Updated June 2026 · ConvertCabin Guides
STL vs OBJ vs glTF
STL, OBJ and glTF (and its binary form GLB) are the meshes you will meet most often. They are not rivals so much as tools for different jobs — printing, exchange and the web.
What each format is for
- STL — the 3D-printing standard. Pure triangle geometry, no colour or materials. Simple and universally supported by slicers.
- OBJ — a long-standing exchange format. Stores geometry and (via a companion MTL file) basic materials. Widely accepted across 3D software.
- glTF / GLB — the modern web and AR format, often called "the JPEG of 3D." Carries geometry, PBR materials, textures and animation. GLB is the single-file binary version of glTF.
Side by side
| STL | OBJ | glTF / GLB | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geometry | Triangles only | Polygons | Triangles + scene |
| Colour / materials | No | Basic (MTL) | Full PBR + textures |
| Animation | No | No | Yes |
| Best for | 3D printing | Software exchange | Web, AR, games |
| Single file | Yes | No (OBJ + MTL) | GLB: yes |
How to choose
Printing something? Use STL. Moving a model between 3D applications? OBJ is the safe lingua franca. Putting a model on a website or into AR? glTF/GLB is purpose-built for it and loads fast.
ConvertCabin converts these in your browser using a local copy of three.js — your models are never uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between glTF and GLB?
They hold the same data. glTF is human-readable JSON (sometimes with separate files); GLB packs everything into one compact binary file that is easier to share and faster to load.
Which 3D format is best for printing?
STL. It contains the watertight triangle geometry slicers expect, and every slicer supports it. OBJ also works but adds data printing does not need.
Can I convert STL to glTF?
Yes — you can take an STL into OBJ or straight to GLB. Note that STL has no colour, so the result will be geometry only.