.step files
.step file
STEP 3D Model
The neutral ISO format for exchanging solid 3D models between CAD systems.
What opens a .step file
- Windows
- FreeCAD, Autodesk Fusion, SolidWorks, eDrawings Viewer
- macOS
- FreeCAD, Autodesk Fusion, eDrawings Viewer
- Linux
- FreeCAD, OpenSCAD (via import), gmsh
- In a browser
- Autodesk Viewer, Onshape
What a .step file is
STEP (ISO 10303) stores true solid geometry — surfaces, dimensions and assembly structure — rather than a mesh of triangles, so a model stays editable when it moves between SolidWorks, Fusion 360 and FreeCAD. Files are plain text, which makes them large but inspectable. The extension is also written .stp; both are the same format.
Converting it
A .step file is commonly converted to .stl, .iges, .obj, .3mf or .dwg. It is a plain text format, so any text editor can open and edit it directly.
Details
- Extension
- .step
- Full name
- STEP 3D Model
- Category
- CAD
- MIME type
- model/step
- Created by
- ISO 10303
- Format
- Plain text
Common questions
- How do I open a .step file?
- On Windows use FreeCAD; on macOS use FreeCAD; on Linux use FreeCAD. The neutral ISO format for exchanging solid 3D models between CAD systems.
- What is a .step file?
- STEP 3D Model. STEP (ISO 10303) stores true solid geometry — surfaces, dimensions and assembly structure — rather than a mesh of triangles, so a model stays editable when it moves between SolidWorks, Fusion 360 and FreeCAD. Files are plain text, which makes them large but inspectable.
- Can I convert a .step file?
- Yes. It is usually converted to .stl, .iges, .obj, .3mf or .dwg, either by exporting from one of the programs listed above or with a format converter.
Related pages
- .dwg — AutoCAD Drawing The native drawing format of AutoCAD — the standard for architectural and engine
- .dxf — Drawing Exchange Format The open interchange format for CAD drawings, published by Autodesk.
Sources
- Media Types Registry — IANA
- Official vendor product documentation — At One Place