SketchUp VS Vectorworks
Which is better, SketchUp or Vectorworks? We are asked this question regularly, and especially at the start of the academic year when new students are starting their design courses and trying to understand expectations for the coming year.
Unfortunately there isn’t a one‐size‐fits‐all answer. SketchUp and Vectorworks each have strengths and trade-offs and which is “best” depends on your workflow, the scale and complexity of your projects, how much time you have for learning, your budget, and how much need you will have for outputs such as schedules, reports and Building Information Modelling (BIM).
SKETCHUP & VECTORWOKS Similarities
Before we consider the pros and cons of each piece of software, we thought we would look at the similarities between the two.
Both pieces of software have 2D and 3D drawing capabilities, although SketchUp is primarily a 3D modelling tool, whilst Vectorworks is a complete drawing solution designed for use in 2D and 3D. Both make use of real-world units so you can draw with millimetre precision and both allow you to present concept drawings, masterplans, visuals and planting plans.
But while SketchUp and Vectorworks have a lot in common, they also have advantages and disadvantages, depending on your needs and resources.
SketchUp Pros:
Quick & intuitive modelling
Most people find SketchUp easier to learn. It’s good for visualising ideas and experimenting. Many designers like to use it to sketch out concepts in 3D because it feels less formal.
Good for presentation
You can create attractive, persuasive visuals for clients. SketchUp’s LayOut helps produce 2D presentation sheets.
Large library of plug-ins & components
There are many free and paid plug-ins available (e.g. rendering engines and terrain tools) that extend SketchUp’s capabilities.
Cost & accessibility
SketchUp costs less than Vectorworks (even with the additional cost of plug-ins) and has a gentler learning curve. It’s good if you are just starting out or working on smaller projects with minimal collaboration.
SketchUp Cons:
Less data rich
SketchUp objects are not data driven to the extent they are in Vectorworks and it doesn’t support BIM workflows and reporting.
Data integration
If you're working on complex projects, integrating GIS, architectural or engineer drawings, drainage or arboricultural reports, you may struggle in SketchUp (or require additional plug-ins; more complex workflows).
Vectorworks Pros:
Hybrid 2D & 3D
Hybrid tools allow you to draw in 2D whilst simultaneously building a model 3D. Each object has 2D and 3D attributes, optimising their display in each environment.
Collaboration
Vectorworks makes collaboration easy, allowing you to coordinate with architects, civil or structural engineers, or include GIS data, drainage or arboricultural reports. Managing, filtering and editing data from third parties is also straightforward.
Integrated BIM workflow
BIM objects in Vectorworks are smart components that carry geometry and data (e.g. dimensions, materials, cost, performance). Automated reports streamline repetitive tasks and produce accurate cost/quantity schedules.
Managing sheet issues & revisions
Managing sheet issues and revisions is easy in Vectorworks, with custom title blocks, revision management and automated drawing registers.
Vectorworks Cons:
Steep learning curve
Vectorworks can take longer to master and workflows might feel slower at first.
Cost
Vectorworks costs more than SketchUp.
Conclusion
Vectorworks provides a more integrated environment from initial plan to detailed construction documents, schedules, quantities, but can take longer to master and is more expensive. SketchUp allows you to get started quickly and create attractive, persuasive visuals for clients. Many designers don’t choose one over the other and work with both pieces of software because of their distinct advantages.
You can see our upcoming courses on our calendar page and if you have any questions about anything we do then please get in touch.