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SketchUp description
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.
Who is SketchUp best for
SketchUp is user-friendly 3D modeling software ideal for architecture, interior design, construction, and woodworking. Its intuitive interface and extensive 3D Warehouse of pre-made models make it easy to learn and use, while its powerful features enable the creation of complex designs. However, some users find limitations in creating organic shapes and rendering without plugins, and performance issues with large models have been reported.
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Best fit for small, medium, and enterprise businesses.
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Ideal for businesses in architecture, interior design, construction, and related fields.
SketchUp features
| Supported SketchUp allows creating and editing 3D models. |
| Supported SketchUp allows sharing designs with stakeholders via links, Trimble Connect, and 3D Warehouse. |
| Supported SketchUp supports creating 2D drawings using the integrated LayOut tool. |
| Supported SketchUp integrates with 3D Warehouse for importing models. |
| Supported SketchUp allows creating animations and walkthroughs using scenes and extensions for advanced features. |
We evaluate the sentiment that users express about non-functional aspects of the software
Value and Pricing Transparency
Customer Service
Ease of Use
Reliability and Performance
Ease of Implementation
Scalability
SketchUp reviews
We've summarised 2251 SketchUp reviews (SketchUp GetApp reviews, SketchUp Software Advice reviews, SketchUp Capterra reviews and SketchUp G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.
- 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.
- 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.
SketchUp pricing
The commentary is based on 216 reviews from SketchUp Capterra reviews, SketchUp G2 reviews and SketchUp Software Advice reviews.
SketchUp's pricing is generally considered affordable, especially for beginners and small businesses, with a free version available. However, some users find the subscription model and cost of certain plugins and extensions to be expensive or prohibitive. Others wish for a one-time purchase option.
Users sentiment
See the SketchUp pricing page.
Go
Basic plan that includes iPad, and web-based 3D modelers, access to 4M+ pre-built 3D models, collaboration platform, unlimited cloud storage, XR viewer for Meta Quest devices, and AR mobile viewers for iOS and android.
Pro
Everything in Go plus: desktop, iPad, and web-based 3D modelers, 2D design documentation, quick insights for design research, access to plugins for extending SketchUp for Desktop functionality.
Studio
Everything in Pro plus; ability to import Revit files, Revit-to-SketchUp importer, the ability to model on point clouds in 3D, create real-time visualizations and photorealistic images, and export fully rendered animations and 360° panoramas.
SketchUp alternatives
sketchup vs RevitBetter for enterprise customers. More suitable for construction sequencing and constructability studies. Has stronger collaboration features.Read more
BricsCADBetter for 2D drafting and BIM. Has perpetual licensing and is growing faster. More affordable SketchUp alternative.Read more
PIPEPHASEBetter for pipeline simulation in the oil and gas industry. Serves a niche market compared to SketchUp's broader design focus.Read more
CoohomBetter for kitchen and bathroom design. Has faster employee growth but lower ratings and website traffic growth. More focused on realistic rendering and video presentations.Read more
sketchup vs SOLIDWORKSBetter for manufacturing, consumer goods, and automotive design. More suitable for enterprise companies. User reviews mention better 2D drawing and more extensive features but worse performance with large files and higher cost.Read more
OnshapeBetter for collaborative design and version control. Cloud-based, accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. A strong SketchUp alternative for agile product development.Read more
SketchUp FAQ
What is SketchUp and what does SketchUp do?
SketchUp is intuitive 3D modeling software used for various design tasks, from architectural projects to woodworking. It offers a user-friendly interface, extensive 3D model libraries, and seamless integration with other design tools. Its versatility makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals.
How does SketchUp integrate with other tools?
SketchUp integrates with other tools through its 3D Warehouse for importing models and extensions for added functionality. It also supports creating 2D drawings using LayOut and sharing designs via Trimble Connect. This streamlines workflows for various design tasks.
What the main competitors of SketchUp?
Top SketchUp alternatives include AutoCAD, Blender, Lumion, and MicroStation. These competitors offer similar 3D modeling and design capabilities, catering to various industries and project scales. Some, like Blender, are open-source, while others offer specialized features for specific design needs.
Is SketchUp legit?
Yes, SketchUp is a legitimate 3D modeling software used by professionals worldwide. It's known for its intuitive interface, versatile 3D modeling capabilities, and extensive 3D Warehouse. While the pricing might be a concern for some, its ease of use and features make SketchUp a safe and productive choice.
How much does SketchUp cost?
SketchUp's pricing options include the Go plan at $119/year, the Pro plan at $349/year, and the Studio plan at $749/year. Is SketchUp worth it? It depends on your needs. The Go plan is great for individuals, Pro for professionals, and Studio for advanced workflows.
Is SketchUp customer service good?
SketchUp's customer service receives mixed reviews. While some users praise the responsive and helpful support, others express frustration with difficulty reaching support and unhelpful responses. Several users mention positive experiences with customer service regarding specific technical issues.
Reviewed by
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 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.