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В гайде опишу как можно видеть, что именно находится в файле
STL без
его открытия, так же как это реализовано с изображениями в стандартном
проводнике Windows. Всё
это нужно далеко не всем. Инструкция пригодится только тем, кто имеет 3Д принтеры и печатает
различные модели.
Обычно для того, чтобы увидеть, что из себя представляет
модель STL, приходится
открывать эту модель в слайсере. И если надо посмотреть одну модель, то это не
проблема. А если у вас 20-30 моделей? А среди них необходима только одна, и мы
не знаем, как она называется. Приходится открывать каждую, и это занимает
много времени, особенно не на самых мощных компьютерах. Да и на мощных компьютерах всё это тоже не очень приятно делать.
В интернете часто советую установить из магазина приложений Windows программу
«Средство 3D-просмотра».
Эта программа полезна тем, что очень быстро открывает STL файл и
позволяет рассмотреть его со всех сторон.
Но есть способ еще удобнее. О нём я и расскажу ниже.
Обычно, в папке с STL файлами мы видим нечто вот такое:
Все STL у меня ассоциированы со слайсером Cura, и если мне надо открыть файл, он открывается
сразу в нужной мне программе слайсинга.
А можно сделать вот так:
При установке в проводнике в виде огромных или крупных
значков, проводник делает эскиз модели и показывает мне то, что находится в
файле. Это очень удобно. Я сразу вижу нужную мне модель и не трачу время на
поиски.
Для того чтобы сделать так же, идём на страницу проекта STL
thumbnail в гитхаб и качаем программу установщик
Установка ничем не отличается от привычной нам. После
установки видим вот такое меню:
Нажимаем Install and register STL Thumbnail. А
в меню Color on STL выбираем какой цвет будет использоваться для эскизов. Я
выбрал зеленый. Мне так больше всего нравится. И теперь все мои модели в предпросмотре проводника выглядят вот так:
Причём программа корректно работает не только с простыми
легкими моделями, но и без каких-либо проблем показывает и сложные модели:
Правда есть один минус. Модели показаны непонятно с какого
ракурса и это никак не поменять. Поэтому иногда даже по превью невозможно понять,
что именно находится в модели. Но это бывает редко.
В целом же, я считаю, что программа STL thumbnail это прям
одно из важных дополнений для ОС Windows и нужное всем, кто занимается 3Д
печатью. Поэтому я точно рекомендую ее к установке.
Сейчас на главной
Новости
Публикации
Нержавеющая
сталь — материал, который ассоциируется
с прочностью, долговечностью и
устойчивостью к коррозии. На первый
взгляд, кажется, что это идеальный выбор
для производства…
Зевота — явление, знакомое каждому. Мы зеваем не только от усталости или скуки, но и когда видим, как зевает другой человек. Почему так происходит? Заразна ли зевота? Чтобы…
Представьте себе бескрайний, почти невообразимо огромный океан. Только вместо воды он наполнен разреженным газом, пылью и заряженными частицами. Этот океан — межзвездная среда,…
Представьте себе место, где чистота возведена в абсолют. Место, где каждая пылинка на счету, а воздух фильтруется с такой тщательностью, что обычный городской смог показался бы густым туманом….
Лет восемь тому назад моим основным смартфоном был «ультрабюджетник» Xiaomi Redmi 5A. Несмотря на простецкую внешность и скромные характеристики, он хорошо справлялся с ролью «рабочей лошадки»…
Красная планета, вечный спутник Земли в наших небесах и фантазиях, снова преподносит сюрпризы. Под её пыльными, рыжеватыми равнинами, которые мы привыкли считать символом засушливости и…
How to view STL files for 3D printing and additive manufacturing? As a standard format, STL are generated by CAD software to describe the surface geometry of 3D models. Given such technical applications and requirements, STL files cannot be directly viewed. Instead, they need a tool called an STL viewer. Desktop software, online tools, and mobile apps are common variations. Typically, it features model navigation, measurement analysis, and print preparation.
With so many options and their features, you may find it hard to locate the proper tool. Don’t worry, this post has collected 10 of the best STL viewers to help you. With Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile tools included, whether you’re looking for a fast or a free STL file viewer, you’re sure to find the right one. Now, let’s dive in and explore together!
5 Best STL Viewers for Windows/Mac/Linux (Software Version)
The desktop software versions of STL viewers are the most favorable, in fact. Not only are they more stable and offer larger viewing areas, but many also feature STL editing compared to online and mobile tools. Here are five recommendations in this part. Scroll down and have a look.
ZW3D
Supported OS: Windows
Compatible Formats: STL, STEP, IGES, 3D PDF, etc.
