How to Open OBJ Files in UltiMaker Cura

UltiMaker Cura is a free slicer used with UltiMaker printers and hundreds of other FDM machines.

Short answer · Built in

Yes. UltiMaker Cura opens OBJ files as shipped: File › Open File(s)… (Ctrl+O).

Import OBJ into UltiMaker Cura, step by step

1Check the fileKeep the .mtl file and any texture images in the same folder as the .obj, with their original names; the OBJ refers to them by name.
2Import into UltiMaker CuraFile › Open File(s)… (Ctrl+O).
3Check scale and orientationUltiMaker Cura works in millimetres and is Z-up. OBJ files are unitless, so the size depends on what the exporter assumed.
4Place it and sliceLay the flattest face on the plate, confirm the dimensions in the object panel, and slice. Slicers ignore textures and animation.

What comes through

Shape	Yes, always.
Colours and materials	Ignored: UltiMaker Cura only uses the shape.
Textures	Not used by a slicer.
Animation	UltiMaker Cura doesn't play animation.

Things to watch for

Cura uses only the geometry from an OBJ.
Use the Lay flat or Select face to align to build plate tool before slicing awkward shapes.

Questions

Does UltiMaker Cura support OBJ files?: Yes. UltiMaker Cura opens OBJ files as shipped: File › Open File(s)… (Ctrl+O).
Why is my OBJ model the wrong size in UltiMaker Cura?: OBJ files are unitless, while UltiMaker Cura works in millimetres. Scale the model after importing, then apply the scale before you continue.
What is the best 3D format for UltiMaker Cura?: 3MF and STL are the most reliable choice for UltiMaker Cura. If you have a choice when exporting, pick 3MF over OBJ.

Menu names follow UltiMaker's current release. Check the official UltiMaker Cura documentation if your version differs.

Written with AI assistance by the Renderlyst team in October 2026. Format support reflects each app's current release as we understand it, and we link the official documentation so you can confirm it for your version. Spotted something out of date? Email alishbakhalid766@gmail.com.