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Google SketchUp


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Finally, I’ve written a review of Google SketchUp Beta (Yes, my friends, this is always another beta application from Google). First, lets get some history.

SketchUp is an extremely easy-to-use, in fact the easiest-to-use, 3D modeling tool available in the market. Recently, it was acquired by Google, giving it instant reach and popularity. It was also immediately rebranded Google SketchUp.

The stated aim of Google SketchUp is to take 3D modeling to the masses. SketchUp provides the 3D part, while Google takes it to the masses. A very useful partnership for both, allowing Google to pursue its foray into the desktop and allowing SketchUp to reach a large number of users, via the extensive reach and influence of Google.

Now, as for the application itself, I must say that it is extremely easy to use. Previously, I had only heard about it, but now I’ve used it, and I’m mighty pleased.

The interface is intuitive and easy to use, and pretty quick, once you get used to it. You can quickly create 3D models of objects like your home, office, room, car, etc. The tutorial can get you started in this direction by teaching you how to use each feature provided in the package. The tutorial, for a change, is very useful and will certainly get you started on 3D modeling.

Once you’ve started making 3D models, you can either export them to Google Earth, save them as .skp files or export it as a 2D graphic. If you choose to export your model as a 2D graphic, you can choose between .png, .bmp, .tif and .jpg file extensions.

Although this is very easy to use, Google SketchUp is not for pros and not for users who want to do advanced 3D modeling. This is a statuary warning, because you’re going to be disappointed if you’re expecting the power and control of Maya in SketchUp. That’s not what it’s intended to be. It lives up to its own expectations of being the common man’s 3D modeler quite well.

Verdict: 8/10

All in all, SketchUp is a nifty little 3D modeler that your grandmother could use without trouble, and have quite a lot of fun in the process. Not for pros, however. An interesting product from the Google lineup.

Learning Curve: 30 minutes (The tutorial provided with SketchUp is simply awesome).


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  1. Blogger Olivier 
  2. Blogger Olivier 

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