MAJOR change in the free Sketchup

[reible]

As of the 2018 version there is no longer a way to have a free PC based version of the program.

If you load the pro version after the 30 days you either have to buy it or exit.

The 2017 version is still there and seems to work so long as you have not saved in the 2018 version.....

The new free version is web based and I don't like it at all.

So if you use sketchup be aware changes have happened.

Ed

[claimdude]

FYI, I have a coupon code for the Pro version that applies a $100 discount. Still expensive though. If anyone wants the code it expires 12/31/2017 PM me.

Jack

[dusty]

As of the 2018 version there is no longer a way to have a free PC based version of the program.

If you load the pro version after the 30 days you either have to buy it or exit.

The 2017 version is still there and seems to work so long as you have not saved in the 2018 version.....

The new free version is web based and I don't like it at all.

So if you use sketchup be aware changes have happened.

Ed

Thanks for the warning. I have received the "free" offer to upgrade to the 3D version and I nearly did just that. Something else was going on so I did not; now I won't. I have what I refer to as my "shop computer" which is never (supposed to be) used on line. Now it won't be. Unless there is a "time bomb" already embedded in that software I will have an operative version of Sketchup available to me.

I'll also be on the lookout for new "shop software". Back when I was a working grunt I was an Autocad user. My employer kept us all up to date. I just may go on the search for a suitable Autocad version (especially if I have to buy it).

[garys]

I've never needed a piece of software like that so this doesn't affect me. My woodworking comes from plans in my head and trying to use computer software would just slow me down and keep me from making sawdust.

[dusty]

I've never needed a piece of software like that so this doesn't affect me. My woodworking comes from plans in my head and trying to use computer software would just slow me down and keep me from making sawdust.

Understandable!

I was that way at one time. Then I found myself trying to duplicate previously made items that were, for all practical purpose, undocumented. Now, except for simple shop items, I do plans/drawings. Sketchup has been the perfect solution until now. If Trimble thinks that they can herd me into the corral by discontinuing the free version they have another think coming.

I had fears that this would happen when Trimble came into the picture.

[redleg]

I recently deleted Sketchup Make from my computer and ended up with the online version and didn't like it either. I just downloaded Sketchup 2017 and it is working for the moment but no telling for how long.

[Ed in Tampa]

It seems like there is an interesting philosophy being seen here. You all want paid for your work but are willing to go to lengths to avoid paying others for their work. Interesting!

[sehast]

Fusion 360 is still free as long as you don't use it in a business that makes more than $100K. It is more capable than Sketchup and almost as easy to use. I am glad I have already made the transition. With this development I now know I will never go back to Sketchup.

[moggymatt]

My wife and I were just having a conversation on the merits of keeping(me) or not keeping (wife) my collection of wood magazines and plans. Now I have a legit reason to back me up. I'm gonna tell her to cancel the front end loader right now!

[dusty]

Fusion 360 is still free as long as you don't use it in a business that makes more than $100K. It is more capable than Sketchup and almost as easy to use. I am glad I have already made the transition. With this development I now know I will never go back to Sketchup.

There really is "NO Development" occurring here. Just the realization that was once free MAY no longer be free.

If Sketchup has a way to terminate my use of what I already have, I will simply look elsewhere. I have been toying with the idea of a paid subscription for Sketchup for quite some time BUT I will not allow myself to be herded into such a decision.