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Linux · Accessories

KCalc

KCalc is KDE's scientific calculator with trigonometric functions, logic operations, and a results stack.

Open sourceFreeFlatpak
5.0 · 1 votes
License
GPL-2.0+
Latest version
26.08.1 (September 10, 2026)
Developer
KDE
Installs
7,586 (Flathub, 30 days)
Install Website ↗ Source code ↗
Main window of KCalc
Main window of KCalc
KCalc window in numeral system mode
KCalc window in numeral system mode
Kcalc window in scientific mode
Kcalc window in scientific mode
Kcalc window in statistics mode
Kcalc window in statistics mode

What is KCalc?

KCalc is the standard scientific calculator for the KDE desktop environment, part of the KDE Gear suite. It has been maintained for years and remains a stable, reliable tool. Unlike basic system calculators, it handles complex mathematical tasks without requiring external scripting or command-line workarounds.

This application targets users who need more than simple arithmetic, such as students, engineers, or anyone performing frequent statistical or trigonometric calculations. It is ideal for those already using KDE Plasma or anyone who prefers a graphical interface over terminal-based tools like bc or python for quick calculations.

Compared to SpeedCrunch or the Windows Calculator, KCalc feels more traditional and structured. It lacks the highly customizable, color-coded interface of SpeedCrunch but offers a cleaner, more standard scientific layout. It is less feature-rich than the Windows scientific mode but covers most common scientific needs effectively.

Best for: KDE users who need a dependable scientific calculator without the complexity of full-featured CAS tools.

Key features of KCalc

  • Trigonometric functions and logic operations
  • Statistical calculations built-in
  • Results stack for recalling previous outputs
  • User-definable precision settings
  • Cut and paste support in display
  • Configurable display colors and fonts
  • Full keyboard operation via key-bindings

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast to launch
  • Well-integrated with KDE desktop environment
  • Reliable for standard scientific math
  • Available in all major Linux distributions

Cons

  • Interface is less modern than SpeedCrunch
  • Limited visual customization compared to competitors
  • No graphing capabilities

Windows programs KCalc replaces

Windows CalculatorSpeedCrunch

How to install KCalc on Linux

Flatpak (Flathub)flatpak install flathub org.kde.kcalc
Ubuntu / Mintsudo apt install kcalc
Debiansudo apt install kcalc
Fedorasudo dnf install kcalc
Arch / Manjarosudo pacman -S kcalc
openSUSEsudo zypper install kcalc

Tips for Windows users

Coming from Windows Calculator or SpeedCrunch, note that KCalc uses standard keyboard shortcuts for operations. There is no direct file format conversion needed as it does not save calculation histories to disk by default; the results stack is session-only. If you relied on SpeedCrunch's color-coded variables, you will need to adapt to KCalc's simpler display, which focuses on clarity over visual flair. Keyboard navigation is robust, so you can operate it entirely without a mouse.

Recent releases

  • 26.08.1 —
  • 26.08.0 —
  • 26.04.3 —
  • 26.04.2 —

KCalc: frequently asked questions

Is KCalc part of KDE Plasma?

Yes, KCalc is included in the KDE Gear package and is pre-installed on most KDE-based distributions.

Can KCalc handle complex numbers?

KCalc supports standard scientific functions, but for advanced complex number operations, you may need a dedicated tool like Octave or Python.

Does KCalc have a history log?

It has a results stack for the current session, but it does not save a persistent history file to disk.

Is KCalc available on Arch Linux?

Yes, KCalc is available in the official Arch Linux repositories and can be installed via pacman.

Updated