AutoCAD vs SketchUp

• AutoCAD is perfect to use when the graphic representation of objects are shown in multiple drawing locations. Then this graphic can be changed once and all occurrences will be automatically updated.
• Using AutoCAD to draw plans is so much more efficient than drawing by hand. This is especially true when it comes to having to make changes. Everything can be done on the computer. There's no need to redraw or retrace the plan because with one command it's so easy to just make a digital copy of it.
• AutoCAD supports not only two-dimensional drawings but also three-dimensional drawings. With a three dimensional model, a user can actually create walkthrus and flybys of the project instead of having to create a physical model.

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• Simplicity. Anyone who is familiar with a computer can jump headfirst into SketchUp and be proficient with its use within an hour.
• Intuitive button design/layout. Creating 3D objects from 2D shapes is easy with the push/pull tool. More complex 3D modeling software can get overwhelming with all of the buttons on the toolbar.
• 3D modeling warehouse. There is an online database that allows users to see what other SketchUp users have created and download their own copy. Sharing objects with other users dramatically reduces the time required to build a very detailed model.

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• The biggest downside of AutoCAD is absolutely the complexity of the product. Gaining proficiency (in my opinion) requires an in-person class with a skilled instructor that can guide a beginner.
• You need a pretty beefy machine with a newer-generation processor and top-notch video card to really use AutoCAD. Don't assume you can run it on just anything, as it will take forever for files to load and rendering will mean a lot of waiting around otherwise. We use machines that are well suited for high-end gaming with 256GB of RAM and a multi-processor CPU motherboard, plus dual video cards, so it's not cheap, but time is money so its worth it.
• You also need much larger than normal displays (like with any type of drawing work) and with a 4K/60hz resolution to reduce eye strain. Once again, not inexpensive but necessary.

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• Ability to import Revit files and libraries.
• Ability to export true curved vector linework. There are some workarounds, needs to be refined.
• Create an OPEN MAPS connection. Since the split from Google, the source for high-quality aerials is limited.
• Ability to dock all menus to the master window on a Mac
• Ability to develop dockable menu trays on a Mac

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• AutoCAD is the function of our business. AutoCAD has made this company successful for over 30+ years. This company works, lives, and breathes AutoCAD.
• AutoCAD also has returned a good amount of investment over the years. Since we surround ourselves with AutoCAD daily, I can happily say that it has made this company a huge profit.
• One negative impact is the constant upgrades. Any time a new version comes out, we have to invest in the latest because let's face it, that's how business works! Which costs more money for the upgrade and the maintenance.

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• Some of our clients really appreciated that we could quickly make adjustments to proposed projects or mockups.
• That being said, I've definitely spent a lot of time getting lost in the weeds making very small changes because they saw that it was possible, and then we're spending hours we might not have on the job.

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