Convert STL to DXF
Convert a STL file to DXF in your browser. Free, no upload, no sign-up.
Convert STL files to DXF directly in your browser. The converter parses the STL mesh, rebuilds it in memory and writes it out as DXF, keeping every triangle. Nothing is uploaded, there is no file size limit beyond your computer's memory, and the result downloads instantly. DXF is what 2D CAD software, laser cutters and CNC routers read, and AutoCAD imports a mesh from it with no plugin.
How to convert STL to DXF
- 1Drop your STL file
Drag a .stl file onto the box above or click to choose one.
- 2Check the preview
The model renders in 3D so you can confirm it loaded correctly. Dimensions, volume and triangle count are shown next to it; open edges are flagged if the mesh is not watertight.
- 3Download the DXF
Adjust the export options if needed and click download. The mesh is written as 3DFACE triangles in millimeters. Colors, textures and materials are dropped, and the result is a faceted mesh rather than editable CAD curves.
What is a STL file?
STL is the oldest and most widely supported 3D printing format. It stores nothing but a list of triangles, with no color, texture, unit or scale information. Every slicer and almost every 3D tool can read it, which is why it is still the default exchange format for printable models.
Commonly used by: 3D printer slicers (Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio), CAD export, Thingiverse / Printables
What is a DXF file?
DXF is the open interchange format Autodesk published for AutoCAD in 1982. Most DXF files are 2D drawings: lines, arcs, polylines and text on layers. Some also carry 3D geometry as 3DFACE entities. It is what 2D CAD, laser cutters and CNC routers exchange.
Commonly used by: AutoCAD, LibreCAD, QCAD, Laser cutters, CNC routers, Fusion 360 sketches
DXF is what 2D CAD software, laser cutters and CNC routers read, and AutoCAD imports a mesh from it with no plugin.
STL vs DXF
| STL | DXF | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Stereolithography | Drawing Exchange Format |
| Encoding | Text or binary | Text |
| Geometry type | Triangle mesh | Exact (B-rep / curves) |
| Colors | No | No |
| Textures | No | No |
| Materials | No | No |
| Stores units | No | Yes |
| Multiple objects | No | Yes |
| Typical use | 3D printer slicers (Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio), CAD export, Thingiverse / Printables | AutoCAD, LibreCAD, QCAD |