OVERVIEW
- CAD Software SketchUp Free
- Platform Browser
- Free
- Upgrade Available
Another highly advanced software heavily used by CAD professionals is SketchUp — a program used by architects, landscapers, urban planners, and commercial interior designers. Though the company behind the software, Trimble, makes their bread and butter with the program’s full version – SketchUp Studio – they also offer a free and highly accessible version of the “sketch and extrude” CAD software called SketchUp for Web. Though, it is far more feature-restrictive than Fusion 360 for free users.
EASE OF USE
If feature restriction is good for one thing, it leaves a cleaner user interface. When loading into SketchUp for Web you’ll notice a large object viewer to see your design with just a clean line of common tools on the left and a few extras over on the right. There aren’t many buttons to distract beginners from trying to understand the software.
FEATURES
- 3D Warehouse
SketchUp for Web comes loaded with one of SketchUp’s best features: a repository of thousands of 3D models that can be easily imported into your design with the click of a button. Many of these are models from the world’s major brands that will help lend some authenticity to your design – great for showcasing your work.
- Geolocation
You can import your location directly into a SketchUp workspace, even with SketchUp for Web. Great for architects and landscapers, not so much for hobby makers. If you are working on a big project, importing maps can help to visualize its surroundings and design accordingly. However, the free version only allows 2D maps. If you want 3D topography, you’ll have to pay.
- Walk Tool
The walk tool allows you to view and explore your model from eye level. It’s an especially important tool for architects who need to see their layouts from the perspective of an occupant, but could also be practical for large projects like sculptures or other installations where the zero-gravity views of typical CAD programs might prevent you from seeing the visual limitations of a pedestrian.
PRACTICALITY
SketchUp for Web lets you use a highly accessible web-based modeler with 10 GB of private cloud storage free of charge. However, Trimble’s terms of use specify that the software can’t be used for commercial purposes. So, if you’re getting paid for your model, look elsewhere or pay up. If not, and the limited tools that SketchUp’s free version offers will work for you, you’re all set. Being a browser-based software ensures quick access any time and anywhere — and the ability to easily showoff your designs via mobile device.
SCALABILITY
If you decide you want a little more functionality from SketchUp, the software offers plans on a sliding scale of features and cost. The most affordable paid plan, SketchUp Shop, is just $119 a year to unlock unlimited cloud storage and augmented reality applications for the web-based modeler. The next tier, SketchUp Pro, is $299 a year and gives you access to the powerful desktop application with professional features like 2D design documentation and other typical CAD features.
Best For: Architecture, landscaping, or setting up scenes to view your model in a representative 3D virtual space before fabrication.
What makes SketchUp Free so great?
SketchUp for Web
SketchUp’s core 3D modeler runs right in your web browser.
Cloud storage
10 GB of Trimble Connect cloud storage so you can share your projects and collaborate with your team.
Mobile model viewing
View 3D models on your mobile device with the SketchUp Viewer app.
Interoperability
Import SKP, JPG, PNG file types, and export SKP, PNG, STL file types.
3D Warehouse
Access user-generated and manufacturer-produced models to give your projects context and life.
Free!
All you need is an internet connection. No credit card required.
Get it From: SketchUp