For serious math students, AoPS wins.

Fun Factor Winner: Beast Academy

Beast Academy is *fun*. AoPS is demanding and intense. If your kid needs to enjoy math, Beast wins.

Problem-Solving Skills Winner: AoPS Prealgebra & Algebra

AoPS teaches genuine problem-solving at competition level. Beast Academy builds it playfully. AoPS goes deeper.

Cost/Value Winner: Beast Academy

Both expensive. Beast Academy feels like better value (more fun for the price). AoPS you're paying for elite instruction.

Bottom Line

**Choose Beast Academy** if your kid isn't yet serious about math but you want to build problem-solving playfully. **Choose AoPS** if your child is a math kid who needs to be challenged and doesn't mind intensity.
Full Beast Academy Review → Full AoPS Prealgebra & Algebra Review →