3D Viewer

3D Viewer is a streamlined and fast graphic editing application that allows users of all knowledge levels to quickly load files of common 3D filetypes and view 3D model meshes, textures, materials, and animation data inside a high-quality staging environment.



This Microsoft 3D Viewer app is especially useful to users who want to take a closer look at various 3D model files when they are on the go or are away from their work PCs.

Instead of installing a wide variety of large (and expensive) 3D editing applications to every PC they want to get some work done, they can instead install this small viewing app and proceed to view and inspect 3D models at their own pace. The app supports all the commonly used 3D model filetypes, including BX, STL, OBJ, GLB, GLTF, PLY, and 3MF.

Developed directly by Microsoft Corporation, this 3D viewing app is fully compatible with Windows 11/Windows 10 and offers a surprising number of features inside of its lightweight package.



This includes extensive support for model staging, setting up custom lightning, background environment properties, extensive camera controls, integration with Paint 3D and Print 3D applications for customization and 3D printing of loaded models, animation browser and playback tools, and support for browsing and purchasing of community-made models via 3D library showcase section, and even built-in support for observing loaded models in Mixed Reality – Microsoft’s own standard for handling AR/VR content for multimedia and professional uses.

While this 100MB+ app does not allow users to modify any of the core 3D model data, it is an excellent tool for inspecting the 3D model to its smallest details.

3D Viewer is 100% free for every Windows 11/10 user and can be used without any restrictions on both your home and work PCs.



Main Features

Easily view common 3D file types, including FBX, STL, OBJ, GLB, GLTF, PLY, and 3MF, with high-quality staging.

Navigate using simple pan, zoom, and orbiting controls with your mouse, touch, pen, or keyboard.

Inspect the 3D model’s mesh, texture, material, and animation data in detail.

Switch between various shading modes, such as smooth, wireframe on smooth, texture passes, and more.

Adjust the position and color of staging lights for optimal viewing.

Alternatives

Autodesk Maya: A professional 3D modeling and animation software, often used in the film and game industry. It offers advanced tools but comes with a high price tag.

Cinema 4D: Known for its user-friendly interface, Cinema 4D excels in motion graphics and 3D animation.

3ds Max: Another Autodesk product, 3ds Max is widely used in architecture, engineering, and game development.

Houdini: A powerful procedural 3D software, favored by visual effects artists for complex simulations and dynamics.

ZBrush: Focused on digital sculpting and character creation, ZBrush is indispensable for artists who need intricate organic models.

Modo: Creative 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering tools for Windows PC.

PROS

• User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive and easy to navigate, suitable for beginners.
• Wide Format Support: Supports a variety of 3D file formats, including OBJ, STL, and GLB.
• Interactive Viewing: Allows users to view, rotate, and zoom in on 3D models interactively.
• Annotations and Measurements: Includes tools for adding annotations and taking measurements within models.
• Free to Use: Available for free on the Microsoft Store.

CONS

• Limited Editing Capabilities: Primarily a viewer, with minimal options for editing 3D models.
• Performance Issues: May experience lag or crashes with very large or complex models.
• No Advanced Features: Lacks advanced features found in professional 3D modeling software.
• Windows-Only: Only available on Windows, not cross-platform.
• Basic Rendering: Offers basic rendering capabilities, not suitable for high-quality visual presentations.