SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling software that has gained a significant following over the years. One of the reasons for its success is its free version, which has allowed many users to explore the world of 3D design without breaking the bank.
But does SketchUp still have a free version available? Let’s find out.
History of SketchUp Free
SketchUp Free, previously known as SketchUp Make, was introduced by Trimble Navigation Limited in 2000 as a free version of their flagship software, SketchUp Pro. It was aimed at hobbyists, students, and anyone interested in learning 3D modeling without the need for expensive licenses.
Initially, SketchUp Free offered a limited set of features compared to its Pro counterpart but still provided ample tools to create impressive 3D models. It quickly gained popularity among enthusiasts and became an essential tool in various industries.
The Transition to SketchUp Web
In 2017, Trimble made a significant change to their product lineup by introducing SketchUp Free as a web-based application. This move marked a shift from the traditional desktop software model to a cloud-based approach.
The transition to SketchUp Web brought several benefits for users. They no longer needed to download and install software updates manually, as everything was managed on Trimble’s servers. Additionally, collaboration and file sharing became easier by simply sharing project links with others.
Today’s Scenario:
As of now, SketchUp Free is no longer available as a standalone desktop application. Instead, it exists solely as an online tool accessible through any modern web browser.
Features of SketchUp Free
1. User-Friendly Interface:
SketchUp Free retains the intuitive and user-friendly interface that made SketchUp popular in the first place. The tools and commands are easily accessible, making it suitable for beginners and professionals alike.
2. Basic 3D Modeling Tools:
Despite being a free version, SketchUp Free offers a solid set of 3D modeling tools. Users can create basic shapes, extrude them into 3D objects, and manipulate them to achieve desired designs.
3. Import and Export Capabilities:
SketchUp Free allows users to import existing 3D models in various file formats, such as .SKP, .DWG, .DXF, and more. It also provides options to export projects as 2D images or 3D models for further use.
Pricing Options
While SketchUp Free remains a popular choice for many users, Trimble also offers advanced versions for those requiring additional features and capabilities.
SketchUp Shop:
- A subscription-based version priced at $119 per year
- Includes premium features like unlimited cloud storage, access to professional support, and the ability to use SketchUp on any device
SketchUp Pro:
- The most comprehensive version of SketchUp priced at $299 per year
- Includes all the features of SketchUp Shop along with additional tools like LayOut for creating professional presentations and Style Builder for creating custom sketchy styles
In Conclusion
In summary, while SketchUp Free is no longer available as a standalone desktop application, it still exists as a web-based tool known as SketchUp Web. It offers a user-friendly interface, basic 3D modeling tools, and import/export capabilities.
For those requiring more advanced features, Trimble offers SketchUp Shop and SketchUp Pro at affordable prices. So whether you are a beginner or a professional, there is a SketchUp version to suit your needs.
So go ahead and explore the fascinating world of 3D design with SketchUp!