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# Supported Cloud Slicer file types

# Supported Cloud Slicer file types
The Cloud Slicer can open several common model, project, and G-code file types. This article explains which formats are supported and what each one is used for.

## Supported file types
| File type | What it is used for |
| --------- | ------------------- |
| STL | Standard mesh model files |
| 3MF | Model or slicer project files, often with extra project data |
| OBJ | Mesh model files that may include separate object data |
| SVG | 2D vector files that can be imported as printable shapes |
| STEP | CAD model files |
| STP | CAD model files, same general use as STEP |
| G-code | Already-sliced printer instructions |
| SPS | SimplyPrint slicer project files |

## Model files
STL, OBJ, STEP, STP, and most 3MF files are model files. These are the files you import when you want the Cloud Slicer to generate new G-code.

After importing a model file, you can usually:

- Move, rotate, and scale the model
- Arrange it on the build plate
- Change print settings
- Assign filament or profiles
- Slice it into G-code

## 3MF files
3MF is more flexible than STL because it can store extra project information.

Depending on where the 3MF came from, it may include:

- Multiple objects or parts
- Multiple plates
- Object placement
- Filament assignments
- Painted colors
- Wipe tower data
- Other slicer project information

The Cloud Slicer will import the extra data when the file contains supported 3MF project information. If the file only contains model geometry, it will be imported like a normal model file.

## SVG files
SVG files are 2D vector files. The Cloud Slicer can import them as printable shapes by giving the design thickness.

SVG import is useful for things like:

- Signs
- Logos
- Flat decorative parts
- Simple 2D designs that should become printable objects

If an SVG is very complex, simplify it before importing for better results.

## STEP and STP files
STEP and STP files are CAD formats. They are often used by engineering and design software.

Use STEP or STP when you have a CAD model and want to import it directly instead of exporting an STL first.

If a STEP or STP import does not look right, try exporting the model as STL or 3MF from your CAD software and import that version instead.

## G-code files
G-code files are already sliced. They contain printer instructions, not editable model geometry.

Use G-code files when you want to preview or send a file that has already been sliced. If you want to change slicer settings such as layer height, infill, supports, or temperatures, import the original model file and slice it again.

## SPS files
SPS files are SimplyPrint slicer project files. They are used to save and reopen Cloud Slicer projects with their slicer setup.

Use SPS when you want to continue working on a Cloud Slicer project later.

## Which file type should I use?
For most users:

- Use **3MF** when you want to preserve more project information
- Use **STL** for simple model imports
- Use **STEP** or **STP** when starting from CAD software
- Use **SVG** for flat 2D designs
- Use **G-code** only when the file has already been sliced
- Use **SPS** when reopening a SimplyPrint slicer project

## If a file does not open
Try these fixes:

- Confirm that the file extension is supported
- Re-export the file from the original software
- Repair the model if it has geometry issues
- Try a simpler format such as STL if a project file does not import correctly
- Make sure you are importing the original model file if you want to change slicer settings

## Related articles
- [How to import models into the Cloud Slicer](https://help.simplyprint.io/en/article/how-to-import-models-into-the-cloud-slicer-1r6z03w/)
- [How the Cloud Slicer handles 3MF files, SPS projects, and profile data](https://help.simplyprint.io/en/article/how-the-cloud-slicer-handles-3mf-files-sps-projects-and-profile-data-1r292ew/)
- [A model imports incorrectly or has missing parts](https://help.simplyprint.io/en/article/a-model-imports-incorrectly-or-has-missing-parts-1kiahpj/)
- [Cloud Slicer known feature limitations](https://help.simplyprint.io/en/article/cloud-slicer-known-feature-limitations-8f0up3/)