SketchUp Make

SketchUp Make 2015 attempts to change the trend toward expensive and bulky 3D modeling and CAD software by offering an alternative that is free, intuitive, and highly integrated with both Google Earth and Google Maps.

Unlike the pricey industry standard CAD software suites out there, including Cinema4D and 3DSMax, SketchUp provides simple utility in a package that costs nothing. Users have the option of sharing their in-app creations with the world through either Google Earth or Google Maps.

Many of the most professional 3D modeling apps out there use complicated jargon that the typical user won't understand, but SketchUp doesn't have that problem at all. This software is meant to be incredibly intuitive, and there are a number of guides and hints that will help any user with the modeling process. Drawing circles, squares, and other shapes is made easier thanks to the 'snapping' process, which is essentially a guided drawing aid for those sorts of shapes. The app predicts what shape is being created, and when the end points are nearly complete, it will 'snap' the shape into place.

Despite the intuitive nature of SketchUp and the fact that is costs nothing to use, there is a surprising amount of function in the software. The typical filling and drawing tools that most people are familiar with are available in a toolbar across the top of the app, and there are constant hints popping up for whatever you're working on.

There are a number of other options that can be seen by clicking through the menus, or extra palettes can be placed on the workspace to help save time. One of the most amazing palettes in SketchUp is 'Materials', which includes preset swatches such as glass, metal, and vegetation. There are more than 100 such swatches on that palette alone. There is also a helpful Shadow palette, which makes it easy to bring natural shadows to your creations.

Perhaps the most intriguing feature of SketchUp is the integration with Google Earth and Google Maps. By emailing or uploading images of you 3D designs to Google's 3D Web Warehouse, you can share those creations with anyone. If you'd prefer to use Google Maps, you can geo-tag any creations using the integrated software.

As with all free pieces of software, there are some downsides. For instance, the Push/Pull tool doesn't seem to work well with domed surfaces, but it has no problem with straight lines. There is also a lack of some of the highest-level functions that only professional CAD artists would require. Fortunately, this software isn't aimed at true professionals. It is meant for the amateurs who want to try their hand at 3D modeling in a comprehensive CAD app.

• Highly Intuitive
• Free Version
• Google Maps Integration
• Many Hints & Tips
• Easy 3D Drawing
• Google Earth Integration

• Lacks Advanced Functions
• Free Version: No CAD-Format Export
• Free Version: No Text or Image Insertion