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3D Lab Viewer – View Step, STL, 3MF Files in the Browser

3D Lab Viewer – View Step, STL, 3MF Files in the Browser

by goodsmileduck·Feb 18, 2026·2 points·0 comments

AI Analysis

●●SolidWizardrySolve My Problem
The Take

STEP parsing is executed client-side via OpenCascade compiled to WebAssembly inside a Web Worker — that’s the clever move: no uploads, responsive UI, and better privacy. The app nails the basics (drag & drop, multi-file tabs, wireframe/ortho toggles and one-click share links), so it solves a real, annoying workflow problem for people who just want to eyeball parts. The interface is clean and functional, though sharing expiration and missing desktop release are small frictions.

Target Audience

Mechanical engineers, CAD designers, 3D printing hobbyists, and anyone who needs a quick visual check of 3D files

Post Description

I saw Microsoft is deprecating 3D Viewer and removing it from Store in July. I always had trouble checking STEP files quickly - you have to open a slicer or full CAD software just to look at a part. So I built a viewer.

https://viewer.3dlab.id - drag and drop a file, it renders in browser. No signup, no install.

Formats: STL, STEP/STP, OBJ, 3MF, GLB

STEP parsing runs via OpenCascade compiled to WebAssembly (occt-import-js), all client-side in a Web Worker so it doesn't block the UI.

Stack: React, TypeScript, Three.js, Vite. Backend for sharing is Cloudflare Pages Functions + D1 + R2. There's also a Windows desktop version built with Tauri, but not released yet.

Other features: - multiple files in tabs - wireframe mode, ortho/perspective toggle - share models via link (expires in 7 days) - dark/light theme

The sharing is useful when you need to send a model to someone who doesn't have CAD software - they just open the link and see it, no account needed.

Still WIP, feedback welcome. Source code is on GitHub: https://github.com/Goodsmileduck/3d-lab-viewer

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