File Extension Database

Open STL File

The STL file extension, which stands for Stereolithography or Standard Tessellation Language, is widely used in a range of fields such as 3D printing, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), and even video games. This wide application is largely due to the file format's ability to hold information about 3D models, including the coordinates of vertices and normal vectors. As such, STL files are a cornerstone in industries that require the creation, modification, and sharing of 3D object designs.

3D Printing with STL files

If you've ever explored the world of 3D printing, you've likely come across STL files. They are the most commonly used file type for this purpose because they give detailed representations of the surface geometry of 3D objects without color, texture, or other attributes. To open and use STL files in 3D printing, you will need software like Ultimaker Cura or Simplify3D.

STL Files in Computer-aided Design

STL files also play an important role in Computer-Aided Design (CAD). Virtually any CAD software can generate an STL file of a design. Common CAD programs like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Fusion360 can open STL files allowing for measurements, modifications, and sharing of designs.

STL Files in Video Games

STL file format is also useful for developing video games. Game designers may use STL files when creating 3D character models or environments. For example, Unity and Unreal Engine can both import STL files, although they may require conversion to a different format for optimal use.

STL File Important Information

It's necessary to remember that while STL files are formatted for the express purpose of providing information about 3D objects, they lack the ability to provide color, texture, or other aesthetic information. Furthermore, please note that while there exist both ASCII and binary versions of STL files, binary files are markedly smaller and quicker to load.

Typical STL application file locations:

%SystemRoot%\system32\rundll32.exe cryptext.dll
C:\Windows\system32\rundll32.exe cryptext.dll,CryptExtOpenCTL %1

Typical STL mime types:

CryptExtOpenCTL %1
application/vnd.ms-pki.stl

Frequently associated Windows objects:

STLFile

How Can I Open STL File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open STL file is to find a STL file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a STL 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 STL 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 STL file opener then try to search online for "STL viewer", "application to open STL file" or "open STL file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open STL file

How Can I Open STL File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a STL file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a STL 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 STL file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as STL file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open STL file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open STL file then try to search for "STL viewer", "application to open STL file" or "read STL file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read STL file

How Can I Open STL File on Android

If you downloaded a STL 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 STL 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 "STL".
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 "STL viewer", "STL 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 STL File on iPhone or iPad

To open STL 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 STL 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 "STL". This way you can find apps which can open STL 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 "STL viewer" or "STL file" online in your favorite search engine.

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