Sketchup was first launched in 2000 and it got popular just because it has an easily understandable user interface. It provides a simple computer-aided design (CAD) program and this feature gained huge popularity. It is implied by their slogan, “Think in 3D. Draw in 3D”. This tool’s workflow is easy to grasp and can be learned in a matter of time.
Sketchup is primarily used for architectural rendering, and blueprints of sculptures, robots, and 3D printable objects can easily be designed through this tool. Although it has plenty of features, still this tool got dropped by users just because of its poor UI.
Here we have the best Sketchup alternatives.
- Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is an Autodesk product that delivers a cloud-based CAD program. It works on the parametric designing system along with a timeline feature. This timeline feature allows the user to view previous edits and changes made by the user. All project files get stored simultaneously with an Autodesk account and users can access them from anywhere. This tool unlocks huge powerful post-modeling features like animation, CAM tools with free personal license, and 3D rendering.
- Revit
Revit is more focused on architectural design and structural engineering and that is the reason it’s called BIM (Building Information Modeling) software. If we compare this with SketchUp, this tool is more technically oriented. This tool is suitable for managing projects and their documentation effectively, and it provides a large toolset in comparison. This makes Revit a bit of a complex software program. It requires high computational power to run smoothly. But if you want some feature-loaded 3D architecture design tool then this one is worth its complexity and relatively high cost.
- Shapr3D
Shapr3D is a CAD application and was exclusively released for iPad and Apple Pencil and now this is also available for iMac PC. It is the first CAD and semi-professional 3D-designing application which can be accessed on a handheld device.
So, these were the top three alternatives for Sketchup. Let us know which one you would use or like the best!
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Revit
SketchUp is very popular among architects and interior design. For this application, Revit might be one of its main competitors. This software was acquired by Autodesk in 2002 and has been updated every year since.
Revit is BIM (Building Information Modeling) software that focuses on architectural design and structural engineering. It’s more technically oriented than SketchUp, suitable for managing tasks and documentation, providing a lengthy toolset in comparison.
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Art of Illusion
Art of Illusion is an open-source 3D modeling program with built-in image rendering tools. It was first released in 1999 and has become very popular among the RepRap community. It’s a great option for first-time 3D modelers because of its intuitive user interface and fast learning curve.
Although Art of Illusion uses surface-based modeling tools that are straightforward and easy to work with, the basic package includes more advanced features, like texture creation and animation tools. It’s also good for 3D renderings and has a surprising amount of lighting options.