Convert STL to PLY - Fast & Accurate 3D Mesh Conversion

Convert STL to PLY

STL to PLY Conversion

With just a few clicks, you can convert STL to PLY using our user-friendly tool:

  1. Install Autoconverter

    Download and install Autoconverter on your system. Launch the software to convert STL mesh files to PLY format.

  2. Import STL Mesh File

    Click Open... to load your STL (.stl) mesh file, or drag and drop it into the application window.

  3. Export to PLY Format

    Use Save As... to export your mesh file to the PLY mesh file format (.ply).

Still overwhelmed by STL to PLY conversion? Our easy-to-follow guides make STL mesh files conversion manageable:

STL What is an STL File? (STereoLithography Format Explained)

The STL file format (short for STereoLithography) was developed by 3D Systems, a pioneer in the 3D printing industry, to simplify rapid prototyping and manufacturing processes. Today, STL files are one of the most common file types used in computer-aided design (CAD), digital fabrication, and additive manufacturing workflows. STL models exclusively represent 3D geometry as a triangular mesh, offering high compatibility and fast processing across various 3D printers and modeling software.

Key Features of the STL Format

  • Lightweight and Simple: An STL file contains only the coordinates of vertices and normal vectors of triangles, making it extremely easy for 3D software and printers to interpret.
  • No Textures or Materials: STL models do not store color, texture, transparency, or material information, resulting in pure geometric representations without extra attributes.
  • Two Storage Methods: STL files are available in two distinct formats:
    • Binary STL: The most popular choice due to its small file size, ideal for faster saving, sharing, and printing.
    • ASCII STL: A human-readable text format that explicitly describes each triangle but produces significantly larger files.
  • No Fixed Units: The STL format does not define units (millimeters, inches, etc.). Most programs assume millimeters by default. Our STL files converter can automatically handle unit adjustments during file conversion if needed.

STL File Conversion Made Easy

Looking to convert STL files into other popular 3D formats? Autoconverter and Automesher Application offer powerful, high-precision STL file conversion to formats like STEP, OBJ, and SKP. These tools allow you to:

  • Preserve mesh accuracy and surface details during conversion.
  • Batch convert multiple STL files automatically.
  • Optimize, clean, and repair STL models for 3D printing or CAD workflows.

Whether you are a 3D designer, engineer, or enthusiast, our STL converters streamline your work. Convert STL to STEP, OBJ, SKP and more - start your free trial today!

PLY Polygon File

A a simple and flexible file format to store 3D mesh data. It supports vertices, faces (triangles/polygons), colors, normals, and custom properties. PLY is also known as the Stanford Triangle Format as it was developed at Stanford University in the early 1990s. It still remains a popular choice for storing 3D geometry.

Key Features of PLY

  • Flexible Structure: Supports vertices, faces (triangles/polygons), edges, and custom data.
  • Properties: Can store RGB colors, normals, texture coordinates, transparency, and user-defined attributes.
  • ASCII & Binary Formats: PLY files can be saved in ASCII (readable) or binary (compact) form.

PLY File Conversion

Autoconverter is the best tool for converting PLY files because it handles all major 3D formats (STL, OBJ, FBX, STEP, etc.) while preserving colors, textures, and mesh accuracy. It offers fast batch conversions, an easy drag-and-drop interface, and works seamlessly across CAD, 3D scanning, and game development workflows. Try Autoconverter today - simplify your 3D workflow with flawless PLY conversions!

STL vs PLY Comparison

Property STL PLY
Extensions .stl .ply
Name STereoLithography Stanford Polygon
Versions
Textures
Colors
Geometry components
Readers
Writers