ZW3D is the premier choice among STL viewers. It fully supports and can visualize STL files. Thus, you can rotate, zoom, and pan to view model’s small triangular facets from different angles. It can also measure and calculate the length, width, area, and other properties of the model. In addition, advanced features such as sectioning, slicing, and exporting STL files are also accessible.
Notably, ZW3D is also a fast STL viewer, thanks to its built-in CPU and GPU acceleration. So no matter how large or complex the STL file you are viewing, it can respond quickly without lag. However, what sets ZW3D apart is that it is beyond an STL viewer. It can also be an STL editor, design software, engineering tool, and manufacturing assistant. Currently, it offers a 30-day free trial, might as well try it now.
ZW3D 2025, the latest release of ZW3D, is now available. If you’re looking for STL viewer with the best viewing experience, just download it and have a try for 30 days for free.
Free STL Viewer
Supported OS: Windows
Compatible Formats: STL
Free STL Viewer is desktop software dedicated to viewing STL files. True to its name, it is a freeware STL viewer. It provides four different views for 3D models in STL format and allows for angle adjustments by zooming, panning, and changing the projection. All these operations can be easily performed using the Ctrl key and mouse.
One of the most notable features of Free STL Viewer is its ability to add shadows to the surfaces of 3D objects and change the shadow color. This enables you to highlight the focal points and visualize how each part might appear in reality. However, this feature is somewhat rough. The added shadows and colors have visible pixels. If you don’t mind this drawback and only use it as an occasional tool, Free STL Viewer can still be a viable option.
3D-Tool
Supported OS: Windows
Compatible Formats: STL, STEP, PLY, OBJ, 3DS etc.
If you need a 3D viewer that goes beyond STL, you might want to give 3D-Tool a try. Besides STL and STEP, this STL viewer for Windows also supports 3D formats from specific software like CATIA and NX. This means you can directly view 3D models and also convert them for different CAD software integration.
Meanwhile, 3D-Tool excels in analysis. It comes with various measurement tools for distance, angle, radius, and wall thickness. It can also be used for model comparison and to calculate draft angles, mold cavities, bottom cuts, and projected areas to estimate production costs.
In addition, 3D-Tool supports file collaboration to improve efficiency. With just a few clicks, it can create and save detailed 3D views of models as presentations and documents for meetings and printing. What’s more, 2D CAD designs can also be visualized in 3D-Tool. Overall, 3D-Tool is a versatile STL file viewer. At a base price of 50 euros, it now offers three subscriptions: Basic, Advanced, and Premium, allowing you to purchase according to your needs.
FreeCAD
Supported OS: Windows, Mac, and Linux
Compatible Formats: STL, STEP, IGES, OBJ, etc.
FreeCAD is a full-fledged CAD software that can also be a competent STL file viewer. It allows you to import and open 3D models saved in STL format. Similar to other STL viewers for Mac, Linux, and Windows, FreeCAD provides basic operation features. You can rotate, zoom, and pan STL models within the FreeCAD workspace to examine them from different angles.
Not only that, FreeCAD offers handy measurement tools to determine distances, angles, and other dimensions of the model. Going beyond viewing STL files, it can also convert STL files to different formats for use or editing in other software. Moreover, FreeCAD doubles as an STL editor thanks to its related capabilities in computer-aided design. Overall, FreeCAD is a two-in-one STL tool worth considering.
OpenSCAD
Supported OS: Windows, Mac, and Linux
Compatible Formats: STL, OFF, AMF, 3MF, etc.
For another STL viewer for Linux, Mac, and Windows, you can consider OpenSCAD. Compatible with the STL format, it can import STL files for viewing and editing, and can also be used to create 3D models and export them as STL files.
However, the operation process might be somewhat challenging as you need to know a programming language and be able to find the appropriate STL viewing APIs to integrate with. Luckily, once these hurdles are overcome, it can fully serve as an open-source and free STL viewer. And its parametric design capability makes STL modifications more convenient.
Note: OpenSCAD cannot directly open STL files. Instead, you have to create a new task and drag the STL file into the workspace each time you want to view it. This can be quite inconvenient.
3 Top STL Viewers Online
If you prefer not to download software to view STL files, try web-based STL viewers. These online tools allow for quick visualization, online collaboration, and even support for 3D printing. Here are three of the best online STL viewers to consider.
Online 3D Viewer
Supported OS: Web-based
Compatible Formats: STL, STEP, OBJ, 3DM, 3DS, etc.
Online 3D Viewer is an open-source and free STL viewer. With the help of a mouse, it allows for free rotation, zooming, and panning of models for multi-angle viewing. If you prefer a specific up vector, it can achieve that as well. It’s worth mentioning that Online 3D Viewer can load local STL files or retrieve model data via URL. Especially when you view STL online via URL, it allows you to set up a shared link to enhance collaboration with teams and stakeholders.
