3dp

.3dp3D Document

Various (3D modeling software) · 1990s

Developer
Various (3D modeling software)
Category
3D & CAD
MIME Type
application/vnd.graphics-3dv
First Released
1990s
Open Format
No
File Signature
Not consistently defined across all implementations; often relies on application-specific identification.
At a Glance
.3dp
3D Document

.3dp files store 3D model data, often used for exchanging complex 3D scenes and objects between various design and modeling applications.

Reviewed on May 10, 2026
Compression
Binary
Transparency
N/A
Editability
High
Best for
3D model storage

Key Features

  • Stores complex 3D geometry and scene information.
  • Supports texture mapping and material properties.
  • Can include animation data and lighting setups.
  • Primarily used for interchange between 3D software.

Best For

  • Storing detailed 3D models with rich visual information.
  • Interoperability between specific, compatible 3D applications.
  • Preserving complex scene setups including lighting and animation.

Less Ideal For

  • General image viewing or sharing (use JPEG, PNG).
  • Web display of 3D models (use glTF, OBJ with viewer).
  • High-quality 2D rendering output (use TIFF, PSD).
  • Simple 3D printing models (use STL, 3MF).

Common Use Cases

  • Saving 3D models created in CAD or modeling software.
  • Exchanging 3D assets between different animation or game development tools.
  • Archiving 3D design projects for later modification.
  • Visualizing architectural or engineering designs in 3D.

How to Open It

  1. Open .3dp files directly within the 3D modeling or CAD software that created them (e.g., Strata Design 3D SE).
  2. Import the .3dp file into another compatible 3D application that supports its format.
  3. If direct import fails, try exporting from the original software to a more universal 3D format like OBJ or FBX, then importing that into your desired application.

What is a .3dp file?

A .3dp file is a 3D document, typically created by specialized 3D modeling or CAD software. It stores geometric data, textures, lighting information, and animation parameters, allowing for the creation of complex three-dimensional scenes and objects. These files are primarily used in fields like engineering, architecture, game development, and animation for visualizing and manipulating 3D models. While not a universally adopted standard, it serves as an intermediate format for exchanging 3D data between different applications.

Programs That Open .3dp Files

PlatformProgram
WindowsStrata Design 3D SEFreeOfficial
macOSStrata Design 3D SEFreeOfficial

How to Convert .3dp Files

FormatMethod
.OBJStrata Design 3D SE, 3D modeling software export options
.FBXStrata Design 3D SE, 3D modeling software export options

Common Problems with .3dp Files

⚠️ .3dp files fail to open.
Ensure you are using the correct 3D modeling software (like Strata Design 3D SE) or try importing into a more universal format like OBJ or FBX first.
⚠️ Imported .3dp model looks incorrect or incomplete.
Check the export settings in the original software or verify that the target software fully supports the specific version or features used in the .3dp file.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a .3dp file?

A .3dp file is a 3D document format used by some 3D modeling and CAD software to store geometric data, textures, and scene information for 3D models.

Can I open .3dp files with standard image viewers?

No, .3dp files contain complex 3D data and require specialized 3D modeling or CAD software to open and view.

Is .3dp a common file format for 3D models?

It's not as universally common as formats like OBJ or FBX, but it's used by specific software, often as an internal or exchange format.

Technical Details

The .3dp format is generally a binary file, meaning it's not human-readable and is optimized for machine processing. It contains data structures defining vertices, edges, faces, and materials that form the 3D model. Specific implementations vary significantly between software, as it's not a strictly defined open standard but rather a proprietary or semi-proprietary format associated with particular 3D applications.

Did You Know?

The .3dp format is closely associated with Strata Design 3D, a long-standing 3D modeling application.
Due to its binary nature and proprietary variations, direct conversion to other formats can sometimes lead to loss of data or visual fidelity.

Security Information

As with any file containing complex data, exercise caution when opening .3dp files from unknown or untrusted sources, as they could potentially be used to exploit vulnerabilities in the opening software.

Related Extensions