Sketchup 2017 Free Version -
SketchUp 2017 remains a capable, user-friendly 3D modeling tool for beginners and hobbyists who want to design interiors, furniture, simple architecture, and quick concept models. This guide covers setup, core features, practical tips, and project ideas to help you get productive fast.
SketchUp 2017 “Free” version (officially “SketchUp Make 2017”) is no longer officially available for download from Trimble. It has been discontinued and replaced by the web-based SketchUp Free. While older installer files may exist on third-party websites, using them poses security risks and lacks support. For new users, the modern free option is the browser-based SketchUp Free.
⚠️ If you still have a legitimate copy of SketchUp Make 2017 saved from before:
This was the final desktop version offered for free by Trimble after they shifted to a subscription model for SketchUp Pro. sketchup 2017 free version
| Feature | Availability | |---------|---------------| | 3D Modeling (push/pull, follow me, etc.) | ✅ Full desktop tools | | Import/Export (STL, DAE, 3DS, DWG/DXF) | ✅ Limited (Pro features locked) | | Extensions (plugins) | ✅ Yes (via Extension Warehouse) | | 3D Warehouse access | ✅ Yes | | LayOut (2D documentation) | ❌ No (Pro only) | | Solid tools (boolean operations) | ❌ No | | Commercial use license | ❌ Not permitted |
If you are debating between hunting down the 2017 installer or just using the modern free web version, here is the breakdown:
| Feature | SketchUp Make 2017 (Desktop) | SketchUp Free (Web) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Connection | Works Offline | Requires Internet | | Speed | Fast (Native App) | Slower (Browser dependant) | | Storage | Saves to Hard Drive (.SKP) | Saves to Trimble Cloud | | Plugins | Supports older Ruby scripts | No plugins allowed | | File Types | Can Import/Export various formats | Limited Import/Export options | SketchUp 2017 remains a capable, user-friendly 3D modeling
Verdict: SketchUp Make 2017 is superior for performance and offline work. The Web version is superior if you need to share files instantly between computers or collaborate.
It is important to be honest about what SketchUp 2017 Free cannot do.
| Workflow | Status in Make 2017 | Workaround | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Import DWG | Disabled | Use free online converters (DWG to SKP) or the free ODA File Converter. | | Export DWG | Disabled | Print to PDF > Convert online; or export DAE/STL and convert in Blender. | | Layout (2D Docs) | No | Export scenes as PDF; use free Inkscape to add dimensions. | | Dynamic Components | Yes (Read only) | You can use them, but you cannot create new ones. | | VRay Rendering | Yes (Vray 3.6) | Works perfectly. | | 3D Warehouse | Yes (Legacy mode) | Works, but the web interface is deprecated. Use the "In Model" components. | It is important to be honest about what
The biggest practical limitation: You cannot open .SKP files saved by SketchUp 2018, 2020, 2022, or 2024. If a collaborator sends you a newer file, you must ask them to "Save As" SketchUp 2017 version.
✅ Use SketchUp Free (Web) – It’s safe, legal, and always updated.