How to Open New SketchUp File in Older SketchUp and Fix "The file was created in a newer version of SketchUp"

Joynul Abadin Rasel
January 02, 2025

 


Open New SketchUp File in Older Version (Using Eneroth Open Newer Version Extension and Alternative Methods)

Introduction:

SketchUp frequently updates its file formats, making newer files incompatible with older versions. If you’ve encountered the "This file was created in a newer version of SketchUp" error, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through using Eneroth Open Newer Version extension and other methods, including online tools, to open newer SketchUp files in older versions seamlessly.

Description:

To work with newer SketchUp files in an older version, you can convert the file or use extensions. The Eneroth Open Newer Version extension is a user-friendly solution that automates this process. Alternatively, you can use online converters or SketchUp’s own tools to resolve compatibility issues.

Method 1: Use Eneroth Open Newer Version Extension

  1. Install the Extension:

  2. Open the File:

    • Go to the File menu and select Open with Eneroth Open Newer Version.
    • Browse and select the newer version SketchUp file.
    • The extension will automatically convert and open the file in your current SketchUp version.


Method 2: Convert the File Using SketchUp Pro (Trial)

  1. Download SketchUp Pro Trial:

    • Download and install the latest SketchUp Pro trial version from the official website.

  2. Save as Older Version:

    • Open the newer SketchUp file in the trial version.
    • Go to File > Save As.
    • Choose an older version format (e.g., SketchUp 2017 or 2015) from the dropdown list and save the file.

  3. Open in Older SketchUp Version:

    • Now, open the saved file in your older SketchUp version.

Method 3: Use an Online Converter

  1. Visit a Trusted Converter:

    • Use an online SketchUp file converter, such as SKP Converter or community-supported tools.

  2. Upload and Convert:

    • Upload the newer SketchUp file.
    • Select the desired older version format.
    • Download the converted file.

  3. Open the Converted File:

    • Open the downloaded file in your older SketchUp version.


Method 4: Ask for a Backward-Compatible File

  1. Request from File Creator:
    • If possible, ask the file creator to save the file in an older SketchUp version format using their SketchUp Pro version.

Watch Tutorial:

For a step-by-step guide on using the Eneroth extension and online converters, watch my YouTube tutorial:



Conclusion:

Opening new SketchUp files in older versions is easy with tools like the Eneroth Open Newer Version extension or online converters. By following these methods, you can ensure compatibility and continue your work without interruptions.



Tags:

#SketchUpFileConversion #EnerothOpenNewerVersion #SketchUpOlderVersion #SketchUpFileCompatibility #SketchUpTips #3DModelingSketchUp