3D File Format Guides
In-depth explanations of STL, OBJ, 3MF and other 3D file formats — how they work, when to use them, and how to solve common problems.
3D File Conversion Loss Matrix: What Data Gets Lost?
A practical matrix of what can be lost when converting STL, OBJ, PLY, GLTF, GLB, SVG, and images for 3D printing or web 3D workflows.
GLTF vs GLB: Which glTF Format Should You Use?
Understand the difference between GLTF and GLB files, when to use each format, and what can break when packing or unpacking web 3D assets.
OBJ vs STL for 3D Printing: Which File Should You Use?
Compare OBJ and STL for 3D printing workflows, including slicer support, texture loss, scale issues, and when conversion makes sense.
Why OBJ to STL Loses Materials, Colors, and Textures
Understand why OBJ materials and texture files disappear when converting to STL, what data is preserved, and what to use instead.
Why STL Files Have No Units and How to Fix Scale Problems
Learn why STL files do not store millimeters or inches, why scale changes after import, and how to check dimensions before printing.
STL Repair Guide: Fix Non-Manifold Models for 3D Printing
Learn what non-manifold STL errors are, why they break slicing, and how to detect and repair them using free tools like Meshmixer, MeshLab, and Blender.
STL to STEP: Why Direct Conversion Isn't Possible
STL and STEP store fundamentally different kinds of data. Learn why converting between them isn't a simple format change — and what your real options are.
STL vs OBJ vs 3MF: Which 3D File Format Should You Use?
A clear comparison of STL, OBJ, and 3MF — what each format stores, where it excels, and how to choose the right one for 3D printing or modeling.