Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

SketchUp Free VS meshmixer

Compare SketchUp Free VS meshmixer and see what are their differences

SketchUp Free logo SketchUp Free

SketchUp Free is an impressive 3D modeling software solution that comes as a reliable application to create a 3D model of furniture, interiors, landscapes and much more.

meshmixer logo meshmixer

meshmixer is an experimental 3D modeling tool for making 3D mashups without too much hassle.
  • SketchUp Free Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-08-20
  • meshmixer Landing page
    Landing page //
    2018-09-29

SketchUp Free features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    SketchUp Free has an intuitive and easy-to-use interface that makes it accessible for beginners and efficient for more experienced users.
  • Web-Based Platform
    Since it is web-based, SketchUp Free can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, eliminating the need for installation and enabling work on different devices.
  • Basic 3D Modeling Tools
    It offers a solid range of basic 3D modeling tools that are sufficient for small projects and quick designs.
  • Community and Support
    SketchUp Free benefits from a large and active community, with forums and tutorials available for support and learning.
  • Integration with SketchUp's 3D Warehouse
    Users can access a vast library of pre-made models in the 3D Warehouse, which can be integrated into their projects with ease.

Possible disadvantages of SketchUp Free

  • Limited Features
    Compared to the paid versions, SketchUp Free offers a limited set of features which may not be suitable for professional or more complex projects.
  • Internet Dependency
    Being a web-based application, SketchUp Free requires a constant internet connection, which might be limiting where reliable internet is unavailable.
  • Restricted Export Options
    The free version offers limited export options, which could be a constraint for users needing various formats for different applications.
  • Lower Rendering Quality
    Rendering options are basic and might not meet the needs of users looking for high-quality visualization and professional presentation.
  • Performance Limitations
    As a web-based tool, performance can be affected when handling large files compared to desktop applications.

meshmixer features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Meshmixer has an intuitive interface that makes it easier for beginners to get started with 3D modeling and sculpting.
  • Versatile Toolset
    It offers a wide array of tools for 3D design, including sculpting, surface smoothing, and mesh mixing.
  • Supports Multiple File Formats
    Meshmixer can import and export various file formats, making it highly versatile for different project needs.
  • Free of Cost
    Meshmixer is available for free, providing access to powerful 3D modeling tools without the need for any investment.
  • Useful for 3D Printing
    The software comes with features specifically designed to assist with 3D printing, including tools for checking an objectโ€™s printability.

Possible disadvantages of meshmixer

  • Performance Limitations
    Meshmixer can become slow or crash when handling complex or highly detailed models.
  • Limited Advanced Features
    While it is good for basic and intermediate tasks, it lacks some advanced features found in more comprehensive 3D modeling software.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite the user-friendly interface, novices may still encounter a learning curve when navigating through the extensive set of tools and options.
  • Windows and Mac Only
    Meshmixer is only available for Windows and Mac, leaving Linux users without access.
  • Occasional Bugs
    Users sometimes encounter bugs and glitches, which can hamper the workflow and necessitate workarounds.

SketchUp Free videos

Which Version of SketchUp do you need? SketchUp Free/Shop/Pro Comparison

meshmixer videos

Playing around in Meshmixer 3.0 - Very Impressed!

More videos:

  • Review - Top 5 Must Know Meshmixer Tricks for 3D Printing - FREE
  • Review - 5 More Reasons you need Meshmixer for your 3D Printing Projects

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to SketchUp Free and meshmixer)
3D
11 11%
89% 89
Architecture
100 100%
0% 0
Photos & Graphics
6 6%
94% 94
3D Modeling
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, meshmixer seems to be a lot more popular than SketchUp Free. While we know about 13 links to meshmixer, we've tracked only 1 mention of SketchUp Free. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

SketchUp Free mentions (1)

meshmixer mentions (13)

  • Making 3D models 100% solid
    To add a bit to what others are saying. Mesh mixer is sometimes a great tool for some of this. Source: about 2 years ago
  • strange wavy patterns, don't think its z banding
    Ah right. If you can't get the source file, you could try smoothing them out in meshmixer. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Hollowing prints
    The quickest fix I know is to use the free meshmixer. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Editing STL files
    There are programs such as Meshmixer specifically intended to do that, others such as Blender which can do a good job (but beware of missing surfaces or inside-out triangles) and some CAD programs such as Fusion 360 which have the ability to convert meshes. Even Tinkercad can make some changes. It's always better to get a CAD file in a common interchange format such as a STP (STEP) file if you can, though. Source: over 2 years ago
  • All 50+ "Complicated" Autodesk software explained in 12 minutes [Super high effort useful video]
    Meshmixer seems to be no longer in developement, with their integration of similar features with fusion360 according to their site https://meshmixer.com/. Source: over 2 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing SketchUp Free and meshmixer, you can also consider the following products

Blender - Blender is the open source, cross platform suite of tools for 3D creation.

FreeCAD - An open-source parametric 3D modeler

Sculptris - Sculptris: Enter a world of digital art without barriers.

Onshape - Onshape is the first full-cloud 3D CAD system. It runs in a web browser and on any mobile device.

Sketchfab - Sketchfab is an industrial design software tool is useful for ideation and for beginners in the industrial design field.

3DPrinterOS - 3DPrinterOS is a comprehensive solution that makes it easy to manage files, machine, and users around your business.