JOURNAL / 3D
STL, OBJ, FBX and 3MF: which format should you choose?
Choose a format for the task: printing, exchanging geometry or working with a scene. A filename extension is no substitute for checking the contents.
STL: surface geometry
STL represents a surface using triangles. It is widely used to transfer printable geometry, but its conventional specification does not describe textures, materials or explicit units. Send the intended scale and dimensions with the file.
STL does not preserve a parametric modeling history. Keep the original project file for future editing.
OBJ: mesh and surface information
OBJ exchanges geometry and can include UV coordinates and normals. Materials often rely on a separate MTL file and texture images. Sending the OBJ alone may not reproduce the original appearance.
A mesh may be sufficient for assessing print geometry, while rendering needs the agreed resources. Do not send unapproved archives or references to private locations through a public form.
FBX: scene exchange
FBX is used in digital content creation workflows. Depending on the application and export settings, it can carry models, hierarchies, cameras, materials and animation. Different applications will not necessarily reproduce the scene identically.
Agree the format version, units and required elements. FBX is not a typical final slicer format and is not accepted by this site’s public upload. Its transfer is arranged separately.
3MF: an additive manufacturing package
3MF uses a package containing XML data. It describes units and objects, while extensions can carry additional information. Support for extensions varies by software; a slicer project may include application-specific settings.
3MF helps exchange information, but it does not automatically repair unsuitable geometry. Confirm compatibility with the manufacturer’s application and inspect the imported result.
Make the choice with the recipient
For print geometry, use a format the manufacturer accepts, often STL or 3MF. For a mesh with surface information, consider OBJ and its agreed resources. For a scene or animation, establish a supported FBX workflow.
In every case, retain the source file, state the units, provide a reference image and describe the expected outcome. The right format preserves the data you need and works within the agreed process.
Sources
3MF Consortium: specifications; Library of Congress: OBJ; Autodesk: FBX.
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