SketchUp - Where to download and how to install popular software?

Publication date: 29-12-2025  |  Update date: 29-12-2025  | Author: Mateusz Ciećwierz

Where to Download SketchUp? The Official Source Is Essential

It’s best to download SketchUp software from the manufacturer’s official website - sketchup.com. This is the only safe source that guarantees you get the original and up-to-date version of the program. Using unofficial sites or torrents not only violates copyright law but also exposes your computer to viruses and malware.

Once on the manufacturer’s site, you’ll find the "Start Your Free Trial" button, which allows you to download the demo version. If the button doesn’t display correctly, you can search for "Trial SketchUp" and select the link leading to the official domain. Keep in mind that SketchUp also offers a free browser version - SketchUp Free - which may be sufficient for simpler projects. You can learn more about the free version of SketchUp in the article titled Why Use the Free SketchUp Free Version?

Which SketchUp Version to Choose?

During the download, you will be asked to specify your intended use of the program. You can choose from several options: professional projects, personal use, higher education, or primary/secondary education. Select the option that matches your actual needs, as it affects the licensing terms.

The demo version applies to SketchUp Pro - the full edition of the program with all available tools. Importantly, you don’t need to provide an email address to download it at the version selection stage. If you plan to use the program solely for non-commercial purposes, consider SketchUp Free - a streamlined but completely free browser-based version. You can find more information about the differences between versions in the article: SketchUp Pro vs SketchUp Studio - What’s the Difference?

How to Download and Install SketchUp Step by Step?

After clicking "Start Free Trial", you need to fill in a short registration form. Provide your details, select your country, phone number, and accept the data processing consent. Then you’ll see the download option—SketchUp is available for both Windows and macOS. Choose the version that matches your operating system and start the download.

During installation, you can choose the interface language. If you’re just starting out, you don’t need any additional components from the Studio suite—you can safely uncheck them. The default installation location usually doesn’t require changes, but if you want to install the program on a different drive, you can do so in the installer window.

System Requirements - Can Your Computer Handle It?

The good news is that SketchUp’s hardware requirements are not demanding. You can run the program even on a simple office laptop. However, if you plan to work on more complex projects or use the V-Ray renderer, it’s worth investing in more powerful hardware with a dedicated graphics card.

You can find detailed system requirements on the manufacturer’s official website in the dedicated section. Before installation, it’s worth ensuring your computer meets them—this will help you avoid performance issues during work. If you’re considering purchasing new hardware, read the article: Which Computer to Choose for SketchUp?

Logging In and Activating Your Trimble Account

After installation and launching the program, you will need to log in to your Trimble account. If you don’t have an account yet, you can create one directly in the program by clicking "Create a Trimble ID". The registration process includes selecting your region, filling in a form, and accepting the privacy policy.

You’ll receive a verification code at the provided email address, which you need to enter in the appropriate window. Then you set a password for your account, and after going through a few additional options, you can finally log in and start using the program. From the first login, the demo version will be active for 7 days.

What After the Trial Period Ends?

After the seven-day trial, you will need to purchase a license to continue working in SketchUp Pro. Alternatively, you can use the free browser version SketchUp Free, which offers basic modeling tools without installation. Special educational discounts are also available for students and learners.

We also encourage you to check out our special offer, under which you can purchase access to all our courses along with an annual educational license for SketchUp and V-Ray.

Expert's opinion

Piotr KurpiewskiArchitekt, Grafik, Wykładowca PJATK w Warszawie

SketchUp is an excellent choice for starting your 3D modeling journey. The program stands out with its intuitive interface, allowing you to quickly move from basics to realizing your first projects. The seven-day trial of the full Pro version is a great opportunity to explore all the tools without commitment. In my opinion, the key to success is systematic learning and practice—even 30 minutes a day is enough to comfortably create interior models or simple buildings after a few weeks. I also encourage you to explore 3D Warehouse, a vast library of ready-made objects that significantly speeds up project work.

Regardless of the option you choose, it’s worth making the most of the trial. Test all features, see how the program performs in your projects, and assess whether it meets your expectations. It’s a perfect time to learn the basics of modeling and decide on your next steps. If you want to speed up your learning, on our website you will find comprehensive SketchUp courses that will help you master the program from scratch.

Conclusion

Downloading and installing SketchUp is a simple and intuitive process that takes just a few minutes. The most important thing is to use only official sources and choose the version that fits your needs. The seven-day trial gives full access to all the features of SketchUp Pro, allowing you to fully explore the program’s capabilities before making a purchase decision. Good luck with your modeling!