STL or OBJ: which file to choose? What's better?

3D printing is developing by leaps and bounds. It is becoming more and more accessible, simple and of high quality. And the number of its adherents is growing exponentially.

Every year the capabilities of 3D printers become wider. Technologies change, accessories are added, resolution increases. Developers of 3D printing devices are offering more and more advanced models on the market.

In this case, the format begins to play a big role: STL or OBJ. Some printers only support the first, some both.

In this article we will compare both of these formats, the most popular ones for 3D printing, and see which one will be more convenient in a particular case.

And you can always buy models for 3D printers on our website. By default we offer stl files, but if necessary we will produce models for you in OBJ format.

If you have any questions, ask our specialists. We will provide detailed consultations.

3D Format:

First, let's talk about what 3d files are.

Essentially, these are files similar to any other format, but they allow you to store information about a three-dimensional object, with detailed information about its appearance. So that the file can be read and modified. In this case, special software for 3D processing is used.

STL and OBJ are not the only formats; there are many of them. Each software manufacturer has their own. But those that are the heroes of our publication are standard formats suitable for different software. They are called open. They allow you to transfer 3D files, send by email, buy and sell, and use in different cities and countries.

There are other neutral files that are suitable for all types of software, but they are not as widely used.

About STL files:

STL files were the first and received the greatest popularity. They are simpler, somewhat more convenient, lighter.

The STL format was developed back in the early 1980s.

The surface of the 3D object in this file is encoded as a mesh consisting of small triangles (like a mosaic). This method of encoding large files is the simplest and most universal.

However, the files have only approximate encoding, which means the reproduction accuracy will be slightly less.

Nevertheless, STL files remain the priority when 3D printing and working with 3D printers.

Advantages: simplicity, cost-effectiveness, ability to combine with any programs.

The disadvantage is the lack of information beyond the scope of 3D geometry. Only size and shape. Therefore, if you need, for example, multi-color printing, stl files are not suitable.

In addition, the disadvantage of STL files is the impossibility of significant editing of the 3D model (only available to the developer).

About OBJ files:

It is assumed that the emergence of new models of 3D printers, characterized by increased resolution and new properties, can reduce the popularity of Stl files and influence the fact that the palm will go to OBG files.

Such files, like Stl, contain all the data about the geometry of the 3D file, but are not limited to triangular segments. Objects can be encoded as polygons. The resulting mesh is smoother and more accurate.

Additionally, you can add information about texture or color.

The disadvantages are the heavy file sizes, the high complexity of working with them and the need to spend more time creating such a file.

Thus, the Stl file should be chosen if you need to quickly exchange models, when printing on any 3D printers, or if you need to transfer the file to other people, without the ability to edit it.

And the OBG file if you need to edit the model, for full-color printing, when printing on modern high-resolution printers, if you want to use it in animation or games (not only for 3D printers).

Order:

You can order 3D models in stl or OBJ format from us.

The website presents a huge assortment of ready-made stl format files.

We are distinguished by competitive prices, detailed drawings, and decent design.

It is possible to make custom models according to your sketches.

Call, write, order!

You may be interested in other publications on the site:

• Busts: features, 3D models
• 3D printers for small businesses: how to choose what to print, where to get models
• Creation of models for a CNC milling machine.
• Development of 3D models: programs, stages, services, terms, price.