This article explains how to open a file with the extension ". OBJ" (related to a 3D image) on a Windows or macOS computer. Systems using Windows already have a native program capable of opening files in OBJ format, but if you are using a Mac you will need to install a special program such as MeshLab.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Windows
Step 1. Navigate to the folder where the OBJ file to open is stored
A quick and easy way to perform this step is to press the key combination ⊞ Win + E to open a "File Explorer" window and be able to access the directory that contains the file to be scanned.
Step 2. Select the OBJ file icon with the right mouse button
A context menu will be displayed.
Step 3. Click on the Open with item
It is one of the items listed in the menu that appeared. A secondary menu will appear next to the first one.
Step 4. Click on the Paint 3D option
The selected OBJ file will be opened using the Windows Paint 3D program.
OBJ format files can also be opened using Adobe Photoshop or Mixed Reality Viewer. If you have one of these programs installed on your computer and want to use it, select the corresponding name from the "Open with" menu
Method 2 of 2: macOS
Step 1. Download and install MeshLab on the Mac
It is a free and open-source program that allows you to view and edit files in OBJ format. Follow these instructions to install MeshLab:
- Visit the website https://www.meshlab.net;
- Scroll down the page and click on the link macOS to download the program installation file for Mac;
- Double-click on the DMG format file you just downloaded;
- Drag the icon Meshlab on the folder Applications;
- Follow the instructions that will appear on the screen to complete the installation of the program;
- At the end of the installation, delete the DMG file.
Step 2. Start the Meshlab program
It features a circular icon depicting a stylized eye located in the "Applications" folder.
Step 3. Click on the "Open / Import" icon
It is characterized by a yellow folder and a curved arrow and is located in the upper left corner of the program window. A new dialog will appear allowing you to select the file to open.
Step 4. Select the OBJ format file you want to open and click the Open button
The OBJ file you have selected will be displayed on the Mac screen.
