How to open a .fbx file (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Q: Why can't I open my .fbx file?

Usually your computer lacks an app that understands FBX. Install one of the apps listed here, or convert the file to a more common format.

A .fbx file is a Filmbox. If double-clicking does nothing, your computer simply does not have an app that reads FBX yet. Here is how to fix that on each operating system, using free software wherever possible.

Open a .fbx file step by step

Confirm the file really is a .fbx. Drop it into the WhatFileType file identifier, which reads its signature without uploading anything.
On Windows, open it with Blender or Autodesk FBX Review.
On Mac, use Blender or FBX Review.
On Linux, try Blender.
Still stuck? Convert the .fbx to OBJ, which opens more widely.

Best apps to open .fbx files

Windows

Blender
Autodesk FBX Review
Unity
3ds Max

macOS

Blender
FBX Review
Unity

Linux

Blender

Web

Some online 3D viewers

Before you open it: Safe as data, though FBX is complex. Import files from trusted sources.

Frequently asked questions

Why can't I open my .fbx file?

Almost always because no installed app understands FBX. Install one of the apps above, or convert the file to a format your existing software already reads.

How do I open an FBX file for free?

Blender opens and edits FBX for free. Autodesk's free FBX Review app previews them with animation.

Why won't my FBX import correctly?

Usually a version mismatch: FBX is versioned by year, and older software may reject a newer file. Re-export it to an earlier FBX version (2013 or 2014 are safe choices). Missing textures are a separate issue, FBX often references image files that must travel alongside it.