HOW TO USE GPU

SketchUp: GPU Acceleration, Tips To Speed Up & Recommended GPUs

SketchUp: GPU Acceleration, Tips To Speed Up & Recommended GPUs

SketchUp: GPU Acceleration, Tips To Speed Up & Recommended GPUs

SketchUp: GPU Acceleration, Tips To Speed Up & Recommended GPUs

Get quick, actionable tips to speed up your favorite app using GPU acceleration. Unlock faster performance with the power of latest generation GPUs on Vagon Cloud Computers.

Get quick, actionable tips to speed up your favorite app using GPU acceleration. Unlock faster performance with the power of latest generation GPUs on Vagon Cloud Computers.

SketchUp (v.2020 and newer)

SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling tool, and enabling GPU acceleration can significantly improve performance, especially when working on large or complex models. SketchUp leverages OpenGL for rendering, meaning that a compatible and up-to-date GPU is essential for smooth navigation and modeling.

How to Enable GPU Acceleration in SketchUp

  1. Launch SketchUp
    Open SketchUp from the default location:
    C:\Program Files\SketchUp\SketchUp 20##\SketchUp.exe

  2. Enable OpenGL for GPU Rendering

    • From the top menu, select Window > Preferences.

    • On the left side, select OpenGL.

    • The Multi-sample Anti-aliasing will automatically default to 4x, and Hardware Acceleration will be enabled by default. This ensures that SketchUp is utilizing your GPU for rendering.

  3. Check GPU Details
    Under Graphics Card Details, you can view the GPU SketchUp is using for rendering. Ensure that your system’s GPU is listed here.

Top Tips to Speed Up SketchUp Performance

  1. Disable Shadows and Edge Styles
    SketchUp’s Shadows and certain Edge Styles (like Profiles, Jitter, and Extensions) can slow down performance, especially in large models. Turn these features off while working, and only enable them when needed for presentations or exports.

  2. Use Low-Resolution Textures
    While working on models, keep Use Maximum Texture Size unchecked in the OpenGL settings. This reduces the load on your GPU by displaying textures at lower resolutions until you are ready for final rendering​.


  3. Optimize Model Complexity
    Simplify large models by using Section Planes and Layers to focus on specific areas of your project. You can also use Outliner to keep track of groups and components, but avoid keeping it open while working, as it can slow down performance on complex models​.


  4. Keep GPU Drivers Updated
    Regularly update your NVIDIA or AMD drivers to maintain compatibility with SketchUp and improve OpenGL performance. Updated drivers can fix bugs, improve stability, and increase rendering speed​.

Top Recommended GPUs for SketchUp

  1. NVIDIA Quadro P2200
    This professional-grade GPU offers excellent performance for OpenGL-based applications like SketchUp, making it ideal for professionals who work with large models.

  2. NVIDIA RTX 3060
    The RTX 3060 provides solid performance for rendering and is a great mid-range option for SketchUp users. It balances cost with strong GPU capabilities for both modeling and rendering tasks​.

  3. NVIDIA Quadro RTX 4000
    For high-end users dealing with complex models and requiring top-tier performance, the RTX 4000 provides the best of both worlds—speed and stability—particularly for large architectural or engineering projects​.

By enabling GPU acceleration and following these performance tips, you can greatly enhance SketchUp’s responsiveness and speed, ensuring smooth operation even with large, complex 3D models.

Enjoy Faster Renderings and Workflow with Vagon

When the goal is to cut down rendering times and speeding up your workflow, every second saved is a victory. But what if you could do more than just save a few seconds?

With Vagon’s cloud PCs powered by 48 cores, 4 x 24GB RTX-enabled NVIDIA GPUs and 192GB of RAM, work on your projects faster than ever. It’s easy to use, right in your browser. You can transfer your workspace and files in just a few clicks and try it yourself!

Ready to focus on your creativity?

Ready to focus on your creativity?

Ready to focus on your creativity?

Vagon gives you the ability to create & render projects, collaborate, and stream applications with the power of the best hardware.

Vagon gives you the ability to create & render projects, collaborate, and stream applications with the power of the best hardware.