STL File Extension

Programs that support STL files

• Windows ⁴⁴
• Mac OS ¹²
• Linux ⁸
• Online Services ⁵

Windows

• TurboCAD
• Creo Parametric
• Cura Software
• CATIA
• CloudCompare
• SolidWorks
• 3D Builder
• Meshlab
• Pro/ENGINEER
• OpenSCAD
• ViaCAD Pro
• 3D-Tool
• DeskProto
• SketchUp
• Mimics
• Autodesk 3ds Max
• IVCon
• MEDUSA4
• T-FLEX CAD
• CopperCube
• TransMagic
• Mathematica
• Mystic Fractal Firefly
• EnSuite
• IronCAD
• 3D Object Converter
• PolyTrans
• ACE 3000
• Rapidform Explorer (Geomagic Verify Viewer)
• SketchUp STL
• STL2GBR
• Autoconverter
• 3D Coat
• AccuTrans 3D
• EasyWOOD
• Alibre Design Professional
• MakeHuman
• Autodesk Inventor
• CAD Exchanger
• GLC_Player
• CrossManager
• meshconv
• Metasequoia
• AnyCAD Exchange3D

Mac OS

• TurboCAD
• AutoQ3D
• Cura Software
• CloudCompare
• Afanche 3D Viewer
• Meshlab
• SketchUp STL
• OpenSCAD
• SketchUp
• CopperCube
• GLC_Player
• MakeHuman

Linux

• CloudCompare
• Meshlab
• Cura Software
• CopperCube
• SketchUp STL
• OpenSCAD
• MakeHuman
• GLC_Player

Online Services

• Clara.io
• Babel3D
• Online CAD Converter
• Online 3D Model Converter
• 3D Transform

How to open a STL file?

If you’re having difficulty opening a STL file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.

TurboCAD, Creo Parametric and AutoQ3D stand out as the preferred programs to manage STL files effectively. To get the latest version of TurboCAD, open the IMSI Design website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.

When you finish installing TurboCAD, the system will automatically launch STL files with it.

Setting TurboCAD as default STL viewer

Change the default app for a file type in Mac

1. Initiate a right click or use Control + left click on the desired STL file to open a menu where you can select various actions;
2. Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
3. At the bottom of the window, you will see the "Enable" menu. It is already set to the default option, "Recommended Programs";
4. Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then search for TurboCAD. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.

Set default programs for Windows

1. Start by right-clicking on your STL file, then select "Open With" and continue by clicking "Choose another app" from the options provided;
2. Choose TurboCAD from the available applications listed in the pop-up window to set it as the default application to open your STL file;
3. Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to confirm your selection.

Convert files to and from STL

If a STL file is difficult to handle, you might try converting it to formats such as DXF, DWG, JPG, JPEG, PNG or similar, which may be easier to work with.

Be aware that converting a STL file may reduce some features, but you can usually revert it to the original format.

Offline software options such as IVCon, 3D Object Converter and Autoconverter guarantee lossless conversion of STL files.

Convert STL to other file formats

• STL to PTS
• STL to STP
• STL to PR
• STL to IGES
• STL to IV
• STL to AS

Tips and tricks to solve problems with STL files

When facing challenges with STL files, simple adjustments in your software can often solve the problem. Find helpful troubleshooting guidance below.

How to edit a STL file?

To make changes to STL files, you need specialized software that allows both opening and editing the cad, cam and cae files. Online STL editors offer fewer capabilities than applications optimized for Stereolithography Format.

Best STL Editor Software in 2026

After analyzing the criteria, we have created a list of STL editors available for use.