Furthermore, Online 3D Viewer not only supports 3D printing but also provides two camera options for 3D model visualization: perspective camera and orthographic camera. The former creates more natural and realistic views, allowing you to accurately check the model’s scale and proportions. The latter, on the other hand, is ideal for distortion-free, parallel views, making it suitable for precise measurements and analysis.
Tinkercad
Supported OS: Web-based
Compatible Formats: STL, OBJ, GLTF, etc.
Tinkercad, created by Autodesk, is a web-based CAD tool suitable for teaching and beginners, but its all-around capabilities also make it ideal for use as an STL file viewer. Similar to Online 3D Viewer, Tinkercad opens STL files from your device or through a URL. Its simple interface allows you to see six different views of the solid model, and you can flatten one side for viewing.
Meanwhile, this free STL viewer lets you customize the model’s color for better visualization and make the entire model transparent to examine its internal structure. Beyond that, with a ruler tool, Tinkercad is capable of automatically identifying and generating dimensions such as length, width, and height. Better yet, backed by Autodesk, it supports a wide range of 3D printing options, including MakerBot, Polar Cloud, and ROBO.
ViewSTL
Supported OS: Web-based
Compatible Formats: STL, OBJ, 3MF, VF, VSJ, etc.
ViewSTL is a web-based tool specifically designed for viewing STL files online. It features a user-friendly interface and a simple drag-and-drop movement can help you open STL files from your computer. And only mouse gestures can make you accessible to actions like zooming, panning, and isometric views in ViewSTL. Additionally, if you stretch the model to change its length or width, ViewSTL will sync and display the changes in dimension data.
ViewSTL also allows for the modification of model surface colors and turns the model transparent for internal inspection. The entire process can be captured in high resolution with the built-in screenshot tool, making it convenient for presentations or sharing. What’s more, ViewSTL is well-suited for viewing multiple STL files simultaneously. Because it enables you to selectively view individual models within a group.
2 STL File Viewers for Android/iOS
STL viewers are no longer confined to desktops and web browsers. Mobile phones now also have STL viewers, and their features can rival desktop and online counterparts. Check out the following two STL file viewers for Android and iOS and make your selection.
Fast STL Viewer
Supported OS: Android
Compatible Formats: STL
Fast STL Viewer is an STL file viewer for Android. It allows you to quickly import and open STL files from your Android device. And different viewing modes are offered, including shaded views, wireframe views, and combinations of both, to help you visualize models effectively. Fast STL Viewer also supports interactive viewing. This way, STL files can be detailed inspected through rotation, zoom, and pan.
In addition to being fast and easily accessible, Fast STL Viewer excels in multi-file handling and collaboration. It can view and compare multiple STL files loaded in the same session. Moreover, STL files can be shared with others for online collaboration via links, images, and other means. In addition, if your budget allows, you can upgrade in app to calculate the volume of selected parts of STL models and perform editing.
STL Simple Viewer
Supported OS: iOS
Compatible Formats: STL
Similar to Fast STL Viewer, STL Simple Viewer is an STL file viewer for iOS. It is fully and exclusively compatible with the STL format, allowing you to view 3D model details through pan, zoom, and rotate operations.
As a mobile app, it can also adjust the view size with the rotation of the iPhone. Shaded and wireframe views are available, and the app also provides features for dimensions and volume calculation as well as file sharing. However, what sets STL Simple Viewer apart is its ability to customize the colors used to display the model (faces, wireframe, vertices) and the background. Contrasts and highlights can better view STL files.
FAQs About STL Viewer
How to Choose the Best STL Viewer?
It may be time-consuming when you choose the best STL viewer. To help you, here are some key factors to consider:
- Ease of use: A simple and user-friendly interface is essential, especially for beginners. It allows for quick navigation and grasp of the STL viewer;
- Platform compatibility: Ensure that the STL file viewer you choose is compatible with your commonly used devices. It’s preferable to opt for desktop software, as they tend to be more stable and run faster.
- Extensive features: Smooth rotation and movement for viewing STL models from various angles are a must. Integration with 3D printers, support for cloud storage, and team collaboration features would be even better;
- Stable Performance: It’s preferable to opt for desktop software, as it tends to be more stable and run faster. Handy web-based and mobile tools can serve as alternatives;
- Subscription services: Free STL viewers may seem attractive. But subscription-based STL file viewers ensure regular updates for performance and features.
What Is an STL File?
