Convert STL Files to DAE

STL to DAE

STL to DAE Conversion

We offer a list of valuable resources, featuring comprehensive guides and expert advice for converting STL files to DAE format using our converters. Dive in now to make your STL files conversion process smoother later.


STL vs. DAE Comparison

Property STL DAE
Extensions .stl .dae
Name STereoLithography Collada Digital Asset Exchange
Versions
Textures
Colors
Geometry components

STL STereoLithography File

A file format that was developed by 3D Systems, a global leader in the 3D printing industry. It is primarily used for storing 3D models and exclusively contains triangular mesh data. Some of the benefits and features of STL files are:

  • Simplicity: STL files are easy to create and read by many software applications and 3D printers, as they only contain the coordinates of the vertices and the normal vectors of the triangles.
  • Lack of Additional Information: STL files do not include information on face color, texture, transparency, and named groups. This means that all STL models are effectively colorless in their raw form.
  • STL Files Converter: While it is technically possible to assign RGB color values to individual vertices in an STL file, it’s important to note that not all software, including our Autoconverter, currently supports this extension.
  • Binary and ASCII STL Formats: STL files can be saved in either binary or ASCII text formats. The binary format is generally preferred due to its significant reduction in file size compared to the ASCII format.
  • Units of Measurement: The coordinates in STL files are always defined in millimeters. If necessary, our STL converter will perform the required units conversion.

DAE Collada File

The primary file format that allows you to transfer digital assets such as materials, mesh geometries, and 3D scene nodes hierarchy between different 3D software applications. DAE has several advantages over other formats, such as:

  • Reusable Geometry Components: You can store and reuse geometry instances that are referenced by multiple objects in your DAE scene, saving memory and disk space.
  • Multiple Texture Images and Coordinates: You can assign different texture images and texture coordinates to each face of your DAE model, creating complex and realistic materials.
  • Color Transparency and Named Groups: You can control the opacity and color of your mesh, as well as organize your DAE objects into named groups for easy selection and manipulation.
  • Seamless DAE Conversion: You can use our Autoconverter and Autoshaper software to easily process and convert your DAE files. They utilize the OpenCOLLADA framework that supports the latest COLLADA specifications.