BricsCAD
Octave (formerly Bricsys)
EUR 330–1,176 / year (approx. $385–$1,375)
Trimble
SketchUp
$10.75–$68.25 USD / month, billed annually · 3D · DWG via DXF interchange
Verdict
Dan named this one, and it belongs here — but as a different animal. SketchUp is a direct-modeling tool for spatial design: massing, concept, interiors, anything you want to think through in three dimensions quickly. It is the fastest way to get an idea into 3D that exists. It is not a drafting package and it will not replace AutoCAD for producing coordinated 2D construction documents. Pair, do not substitute.
What it costs
All subscription, priced per user per month but billed annually: Go $10.75, Pro $33.25, Studio $68.25 (Windows only). Specialized Pro tiers: Pro Scan $41.58 (Windows only), Pro Civil Contractor $41.58, Pro Advanced Workflows $45.75 (Windows only). Education is far cheaper — students and educators $55/year, and universities on tiered volume pricing from $50 down to $40 per seat (10–50 seats $50, 51–200 $45, 201–500 $40, above that by arrangement). SketchUp for Schools is free with a Google Workspace for Education or Microsoft Education account.
Vendor pricing page: https://sketchup.trimble.com/en/plans-and-pricing
For scale: AutoCAD is subscription only, with no perpetual option at any price since 2016. Autodesk publishes its current rates at autodesk.com.
What it gets right
- Unmatched speed from idea to 3D model — the learning curve is close to flat
- Enormous extension ecosystem via the 3D Warehouse and Extension Warehouse
- LayOut handles presentation drawings well at the Pro tier
- Free for schools with an education account
What to watch out for
- Subscription only — the old perpetual SketchUp Pro is long gone
- Studio is Windows only
- Not a 2D drafting replacement; DWG is an import/export path, not native
- Sold as $/month but billed annually — the monthly figure is not a monthly commitment
Pricing and specifications: https://sketchup.trimble.com/en/plans-and-pricing