Skip to content
Alternatives.toolsSubmit a tool
SketchUp logo

Open source SketchUp alternatives

Top 3D Modeling & Animation like SketchUp

The most popular alternative to SketchUp is Blender, which has a free version. Other great alternatives to SketchUp are FreeCAD.

Most alternatives to SketchUp are in the 3D Modeling & Animation category, compared here by price, platform and features.

SketchUp alternatives
AllFreeOpen source
2 apps

All SketchUp alternatives

  1. Blender

    Blender is a free, open source 3D creation suite covering modeling, sculpting, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering with Cycles and EEVEE, compositing and video editing. Its Grease Pencil tools also allow 2D animation inside a 3D space. Developed by the Blender Foundation and a large community, it is used by hobbyists, studios and game developers and can be extended with Python add-ons.

    12 Blender alternatives

    Pros

    • Completely free and open source, with no license or subscription
    • Covers modeling, sculpting, animation, rendering and video editing
    • Large community with countless tutorials and Python add-ons

    Cons

    • Dense interface that takes newcomers time to learn
    • Less established than Maya or 3ds Max in some studio pipelines
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    3D Modeling & Animation
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    AnimationPlugins & extensionsRenderingSculpting
    Visit websiteMore about Blender

  2. FreeCAD

    34.2Kstars

    FreeCAD is a free, open source parametric 3D modeler for mechanical engineering, product design, architecture (BIM) and 3D printing. It is organized into workbenches for part design, sketching, assemblies, technical drawings, finite element analysis and CAM, and can be fully scripted in Python. Version 1.0, released in 2024, added a built-in assembly workbench and fixes for the topological naming problem.

    6 FreeCAD alternatives

    Pros

    • Free and open source parametric CAD with no license fees
    • Workbenches cover parts, assemblies, drawings, FEM and CAM
    • Fully scriptable in Python for automation and custom tools

    Cons

    • Interface feels less polished than commercial CAD packages
    • Workflows differ between workbenches, which slows down learning
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    3D Modeling & Animation
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    CAD & parametric modelingOffline modePlugins & extensions
    Visit websiteMore about FreeCAD

SketchUp vs its alternatives at a glance

Pricing, platforms and the key features of SketchUp, compared with its most popular alternatives.

SketchUp vs its alternatives at a glance
AppPricingPlatformsCAD & parametric modelingPlugins & extensionsTemplates
SketchUpFreemiumWeb, Windows, Mac, iPhone
BlenderFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux
FreeCADFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux

SketchUp alternatives: frequently asked questions

What is the best alternative to SketchUp?

The most popular alternative to SketchUp is Blender: Free and open source 3D suite for modeling, animation and rendering. Other great alternatives are FreeCAD.

Is there a free alternative to SketchUp?

Yes, 2 alternatives are free or have a free plan, including Blender and FreeCAD.

Is there an open source alternative to SketchUp?

Yes, 2 open source alternatives are listed, including Blender and FreeCAD.

Is SketchUp free?

SketchUp has a free plan, with paid plans that unlock more features.

Compare SketchUp with its alternatives

Sponsored listings and products made by the publisher of this site are always labeled. How we rank · Know a good alternative? Submit it