Do you work with 3D models or 3D printing? If so, you may have encountered STL files, which are common in the 3D modeling and 3D printing world. Did you know that you can easily view STL files in Explorer without the need for any extra software or plugins? It's simple and convenient, and in this article, we'll show you how to do it.
First, make sure you have Windows 10 or later installed on your computer, as this feature is specifically available in these versions. Then, navigate to the folder where your STL file is located. Once you're in the folder, you should see your STL file icon, but the thumbnail may not show the actual 3D model.
To enable the preview of STL files, go to the 'View' tab in File Explorer and click on the 'Options' button. In the 'Folder Options' window that appears, select the 'View' tab and uncheck the 'Always show icons, never thumbnails' option. Then, click 'Apply' and 'OK' to save the changes.
Once you've done this, head back to your folder and you should now see a preview of your STL file as a 3D model thumbnail. You can rotate the model within the thumbnail preview to get a quick look at the design without having to open any additional software.
This simple tip can save you time and make it easier to browse through your 3D model collection. Whether you're organizing your designs, preparing them for 3D printing, or simply admiring your work, being able to visually explore STL files directly in explorer can be a game changer.
In addition to viewing STL files, you can also take advantage of some third-party tools that allow you to manipulate and interact with 3D models directly in Explorer. These tools can provide additional functionality such as measurement, annotation, and more, all within the familiar environment of File Explorer.
By leveraging the built-in features of Windows and exploring third-party tools, you can streamline your workflow and make working with STL files more efficient and enjoyable. So why not give it a try and see how easy it is to view and explore your 3D models in Explorer?