STL (Standard Tessellation Language) file is a common 3D file format used to represent the surface geometry of 3D models. It can be further subdivided into ASCII (text) format or binary format. Among these, Binary STL files generally boast smaller file sizes, making them more suitable for handling large models.
While STL files lack information about color, texture, and other attributes beyond geometric shapes, they can create digital blueprints out of triangles that 3D printers can understand. So given their ease of use and generation, STL files are widely used in computer-aided design and 3D printing.
Conclusion
To sum up, STL viewers have three variants available: desktop software, online tools, and mobile apps. The best STL viewer selection should be based on your needs and level of expertise when it comes to how to view STL files. However, you’d better prioritize ZW3D and other desktop options because they ensure stability and efficiency. Even better, such STL file viewers integrate with other CAD software for seamless collaboration. As for web-based and mobile tools, they can serve as backups for emergencies.
Here is a list of Best Free STL Viewer Software For Windows. All these software will help you view, edit, draw, analyze, save, import, export, and print STL files. You can easily open a 3D model and use various tools to edit. You don’t need to create 2D drawing. You can view and edit CAD data instead of 2D drawing.
STL stands for Stereolithography. It describes the geometry of 3D model without any CAD software. It is a triangular representation of 3D structure of an object. Surface of the structure is broken into small facets. STL standard consists of two data formats: Binary and ASCII.
You can easily edit, redraw, and analyze 3D object. It lets you view and examine each section of the 3D object. It can also measure various dimensions and other data. You can use various tools to edit and view like wireframe, shade skin, rotate, pan, mirror, scale, etc.
If you want to view the construction of any model then you can import the STL file in any of these STL viewer software. So go through the article, pick any of these as per your need, and view STL files. Here you will also know how to view an STL file and How to edit an STL file.
My Favorite STL Viewer Software:
I like STL viewer the most. It lets you open, view, and edit an STL file. You can view each section of the model by rotating, panning, zooming, etc. Various editing features are also available, like, change colors, change background color, control transparency, etc. It lets you view the real look of an object and how the different sections create the object.
You can also check out the list of Best Free Software To Watermark Videos For Windows, Best Free STEP File Viewer Software For Windows, and Best Free Hex Editor Software For Windows.
STL Viewer
STL Viewer is a free and simple software to open file with extension .stl. It lets you view a 3D object in respect of all angles and direction. You can view its right, left, top, bottom, back front, edges, vertices, etc. Shade skin will let you view and know about its real look. Wireframe and rotation together show the elements that created the object.
Rotating, panning, zooming, changing draw stile, and changing projection mode helps you to view easily. You can change color of wireframe and transparency of the object. But these changes cannot be saved, you can only view them.
Compatible Windows operating system: Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2008, and Windows 2003.
Note: It requires Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0.
3D Builder
3D Builder is a free simple application to open STL file. It has some inbuilt models, so you can open these inbuilt models and files from disk as well. Built in images are toys, gadgets, train set, trophy, household, miniatures, etc. It lets you view 3D models, edit, and print the models. You can edit through smooth, split, smooth, merge, emboss, subtract, intersect, and extrude down.
It also supports obj, 3mf, wrl, and ply, in addition to STL file, and saves output file as: stl, obj, 3mf, wrl, ply, etc.
ADA 3D Viewer
ADA 3D Viewer is another free STL viewer and STL 3D printer. Open a file through Open icon or drag and drop a file. You have to use mouse to navigate. Use (Press and hold) middle and right buttons of mouse to rotate and translate respectively. Ctr key and middle button of mouse rotate an object around a definite point. Control zoom percentage through wheel of the mouse.
You can change object colors and background colors. It also shows details of triangle of mesh, extensions, and number of vertices.
Supported formats: SYL, OBJ, and RSM.
FreeCAD
FreeCAD is a free STL 3D viewer . It lets you view and creates 3D designs and models. It can create MCAD, PLM, CAE, and CAX projects. Select, rotate, move, edit and scale an object. You can use various 2D and 3D drawing tools to create a project like circle, arc, point, point line, polygons, wires, sphere, cylinder, torus, cone, box, etc. It lets you edit these objects by cut, fusion, boolean operation, etc. You can also use inbuilt python console to modify the object.
You can use open, save, zoom, import, export like basic options. It can rotate the model in any direction or angle. View model as wireframe, shaded, flat line, points, etc.
- It can open many formats other than STL, such as: FCStd, obj, dwg, frd, asc, svg, dat, ply, csv, gcad, step, stl, etc.
- Import files of formats: inq, obj, dwg, dxf, brp, svg, dat, ply, csv, gcad, step, stl, etc.
- Export obj, dwg, dxf, bms, dwg, obj, ploy, oca, pov, svg, etc files.
