How to Open glTF Files in Unreal Engine

Import glTF into Unreal Engine, step by step

1. 1Check the fileOpen the .gltf in a text editor and look for a "uri" pointing at a .bin or image file. If there is one, keep those files in the same folder.
2. 2Import into Unreal EngineContent Browser › Import (Interchange framework, or the glTF Importer plugin on older versions).
3. 3Check scale and orientationUnreal Engine works in centimetres and is Z-up. glTF files are metres by convention, so they normally arrive at the right size.
4. 4Check materials and animationglTF carries PBR materials; textures embedded as data URIs in our export and can carry animation. Look at the model under a neutral light before you build on it.

What comes through

Things to watch for

• Keep referenced .bin and texture files beside the .gltf.
• Unreal works in centimetres. A model built in metres looks 100 times too small; tick Convert Scene Unit or set Import Uniform Scale to 100.

Questions

Does Unreal Engine support glTF files?

Yes. Unreal Engine opens glTF files as shipped: Content Browser › Import (Interchange framework, or the glTF Importer plugin on older versions).

Why is my glTF model the wrong size in Unreal Engine?

glTF files are metres by convention, while Unreal Engine works in centimetres. Unreal works in centimetres. A model built in metres looks 100 times too small; tick Convert Scene Unit or set Import Uniform Scale to 100.

What is the best 3D format for Unreal Engine?

GLB and FBX are the most reliable choice for Unreal Engine. If you have a choice when exporting, pick GLB over glTF.

Menu names follow Epic Games's current release. Check the official Unreal Engine documentation if your version differs.