How to convert DAE to STL
- Drop your .dae file into the box above, or click Choose file.
- Check the 3D preview, size and triangle count.
- Make sure STL is selected as the output format. Adjust scale or up-axis if needed.
- Click Download. The .stl file is created instantly on your device.
Why convert DAE to STL?
COLLADA (DAE) is what SketchUp and some older tools export. Converting DAE to STL merges all meshes with their transforms so the model can be 3D printed. Check the scale: SketchUp models are often in inches or metres.
What changes in the conversion
- Textures are dropped. STL cannot store image textures.
- Units. STL is defined in metres. Large models (in millimetres) are scaled ×0.001 automatically so they appear at real size.
- Up-axis. DAE is Y-up while STL is usually Z-up; the model is rotated so it stands the right way up. Untick "Convert up-axis" to keep the raw coordinates.
- Animation and rigs are not exported. The model is written in its rest (bind) pose.
- Geometry is preserved. Every triangle, with all object transforms applied, ends up in the new file.
DAE vs STL
| DAE | STL | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | COLLADA | Stereolithography |
| Stores | geometry, materials, hierarchy and animation | geometry only |
| Colour | Yes | No |
| Textures | Yes | No |
| Units | stored in the file | none – most programs read STL numbers as millimetres |
| Exact CAD geometry | No | No |
About the formats
DAE (COLLADA) was an XML-based format maintained by the Khronos Group. It stores scenes with meshes, materials, cameras, lights and animation in XML. It is used by SketchUp exports, older game pipelines and some CAD viewers.
STL (Stereolithography) was created by 3D Systems in 1987 for its stereolithography printers. It describes only the surface of a model as a list of triangles, without colour, materials or units. It is the default file for 3D printing and the format almost every slicer (Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, Chitubox) opens.
Frequently asked questions
Is this converter free?
Yes. You can convert DAE to STL for free – up to 3 conversions a day, with no sign-up and no watermark. If you need more, Pro gives you unlimited conversions and batch conversion (free for 7 days).
Are my files uploaded to a server?
No. The conversion runs entirely in your browser using WebAssembly and JavaScript. Your model never leaves your computer, which also makes it safe for confidential parts and patient data.
Is there a file size limit?
There is no fixed limit. Files of a few hundred megabytes work on a typical laptop; the practical limit is your device's memory.