Frequently asked questions (fAQ)

Whether you are creating a lush game environment or designing an animated forest for a feature film, you might have questions about SpeedTree. See below for a set of general FAQs.

For comprehensive answers to any question, see our documentation, ask a question in our Forum, learn from the best on our YouTube channel, or reach out to support. 

General Questions

What’s new in SpeedTree 9?

Our Mesh Converter is magical. You can use it to convert your favorite photogrammetry scans to procedural geometry. Freehand Mode is brand new and it includes tools for sculpting, bending, drawing, and painting effects by hand. Find out more on our blog.

Indie licenses are now only $19 per month and pricing for both Games and Cinema products is now aligned. We also offer free learning editions. Check out the new pricing here. 

Which version of SpeedTree should I use?

Game developers and anyone creating real-time content should use our Games tools. VFX and ArchViz artists should start with our Cinema products. If you are a student or new to SpeedTree, try the Games and Cinema Learning Editions.

See all the options here. 

How much does a SpeedTree license cost?

Our Indie subscriptions start at $19 per month (formerly $999 per year!) and Pro licenses start at $299. If your revenue exceeds $1M per year, contact us for custom licensing. 

See all the options here. 

Is SpeedTree Games engine agnostic?

Yes. All of our Games tools work with your preferred engine, including Unity, Unreal Engine and Lumberyard. In SpeedTree 9, you do not need an engine-specific modeler or license.

Can I get a free evaluation?

Yes. Download our Games Pro or Cinema Pro modeler to start a built-in 10-day evaluation. If you need more time to learn, try our Games or Cinema Learning Editions (please note that Learning Editions do not allow exports). 

Do export options differ depending on which SpeedTree license I have?

Yes. Learning Editions don’t allow exports of any kind.

Games tools export:

  • .OBJ .FBX .USD .ST .STSDK .CGF .XML

Cinema tools export:

  • Static Mesh, Point Cache, .OBJ .FBX .ABC .USD .XML

Find more details in our documentation. See all license options here. 

Can I still buy SpeedTree 8?

No. We will continue to honor existing licenses, but only SpeedTree 9 is available for new purchases.

Will there be any more updates for SpeedTree 8?

SpeedTree 8 will not receive any new features or updates, but we will do our best to support customers who cannot upgrade to SpeedTree 9. Any new updates or bug fixes will go into future SpeedTree 9 releases. SpeedTree 7 is no longer supported.

I have SpeedTree 8 now. Am I eligible for an upgrade to SpeedTree 9?
  • Active v8 perpetual purchases from within the past 3 months, please contact us about upgrading.
  • Active (non-perpetual) v8 cinema licenses get access to SpeedTree 9. The download will be in your account. Contact us for a license, which will last the remainder of your current license term. After your current license term ends, you will have the option to purchase a SpeedTree 9 license.
  • Active v8 Games Indie licenses get access to v9 SpeedTree Games: Pro. The download will be in your account. Contact us for a license, which will last the remainder of your current license term. After your current license term ends, you will have the option to purchase a SpeedTree 9 license.
  • Active v8 UE4, Unity, and (paid) Lumberyard subscribers get access to v9 SpeedTree Games: Indie. The download will be in your account. You will have access to all engine exports regardless of your current version. Contact us for a license, which will last the remainder of your current license term. After your current license term ends, you will have the option to purchase a SpeedTree 9 license.

For any of the above situations, contact us at support@speedtree.com. 

Do Indie subscribers get Bonus Content?

We are no longer doing monthly Bonus Content. This year, we are focusing on new v9 trees, library improvements, and different kinds of fun freebies. Stay tuned!