.obj (.obj) File Extension

Wavefront OBJ File

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What is a .obj (.obj) file?

The Wavefront .OBJ file format is a geometry definition file format first developed by Wavefront Technologies for its Advanced Visualizer animation package. It has become a widely adopted open file format for 3D models. The OBJ file format stores 3D object data, representing the surface geometry using vertices, texture coordinates, vertex normals, and faces (polygons). It can also store material properties, although these are typically stored in a separate .MTL (Material Template Library) file that the .OBJ file references. The format is primarily used for static 3D models and does not support animation or skeletal rigging directly. It's a simple, text-based format, making it relatively easy to parse and edit. Because of its simplicity and widespread adoption, it's often used as an interchange format between different 3D modeling and rendering applications. While newer formats offer more advanced features like animation and complex material definitions, OBJ remains a popular choice for its compatibility and ease of use, especially for simpler models or as a common denominator for transferring geometry between different software packages. The format supports both polygonal and free-form geometry. The .OBJ file itself is a plain text file that contains a list of vertices, normals, texture coordinates, and faces, along with optional material references.

.obj (.obj) File

Wavefront OBJ File

Compatible Software Alternatives

Software Compatibility

Windows

  • Blender
  • Autodesk Maya
  • Autodesk 3ds Max
  • MeshLab
  • Microsoft 3D Viewer
  • Cinema 4D
  • Paint 3D

macOS

  • Blender
  • Autodesk Maya
  • MeshLab
  • Cinema 4D
  • SketchUp
  • FreeCAD

Linux

  • Blender
  • MeshLab
  • FreeCAD
  • Autodesk Maya (limited support via Wine)
  • OpenSCAD

Mobile

  • 3D Viewer (Android)
  • uMake (iOS)
  • Onshape (iOS/Android)

Alternative File Formats

Related Categories

Data Files Archive FilesAudio FilesDocument Files

Frequently Asked Questions About .obj (.obj) Files

To open a .obj (.obj) file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • Blender
  • Autodesk Maya
  • 3D Viewer (Android)

Check the "Software Compatibility" section above for a complete list of programs that can open .obj (.obj) files on different operating systems.

To convert a .obj (.obj) file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software: Many programs that open .obj (.obj) files also allow saving or exporting to different formats. For example, you might try using Blender or Blender.
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert can transform files between formats without installing software.
  3. Convert to recommended alternatives: For .obj (.obj) files, consider converting to .STL, .FBX, .DAE for better compatibility.
  4. Specialized conversion tools: Search for ".obj (.obj) converter" to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: Converting files may result in some loss of formatting, quality, or functionality depending on the compatibility between formats.

If you're having trouble opening a .obj (.obj) file, try these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files may be incorrectly named. Make sure the file truly is a .obj (.obj) file.
  2. Update your software: Ensure you're using the latest version of your chosen program.
  3. Try alternative software: If one program doesn't work, try another from our compatibility list.
  4. Check for file corruption: The file might be damaged. Try to obtain a new copy if possible.
  5. Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might help.

Like any file type, .obj (.obj) files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • From trusted sources: Files from reputable websites, colleagues, or friends are generally safe.
  • From unknown sources: Exercise caution with files from unfamiliar websites or emails.

Safety recommendations:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening them
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated
  • Be particularly cautious with executable file types

Common issues with .obj (.obj) files include:

  • Compatibility problems: Older or newer versions of software may not fully support certain .obj (.obj) files
  • Missing elements: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer correctly between systems
  • File corruption: Incomplete downloads or transfer errors can damage files
  • Format variations: Different software may implement the .obj (.obj) format in slightly different ways

If you're experiencing issues with a specific .obj (.obj) file, you might need to:

  • Try opening it with alternative software
  • Ask the file creator to save it in a different format
  • Look for specific patches or updates for your software

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