Procreate vs SketchUp
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Procreate and SketchUp are credible graphic design tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Procreate if you want a higher overall rating (4.8/5). Powerful illustration for iPad.
Choose SketchUp if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $119/yr), a free plan to start on and broader platform coverage. 3D modeling for architecture and design.
Procreate vs SketchUp: side by side
| Dimension | Procreate | SketchUp |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $12.99 once | Free – $119/yrWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | One-time | Subscription |
| Best for | Illustrators, Artists | Architects, Designers |
| Platforms | Ios | Web, Windows, MacWinner |
| Rating | 4.8/5Winner | 4.5/5 |
Procreate key facts
- Vendor
- Savage Interactive
- Pricing
- One-time — From $12.99 once
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Ios
- Best for
- Illustrators, Artists
- Editor rating
- 4.8 / 5
- Founded
- 2011
- Headquarters
- Hobart, Australia
SketchUp key facts
- Vendor
- Trimble
- Pricing
- Subscription — Free – $119/yr
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Windows, Mac
- Best for
- Architects, Designers
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2000
- Headquarters
- Sunnyvale, CA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Procreate better than SketchUp?
Neither is universally better — Procreate edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Procreate or SketchUp cheaper?
SketchUp is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $119/yr. Procreate starts at from $12.99 once; SketchUp starts at free – $119/yr.
Can Procreate replace SketchUp?
Yes for most teams — both are graphic design tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.