SketchUp is a design software that allows you to create three-dimensional models. What sets this program apart from the rest is the “Instructor” option; When you select it, you will see a box that will explain the function of the tool, the shortcuts of action and give you tips for modeling. You can also customize your workspace according to your needs and download images, textures, and objects to use in your projects.
With SketchUp you can create 3D environments with realistic volumes, which will allow you to present your work proposals more accurately.
What is it for?
This program is mainly used by designers, architects, and engineers to visualize your projects before executing them. With SketchUp you can model urban planning environments, scenarios, furniture, architectural projects, video games and GIS (geographic information system), among others. Not to mention that you can also make 3D prints.
How much does SketchUp cost?
SketchUp has different rates for personal and professional use.
For example, the Go version for tablets costs $US 119/year, the Pro, which also works on PC, costs $US 349/year and the Studio, which is the most complete, $US 749/year.
If you’re a student or teacher, you’ll have a special price, and if you have a GSuite or Microsoft Education account, you’ll be able to access the free version for educational purposes.
Benefits of Using Sketchup in 3D Modeling
- It allows you to create designs in less time thanks to its simple and easy-to-use interface.
- Your projects will be compatible with other 3D formats.
- You can make realistic renders that are compatible with Lumion, Keyshot, Twinmotion, Thea Render, Enscape, and V-ray.
- With SketchUp, your projects will have exact measurements.
- You have a large gallery of preset elements, which you can use in your projects, or create your own.
- It’s a pretty light program. Import DWG files from CAD and export in DWG.
- You can view your projects from your smartphone and geolocate them with Google Earth.
- Store up to 10GB of your projects in the cloud.
- The program is compatible with both Mac and Windows.
What are the versions?
The program has four versions:
SketchUp Free: This free version is recommended for personal use, as it has basic modeling tools, to use from a browser. To start creating simple 3D models, you need to create a Trimble account.
SketchUp Go: This is the new version of the program and is designed to work with the iPad. SketchUp Go has the 3D modeling tools needed to work from anywhere in the world. An advantage of SketchUp Go is that it’s connected to the cloud with Trimble Connect, so you can make changes in real-time from your iPad or your client can see the progress of the project from their device.
SketchUp Pro: This version of the software is a combination of the classic program, the Web modeler and its ingenious new product: SketchUp for iPad. With the Pro version, you can work from wherever you are, use the cloud to save project progress, install useful extensions, and even create 2D documents with LayOut.
SketchUp Studio: This version is the most complete. With Studio you can make your models from the data of photogrammetry points, scans, drone captures, lidar sensors and mobile mapping. For more accuracy in your models, you can use Scan Essentials and create 2D documentation with LayOut. You can also make photorealistic renderings using V-Ray for SketchUp.
How to start using SketchUp on the web?
- Go to the SketchUp website. Sign up or log in.
- Choose the type of personal or professional use, and the plan you want to get.
- The welcome window will appear. In this window, you can select a template to model, open a recent model, or search for an existing file.
- When you select the template, a 3D plan will open up for you, and by default you will see a boy as a reference figure. You can delete it if you don’t need it.
- Ready! Now you can start modeling your project.
How to install SketchUp?
If instead of using the free web version you want to install the program and use the 30-day trial version, follow these simple steps to install the program.
- Visit the SketchUp website. Choose whether it’s for personal or professional use and select Start free trial.
- Fill out a form with your information. Select the option that best describes what your business does and click Continue.
- Now choose from the options that appear the one that best suits the use you will give to the program; you must choose at least one: 3D Modeling, 2D Documentation Sets, Visualizations and Rendering, etc. If none of them describe it, choose Other. Click Continue.
- Choose the country where you are and that’s it! The download will start automatically.
- Once downloaded, double-click on the file to start the installation.
- After you have installed it, open the program and start modeling.