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Comparison

Sudoku vs Kakuro

Both use digits 1–9 — only Kakuro makes you add.

Play classic Sudoku → What is Sudoku?

Sudoku is about uniqueness in rows, columns and boxes. Kakuro (cross-sums) is about filling runs of cells so they add to a clue without repeating digits in the run. If you like light arithmetic, Kakuro feels richer; if you want zero maths, Sudoku is cleaner.

Sudoku’s global popularity means more graded difficulties, printables and technique literature. Kakuro has a passionate niche and pairs well once Sudoku Medium feels easy.

Killer Sudoku sits between them: classic Sudoku rules plus cage sums — see our Killer rules page if that hybrid appeals.

Side-by-side

Aspect Sudoku Kakuro
Arithmetic None Run sums required
Grid look Uniform 9×9 Crossword-like black cells
Core logic Latin-square constraints Combinations that sum to clues
Beginner ramp Very gentle with Easy/mini Steeper (sums + no-repeat)

Pick Sudoku if…

  • ·You dislike mental arithmetic
  • ·You want kids/mini sizes first
  • ·You want huge free online supply

Pick Kakuro if…

  • ·You like sum puzzles and combos
  • ·You want a crossword-shaped grid
  • ·Classic Sudoku feels too familiar

More comparisons

FAQ

Is Kakuro harder than Sudoku?
Often for beginners, because you must know sum combinations. Experienced number-puzzle fans may find Easy Sudoku simpler than Easy Kakuro.
What should I try after Sudoku?
Killer Sudoku keeps the 9×9 feel with sums. Kakuro is the fuller cross-sum experience. Hyper and diagonal variants add constraints without arithmetic.

More free Sudoku to play