How to convert GLB to OBJ (and keep the textures)

Why convert at all

GLB packs a mesh, its materials and textures into one file. It's the standard for web, AR and many AI generators. OBJ is older and simpler, and some tools still want it: older 3D software, some slicers, Tinkercad, Blockbench and many CAD importers. GLB vs glTF explains the source format, and FBX vs OBJ the target.

Converting in Blender (free)

1. File › New › General, and delete the default cube.
2. File › Import › glTF 2.0 (.glb/.gltf) and pick your file.
3. Check it looks right in Material Preview (Z key menu).
4. File › Export › Wavefront (.obj). In the export options:
   • Selection Only if the scene has things you don't want.
   • Materials: Export on, so Blender writes the .mtl file.
   • Path Mode: Copy, so the texture images are copied next to the OBJ instead of pointing at a temp folder.
   • Forward / Up axis: the defaults (-Z forward, Y up) suit most tools.
5. Export. You'll get model.obj, model.mtl and the texture images.

Keep those files together. Zip them if you send them. An OBJ without its .mtl and images opens as a grey mesh, which is the most common complaint after converting. Textures missing after import fixes it.

What you lose

OBJ can't store:

• Animation and rigging. Use FBX instead if you need them.
• Full PBR materials. OBJ's .mtl handles a base colour texture well. Metallic, roughness and normal maps may need reconnecting in the target tool. PBR materials explains what those maps are.
• Scene hierarchy. Parts may arrive as separate objects.

Online converters

Fine for quick, non-confidential files. Check that the download includes the .mtl and textures, not just the .obj.

For 3D printing, go one step further

Printing needs a closed mesh, and colour is usually dropped. If that's your goal, see GLB to STL instead.

Skipping the conversion

If the model comes from Vi3W, you don't need to convert: choose OBJ (or FBX, or GLB) at export.

Try it

Make a model in Vi3W and export it straight to OBJ.