STL vs 3MF: what's the difference?
STL stores only a model's surface geometry — it's universal and works in every slicer, but carries no color, units, or print settings. 3MF is a modern format that bundles geometry plus orientation, color, and metadata in one file, so a pre-oriented 3MF prints correctly with less setup. For selling, offer both: STL for compatibility, 3MF for a ready-to-print experience.
- 01
Use STL for universal compatibility
Every slicer reads STL. It's the safe default for the widest buyer base, but the buyer must orient and configure it themselves.
- 02
Use 3MF to ship a ready experience
A pre-oriented 3MF can carry the right orientation and notes, so the buyer slices and prints with fewer mistakes — a quality signal worth charging for.
- 03
Offer both on every listing
Bundling STL + pre-oriented 3MF covers compatibility and convenience at once. Apex files ship both plus a settings card PDF.
Can every printer use 3MF?+
Most modern slicers support 3MF; older or niche workflows may prefer STL. That's why offering both formats removes the question for the buyer entirely.
Does 3MF print better quality?+
The geometry is the same — 3MF just carries orientation and settings so the print is set up correctly. The quality gain comes from fewer setup mistakes, not different mesh data.
Get both formats, pre-oriented, every time.
Apex print models ship STL + a pre-oriented 3MF + a settings card PDF, with the real slicer-measured print time and filament weight, so the buyer prints right the first time.