3DS File

What are 3DS files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a 3DS file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your 3DS files.

What is a 3DS file?

A .3DS file is a 3D Studio mesh file.

Files that contain the .3ds file extension are most commonly associated with the Autodesk 3D Studio software. The software's 3DS files contain a variety of information used to form a three-dimensional scene, like coordinates, a list of polygons used to form the objects, color information, etc.

3DS files are stored in a binary file format. This enables the files to load faster and makes them smaller than the text-based file formats of a similar nature.

3DS files were commonly used to transfer 3D models between different 3D software applications. The 3DS file format has been increasingly replaced by the newer MAX file format created for, the newer 3DS Max software program.

How to open 3DS files

We have identified three 3DS openers that are compatible with this specific type of 3DS file.

Programs that open 3D Studio mesh files

Last updated: January 22, 2025

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of 3DS files. Remember, different programs may use 3DS files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about 3DS file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.