OBJ File Extension

What is OBJ file?

OBJ file format is used to store 3D objects created with various design and editing software. Each OBJ file can contain data such as 3D objects including coordinates, texture maps, color palette information, and texture files. OBJ files contain no data regarding the object’s environment. OBJ file format was developed by Wavefront Technologies, originally for a different purpose – it was designed as a file to be used for storing Advanced Visualizer application data.

OBJ and MTL file compatibility

OBJ files more often then not contain references to supporting MTL files which describe object’s surface shading material and relevant data. Each OBJ file can reference one or more MTL files.

Applications of OBJ format

OBJ is a popular open-source file format. It is currently considered the standard format for 3D object/image editing software. It is widely supported, therefore basically all CAD family of software provides means of importing and exporting data into this format. In recent years, with the popularization of 3D printing technology, the OBJ format is gaining in popularity, mainly as the format of choice for multi-color material printing.

Programs which support OBJ file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with OBJ files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with OBJ suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 03/21/2023

How to open file with OBJ extension?

Problems with accessing OBJ may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Wavefront 3D Object Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with OBJ files.

Step 1. Get the LightWave 3D

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports OBJ files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select LightWave 3D or one of the recommended programs (for example, Adobe Photoshop, TurboCAD, DAZ Studio ) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download LightWave 3D installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit NewTek, Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of LightWave 3D and update if needed

If the problems with opening OBJ files still occur even after installing LightWave 3D, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of LightWave 3D is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why OBJ files are not compatible with LightWave 3D. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using LightWave 3D.

Step 3. Assign LightWave 3D to OBJ files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate OBJ files with latest version of LightWave 3D you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the OBJ with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the LightWave 3D installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open OBJ files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected OBJ file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select LightWave 3D and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with OBJ extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the OBJ for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper OBJ file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Verify that the OBJ in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the OBJ file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the OBJ file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the OBJ file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic OBJ file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with OBJ extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Wavefront 3D Object Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run LightWave 3D

If the systems has insufficient resources to open OBJ files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Wavefront 3D Object Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with OBJ files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the OBJ file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on OBJ file.