SketchUp vs AutoCAD

by Gralio Feb 27, 2025

SketchUp and AutoCAD are both powerful design tools catering to different needs. SketchUp shines with its user-friendly approach to 3D modeling, while AutoCAD excels in precise 2D drafting and industry-specific applications. Choose SketchUp for ease of use and quick visualization, and AutoCAD for complex projects requiring detailed technical drawings.

At Gralio.ai we help to simplify your decision-making process by offering detailed, side-by-side software comparisons like this one, to help you confidently choose the tool that aligns with your business goals.

This comparison was created by analysing 6128 reviews and 60 websites, saving 1 day, 10 hours, 32 minutes of reading.

SketchUp

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AutoCAD

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About

SketchUp is a 3D modeling software that's easy to use, yet powerful enough for professionals in architecture, interior design, and construction. Visualize projects of any size, create detailed 2D drawings from your models, and share your vision with colleagues and clients through presentations and immersive visuals. SketchUp is known for its intuitive interface and is used by individuals and companies worldwide, from small design studios to large architectural firms.

AutoCAD is a design and drafting software to create 2D and 3D models. It offers industry-specific tools for fields like architecture and manufacturing. AutoCAD stands out with its web and mobile apps, enabling work from anywhere. It promises increased productivity through specialized features and a familiar interface.

Summary

Main difference

SketchUp is better for its intuitive interface and ease of use, making it ideal for quick 3D modeling and visualization. AutoCAD, with its extensive features and industry-specific toolsets, is a better choice for complex 2D drafting and precise technical drawings, especially for larger projects.

Relative strengths of SketchUp (compared to AutoCAD)

Easier to learn and use, especially for beginners in 3D modeling.
Extensive 3D Warehouse provides a vast library of pre-made models and components.
Stronger focus on 3D modeling and visualization, making it ideal for conceptual design and presentations.

Relative weaknesses of SketchUp (compared to AutoCAD)

Limited 2D drafting capabilities compared to AutoCAD's robust toolset.
Can experience performance issues with complex models and large files.
Less industry-specific functionality compared to AutoCAD's specialized toolsets.

Who should use SketchUp VS. AutoCAD

SketchUp is user-friendly 3D modeling software ideal for design professionals. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to learn, while its robust features enable the creation of detailed models and 2D drawings. Users praise its versatility and extensive 3D Warehouse, but some find complex shapes challenging without plugins. Consider SketchUp for visualizing projects, creating presentations, and streamlining your design workflow.

AutoCAD is user-friendly design and drafting software for 2D and 3D modeling. Its mobile and web apps enable flexible work, boosting productivity. Users praise the intuitive interface and extensive customization, but some experience performance issues with larger files. Best for architects, engineers, designers, and manufacturers.

Ideal for small to large businesses in architecture, interior design, construction, and related fields.
Strong fit for the Real Estate & Construction industry, with applications in other design-focused sectors.

Best for medium to large businesses (101+ employees).
Ideal for Manufacturing, Real Estate & Construction, and Media & Entertainment.

SketchUp and AutoCAD features

Supported

Partially supported

Not supported

Type in the name of the feature or in your own words tell us what you need

Drafting

Supported

SketchUp supports creating 2D drawings using the integrated LayOut tool.

Supported

AutoCAD allows creation of 2D drawings from 3D models using various built-in tools.
2D Sketching

Supported

SketchUp allows 2D sketching, but primarily focuses on 3D modeling. LayOut offers more advanced 2D drafting.

Supported

AutoCAD supports 2D sketching for defining part geometry.
Dimensioning

Supported

SketchUp supports automatic and manual dimensioning tools for both 2D drawings and 3D models.

Supported

AutoCAD supports manual and automatic dimensioning tools for 2D drawings.
3D modeling

Supported

SketchUp allows creating and editing 3D models.

Supported

AutoCAD supports creating and editing 3D models.
Design review tools

Partially supported

SketchUp supports design review via Trimble Connect, but lacks direct commenting features.

Partially supported

AutoCAD supports design review via Autodesk Design Review.
Design Sharing

Supported

SketchUp allows sharing designs with stakeholders via links, Trimble Connect, and 3D Warehouse.

Supported

AutoCAD allows sharing designs with various stakeholders via Shared Views and Co-authoring.

Qualities

Value and Pricing Transparency

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Customer Service

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Ease of Use

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Reliability and Performance

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Ease of Implementation

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Scalability

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SketchUp and AutoCAD Pricing

SketchUp offers flexible subscription plans for 3D modeling software, with options for individuals, professionals, studios, and educational institutions. They offer monthly and annual billing options (annual pricing shown here), with discounts for annual subscriptions. All plans include access to features such as 3D modeling tools, a library of 3D models, and collaboration features.

Plans

See full Pricing page

No data

See full Pricing page

SketchUp and AutoCAD review insights

Users love

Intuitive and user-friendly interface, easy to learn.
Versatile 3D modeling capabilities suitable for various design tasks.
Extensive 3D Warehouse with pre-made models and components.
Large and active community with ample learning resources and plugins.
Good integration with other software, especially rendering applications.