- Save a picture in formats: png, jpg, bmp, ico, ppm, tif, xpm, ppm, FCStd etc.
It is cross-platform and works with Windows, Linux, and Mac OSX.
GOM Inspect
GOM Inspect is a free software to open STL 3D models. You can open a new file, import, and export an STL file. Various editing options are available: delete element, rename element, delete selected area, selection in 3D(like main, surface, mesh, geometry, deselect, etc). You can also construct point, line, plane, circle, holes, polygons, rectangle, sphere, cone, circle, curve, surface, etc. It lets you analyze surface, analyze airfoils, create cluster, copy cluster, chek dimensions, check curves, and check deviation label.
- It can export as: poly, pol,stl, g3d, vda, ascii, csv, png, pdf, and content diagram.
- Save an edited file in formats of: aramis, tripos, atos, gsnap, gnispect, etc.
Geomagic Verify Viewer
Geomagic Verify Viewer is a freeware to view 3D objects. Open an STL file in workspace, rotate it in any direction (or angle), take print screen, and add note. View it from front, back, top, bottom, left, and right.
It has almost all basic necessary features like open, save, show all, hide all, zoom, fit all, point set, wireframe, shaded, hidden-line, align, rotate clockwise, rotate anticlockwise, etc. You will find tree structure of files, model, data, section, reference (GD&T, Deviation) in left panel. View properties and other values in right panel. You can also measure distance between two lines, measure angle, and measure radius.
Autodesk Meshmixer
Autodesk Meshmixer is a freeware to open STL file. Click on Import icon to open an STL file or you can also use drag and drop function. You can draw 3D image using various tools. It incorporates many standard and advanced features which help you to view and edit a 3D STL file, such as: mesh mixer, stamp, shaders, analyze, remesh, erase, offset, bridge, join, separate, sculpt, stamp, mirror duplicate, transform, make solid, make slice, add tube, unwrap, inspector, mesh query, slicing, orientation, etc.
Export file as: obj, dae, ply, stl, amf, wrl, smesh. Import files of formats: obj, ply, stl, amf, mix. Finally, save a file as mix (maxmixer format).
It is Cross-platform: Windows, Linux, and OS X.
Gmsh
Gmsh is a free, simple, and cross-platform STL viewer. It is available for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. Open an STL file in workspace and view wire frame model. Right click your mouse and drag to rotate the object. Scroll your mouse to zoom the object. You can open, save, merge, clear, delete an object. Statistics has options SICN, gamma, and Rho to view the solid color surfaces.
- Supported formats other than STL: geo, brep, stp, msh, p3d, stl, vtk, wrl, pos, bmp, jpg, png, ppm, pnm, etc.
- Save output file as : geo, brep, stp, msh, p3d, stl, vtk, wrl, pos, bmp, jpg, png, ppm, pnm, etc.
- It saves mesh file as .mesh format.
RPViewer
RPViewer is a freeware to view STL file. It lets you view, edit and print an STL file. It has many options including basic and advanced option such as: save, open, rotate, pan, zoom, solid features model, solid wireframe model, simple wireframe, paint model, orthographic, perspective view, isometric view, etc. It lets you open STL file in workspace with so many other options. Like you can rotate object in any direction or angle through left click of mouse. You can also change various color schemes like: face color, back face, edge, background, etc. Change transparency of an object from 0 to 100%.
It also supports RP file format, in addition to STL format.
DeskArtes View Expert
DeskArtes View Expert is a free STL file viewer. Open STL file and view by rotating it along x, y, and z axis. It splits worskspace in different views: left, right, bottom, and top. Left panel of the interface lets you view file details and properties. Measure distance between two points, point location, and radius angle. You can add markup, use zoom in and zoom out options, generate 2D drawing, etc. Save Output in formats: stl, 3de, zrp, wrl, zpr, dxf, ply, and sli.
Supported formats other than STL: 3de, stl, astl, wrl, zrp, prt, stp, cgr, ply, dxf, etc.
It is cross platform: Windows, Mac OS X, and SGI IRIX.
Note: Some features are not enabled in the free version of this STL viewer. You have to pay to use those features.
Materialise MiniMagics
Materialise MiniMagics is a free STL viewer. It can rotate, zoom, and pan. You can view inner parts of a model. It also detects model for multiple shells, flipped triangle, and bad edges; thus helps you to evaluate the quality of model. It can make bad edges visible, bad edges invisible, highlight bad edge, flip triangle as normal, flip triangle as visible.
It lets you use coordinates system to view models. Measure distances between two points. Add text annotation and let you read information of the models.
