In recent years, integrating 3D design into websites has become a popular trend, revolutionizing the way websites engage their audience. Studies have also shown that websites with 3D design experience has higher user engagement and improved user experiences. By incorporating immersive and interactive 3D models, web designers can create visually stunning and captivating experiences that surpass traditional flat designs.
Two most commonly used file formats in this field are glb and gltf, both of which play a significant role in enhancing web design.
In this blog post, we’ll introduce glb and gltf files in web design and help you determine which file format is best suited for your web projects.
Introducing gltf (GL Transmission Format) and glb (GL Transmission Format Binary file)
Both of them are file formats used for storing 3D models, materials, animations and other scene data. They are widely used in applications such as web-based 3D graphics, game development, augmented reality, and virtual reality. For this reason, they are well suited for game development, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), and for embedding digital environments in websites.
What is gltf?
A gltf file contains all the important information needed to render a 3D scene, including meshes, textures, materials, cameras, nodes, skins, and animations. It uses a special format to put together all the important 3D stuff like models, how they’re arranged, the lighting, and the materials. It’s great for handling fancy animations and realistic materials, which makes it popular among artists who want lots of creative freedom. Discover how glTF files bring 3D projects to life here.
What is glb?
glb is like the “packed” version of glTF files. It simplifies the management and loading process of 3D content on websites, resulting in faster performance and smoother user experiences.
Its web-friendly nature of the GLB file has garnered widespread appeal across various online applications, including 3D viewers, product customizers and virtual showrooms. Additionally, its support for WebGL (Web Graphics Library), a prevalent 3D graphics API on the web, enhances its functionality and accessibility.
Want to create your first 3D project? Blender is a powerful tool for 3D asset creation. While it has a learning curve, tutorials from its large community make it accessible to beginners. For a simpler start, try web-based tools like Spline or Sketchfab.
Difference between glb and gltf file
- File size and higher performance
Glb file size are typically 33% smaller than gltf file size and it’s supporting files. The glb format’s focus on efficiency and compact file sizes can sometimes result in compression artifacts. That means glb files consume less processing information, are easier to transfer, and faster to load and process. This makes them especially useful when working with mobile and web-based 3D modelling apps. - Ability to edit
As for editability, gltf files are generally more accessible for modifications, as they contain all the necessary information and can be easily edited using editing software. - Quality
gltf files generally have higher resolution than glb files, allowing for more precise and detailed 3D models, textures, and animations. This makes gltf files ideal for applications that prioritize visual fidelity, such as architectural visualization, product design, and high-end gaming
Conclusion
To optimize your 3D design implementation, consider the following tips:
- Choose a reliable 3D design software or tool that supports the gltf or glb format.
- Optimize your 3D assets for web delivery to ensure fast loading times and smooth performance.
- Integrate the 3D design seamlessly into your existing website layout, considering factors like responsiveness and compatibility with different devices.
By following these best practices, you can create visually stunning and interactive websites that captivate your audience and enhance their overall user experience.
