How much money does SketchUp cost

SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling software used by professionals in fields such as architecture, interior design, engineering, and video game design. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, understanding the cost of SketchUp is important in order to determine which version of the software fits your needs and budget. This article will break down the pricing structure of SketchUp's various editions, including the free version, to help you make an informed decision.

What will you find in this article?

Can you buy SketchUp permanently?
Is SketchUp free actually free?

Contents

1 Can you buy SketchUp permanently?
2 Is SketchUp free actually free?

Can you buy SketchUp permanently?

Can you buy SketchUp permanently? As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, SketchUp had transitioned to a subscription-based model, meaning that users can no longer purchase a permanent license or a one-time purchase version of the software as they could in the past. Instead, SketchUp offers several subscription options that provide access to the latest version of the software, along with regular updates and cloud services.

Here is a breakdown of the available options:

1. SketchUp Free: This is a simplified, web-based version of SketchUp that is available for free. It offers basic functionality suitable for personal use.

2. SketchUp Shop: Aimed at DIY designers and makers, this subscription offers more advanced tools than the free version and can be used on the web.

3. SketchUp Pro: This is a more robust version of SketchUp that includes additional features such as advanced 3D modeling tools, 2D design documentation, and VR model viewing. It is available through an annual subscription.

4. SketchUp Studio: This package includes everything in SketchUp Pro, plus additional tools for energy analysis, HVAC, and shading, making it well-suited for professionals in architecture, construction, and engineering.

Since the permanent licenses are no longer sold, users who require SketchUp for long-term use must continue renewing their subscription annually to maintain access to the software. The shift to a subscription model aligns with the broader trend in the software industry to ensure that users have access to the most up-to-date features and support.

Is SketchUp free actually free?

Yes, SketchUp Free is actually free. It is the simplest free version of SketchUp, and it's web-based, which means it runs directly in your browser without the need to download or install any software on your computer. Here are some key points about SketchUp Free:

- Accessibility: As a web-based platform, SketchUp Free is accessible on most internet-connected devices with a compatible browser. This makes it convenient for users to design anytime, anywhere.
- Features: While SketchUp Free includes many of the core functionalities of SketchUp, it does have limitations compared to the paid versions, such as SketchUp Pro. Features such as advanced rendering, exporting to high-quality formats, and additional tools for professionals may not be available in the free version.
- Usage: SketchUp Free is primarily intended for personal, non-commercial use. This means that if you're planning to use SketchUp for commercial projects, you should consider purchasing a license for SketchUp Pro.
- Storage: With SketchUp Free, your projects are saved to the cloud using Trimble Connect, which is a collaboration tool that comes with it. There is a limit on the amount of cloud storage available for free accounts.
- Learning and Community: SketchUp Free is an excellent option for beginners and hobbyists to learn the basics of 3D modeling. There's a large community of users and plenty of online resources and tutorials to help new users get started.

In summary, SketchUp Free provides a basic, accessible introduction to 3D modeling with some limitations in features and usage rights compared to its paid counterparts. It's an excellent platform for those who are new to 3D design or for projects that do not require the full suite of professional tools.

What is SketchUp price?

SketchUp's pricing varies depending on the version and licensing type. As of my knowledge cutoff in early 2023, here are the typical pricing structures for SketchUp:

SketchUp Free: There is a basic version of SketchUp that is available for free. This version runs in a web browser and offers essential tools for 3D modeling. It is ideal for personal use or for those just getting started with 3D design.
SketchUp Shop: Aimed at DIY designers and makers, SketchUp Shop is a more advanced web-based version that provides additional tools and features over the free version. Users can expect to pay a subscription fee that is billed annually.
SketchUp Pro: This is a full-featured desktop application designed for professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and related fields. SketchUp Pro includes advanced tools and capabilities, such as additional import/export options, advanced modeling techniques, and LayOut, which is a tool for creating 2D presentations of SketchUp models. This version typically requires a subscription paid annually or monthly.
SketchUp Studio: The most comprehensive package offered, SketchUp Studio includes all the features of SketchUp Pro, plus additional tools for advanced 3D modeling, energy analysis, and more. This version is also subscription-based and is the most expensive option.

It's important to note that prices are subject to change and may vary by region or over time. Furthermore, SketchUp occasionally offers promotions or discounts, and educational licenses may be available at a reduced cost or for free to students and educators. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information, it is best to visit the official SketchUp website or contact a SketchUp sales representative.

Is SketchUp a one time payment?

Is SketchUp a one-time payment? Historically, SketchUp offered a classic, perpetual license model which allowed users to make a one-time payment and own the software indefinitely. However, as the industry has shifted towards subscription-based models, SketchUp has followed suit.

As of my knowledge cutoff in early 2023, SketchUp offers several subscription options:

1. SketchUp Free: This is the simplest version of SketchUp, available for free and runs as a web-based application. It provides basic tools suitable for casual users and beginners.

2. SketchUp Shop: Targeted at DIYers and hobbyists, this subscription provides more advanced tools and features than the free version and can be used for personal projects.

3. SketchUp Pro: Aimed at professionals, this version offers a comprehensive set of features, including advanced drawing tools, the ability to import and export various file formats, and the full suite of desktop applications.

4. SketchUp Studio: This package is the most advanced offering, including additional tools for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction. It includes features for energy analysis, advanced rendering, and more.

It is important to note that the SketchUp Make edition, which was the last free desktop version of SketchUp, is no longer officially supported or updated.

For those interested in using SketchUp without a subscription, the only option would be to find a legitimate reseller or outlet offering the older, classic licenses, which may still be in circulation. However, these versions would not receive any new feature updates or official support from SketchUp.

To sum up, as of the current landscape, SketchUp is primarily a subscription-based service, and the concept of a one-time payment for the latest version of SketchUp is no longer the standard offering from the company. Users must choose from the various subscription plans to access the current features and official support.

How much money does sketchup cost per year

How much money does SketchUp cost per year?

The cost of SketchUp varies depending on the version and licensing model you choose. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, here are the main options available:

1. SketchUp Free: This is the web-based version of SketchUp that is available for free. It includes basic features suitable for personal use and beginners. It's a great starting point for those new to 3D modeling.

2. SketchUp Shop: This version is also web-based and caters to DIY designers and makers. It offers more advanced features compared to the free version and typically costs around $119 per year.

3. SketchUp Pro: This is the desktop version of SketchUp, which includes additional features like advanced drawing tools, the ability to import and export various file formats, and access to LayOut (for 2D documentation) and Style Builder. SketchUp Pro is geared towards professionals and is priced around $299 per year.

4. SketchUp Studio: This is the most comprehensive package, which includes everything in SketchUp Pro plus additional features such as advanced energy analysis, HVAC, and daylighting analysis tools. SketchUp Studio is designed for professionals who require these specialized tools and is priced at approximately $699 per year.

It's important to note that prices can vary by region and are subject to change. Additionally, there may be discounts available for educational institutions and students. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it is recommended to visit the official SketchUp website or contact a local reseller.

We leave you with one last piece of advice for having made it this far: Before making a purchase, consider the different SketchUp subscriptions to ensure you choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. Goodbye.

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