The 3DS format is a legacy Autodesk 3ds Max format, still widely used in architecture and modeling for its broad compatibility. Converting 3DS to OBJ gives you a universal format compatible with all 3D modeling software.
Launch Eyemesh and open your 3DS file: drag and drop the file into the window, or use File > Open (Cmd+O). If the model uses textures, place them in the same folder as the .3ds file and open the full folder.
Inspect your model in the 3D view. Check that textures and materials display correctly. If textures are missing, use the Texture Manager to reassign them manually.
Click the export icon in the toolbar, select the OBJ format, choose a save location, and confirm. Eyemesh generates the .obj file along with the .mtl file and a textures folder.
3DS is the historical format of Autodesk 3ds Max. Although old, it remains popular in architecture, interior design, and modeling. It stores geometry, materials, and texture information. Limitations include a maximum of 65,536 vertices per mesh and no support for complex animations.
OBJ (Wavefront) is an open format for describing 3D geometry. It stores vertices, faces, normals, and UV coordinates in a text file. Materials are defined in an associated .mtl file. Its simplicity and universal compatibility make it one of the most widely used 3D exchange formats.
Download Eyemesh on the Mac App Store and convert your 3DS files to OBJ in just a few clicks.