Architecture & CAD Software · Interior Design Software

Autodesk 3ds Max vs SketchUp

Both are architecture & cad software and interior design software. The short answer: choose Autodesk 3ds Max if you are interior and architectural visualisation professionals; choose SketchUp if you are architects and interior designers who want fast, intuitive 3D modelling.

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Autodesk 3ds Max logo Autodesk 3ds MaxSketchUp logo SketchUp
Best forInterior and architectural visualisation professionalsArchitects and interior designers who want fast, intuitive 3D modelling
Free planNo (trial may exist)Yes
PricingSee providerSee provider
Built for IndiaGlobalGlobal
CategoriesArchitecture & CAD Software, Interior Design SoftwareArchitecture & CAD Software, Interior Design Software
Strengths
  • Industry favourite for interiors
  • Huge model libraries
  • Very quick to learn
  • Huge 3D Warehouse library
  • Free web version for personal use
Watch out for
  • Windows only
  • Subscription
  • Professional use needs a paid plan
  • Not full BIM
Visit Autodesk 3ds MaxVisit SketchUp

Which should you choose?

Autodesk 3ds Max: 3D modelling and rendering software widely used for interiors.

SketchUp: Popular 3D modelling tool with a huge model library (3D Warehouse) and extensions.

The best way to decide is to run the same week of real work through both — most offer a free plan or trial — and compare how long tasks take, what your team prefers, and the total cost for your number of users including renewal pricing.

Not sure either fits? See all architecture & cad software compared.