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01/04/2025 7:30 am
I've been using SketchUp for years on my PC for simple 3D modeling projects. I love how intuitive it is, especially for more architectural and "boxy" designs. Recently moved to a smaller apartment and now I'm primarily using my iPad for creative work.
I tried the SketchUp app trial but can't justify the $119 price tag for Go just for occasional hobby projects. I've experimented with Shapr3D but the workflow feels quite different and I'm struggling to adapt.
Has anyone found a good free or low-cost alternative to SketchUp that works well on iPad? Or should I just bite the bullet and adapt to Shapr3D's interface? Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
02/04/2025 1:28 pm
Unfortunately, the 3D modeling options on iPad are pretty limited compared to desktop. From my experience, there's really nothing that matches SketchUp's specific workflow and ease of use on iPad for free.
If you're already a SketchUp Pro subscriber on desktop, you should know that you can use the iPad app at no additional cost - it's included in your subscription. But if you're not, $119 for Go is the cheapest official option.
Have you tried the browser-based SketchUp Free? Unfortunately, it doesn't work well on iPad – the interface isn't optimized for touch and many functions are difficult to access.
Shapr3D does have a free tier with limitations, but as you mentioned, the workflow is completely different. It's more CAD-oriented rather than the quick architectural modeling that SketchUp excels at.
21/04/2025 11:51 am
Try Nomad Sculpt! Not exactly the same as SketchUp (more organic modeling) but it's only $15 one-time purchase and incredibly powerful. You might need to adjust your workflow, though.