It compresses an STL file to MGX. Import and save .stl, .magics or .mgx files. It can also open some file formats other than STL, i.e., stl, magics, mgx, and MATAMx.
MicroCFD
MicroCFD is a free STL viewer. Open an STL file in workspace to view and apply some changes. You can change grid, change transparency, change intensity, change color, change axis, invert facets, etc. It saves output as STL.
It can open objects having many facets. It can handle more than one million facets. But its response times for panning, rotating, and zooming decreases with the increment in facets.
It can load STL ASCII, and STL Binary. Save as STL ASCII and STL binary.
Supported Windows: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
MeshLab
MeshLab is an open source STL viewer. It can open multiple STL files. View object as wireframe, points, flat lines, boundaries, smooth surfaces,etc, You can also view vertex edge, label, axis, boundary, box corner, current, mesh, histogram, curvature, etc. Move and rotate the object in any direction. Filter option lets you select, clean, repair, create new mesh layer, create raster layer, set points, etc. You can also align, fill hole, use measuring tool, apply z-painting, select vertex, select faces, delete vertex, delete faces, etc.
There are many other options available to view and edit 3D object, like: import, reload, export, snapshot, layer dialog, bounding box, points, wireframe, flat line, flat, smooth, face rendering, surface rendering, align, measuring tool, render mode, lighting, shader, background drig, shader, etc.
Import file of formats: ply, stl, ong, off, dae, pts, xyz, gts, tri, asc, txt, x3d, x3dv, wrl etc.
Save output file as MLP and ALN.
Viewer
Viewer is a free 3D viewing tool. Open STL, OBJ, and IBF file in workspace and rotate in different direction to view the object. Change color, use zoom in, zoom out and many other options to inspect the object. It can display edges, faces, and vertices. You can view an object from different aspects of view like from top, let, right, bottom, back, and front. It lets you view object using display mode and projection mode, such as: flat shading, per vertex, smooth, perspective, and orthogonal.
It saves output file as: stl, obj, ibf.
eDrawings
eDrawings is a free STL viewer. View, review, edit, print STL files, edrawings, AutoCAD DWG files, AutoCAD DXF files, and SOLIDWORKS. It lets you play animation. You can view 3D model by rotating, panning, zooming, etc. Orient the model to view its top, front, back, bottom, left, right, isometric, and perspective view. All these option let you view 2D structure of respective part.
It can also open files other than STL file, like : easm, edraw, eprt, sldprt, slddeaw, stl, dxf, dwg, etc.
It saves an output as: eprt, zip, exe, htm, bmp, tif, jpg, png, and gif.
AnyCAD Viewer
AnyCAD Viewer is free STL viewer and STL 3D printer software. Open an STL file through file browser or drag and drop function. It supports multiple tabs and thus can open multiple STL files at a time. You can view 3D structure of an object in different angles and direction by rotation. Change background theme, copy logs to clipboard, and print the opened file.
It can open many other file formats such as: IGES, IFC, FBX, OBJ, MDx, X, blend, DAE, 3DS, DXF, STEP, etc.
Compatible Platform: Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2003, and Windows 2008.
SolidView-Lite
SolidView-Lite is a free STL viewer. Open STL file to view a 3D model of an object by rotating, moving, zooming, etc. Modify an STL file through various functions: translate, align, flip, mirror, scale, combine, units, etc. You can view left, right, top, bottom, front, and back of an object. It also shows isometric and trimetric view. It can measure angle, distance, arc, thickness, edge, add note, draw markup, erase, etc.
You can also view SLDASM, VRML, SLDRPT, SolidWorks formats, SVD, SVX, PLY, and WRL. Measure and edit SFX and SVD files. Print STL and SolidWorks files.
Note: Some options like model analysis, wall/gap analysis, compare objects etc, did not work on STL file during my testing.
Compatible operating system: Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows NT, Windows ME, Windows Vista, Windows 98, and Windows 2000.
3D-Tool Free Viewer
3D-Tool Free Viewer is free STL viewer. Import an STL file to open and view. It can create cross-section of a model, insert text, pictures in 2D-drawings, and pictures in the background of the 3D-view. You can also view part assemblies process. Colors of parts can be changed or can be transparent and rendered to various modes: hidden lines, shaded, shaded with edges. Creates cross-section and exploded view of the models.
There are two tabs available for 3D and 2D models. 3D tab let you measure angle, distance, radius, edge length, diameter, epoints, clearance, and wall thickness. 2D tab can measure angle, distance, radius, diameter, and line length. You can rotate, move, zoom, copy, mirror, and scale a model. You can use SpaceExplorer, SpaceNavigator, SpacePilot, use SpaceTraveller, etc, as 3D mouse.
