SketchUp Pro for Mac

SketchUp Pro for Mac is a powerful 3D modeling software designed for professionals across various industries, including architecture, interior design, and product design. Designed from the ground up to be the most intuitive Mac solution for designing, documenting, and communicating 3D ideas in a collaborative and cloud-powered environment, this popular tool offers all of its users access to a stylish interface and intuitive tools that make it accessible to users of all skill levels.

The powerful toolset of this app enables users to create detailed and accurate 3D models for a wide range of applications, from architectural designs, interiors, landscape, civil and mechanical engineering, as well as multimedia designs for film, and video game industries.

The latest version of this software is fully cloud-aware, enabling users to not only back up and share their projects on a secure cloud storage platform, but also effortlessly access their projects via iPad, Chromebook, or any modern internet web browser.

Features

• Robust 3D Modeling – Access a comprehensive set of tools for drawing, editing, and manipulating 3D geometry in projects of all types and sizes.
• Extensive Plugins – Expand the capabilities of this powerful app with a large plugin ecosystem.
• Intuitive Interface – Quickly learn to navigate to any tool and create 3D models with ease.
• Large 3D Content Library – Accelerate daily workflow by populating projects with professionally-made 3D models.
• 2D Documentation – Easily create 2D drawings of any project with a powerful LayOut tool.
• Unlimited Cloud Storage – Backup, share and collaborate with built-in cloud syncing service.
• Built-in VR Viewer – Become fully immersed in the next generation of 3D modeling and showcase projects to clients and project leaders.
• Large Ecosystem – Expand the functionality of this powerful 3D editor by integrating other solutions from the SketchUp team.
• Flexible Pricing Options – Versatile subscription plans for commercial and educational users.

Installation and Setup

This processional 3D modeling tool can be installed on any modern Mac computer by downloading the latest version of the installer from the official website or secure FileHorse servers.

All users are required to create a new account on the SketchUp platform, which will enable them not only to manage their premium license entitlements more easily, but also set up their own secure cloud storage space where their projects can be securely backed up, synced when moving between devices, and shared to authorized users.

Developers of this app have made sure to make it compatible with both Intel-based processors and the latest Apple Silicon hardware.

How to Use

To use SketchUp Pro on any modern Mac, users can start by simply starting the app, and selecting the "Start Modeling" button in the software's interface. From there, they can utilize the various tools and features to create, edit, and manipulate 3D models.

Seasoned 3D modelers will have no issues with quickly learning all the capabilities of this app, while newcomers can take full advantage of the extensive documentation and community resources this app provides.

User Interface

The user interface of this app is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, with a straightforward layout that allows users to focus on their creative vision.

The main dashboard promotes a large 3D canvas where users can freely rotate the virtual camera view, lock it to the predefined axis views, and zoom until they have the perfect view of the 3D modeling projects, they are making. The software's tools and features are organized in a logical manner, making it easy for users to find what they need.

FAQ

What is SketchUp Pro?
It is a powerful 3D modeling software designed for professionals across various industries, offering a user-friendly interface, intuitive tools, and integrated cloud features.

Is SketchUp Pro safe?
Yes. This is a safe app maintained by a reliable software developer. It receives regular stability, security, and feature updates.

Alternatives

AutoCAD – An industry-leading professional CAD software that offers a wide range of features for 2D and 3D modeling, drafting, and design.

Rhinoceros 3D – A versatile 3D modeling software that supports a wide range of formats and offers advanced modeling capabilities.

Blender – A powerful, open-source 3D creation suite that supports modeling, sculpting, animation, rendering, compositing, and video editing for artists and developers.

Pricing

This app is only available via yearly subscription plans that are separated into three distinct categories – “Commercial”, “Higher Education”, and “Primary & Secondary”.

The exact pricing for the most popular Commercial tier is as follows:

• SketchUp Go Plan: $199 per year for access to the web, Chromebook, and iPad versions of this app, a large library of pre-made 3D models, an AR mobile viewer app, and unlimited cloud storage.
• SketchUp Pro Plan: $349 per year for access to the native desktop Mac client, 2D design documentation service, insights, full VR viewing support, and the ability to use plugins.
• SketchUp Studio: $749 per year for the most comprehensive feature offering.

System Requirements

• OS: Mac OS 13+ (Ventura), 12+ (Monterey) and 11+ (Big Sur)
• CPU: 2.1+ GHz Intel processor, or Apple M1 (or newer)
• RAM: 4GB of memory (8 GB is recommended)
• GPU: Graphics chip with 512GB of video memory (1GB+ is recommended) and OpenGL 3.1 support
• Note - This app does not support external GPUs, remote desktop connections, and virtual environments

PROS

• Professional 3D modeling tools.
• User-friendly interface.
• Versatile features.
• Built-in cloud services.
• Extensive plugin ecosystem via Extension Warehouse service.

CONS

• Expensive.

Conclusion

SketchUp Pro for Mac is a powerful and versatile 3D modeling software that offers a wealth of features and advantages for professionals across various industries. It features an intuitive interface, robust modeling capabilities, built-in cloud service, and an extensive plugin ecosystem that makes it an attractive choice for all professionals seeking to realize their 3D modeling skills. However, newcomers to the 3D modeling world should be aware that this suite is quite expensive.

Note: 30 days trial version.