Intuitive and user-friendly interface for 2D drafting, praised for its ease of use and familiar commands.
Extensive customization options, including custom commands, shortcuts, and workspaces.
Widely used and recognized as an industry standard, ensuring compatibility and collaboration.
Vast online resources, tutorials, and a large user community provide ample support.
Precise and accurate drawing tools, essential for detailed technical drawings and plans.

Users dislike

Difficult to create complex or organic shapes without plugins.
Rendering capabilities are limited without plugins.
Large models can cause performance issues, including slowdowns and crashes.
Inconsistent experience across different operating systems (Windows vs. Mac).
Subscription model and pricing can be a barrier for some users.

Performance issues, slowdowns, and crashes are frequently reported, especially with larger files and 3D modeling.
High cost of licensing and subscription model is a major concern for individuals and small businesses.
3D modeling capabilities are considered limited compared to dedicated 3D software.
Steep learning curve and complex interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
Limited file format compatibility and occasional issues with importing/exporting files.

SketchUp and AutoCAD Ratings

G2

4.5/5

(1304)
Capterra

4.5/5

(950)
Glassdoor

3.9/5

(1518)

G2

4.4/5

(1446)
Capterra

4.7/5

(2449)
Glassdoor

4.3/5

(4861)

Company health

Employee growth

5% increase in the last year

3% increase in the last year

Web traffic

7% decrease in the last quarter

2% increase in the last quarter

Financing

August 2022 - $1B

May 2020 - $0

How do SketchUp's 3D modeling tools compare to AutoCAD's, especially for complex designs?

SketchUp is generally easier to learn and use for basic 3D modeling, while AutoCAD is more powerful but has a steeper learning curve. For complex designs, AutoCAD offers more precision and advanced tools, particularly for technical drawings and complex assemblies. However, SketchUp can also handle complex designs with the help of extensions and plugins, though performance can become an issue with very large models. Users often find AutoCAD better suited for complex designs requiring high accuracy and parametric modeling capabilities, whereas SketchUp excels in conceptual design and visualization.

Which product offers a smoother integration with existing architectural workflows and tools?

AutoCAD offers smoother integration with existing architectural workflows and tools due to its native DWG support, Revit integration, and industry-standard status within the AEC industry. These features ensure seamless data exchange and collaboration between different design and engineering disciplines. While SketchUp is known for its user-friendly interface, AutoCAD's focus on architectural workflows and its established position in the industry make it a better choice for those already invested in related tools and processes.

What are the advantages of SketchUp?

SketchUp's advantages lie in its intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it easier to learn and use, especially for 3D modeling beginners. It offers a vast library of pre-made models and components via the 3D Warehouse, accelerating the design process. A large and active community provides extensive learning resources and plugins, extending its functionality. SketchUp is also praised for its versatile 3D modeling capabilities suitable for various design tasks and good integration with other software, particularly rendering applications.

What are the disadvantages of SketchUp?

SketchUp users report difficulties creating complex or organic shapes without plugins, limited rendering capabilities without plugins, performance issues with large models (slowdowns and crashes), inconsistent cross-platform experience (Windows vs. Mac), and a subscription model/pricing that can be a barrier for some.

Alternatives to SketchUp and AutoCAD

BricsCAD

BricsCAD is a cost-effective computer-aided design (CAD) software that works on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and building information modeling (BIM). BricsCAD aims to be familiar to users of other CAD software, enabling a quick transition. It boasts innovative features like machine learning to improve drawing accuracy and efficiency. BricsCAD offers both permanent and subscription licensing options to fit various needs and budgets.

Revit

Revit is advanced design software for professionals involved in building projects. It allows architects, engineers, and construction teams to work together on a single, detailed 3D model of a building. This helps everyone stay coordinated, spot problems early, and make better decisions. Any changes made to the model are automatically updated everywhere, keeping documents consistent and reducing errors. Revit is a powerful tool for designing, planning, and constructing better buildings.

PIPEPHASE

PIPEPHASE is a software used by oil and gas companies to simulate the flow of oil and gas through pipelines. It helps companies design, plan, and optimize their pipeline systems. PIPEPHASE allows companies to model different scenarios, like changing production rates or pipeline diameters, to see how it impacts efficiency and profitability. This helps companies make informed decisions about their pipeline operations, leading to improved performance and reduced costs.

Onshape

Onshape is a cloud-based design platform for creating and managing product designs. It combines powerful 3D modeling tools with built-in collaboration and version control features. This means your design team can work together in real-time, from any location, without worrying about file compatibility or data loss. Onshape aims to speed up the design process, improve collaboration, and eliminate the headaches of traditional design software.

XTEN-AV

XTEN-AV is a cloud-based software designed for the audiovisual industry. It helps businesses create professional AV designs and proposals with tools like automated drawing generation, a library of over 1.5 million AV products, and proposal templates. XTEN-AV offers collaboration features, integrations with popular business applications, and a virtual reality platform to visualize room designs. Pricing is tiered based on user count and feature access.

Coohom

Coohom is a cloud-based 3D design software specializing in home design, making it easy to create realistic visualizations. It offers tools for quick floor plan design, 3D modeling, and high-quality rendering, particularly useful for kitchen and bath design. This software is used by both individual designers and businesses to streamline the design process and improve client presentations. Coohom boasts a large user base and a strong reputation within the industry.

Page co-authored by

Michal Kaczor

CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

Tymon Terlikiewicz

CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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