Sketchup — Version List [top]

SketchUp has evolved through three distinct eras since its inception in 2000, transitioning from a niche architectural tool to a globally recognized 3D modeling standard. The @Last Software Era (2000–2006)

Developed by Brad Schell and Joe Esch in Boulder, Colorado, the original vision was to create a "3D for Everyone" tool that was as intuitive as drawing with a pencil.

SketchUp 1.0 (2000): Introduced core "Push/Pull" technology and automated face generation.

SketchUp 2.0 (2002): Refined the interface and expanded primitive tools.

SketchUp 3.0 (2003): Improved performance and inferencing engines.

SketchUp 4.0 & 5.0 (2004): Introduced advanced texture mapping and further integration for professional workflows. The Google Era (2006–2012)

Google acquired the software to help populate Google Earth with 3D buildings. This era democratized the software by introducing a free version.

SketchUp 6 (2007): Debut of LayOut (for 2D presentations) and direct integration with Google Earth and 3D Warehouse.

SketchUp 7 (2008): Launched Dynamic Components, allowing models to have interactive, parametric properties.

SketchUp 8 (2010): Added Solid Tools for additive/subtractive modeling and geolocation features. The Trimble Era (2012–Present)

Trimble Inc. acquired SketchUp to integrate it more deeply into the construction, engineering, and BIM (Building Information Modeling) industries. SketchUp 2025 - The BIGGEST Update in Years?

Once upon a time in the year 2000, a small startup called @Last Software

gave birth to a tool that promised to make 3D modeling as easy as drawing on a napkin. They called it , and it was a rebel in a world of complex CAD software. The Google Era (2006–2012) saw the magic in the "Push/Pull" tool and acquired the company sketchup version list

in 2006. Under Google’s wing, SketchUp became a household name. This was the era of SketchUp 6, 7, and 8

, famous for being free and integrating with Google Earth. Designers everywhere were building virtual cities, and the 3D Warehouse became a bustling marketplace of free models. The Trimble Transition (2012–2020) In 2012, a new chapter began when Trimble Inc. bought SketchUp

from Google. The software grew up, shifting focus toward professional architecture, engineering, and construction. SketchUp 2013-2016:

Introduced the "Extension Warehouse," turning the software into a modular powerhouse. SketchUp Make 2017: This became a legend—the final free desktop version

before the software moved toward the web and subscription models. The Subscription Age (2021–Present)

As the 2020s rolled in, SketchUp shed its "year-only" skin and moved to a subscription-based ecosystem including SketchUp Pro, Go, and Studio SketchUp 2022-2024:

Brought massive performance boosts and the "Search" tool, making it faster to find commands. SketchUp 2026: latest current version introduced groundbreaking built-in collaboration tools

, allowing teams to comment and update models in real-time within a single workspace.

Today, the story continues as SketchUp evolves from a simple drawing tool into a fully connected, collaborative platform for the modern age. help deciding

which current subscription tier (Go, Pro, or Studio) fits your specific project needs?

How to choose the right version of SketchUp - The Little Design Corner

SketchUp 2013 (first Trimble release)

2. Google Era (2006–2012) – Free vs Pro

Quick solid primitive generation (by version)

| Version | How to get a solid piece | |------------------|-----------------------------------------------------| | SketchUp 3–7 | Draw rectangle → Push/Pull → manually delete internal lines → group (no automatic validation) | | SketchUp 8–2014 | Same as above, plus Solid Tools (Union/Trim) | | SketchUp 2015+ | Native Entity Info shows “Solid” | | SketchUp 2020+ | Use 3D Warehouse → search “solid primitive” → download group | SketchUp has evolved through three distinct eras since

If you’d like, I can provide a step-by-step Ruby script that generates a solid cube in any SketchUp version with the Ruby API (v3 onward).

SketchUp versions have evolved significantly since the software's inception in 2000, moving from a Google-owned product to its current home with Trimble. The current release is SketchUp 2026. Currently Supported Versions

Trimble maintains a support policy for the three most recent versions. Support typically ends on January 31st, three years after a version's initial release year.

SketchUp 2026: Focuses on real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to view models via private invites or public links. It also introduced a Distance Multiplier for Ambient Occlusion and improved Live Component scaling.

SketchUp 2025: Introduced a Generative AI texture tool for creating PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials and added a Purge Unused Reminder to help manage file sizes.

SketchUp 2024: Featured a major graphics engine rebuild, introducing Ambient Occlusion for better depth perception and improved performance for large models. Product Tiers & Plans

Instead of just year-based versions, SketchUp is now categorized by subscription tiers that offer different capabilities:

The most recent releases focus on collaboration, performance, and cross-platform capabilities.

SketchUp 2026: Introduced a dedicated Collaboration Mode, allowing multiple users to view and interact with the same model simultaneously.

SketchUp 2025/2024: Focused on streamlining the SketchUp Go (iPad/Web) and SketchUp Pro (Desktop) offerings to ensure better file compatibility across devices.

SketchUp 2020: Revamped model organization with a modernized Outliner. It also introduced the ability to toggle the visibility of hidden objects independently from hidden geometry. Current Product Tiers

Instead of just single version numbers, SketchUp is now primarily organized into subscription-based tiers: Key Features SketchUp Free Web Browser Extension Warehouse (replaces Ruby script manual installs)

Basic 3D modeling, 10GB cloud storage, free for personal use. SketchUp Go iPad & Web

Tailored for working on the go; includes iPad-specific tools like Apple Pencil support. SketchUp Pro

Professional modeling, LayOut (2D documentation), and extensive plugin support. SketchUp Studio

Everything in Pro, plus advanced tools like V-Ray rendering and Scan Essentials. Legacy & Compatibility

SketchUp 2017 (Make): The last truly free desktop version. While no longer officially supported by Trimble, it is still sought after by users who prefer a non-subscription, local application.

Version Checking: To see which version you are currently running, go to Help > About SketchUp on Windows or SketchUp > About SketchUp on macOS.

Which Version of SketchUp to Pick in 2025? (Go, Pro, Studio Comparison!)

The evolution of SketchUp from its release in 2000 to the current 2026 iteration mirrors the broader shift in the design world from niche desktop tools to accessible, cloud-integrated ecosystems

. Founded by @Last Software, the program's primary goal was to "democratize design" by making 3D modelling more intuitive than the rigid CAD software of the time. The Three Eras of SketchUp

SketchUp’s version history is largely defined by three distinct ownership phases, each leaving a unique mark on the software's capabilities and audience.

Here’s a complete historical review of SketchUp versions, from its origin to the present. This covers release names, key features, company ownership changes, and platform splits.

SketchUp 2025

SketchUp 2014

A major internal rewrite. Trimble moved the codebase to 64-bit only on Windows.

Which Version Should You Use Today?

Depending on your search intent for "SketchUp version list," here is the practical answer:

  1. If you are a hobbyist on a budget: Download SketchUp Make 2017 (the last free desktop version). It is old but rock-solid for 3D printing and woodworking.
  2. If you are a student: Use SketchUp Free (Web version 2024/2025) – it is free, runs in a browser, and needs no installation.
  3. If you are a professional architect: You need SketchUp Pro 2024 or 2025. The Revit importer and LayOut for construction documents are non-negotiable time-savers.
  4. If you are on an iPad: You need SketchUp for iPad (2022–2025) – the version number mirrors the desktop year (e.g., v2025).

Compatibility & Migration Tips