It supports ddd, stl, exe, step, igs, native, and cad formats. Export animation as AVI video. It can also import 3D and DDD files. Save and Print 3D and 3D views or their combination. Print and Save any 3D or 2D view or combination of views as BMP or JPG file.
Compatible Platform: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.
JavaView
JavaView is a free software to view 3D designs and mathematical designs of models. It can display 3D designs of an object in any HTML documents. You can move, rotate, translate, zoom, edit, modify, etc. It can show you details of the object like color, texture, depth, grid, axis frame, etc.
It can save file of formats: JVD, JVX, PPM, GIF, OBJ, MPL, MGS, PS, WRL, EPS, etc. Export as Electronic model and HTML.
Repetier-Host
Repetier-Host is a free STL file viewer. It can open multiple STL files. It lets you rotate, scale, move object, move view point, zoom, duplicate, and edit them. Move and rotate an object to view its top, bottom, back, front, isometric, edges, vertices, etc. It export files of formats: obj, amf, and stl.
It is Cross platform: Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Wings 3D
Wings 3D is a free STL viewer. Import an STL file in workshop to view and use. Right click context menu for using various options. It has many standard and advanced tools, such as: rotate, scale, extrude, cut, bevel, weld, bridge, plane cut, sweep, intersect, sheer, inset, and bend. You can also view symmetrical model through Virtual mirror tool. It has edge ring, edge loop tools for editing edge and navigation tool to view the model. AutoUv can add texture to model. You can cut and unfold the model’s surface. Export for cut and unfold for texturing and painting. You can import and export files of formats: ndo, 3ds, bzw, dae, eps, xml, obj, pov, stl, wrl, x, etc.
STL 3dit
STL 3dit is a free and simple STL viewer. Open an STL file to view 3D models. Use your mouse gesture to rotate, move, and zoom. It also serves as an STL editor, so you can easily edit an STL file in element editor.
It has a remarkable feature that it can extrude 2D image into 3D image. It can save an output as STL file.
3DCrafter
3DCrafter is a free real-time 3D design viewer application. It supports drag and drop function, so it is so easy to open an STL file. You can also edit an STL file and apply animation using options like: objects, grouping, change shape, materials, layers, objects, etc. It can create complex 3D models from 2D models. Modeling tools are available to paint, deform, and sculpt 3D images. You can add predefined shapes, objects, and text as well. Use coordinate systems to control X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis movement.
Export pov and rib file. Import file of formats: DXF, AC3D. ZGL, XYZ, XGL, COB, 3DS, 3DO, STL, RBS, RAW, IOB,etc. Finally, save a file as 3DC and STL formats.
Netfabb Basic
Netfabb Basic is a free STL viewer. Open STL file through Red plus symbol. It will open the models in repair mode, where you can view and edit it. You can open multiple STL files also. You can repair and edit a mesh file as well.
It can create duplicate object, change color, move, rotate, scale, mirror, measure the length, etc. You can use automatic repair options or can repair manually using various other options: close trival holes, close all holes, stitch triangle, remove double triangle, split non-oriented edge, fix flipped triangle,detect self-intersection, etc.
Note: Free version of this STL viewer has limited features.
OpenSTL
OpenSTL is a free and portable STL viewer software for Windows. On this software, users can view and edit 3D models present in STL files. It allows users to view and inspect 3D models closely. Some modifications like Translate, Mirror Select, Scale, etc., can also be done by users. Now, check out the main features of this software.
Main Features:
- View Modes: This software offers four viewing modes (Shade, Wireframe, Reduced Wireframe, and Bounding Box) to view 2D and 3D models. All standard viewing tools are also offered by it like Zoom, Move, Rotate, Select Part, etc.
- View Presets: Multiple viewing presets to view the model from a specific direction are present like Top view, Bottom View, Side View, Front View, etc. Besides this, it also offers a free rotate tool to view a model from any direction.
Additional Features:
- Edit Tools: Through edit tools, users can detect selected parts, copy selected parts, translate selected parts, rotate selected parts, and mirror selected parts.
After viewing and editing an STL file design, users can save the changes in a new STL file.
Final Thoughts:
It is another good STL viewer software that also offers a good set of STL model viewing tools.
PRINSOW
PRINSOW is free open source STL viewer software for Windows. This software comes with multiple STL file viewing and analyzing tools. A large viewing area to view STL file designs and models is also provided by it. It is also quite easy to change the orientation of 3D models. After viewing STL file models, users can save them in Binary and ASCII STL formats. Now, check out its main features.
Main Features:
- View Tools: To view an STL file model, it offers basic viewing tools like Orientation (to freely move the model in a 3D space), Zoom in & Zoom out (using Ctrl + Mouse Wheel), Large Viewing Area, etc.
