Convert STL to GLB Online — Web3D Visualization

Convert STL 3D print files to GLB format for web visualization. Display your 3D prints on websites, portfolios, or e-commerce stores using Three.js, Babylon.js, or Google's model-viewer web component.

STL is geometry-only (no materials). The converter adds a default PBR material to the GLB for realistic web display. Process locally in your browser using WebAssembly — no upload, instant download.

Perfect for makers sharing their prints online, educators displaying anatomical models, or e-commerce sellers showcasing 3D printed products.

Drag STL file here, or click to upload

Supports .stl files up to 50MB

Technical Details

What Changes During Conversion

Geometry is perfectly preserved. STL face normals are converted to GLB vertex normals for smooth shading (more visually appealing on the web). A default gray PBR material is added (base color #808080, metallic 0.0, roughness 0.5). No UV coordinates or textures (STL has none).

File Size Considerations

GLB files are typically 20-50% larger than Binary STL because glTF includes material definitions, scene hierarchy, and metadata. A 5 MB STL becomes roughly 6-7.5 MB GLB. For large models, consider post-processing with gltfpack for Draco compression.

Common Use Cases

Portfolio Websites

Showcase your 3D prints on your portfolio site. Visitors can rotate and inspect models in their browser without downloading files.

3D Print Marketplaces

Sell 3D print files on Etsy or Gumroad with embedded 3D previews. Buyers can see the model from all angles before purchasing.

Educational Demonstrations

Display anatomical models, engineering parts, or architectural maquettes on educational websites. Students can explore models interactively.

STL vs GLB: Quick Comparison

FeatureSTLGLB
GeometryTrianglesTriangles
NormalsFace normals (flat)Vertex normals (smooth)
MaterialsNot supportedPBR materials
AnimationsNot supportedSupported
Primary Use3D printingWeb3D, AR/VR
Web DisplayRequires preprocessingNative support

Use STL for 3D printing. Use GLB for web display, AR previews, and interactive 3D viewers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Use Google's model-viewer web component (easiest, no JavaScript needed) or Three.js/Babylon.js for more control. model-viewer gives you 360-degree rotation, zoom, and AR preview with just an HTML tag.
GLB files are typically 20-50% larger than Binary STL because glTF includes material definitions, scene hierarchy metadata, and JSON structure. A 5 MB STL might become 6-7.5 MB GLB. However, GLB supports Draco compression (not in MVP) which can reduce size by 90%.
The converter adds a default gray PBR material. To customize: use Blender (import STL, add materials in Shading workspace, export as GLB), edit in code (Three.js material properties), or use online editors like gltf.report.
Partially. GLB is supported by WebXR (browser-based AR, direct support), ARCore (Android, use Sceneform SDK), and ARKit (iOS, convert GLB to USDZ using Apple's Reality Converter or Blender USDZ exporter).
No. MVP processes standard STL (geometry only). Non-standard color STL extensions are not widely supported. If you need colored GLB, start from a format with material support (OBJ, FBX).

Related Converters

GLB to STL Converter

Reverse conversion: Convert Web3D models back to printable STL format.

OBJ to GLB Converter

Want richer materials? Start with OBJ for better GLB output.