Partially Achievable with compromises.
| Item | Minimum Spec | Recommended | |------|-------------|--------------| | USB Drive | 16 GB, USB 3.0 | 64 GB, USB 3.2 / NVMe SSD in enclosure | | File System | exFAT (cross-platform) | NTFS (Windows-only, better for large files) | | Host PC | Windows 10/11 | Admin rights NOT required (if using portable method) | | SketchUp version | 2017 Make (free) | Pro 2025 with Trimble ID login | sketchup portable usb
Some users have successfully run older versions (like SketchUp 2015 or 2017) by installing them normally, then copying the entire installation folder (usually C:\Program Files\SketchUp ) onto a USB drive. Partially Achievable with compromises
Trimble Connect (cloud storage). No USB required—just a login. This is often the most reliable "portable" experience for 2024 workflows. Pro Tip: Extension Management If you rely on extensions (Ruby scripts), create a folder on your USB named "My Plugins." When you open SketchUp on a new machine, you can point the file preferences to that USB folder so your custom tools load up instantly. Do you prefer carrying your software on hardware, or has the cloud completely replaced your USB drives? Next Steps: Check out the No USB required—just a login