Sketchup Reviews and Product Information.

What is Sketchup?

So what exactly is SketchUp, and how does it work? In a nutshell, SketchUp is an intuitive 3D modeling program that lends itself to fast visualizations. Think of it as a miniature version of AutoCAD for the non-tech savvy, or more aptly, "the pencil" for architects and urban planners. Certain intricate details need to be left out for the sake of quickness when using SketchUp, but many key architectural components can still be realized.

image of Sketchup dashboard

About Sketchup and Our Ratings:

Best Fit For:
Small and medium sized businesses
Total Product Rating (out of 5):
Value of Software Rating:
Customer Support Rating:
Performance Rating:
4.7
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4.8
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4.6
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4.7
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Software Pricing:

Free trial?
Pricing plan 2:
Pricing plan 1:
$9.91/month
$58.25/month
Yes
NO

Customers:

Best Alternatives to Sketchup:

Sketchup's Top Software Integrations:

  • Shapr3D
  • Third Light
  • Tekla Structures

Key Features of Sketchup:

  • Sketchup is best known among urban planners as a way to visualize city plans without resorting to expensive computer modeling or hiring out artists just so they can make models of what their vision looks like.
  • For collaborative projects, SketchUp provides a variety of useful tools. You can easily share models and solicit feedback from colleagues, clients and friends via email, Dropbox or Google Drive.
  • SketchUp excels as a tool for helping you communicate your ideas effectively from the very beginning of the project. As an example, I’ll walk you through how it was used in my most recent project: designing a bike path through an urban neighborhood for community use.
  • Sketchup is a cost-efficient option for urban planning because it's free to use for at least 30 days, and it's priced much lower than other software on the market today.
  • Sketchup is used by many professionals in the AEC industry because of its ability to simulate a real world environment and test out designs from any perspective. As a planner, you can show what ideas look like to relevant stakeholders or visualize a project in 3D before committing resources to it.

Major Benefits of Using the Sketchup Software:

  • User-friendly interface: SketchUp has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, allowing users to quickly create and modify 3D models.
  • Wide range of features: SketchUp offers a wide range of features, including 3D modeling, drafting, rendering, and animation tools, among others.
  • Integration: SketchUp integrates with a range of other software applications, such as CAD software and 3D printing software, among others, allowing for seamless data exchange and workflow automation.

Drawbacks With Using Sketchup:

  • Learning curve: SketchUp can have a learning curve, particularly for users who are new to 3D modeling software or have limited experience with 3D design.
  • Cost: While the basic version of SketchUp is free, more advanced features may require payment. The cost of using this software could be a limiting factor for some users or organizations.
  • Limited precision: SketchUp is not designed for precision engineering or manufacturing applications, and the level of precision may be limited compared to other 3D modeling software.
About the author

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

Last Update:
January 22, 2024

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the product, features and costs.

Does Sketchup offer customer support to their customers?

Yes, SketchUp offers customer support to their customers. They provide several resources for customer support, including a help center, a community forum, and a support email address. Customers can also contact support through their online support center. In addition to these resources, they offer training and consulting services to help customers get started with the software and to learn more advanced techniques. Customers can access these resources through the SketchUp website or by contacting their SketchUp representative.

How much does Sketchup software cost?

SketchUp is available in several versions, with different pricing options for each. As of March 2023, the pricing for SketchUp in the United States is as follows: SketchUp Shop: $119 per year or $12.99 per month SketchUp Pro: $299 per year or $24.99 per month SketchUp Studio: $1,199 per year

What is the Sketchup software used for?

SketchUp is a 3D modeling software used in a wide range of industries, including architecture, interior design, film and video game design, product design, and engineering. The software allows users to create 3D models of buildings, landscapes, and objects using a range of tools and features.

Compare With Similar Vendors:

You can find them listed and compared in all of the below software review comparison pages we've pulled together.
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