┌─ FILE ANALYSIS ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── ┐
│ DEVELOPER : Wavefront Technologies
│ CATEGORY : 3D
│ MIME TYPE : model/obj
└ ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── ┘
What is an OBJ file?
OBJ (Wavefront Object) is a plain text 3D model format that stores geometry (vertices, normals, texture coordinates, faces) and references external material files (.mtl). Developed by Wavefront Technologies, OBJ is one of the most universally supported 3D formats, making it ideal for exchanging models between applications.
How to open OBJ files
- Blender (Windows, macOS, Linux) — Free 3D editor
- MeshLab (Windows, macOS, Linux) — Free mesh viewer
- 3ds Max (Windows) — Professional 3D software
- Maya (Windows, macOS, Linux) — Professional 3D software
Technical specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Format | Plain text (ASCII) |
| Geometry | Vertices, normals, UVs, faces |
| Materials | External .mtl file reference |
| Textures | Referenced in .mtl file |
| Groups | Named object groups |
Common use cases
- 3D model exchange: Universal format between 3D apps.
- Game assets: Importing models into game engines.
- 3D printing: Alternative to STL with material support.
- Visualization: Architectural and product visualization.