The popular 3D modeling program SketchUp was initially free open-source software but now is available for a premium price. Even though the desktop version is no longer available, you can still download a free version.

Many times over its history, Google has owned SketchUp, and Trimble is currently the company that owns it. SketchUp is currently only available as a web app for free. The latest desktop application costs $300 per year for personal use.

Why do people want to use an older version of SketchUp

For a long time, SketchUp’s desktop version was also completely free. Many people will be satisfied with the SketchUp web app. The Trimble acquisition of SketchUp resulted in the product being split into several tiers for their business purpose. As a result, people want to use the free version for their daily needs.

Update Process of Older Version of SketchUp

You can purchase an upgrade by visiting the SketchUp Pro License Wizard. After purchasing the upgrade, you will receive an email with the license details and a link to download SketchUp. Utilize the new license information in your email to download, install, and authorize SketchUp.

Major Problems after the Upgrade of older SketchUp Version

Older Version File Support

There are different versions of SketchUp’s .SKP file format in 2016, 2017, and 2018, but all models should be compatible with the most recent version of SketchUp. You may get a warning that this file was created using an older version of the application when trying to open it. Nonetheless, this is just to let you know that going forward, you won’t be able to open this file without downsizing in previous versions of SketchUp.

• The SketchUp file should be opened in the same version of SketchUp as the SketchUp program.
• Click File > Open to view the SketchUp file.
• File > Save As will let you save the file.
• Select the version of SketchUp you would like to open the file with from the Save as Type drop-down menu. Take SketchUp 2018 as an example.
• The file name should be modified to make it unique, such as adding “-v2018” at the end.
• When the file is created, you will now be able to open it in SketchUp Pro 2018.

Can any SketchUp user use an older version of SketchUp after the latest upgrade?

It is possible to open older versions of SketchUp. The latest version of SketchUp can open all versions of SketchUp files.

Until your SketchUp license expires, you can request a downgrade or temporary installation of an older version of SketchUp while you are under maintenance and support.

Your previous version of this license will be deactivated as soon as you authorize SketchUp. Once your old license deactivates, you won’t be able to use the previous version license to authorize any new computers. After the old license deactivates, you can keep using your old version of SketchUp on any computers that you’ve already authorized.

Free SketchUp Product Right Now

SketchUp Make

Of all the SketchUp products offered by Trimble, Only SketchUp Make retains the free desktop version. SketchUp Make’s last release was in 2017. Despite the fact that Trimble no longer updates this version, Trimble still offers this version for free. You can still get SketchUp for free if you want a desktop version.

Even though SketchUp Make isn’t as feature-rich as the newer Pro versions, it’s perfect for most users. It is very likely that you are familiar with this version if you have used SketchUp in the past.

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