3DS (.3ds) is a 3D file format introduced with Autodesk 3D Studio in 1990. It stores mesh geometry, materials, lighting, camera and keyframe data in a binary chunk-based structure. Despite being superseded by MAX format, 3DS remains a widely used interchange format due to its simplicity.

Are my 3DS files uploaded?

No. Models you open from your device stay on your device and are rendered locally with WebGL. Only the public sample model is requested from the server.

Why is 3DS still used?

Despite being over 30 years old, 3DS is simple, well-documented and supported by virtually every 3D application. It's often used as a lightweight interchange format when you only need basic geometry without complex rigging or modern material features.

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3DS Viewer

Free online 3DS viewer. Open and preview 3D models (.3ds) directly in your browser — no upload, no 3D software.

.3ds

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About this file format

3DS (.3ds), introduced with Autodesk 3D Studio in 1990, is one of the oldest 3D file formats still in active use. It uses a binary chunk-based structure to store mesh geometry, basic materials, lighting, cameras and simple keyframe animation. While superseded by the proprietary .max format for 3ds Max workflows, .3ds remains a universal lightweight interchange format supported by virtually every 3D application.

3DS Viewer

About this file format

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3DS Viewer

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