Which renderer should you use with SketchUp
Which renderer should you use with SketchUp? - The choice is your to make
There are two paths you can take:
ArielVision is a low cost, easy to use rendering package which makes very good results. It is easy to use because it contains only the features you need for good renderings.
IRender nXt costs just a bit more, but has many, many more rendering features. The additional features can make it seem harder to use - because to use special things like fog, depth of field, caustic glass, etc. you have to decide whether to turn them on and you often have to set values which effect them. These features can make even better renderings, but it may take more time to set them up.
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How should I decide which Renderer to try and purchase?
If you have time try them both using the 30 day free trial from Downloads. Or else, using the guidelines below, decide which makes more sense to you and try it out.
Features
If you want to have all the high-end features available - even if you don't use them right away, then you should choose IRender nXt.
If you want to create better hi-res images from your SketchUp model, but don't want to have to learn how to use advanced rendering features - like Depth-of-Field, Special Reflection Settings, Special Transparency Settings, etc. then ArielVision is the right choice for you.
Cost
If you are using SketchUp and Rendering as part of your professional offering, and are using it to increase or support your business, then IRender nXt should fit within your budget.
If cost is your primary concern, then ArielVision may be the right choice for you
Rendering Engine
ArielVision uses the nXt Packet Mode rendering engine. Which provides high quality renderings quickly by approximating some things light lighting and reflection using 'packets'.
IRender nXt uses the Packet Mode engine, but also offers two other engines - the Path Tracer and Hybrid Engine these can take a little longer to render - because every pixel is process individually - but produces more accurate results.
