Understanding the Differences Between SketchUp Pro and SketchUp Make: Why Google Stopped Supporting SketchUp Pro

For those who have become familiar with 3D modeling software, SketchUp stands out with its user-friendly interface and versatility. Google initially offered two versions of SketchUp: SketchUp Make and SketchUp Pro. These versions cater to different needs and provide varying levels of functionality and support. This article aims to elucidate the differences between the two while also explaining why Google chose to discontinue support for SketchUp Pro.

What is SketchUp Make?

SketchUp Make is a free, user-friendly version of SketchUp. It was discontinued by Google in 2018, but not before it left a mark in the 3D modeling world. SketchUp Make was designed with simplicity in mind, making it approachable for beginners. Its key features included:

Basic 3D modeling capabilities Incremental drawing tools Ability to create simple 3D models No third-party plugin support

SketchUp Make also provided a 30-day trial period for those looking to experience SketchUp Pro features before committing to a paid subscription. It was indeed a valuable tool for casual users and project starters.

What is SketchUp Pro?

On the other hand, SketchUp Pro is a fully featured, premium version of the software. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools that cater to professional users and those with more advanced modeling needs. Here are some of its key features:

Advanced 3D modeling tools Professional layout and documentation tools (LayOut) Advanced text and dimensioning tools Third-party plugin support for even more functionality Built-in texture and material libraries Unlimited undo history

SketchUp Pro is designed for users who need a more robust set of tools to tackle complex projects and deliver professional-grade results. Its powerful features include advanced texturing, material libraries, and support for third-party plugins.

Google's Decision to Discontinue Support for SketchUp Pro

In 2018, Google decided to focus its efforts on improving SketchUp Make, rather than maintaining SketchUp Pro. This decision was largely driven by the company's desire to streamline its product lineup and provide a more consistent user experience.

Focus on Continuity: Google aimed to ensure that SketchUp Make remained as widely available and well-supported as possible. By making the free version a priority, the company aimed to ensure continuity for users who were reliant on SketchUp for their projects. Resource Allocation: Discontinuing support for SketchUp Pro allowed Google to allocate resources more effectively towards improvements and innovations in the free version. This decision aimed to enhance the overall usability and appeal of the free version.

The discontinuation of support for SketchUp Pro marked a significant shift in the relationship between users and the software. Many users felt a sense of loss, as they no longer had access to the full suite of tools that Pro provided. However, SketchUp Make continued to be a valuable tool for many, albeit with limitations.

Current State of SketchUp Make

As of the latest update, SketchUp Make remains the free version of SketchUp, albeit without ongoing support. The current version of SketchUp Make can still be downloaded, but it is based on the 2017 software release. This means that users cannot take advantage of newer features or updates. The software retains its core functionality, but lacks the additional features and support that were available in the past.

Why the Difference Matters

The differences between SketchUp Pro and SketchUp Make can be significant, especially for professional users who require advanced features and support. Here are some of the key reasons why users might choose one over the other:

SketchUp Make

Best for beginners and casual users No need for a paid subscription Regular updates and bug fixes Still retains core 3D modeling and design functionality

On the other hand, SketchUp Pro offers:

Advanced modeling and documentation tools Professional-grade layout and documentation capabilities Better support for 3D printing and manufacturing Compatibility with third-party plugins and extensions

For those who require more advanced features and support, SketchUp Pro remains a valuable tool, even though it is no longer actively maintained by Google.

Conclusion

While Google's decision to discontinue support for SketchUp Pro might seem disappointing to some, the continued availability of the free version, SketchUp Make, provides a reliable alternative. Understanding the differences between these two versions can help users choose the right tool for their specific needs and projects. For those who require more advanced features and support, exploring third-party solutions might be a viable alternative.