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Editors’ Review

Download.com staff

SketchUp Viewer is a free application that allows users to view, explore, and present 3D models created in SketchUp. It’s especially useful for stakeholders who need to review models without making edits. The program supports interactive viewing tools such as orbit, pan, and zoom for easy model navigation.

The SketchUp Viewer is available on desktop and mobile platforms, offering flexibility in accessing 3D content. It enables users to open .SKP files and view models in full detail, making it suitable for presentations and on-site project reviews. The software is a convenient way to showcase designs to clients, teams, or collaborators.

Efficient viewing for design collaboration

SketchUp Viewer supports a range of navigation tools like orbit, walk, and section views that help users interact with 3D models in a realistic way. It’s commonly used by architects, engineers, and clients for examining designs without requiring full access to the SketchUp modeling software. However, it offers no editing capabilities, limiting its use to viewing only. The viewer maintains visual fidelity and supports layers, tags, and scenes.

The desktop version is compatible with Windows and macOS, while mobile apps are available for iOS and Android. However, some features like augmented reality viewing are limited to mobile versions, which may frustrate desktop users expecting equal functionality. Additionally, cloud integration with Trimble Connect requires a Trimble account, adding an extra step that may not appeal to casual or first-time users who prefer quicker, account-free access to their files.

For those who need editing tools, the full SketchUp Pro or SketchUp Free web version would be better alternatives, offering greater functionality. Autodesk Viewer and BIMx are also considered strong competitors, each with its own strengths depending on user needs and project complexity. For simple model viewing, however, this program remains a solid, accessible option that performs well within its limited but focused feature set.

Enlarged image for SketchUp Viewer
SketchUp Viewer 0/1
  • Pros

    • Supports multiple viewing tools
    • Compatible with mobile and desktop
  • Cons

    • No editing capabilities
    • Some features limited to mobile versions
    • Requires a Trimble account for cloud features

Bottom Line

Reliable tool for viewing 3D designs

SketchUp Viewer is a reliable and accessible tool for anyone who needs to review 3D models without editing them. It’s ideal for presentations, client reviews, or on-site inspections where interaction with a model is needed without making changes. Though it lacks editing functions, it offers useful features for navigation and display, supporting a smoother design collaboration process among architects, engineers, and stakeholders in various project stages.

What’s new in version 2021.0

  • Feature enhancements
  • Bug fixes


Explore More


Full Specifications

GENERAL
Release
Latest update
Version
2021.0
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Platform
Windows
Operating System
  • Windows 10
  • Windows 7
  • Windows 8
  • Windows 8.1
POPULARITY
Total Downloads
1,030
Downloads Last Week
56

Report Software

Last Updated


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