How to Open FBX Files - FBX Viewer

Viewing and Sharing FBX Files Online with Sibe

Sibe allows users to open, view, and share FBX files directly in their browser. No software installation is required, making it an efficient solution for those working with FBX files. Additionally, files can be annotated and commented on directly, streamlining collaboration and feedback.

Open your file

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View the 3D model online
and share as a link

  • Open a 3D file of any size on your computer, laptop, or smartphone
  • Send a link to others who might be interested
  • No software installation needed.

Methods to Open, View, and Share FBX Files

Apart from using Sibe, there are several ways to open and interact with FBX files. Below are the three most common methods:

1. Using Dedicated FBX Viewers

FBX files (.fbx) can be opened with specialized 3D viewers. These programs are designed to handle the FBX format, which is widely used in animation and game development. Some commonly used FBX viewers include:

Software Features
Autodesk FBX Review Free tool from Autodesk for viewing FBX files
Blender Open-source software supporting FBX import/export
Unity Game engine with built-in FBX support

These tools allow users to rotate, zoom, and interact with FBX models in real-time, making them ideal for animation and 3D visualization.

2. Opening FBX in 3D Modeling Software

Many 3D modeling applications support FBX as an import/export format. Software such as:

  • Autodesk Maya (Industry standard for animation and modeling)
  • 3ds Max (Widely used in game and architectural visualization)
  • Cinema 4D (Popular for motion graphics and 3D modeling)

These programs allow users to edit and modify FBX files, making them suitable for professionals in animation, VFX, and game development.

3. Converting FBX to Other Formats

Since FBX is a proprietary format, converting it to a more universally supported file type can improve compatibility. Various tools enable FBX conversion to formats such as:

  • OBJ (Wavefront OBJ – used in 3D printing and modeling)
  • STL (Standard format for 3D printing)
  • DAE (COLLADA – useful for exchanging 3D assets)
  • X3D (XML-based successor to VRML)

Software such as Autodesk FBX Converter, Blender, and FreeCAD provide conversion features, allowing seamless interoperability between different platforms.

Comparing FBX with Similar File Formats

Format Purpose Pros Cons
FBX 3D animation and game development Rich animation support Proprietary format
DAE 3D asset exchange (COLLADA) Open standard Less support than FBX
STL 3D printing Simple, universal No color or animation support
OBJ 3D modeling Supports rich geometry Large file sizes
GLB Web-based 3D (GLTF binary) Compact and efficient Limited animation features

FBX is designed for animation, making it more complex than formats like OBJ and STL. Depending on the use case, converting FBX to a different format might be beneficial for interoperability.

Quickly find answers to common questions in our FAQ section

Want to know more
What is an FBX file?

FBX (Filmbox) is a proprietary 3D file format developed by Autodesk, used for 3D modeling, animation, and game development.

How do I open an FBX file?

You can use an FBX viewer like Autodesk FBX Review, Blender, or Unity.

Can FBX files be converted?

Yes, they can be converted to formats like OBJ, STL, or DAE using tools like Autodesk FBX Converter and Blender.

Is FBX still widely used?

Yes, FBX is a standard format in animation, gaming, and 3D visualization industries.

What is the difference between FBX and DAE?

DAE (COLLADA) is an open standard, while FBX is proprietary and more optimized for animation.

Can I view FBX files in a web browser?

Some platforms support web-based FBX viewing, but FBX is not as lightweight as formats like GLB.

Is FBX used in CAD?

FBX is not a primary CAD format but can be used for visualization purposes.

How do I edit an FBX file?
Editing requires 3D software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max.
Can FBX files contain animations?

Yes, FBX supports keyframe animation, skeletal animation, and morph targets.

What is the best alternative to FBX?

DAE and GLB are good alternatives, depending on whether you need animation support or a web-friendly format.