Company | Cost | Supported platforms | Free try | Integrations |
---|---|---|---|---|
SketchUp Best overall |
Free up to $ 699 per year | Web, iOS, Android, Windows | Free version available | 600+ extensions |
VizTerra Ideal for 3D design |
$ 97 per month or $ 1,008 per year | the Windows | Yes | AutoCAD, GIS database |
Landscape PRO Best mobile app |
$ 1,495 | Windows, iPad, Android | Yes | More than 20 partners, including Autodesk |
Land design Ideal for photo imaging |
$ 795 | the Windows | Yes | AutoCAD, Rhino, Grasshopper |
Real-time landscaping Pro Ideal for handyman |
$ 149.95 | the Windows | No | GOUJAT |
SmartDraw Ideal for collaboration |
$ 119.40 per year | Web, Android, iOS | Yes | Many |
Punch! House & Landscape Ideal for models |
$ 49.99 to $ 499.99 | the Windows | No | AutoCAD |
Terragen Best Free Software |
Free | Windows, Mac | N / A – Already free | Global Mapper, WorldMachine, World Creator, Daylon Leveler |
How to choose the best landscape design software
Professionals and home users have different goals with landscaping, so there is no one perfect landscaping software for everyone. To choose the software that best suits your needs, consider the type of project you are working on, how long the software has been used, what type of computer you have, and the cost. As landscaping software can be complex, it’s also wise to consider your comfort level with the technology before making a big investment.
Using landscape design software or hiring a landscaper or designer
When using landscaping software, it’s up to you to import photos or create a layout for your garden, choose plants suitable for the climate, and make sure your design looks good. When you hire a professional landscaper or designer, they will take care of all of that for you. You’ll save time and maybe get a better result with a professional, but doing it yourself gives you something all your own. If you have relatively basic needs or are confident in your design skills, there is no reason not to plan your own landscaping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does landscape design software do?
Landscaping software is a type of computer-aided design (CAD) program to help you create the layout of your outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking to update a yard or garden, add a swimming pool, add a patio, or completely refresh your landscaping, landscape design software helps you put the plans together while giving you a visual overview of what you’re looking for. wait when the final project is finished. Completed.
When Should You Use Landscape Design Software?
While you may not need landscaping software for small changes in your garden, it is very useful for larger projects. It also helps you understand the size of your mature plants and trees, so you don’t over-plant. There are no limits to the size of a project you can use landscaping software for, so you can download and try out a free program for even small changes, like adding a few shrubs in front. your house.
Can landscaping design software integrate with other programs?
Landscaping software often integrates with other programs. Designers regularly use various tools to create furniture, custom additions, and any other part of the design. When choosing software that integrates, it’s easy to save and move a design from one program to another. For example, you can create a patio design in an app and then export it to your main design software.
How much does landscaping software cost?
The cost of landscaping software varies depending on the features and vendor. Some quality programs are available for free, while others cost well over $ 1,000. The apps we reviewed have feature versions that cost up to $ 1,500. But with high-quality options available for free, hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts don’t have to spend that much. On the other hand, if you are a professional designer, it may be safe to spend more than $ 1,000.
Methodology
To choose the best landscaping software, we looked at 14 different software options focusing on features, supported platforms, integrations, cost, and ease of use for various types of projects. While cost is a factor, business users may have to pay more for quality software, so we haven’t lowered the rankings for high-cost software packages. The software included here is suitable for a wide variety of use cases, from novice designers to seasoned professionals.