3D Model File Formats Explained: GLB vs FBX vs OBJ

Understanding 3D Model Formats

3D model formats serve different purposes in the digital content creation pipeline. From game development to 3D printing, choosing the right format can significantly impact your workflow efficiency and final output quality.

Each format has unique strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases. Understanding these differences is crucial for optimizing your 3D workflow and ensuring compatibility across different platforms and applications.

Web & AR Ready

Modern formats optimized for web browsers and augmented reality applications.

Game Development

Professional formats with animation support for game engines and interactive media.

3D Printing

Mesh-focused formats designed for additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping.

Mobile AR

Specialized formats optimized for mobile augmented reality experiences.

Popular 3D Model Formats

GLB (GL Transmission Format Binary)

Best for: Web applications, AR/VR, real-time rendering

Advantages:

• Optimized for web and mobile platforms
• Includes textures, materials, and animations
• Fast loading and rendering
• Industry standard for web 3D content
• Supports PBR materials

Limitations:

• Limited editing capabilities
• Not suitable for high-poly models
• Newer format with less universal support

FBX (Filmbox)

Best for: Game development, animation, professional 3D workflows

Advantages:

• Excellent animation and rigging support
• Wide software compatibility
• Preserves complex material setups
• Supports cameras, lights, and scene hierarchy
• Industry standard for game engines

Limitations:

• Proprietary format (Autodesk)
• Large file sizes
• Version compatibility issues
• Not optimized for web use

OBJ (Wavefront OBJ)

Best for: Simple models, 3D printing, universal compatibility

Advantages:

• Universal compatibility across all 3D software
• Simple, human-readable format
• Excellent for static geometry
• Small file sizes for simple models
• Open standard format

Limitations:

• No animation support
• Limited material information
• No scene hierarchy
• Separate files for textures (MTL)

STL (Stereolithography)

Best for: 3D printing, rapid prototyping

Advantages:

• Standard format for 3D printing
• Simple mesh-only format
• Universal 3D printer support
• Small file sizes

Limitations:

• No color or material information
• No animation support
• Mesh-only (no curves or NURBS)

USDZ (Universal Scene Description)

Best for: Apple AR applications, iOS development

Advantages:

• Native iOS AR support
• Optimized for mobile AR
• Includes materials and textures
• Animation support

Limitations:

• Limited to Apple ecosystem
• Newer format with limited tool support
• Specific use case (AR)

Format Selection Guide

By Use Case

Web/AR Applications

GLB or USDZ

Game Development

FBX or GLB

3D Printing

STL or OBJ

Animation/VFX

FBX or Alembic

By Platform

Unity

FBX, OBJ, 3DS

Unreal Engine

FBX, OBJ

Three.js

GLB, GLTF, OBJ

Blender

All formats supported

Convert Your 3D Models Today

Transform your 3D models between different formats with ConvertHub's professional 3D converter. Supporting GLB, FBX, OBJ, STL, and USDZ with quality preservation and optimization options.

Convert 3D Models Read More Guides