REVIT or Sketchup: which option is better? |

It is likely that if you have been trained in a technical area such as Engineering or Architecture, you have had to face the design and modeling in 2D or 3D. REVIT and Sketchup are two of the most used software to make a first sketch and model of this type of project, generally structural and later buildable.

In it Architectural Design Course with REVIT you will be able to learn to apply all the theoretical knowledge in practice. Don’t forget to check it out! But first, we will tell you about the differences and similarities between REVIT and Sketchup so that you are much clearer about which one to choose and which one best suits your knowledge, skills, and job prospects!

REVIT: features, pros and cons

REVIT is a software that allows design, collaborate and visualize BIM (Building Information Modelling) designs. It not only allows you to draw, but also to build virtually in 3D, which allows you to preview BIM designs. work with a database relatesl that helps coordinate information throughout the design and modeling process.

This relational database is what allows the coordination between different equipment in case of any change in the design. Coordination benefits working in different settings—and programs! REVIT can be coordinated with Sketchup to optimize sketching and modeling results.

A team develops the project from REVIT and then the rendering can be run from Sketchup for support.

This integration of the two design software also allows three-dimensional export from REVIT to Sketchup, ideally when you have the paid version of the latter, since the free version can lead to incompatibility with formats . Therefore, this integration is both an advantage and a disadvantage.

The REVIT work methodology is complex, since it is based on the system BIM (Building Information Modelling) that uses parametric modeling of objects and constructive elements of, for example, a building. This complexity is one of the greater advantages that professionals stand out, whether in the field of Engineering or Architecture, by allowing them to create more effective interactions in geometric features of the project and automate calculations and composition or construction tasks.

Revit is based on BIM: collaborative work methodology and using the parametric modeling of objects and constructive elements of the building.

The main advantage in collaboration, considering the complexity of a REVIT model, is that you can choose what to export and what not. You can also perform multiple exports in order to better organize the components and thus make it easier to work with them, both in REVIT and in any other compatible software.

Despite the complexity, REVIT is one of the most used software for offering the following features:

  • Clarity
  • Comprehensive project management
  • Unification and centralization of information
  • Duplication and incorporation of changes by different teams
  • Work in shared networks, allowing the collaboration of different teams at the same time in the same project

In the collaboration between different teams on the same project, REVIT allows to coordinate automatically to show at all times the latest version of the project. In this way it helps streamline work time and minimize risk of incurring errors during the process.

Sketchup: what advantages does it offer compared to REVIT?

Like many of the applications that have passed through the hands of Google, Sketchup meant a real revolution. In his particular case, by greatly facilitating the accessibility to three-dimensional modeling, since it is a free tool. And one of the most intuitive and easy to use!

Although it has its paid version, Sketchup Pro, the free version it is ideal not only for students new to BIM design but also at a professional level. The versatility, simplicity of the interface, potential for continuous improvement and final qualitymake Sketchup a valid tool for the design of 2D and 3D models.

One of the advantages that it offers compared to other types of tools such as REVIT, is the little storage space it requires its installation, software and the files to be created, so it is not necessary to have a very professional team. The little space it occupies does not impede the ease with which incorporates different materials and rendering engines, such as Maxwel, V-Ray or Lumion, which allow modeling to be finished.

Like any software, Sketchup not all advantages. These are some of the most frequent disadvantages that users of this program comment on:

  • The 3D finish it’s a sketchnot a final project.
  • Your work methodology part of the volumewhich can lead to confusion and consider the volumetric finish as the result of a long design process.
  • Three-dimensional models can have inaccuracies in calculations which without prior technical skill or proper training can be difficult to troubleshoot.

Despite its disadvantages, Sketchup is still the favorite option to start 2D and 3D sketching and present volumetric projects from which to start to create collaborative projects in different environments.

Specialize with a REVIT course for architects!

Do you want to learn how to optimize the results of your BIM designs? Or do you want to take your 2D and 3D modeling and design skills to the next level? With REVIT, the BIM software designed by the leading 2D and 3D design software company, you can achieve it. And at Formación we can help you!

With the Architectural Design Course with REVIT You will be able to practice and practice your technical skills, from the basic theoretical concepts to how to document and present a project. After finishing the 200 hours of study load of the course you will obtain two titles:

  • A Formación own diploma
  • An accrediting degree from the International University of Valencia

Plus, you’ll also get an official Autodesk certification!