DAE File Extension
Digital Asset Exchange Format
- File Type dae
- Developer Sony
- Popularity
- Application COLLADA
- Category 3D Image Files
- Format XML
What is a DAE file?
The DAE extension is related to Digital Asset Exchange Format and is classified in the 3D Image Files category, which contains 618 files.
The Digital Asset Exchange Format (DAE), created by Sony, is one of file format they developed, and they also built 20 programs to support them.
DAE files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. When working with DAE files, you can rely on 29 programs, including COLLADA, SketchUp and Clara.io.
File Signature
HEX code: 3C 3F 78 6D 6C 20 76 65 72 73 69 6F 6E 3D 22 31 2E. ASCII code: .?xml.version=.
Programs that support DAE files
Windows
Online Services
How to open a DAE file?
If you can’t open a DAE file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.
COLLADA, SketchUp and Clara.io are among the most widely used programs for handling DAE files. To set up the newest version of COLLADA on your device, simply go to the official Khronos Group website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.
Once the process is complete, COLLADA should take over as the default application for DAE files.
Set COLLADA as the default DAE application
Change the default app that opens a file on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired DAE file to open a menu where you can choose from multiple actions;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for COLLADA. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
Change default programs in Windows
- Take the first step by right-clicking on your DAE file. Next, select "Open With" and then choose "Choose another app" from the available options;
- From the options listed in the pop-up window, specifically choose COLLADA as the application to handle your DAE file;
- Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK" to save your preference.
How to edit a DAE file?
To modify DAE files, it is necessary to install dedicated software that lets you open and edit 3d image files. Online DAE editors generally offer fewer tools compared to programs designed for Digital Asset Exchange Format.
Best DAE Editor Software in 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of DAE editors you can use.
| DAE Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blender | Blender Foundation | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.9 out of 5 (34 reviews) |
| COLLADA | Khronos Group | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| Clara.io | Exocortex | Online Services | 4.5 out of 5 (41 review) |
| AutoCAD | Autodesk | Windows, Mac OS | 4.4 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| SketchUp | Trimble Navigation | Windows, Mac OS | 4.4 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| Meshlab | Meshlab project | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.2 out of 5 (35 reviews) |
Convert files to and from DAE
If you struggle with a DAE file, consider converting it to alternative formats such as DXF, DWG, JPG, JPEG, OBJ or other similar file types.
It is important to understand that converting a DAE file might limit certain functions, but this conversion is usually reversible.
Offline software, including AnyCAD Exchange3D, AutoCAD and Preview, allows smooth conversion of DAE files while preserving original quality.
Convert DAE to other file formats
Converting Files to DAE Format
Troubleshooting guide for DAE file complications
Rest assured, any issues with DAE files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
What are the steps to repair a damaged DAE file?
In a data recovery program, open the damaged DAE file and select the "Repair" menu option. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged 3d image files.
How do I know if my DAE file has been damaged?
The signs of corrupted DAE 3d image files can manifest as:
- Error alerts occur when actions are performed on the file;
- The file shows slow performance when edited in COLLADA;
- When opening the file, errors occur or the inability to access its contents;
- Unexplained DAE file size inflation;
- COLLADA or other programs stop responding or crash when trying to handle the file;
What are the reasons behind COLLADA crash?
Lack of software updates is a possible reason behind COLLADA crash. Keep your Khronos Group products up to date by installing the latest updates.
Restarting your computer is a crucial troubleshooting measure that can alleviate numerous common problems. Therefore, it is advisable to restart your computer before modifying any settings related to the software.