How to convert GLB to STEP
- Drop your .glb file into the box above, or click Choose file.
- Check the 3D preview, size and triangle count.
- Make sure STEP is selected as the output format. Adjust scale or up-axis if needed.
- Click Download. The .step file is created instantly on your device.
Why convert GLB to STEP?
GLB models from the web, AR or game assets can be used as reference geometry in CAD. The converter applies the scene transforms, converts metres to millimetres and writes a STEP body with merged planar faces.
What changes in the conversion
- Triangles become clean faces. STEP is a CAD format, but a mesh has no parametric surfaces. Triangles on the same plane are merged into one face (with holes), curved areas stay faceted. The result is a solid you can measure, sketch on and combine – not a feature tree.
- Textures are dropped. STEP cannot store image textures (colours may be kept).
- Up-axis. GLB is Y-up while STEP 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.
GLB vs STEP
| GLB | STEP | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | binary glTF | ISO 10303 (STEP AP203/AP214/AP242) |
| Stores | geometry, materials, textures, hierarchy and animations | exact solids, assemblies and part names |
| Colour | Yes | Yes |
| Textures | Yes | No |
| Units | metres by specification | stored in the file (usually millimetres) |
| Exact CAD geometry | No | Yes |
About the formats
GLB (binary glTF) was defined by the Khronos Group as the single-file binary form of glTF 2.0. It packs meshes, PBR materials, textures, scene hierarchy and animations into one compact file. It is the standard for 3D on the web, AR viewers, e-commerce product views and game engines.
STEP (ISO 10303 (STEP AP203/AP214/AP242)) was standardised as ISO 10303 for exchanging engineering data between CAD systems. It describes exact solid geometry (B-rep surfaces, edges and assemblies) rather than triangles. It is the neutral CAD format used by SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Inventor, CATIA, FreeCAD and Onshape.
Frequently asked questions
Is this converter free?
Yes. You can convert GLB to STEP for free – up to 5 CAD conversions a day, with no sign-up and no watermark. Pro gives you unlimited STEP conversions, batch conversion and every tool (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.