- Split: It is a handy tool that splits a large 3D block into smaller blocks and highlights them in different colors. Besides this, it also lets users disable the visibility of any part.
- Area of 3D Impression: It allows users to manually change the dimensions of 3D space.
- Merge: Use it to merge multiple separate design blocks into one single block.
Final Thoughts:
It is another good STL viewer software in which users can view and analyze STL 3D models.
GLC-Player
GLC-Player is another free open source STL viewer software for Windows, BSD, macOS, and Linux. It is another good STL viewer software in which users can also view 3D designs and models present in OBJ, 3DS, COLLADA, etc., file formats. This software can open up multiple 3D designs at a time and users can easily switch between them. Now, check out the main features of this software.
Main Features:
- Navigation Mode: This software offers three navigation modes namely Trackball, Turntable, and Fly to navigate around a 3D model.
- Viewing Modes: It provides multiple standard model viewing modes such as perspective, parallel, isometric, etc.
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View Tools: Using model view tools, you can quickly pan, rotate, and zoom in on a model.
Edit Light: Using it, you can add multiple light sources around a model and specify the color of the lights.
Additional Features:
- Snapshot: Use it to take a single snapshot of one 3D model at a time.
- Multishot: It lets you take multiple snapshots of a moving 3D model.
Final Thoughts:
It is another capable STL viewer software that not only offers all necessary STL viewing tools but also offers tools to view 3D models in different light conditions.
by Solveering LLC
An advanced tool for viewing, measuring and converting 3D files in multiple formats
Operating system: Windows
Publisher:
Solveering LLC
Release : STL Viewer 14
Antivirus check: passed
Report a Problem
The STL Viewer software is a powerful tool for working with STL files. It’s not limited to just STL files, but also supports over twenty popular 3D formats such as STP/STEP, IGS/IGES, SAT, OBJ, and allows their conversion into other formats such as DWG, OBJ, JPG, amongst others.
A notable feature of this software is the ability to measure 3D models. The Structure panel displays the content of the file and the properties of the measured object: its overall dimensions, volume, and center of mass. This panel allows users to control the visibility of different parts of the 3D models and to save distinct parts as DWG or DXF formats.
Features:
- Precise 3D model measurement: allowing detailed information gathering such as surface area, the height between two parallel surfaces, the distance between two points, the length of an edge, and the radius of a circle or arc.
- 3D section tool: enabling the creation of one or more fully customizable section planes, which can cut through a 3D model allowing users to peer inside and measure its hidden elements.
- Working with 2D CAD formats: in addition to 3D files, STL Viewer also supports working with 2D CAD formats such as DWG, DXF, HPGL, SVG, CGM, amongst others.
The user-friendly measurement tools allow users to gather more detailed information. The measurement results are displayed in a special panel and are also added above the drawing. The dimension text can be moved, hidden or deleted. The drawing, complete with all measurements, can be printed or saved as a BMP file.
STL Viewer simplifies and optimizes 3D modeling projects with its advanced features and varied format compatibility.
In essence, STL Viewer is an essential tool for simplifying and optimizing work with 3D files. Its advanced features and compatibility with a range of formats make it an ideal companion for any 3D modeling project.
Operating system: Windows 7 and above.
At least 2 GB of RAM.
Minimum 500 MB free disk space.
OpenGL 1.2 or later supported Graphics Card.
Supports over twenty popular 3D and 2D formats.
Offers precise 3D model measurement tools.
Enables customizable section planes creation.
Lacks advanced editing features for STL files.
The user interface may be intimidating for beginners.
Occasional crashes reported during file conversion.
MinMax G-code is a software package used to generate optimal G-code for CNC machining operations.
A modern designing software choice, aimed at providing the utmost complex tools to create with
A simple electronic utility to find out resistor and capacitor values
Relief Valve Sizing Calculator is a software program designed to help users quickly and accurately size relief valves for their application.
An AutoCAD-based manufacturing program that centers around mechanical design with some extra libraries
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Появилась возможность быстрого просмотра STL файлов как ‘thumbnail’ в проводнике Windows при выборе вида представления файлов как ‘значки’
Установка проста — запуск InstallStlThumbnail.msi отсюда —
https://github.com/cabbagecreek/STL-thumbnail/releases
В установке можно выбрать и установку простого просмотровщика STL- отдельной программы Marlin3DprinterStlViewer.exe
P.S. Если кто еще не знает, конечно…
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Подпишитесь на автора, если вам нравятся его публикации. Тогда вы
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получать уведомления о его новых статьях.
Отписаться от уведомлений вы всегда сможете в профиле автора.
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