File Extension Database

Open MAX File

A MAX format file is a three-dimensional scene file created by 3ds Max, a 3D animation and graphics creation program developed by Autodesk whose main functions are 3D modeling, animation, and rendering.

The MAX file can contain multiple models including wireframes, textures, lighting effects, shading, animation, and other elements characteristic of 3D design.

The 3ds Max program can also animate and render three-dimensional scenes, which are then saved in the MAX file format.

3ds Max was formerly known as 3D Studio MAX, which also made use of MAX files.

MAX files and associated software are for professional use in creating 3D scenes for various media, such as television, games, and movies.

Max files can be exported to other different formats, such as: FBX, AI, DWG, DXF, IGS, SAT, STL and many others, through the 3ds Max program itself.

The MAX files were preceded by the 3DS files and using the latest version of the 3ds Max software, it can be exported in newer versions.

MAX files are classified as CAD or CAM files, and differ from generic 3D image formats.

The MAX file shows the interaction of different 3ds Max plugins, therefore these files can only be opened in the corresponding application.

To work with MAX files you must have the following software packages:

Autodesk 3ds Max

How Can I Open MAX File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open MAX file is to find a MAX file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a MAX file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open MAX file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as MAX file opener then try to search online for "MAX viewer", "application to open MAX file" or "open MAX file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open MAX file

How Can I Open MAX File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a MAX file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a MAX file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with MAX file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as MAX file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open MAX file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open MAX file then try to search for "MAX viewer", "application to open MAX file" or "read MAX file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read MAX file

How Can I Open MAX File on Android

If you downloaded a MAX file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded MAX file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "MAX".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "MAX viewer", "MAX file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open MAX File on iPhone or iPad

To open MAX File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the MAX file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "MAX". This way you can find apps which can open MAX files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "MAX viewer" or "MAX file" online in your favorite search engine.

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