3DS to DAE Conversion
With just a few clicks, you can convert 3DS to DAE using our user-friendly tool:
Install Autoconverter
Download and install Autoconverter on your system. Launch the software to convert 3DS mesh files to DAE format.
Import 3DS Mesh File
Click Open... to load your 3DS (.3ds) mesh file, or drag and drop it into the application window.
Export to DAE Format
Use Save As... to export your mesh file to the DAE mesh file format (.dae).
Still overwhelmed by 3DS to DAE conversion? Our easy-to-follow guides make 3DS mesh files conversion manageable:
- Autoconverter for Batch Conversion of 3D Files
- Enhancing 3D Models with Vertex Normal Smoothing in Autoconverter
- Autoconverter Introduces Support for Subdivision Meshes in USD Files
- Convert Smooth Edges in SketchUp SKP Files
3D Studio (3DS) File Format
The 3DS file format is a classic, widely-used standard for storing 3D polygonal mesh models, originally developed for Autodesk's 3D Studio. Known for its simple structure and broad compatibility, 3DS remains popular in gaming, architectural visualization, lighting design, and real-time 3D applications.
Key Features of the 3DS Format
- Broad Software Support: 3DS files are compatible with leading 3D applications like DIALux, Blender, Cinema 4D, and Unity, making it a reliable format for cross-platform 3D model exchange.
- Efficient Data Storage: Supports hierarchical object structures, reusable geometry instances, material properties (colors, transparency, texture maps), and basic animation data.
- Format Constraints: Due to its DOS-era origins, 3DS limits mesh names to 8 characters and restricts each mesh object to a maximum of 32,767 triangles. It does not support modern rendering features such as PBR materials or NURBS.
Convert 3DS Files Easily
Our Autoconverter and Automesher Application optimize the conversion of 3DS files by automatically partitioning large meshes to comply with format limitations. Easily import, export, and adapt 3DS models for legacy workflows, lighting simulations, or cross-platform sharing, while preserving maximum model fidelity.
DAE File Format (COLLADA) - 3D Model Exchange Standard
DAE (Digital Asset Exchange) is a widely supported, XML-based 3D file format designed for seamless interoperability between digital content creation tools. Developed by Sony and maintained by the Khronos Group, the COLLADA standard enables the efficient exchange of complex 3D assets - including mesh geometries, materials, skeletons, and animation data—across different software platforms.
Key Features of DAE/COLLADA Files
- Reusable Geometry: Enables multiple objects to reference the same geometry instance, minimizing file size and improving performance.
- Multi-Texture Support: Supports advanced material properties with multiple texture images and coordinate sets for each mesh face.
- Opacity and Object Grouping: Allows control over transparency and organizes objects into named groups for easier scene editing and manipulation.
Convert DAE Files to Other 3D Formats
With Autoconverter and Autoshaper, you can accurately convert DAE (COLLADA) files to other popular 3D formats such as STL, OBJ, SKP, DWG, 3MF, and more. These tools use the open-source OpenCOLLADA framework to ensure full support for both COLLADA 1.4 and 1.5 specifications. Preserve animations, materials, and scene hierarchy with reliable conversion powered by OpenCOLLADA.
Streamline your 3D pipeline with powerful DAE file conversion tools - ideal for game developers, animators, and CAD professionals working across platforms.
3DS vs DAE Comparison
| Property | 3DS | DAE |
|---|---|---|
| Extensions | .3ds | .dae |
| Name | 3D-Studio File Format | Collada Digital Asset Exchange |
| Versions | ||
| Textures | ||
| Colors | ||
| Geometry components | ||
| Readers | ||
| Writers |