Which 3D File Formats Hold Textures

As a 3D modeling designer, I often work with various types of 3D file formats, especially when textures are involved. In many cases, these files not only contain geometric information about the models but also embed texture data that helps in accurately applying and rendering models across different 3D software. In this article, I’ll go over some of the most common 3D file formats that store texture information, offering a better understanding of how to efficiently manage textures within your projects.

1. FBX File Format
FBX (Filmbox) is a widely used 3D file format developed by Autodesk. It supports not just geometric shapes, animations, lighting, and materials, but also effectively stores texture information. Many 3D modeling software applications, including Maya, Blender, and 3ds Max, can import and export FBX files. FBX is capable of transferring complex data, including texture mapping and material settings, between different applications.
Texture Support: The FBX format retains material properties, including textures like color, normals, and roughness. The texture data is stored along with the model’s UV mapping, ensuring that the model displays correctly when imported.
Compatibility: FBX is highly used in game development, film animation, and virtual reality, making it a versatile and efficient format for including textures.
2. OBJ File Format
OBJ is a standard 3D file format developed by Wavefront Technologies, which is widely used in various modeling software such as Blender, Maya, ZBrush, and 3ds Max. The OBJ file itself does not directly store materials or textures but links to them through an MTL (material library) file.
Texture Support: While OBJ files do not contain texture data, they reference external texture images (such as JPG, PNG, or TIFF) via the MTL file. The MTL file specifies the path to the textures and includes additional material properties like reflection and transparency. This allows designers to load OBJ files and apply textures correctly as long as the texture files are also included.
Flexibility: Due to its high compatibility, OBJ is commonly used in cross-software, cross-platform workflows, especially in projects requiring shared textures and materials.
3. Collada (.dae) Format
Collada (Collaborative Design Activity) is an open XML file format designed to facilitate interoperability between different 3D software. The Collada format can store geometry, materials, textures, and animation data, making it ideal for collaborative and cross-platform use.
Texture Support: The Collada format can embed multiple types of textures and link them to models through materials. Texture data can either be embedded in the file or linked externally. The format also supports various mapping attributes like reflection, transparency, and normals.
Cross-Platform Interoperability: One of Collada’s strengths is its ability to work across multiple software applications, including Blender, Maya, 3ds Max, Unity, and Unreal Engine. It’s a common choice for game development and animation production due to its widespread use.
4. GLTF (.gltf/.glb) File Format
GLTF (GL Transmission Format) is an open standard developed by the Khronos Group for efficiently transmitting and loading 3D models. It was designed with WebGL in mind, allowing for quick loading and rendering of 3D content in web browsers, making it especially valuable for web-based and mobile applications.
Texture Support: The GLTF format can include various types of textures such as diffuse, normal, and roughness maps. Texture information is either embedded in the file (in the case of .glb files) or linked externally (for .gltf files). GLTF also supports PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials, allowing for complex texture effects.
Efficient Loading: One of the main benefits of GLTF is its fast loading capability, which makes it popular for real-time rendering applications, particularly in web or mobile environments.

5. 3DS File Format
3DS is a more traditional 3D file format developed by Autodesk, which used to be the default file format for 3ds Max. Although its usage has decreased in recent years, it is still found in some older projects and software.
Texture Support: The 3DS format links textures through a material library (.mat) file. It can store textures, including color, reflection, transparency, and other material properties. The file also stores the paths to the texture images.
Legacy Software Compatibility: The 3DS format is particularly useful for older 3D modeling software. Although its features are more limited than other modern formats, it remains effective in storing model and texture data.
6. STL File Format
STL (Stereolithography) is a file format widely used in 3D printing. While it is excellent for describing the geometry of 3D shapes, it does not support texture information.
Texture Support: STL files do not contain texture data, meaning designers must add textures manually when working with these files. STL is typically used for physical printing or geometric modeling and does not involve rendering or material properties.
Understanding these common 3D file formats and how they handle textures allows designers to select the best format for their project needs, ensuring textures are properly transmitted and applied. Whether you’re working in game development, film, or virtual reality, knowing how to manage textures in 3D file formats is a crucial skill for every 3D designer.
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