Can You Still Get SketchUp for Free?

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Can You Still Get SketchUp for Free?

If you are a beginner in the world of 3D modeling and design, you may have heard of SketchUp. SketchUp is a popular software that offers powerful tools for creating 3D models, architectural designs, and more. In the past, there was a free version of SketchUp available, but is it still possible to get SketchUp for free?

The History of SketchUp’s Free Versions

In the early days of SketchUp, there were two versions available: SketchUp Free and SketchUp Pro. The free version provided basic features and was a great starting point for beginners who wanted to dip their toes into 3D modeling. However, as time went on, Trimble (the company that acquired SketchUp from Google) made some changes to the pricing structure.

With the release of SketchUp 2013, Trimble introduced a new version called “SketchUp Make.” This version replaced the previous free version and included more advanced features compared to its predecessor. It was available as a standalone desktop application.

The Transition from Free to Subscription

In 2017, Trimble decided to discontinue the free desktop version of SketchUp Make and shifted towards a subscription-based model. This meant that users would need to purchase a license or subscribe monthly or annually to access all the features of the software.

However, Trimble did introduce another web-based version called “SketchUp Free” as an alternative for users who didn’t want to pay for a license. This browser-based version allowed users to create and edit models directly in their web browser without requiring any installation.

SketchUp Free: What Can You Expect?

If you’re wondering what you can do with the current free web-based version of SketchUp, here’s a breakdown:

  • Modeling Tools: You’ll have access to a wide range of basic modeling tools, allowing you to create 3D shapes, edit vertices, and extrude surfaces.
  • Import and Export: SketchUp Free allows you to import and export models in various formats, including DWG, DXF, OBJ, and STL.
  • Collaboration: You can invite others to view and edit your models in real-time, making it easy to collaborate with clients or colleagues.
  • 3D Warehouse Access: The 3D Warehouse is a vast online repository of pre-built models that you can use in your own designs. SketchUp Free users can access this resource to enhance their projects.

Note: While SketchUp Free provides an impressive set of features for a browser-based application, it’s important to remember that it does have limitations compared to the paid versions. Some advanced features like solid modeling and dynamic components are only available in SketchUp Pro.

The Verdict

In conclusion, while the traditional desktop version of SketchUp Make is no longer available for free, Trimble has provided an alternative with SketchUp Free. This web-based version offers a decent set of features for beginners and those who don’t require all the advanced functionalities found in SketchUp Pro. It’s a great tool for learning the basics of 3D modeling without having to invest in a license upfront.

If you eventually find yourself needing more advanced capabilities or want to take your designs further, upgrading to SketchUp Pro may be worth considering. But for now, if you’re just getting started or working on smaller projects, SketchUp Free is a fantastic option to explore.