A 3D model export means converting and saving your model from its native software format into a different, standardized file type like .obj or .fbx. OBJ is a widely used, text-based format focusing primarily on mesh geometry (vertices, faces) and material assignments through separate MTL files, but it lacks support for animations or complex scene hierarchies. FBX is a proprietary, binary format developed by Autodesk, capable of storing a much richer set of data including mesh geometry, materials, textures, lighting, rigging, skeletal animation, and entire scene hierarchies in a single file, making it ideal for complex assets and pipelines.

The .obj format is frequently used in applications like Blender or ZBrush to export static models for rendering, 3D printing, or importing into simpler visualization tools, particularly common in architecture and physical prototyping. FBX, supported by major software like Maya, 3ds Max, and Unity, is the preferred format for exchanging complex animated characters and scenes between different modeling/animation packages and game engines during game development and visual effects production.

FBX offers significant advantages for complex data transfer but its proprietary nature and occasional version compatibility issues can be limitations, while the simpler, open OBJ format is very reliable for static geometry but loses crucial animation data. The dominance of FBX in pipelines controlled by Autodesk tools raises minor concerns about vendor lock-in. Future developments often aim for more open alternatives like USD or glTF, especially for web and real-time applications, challenging FBX's position long-term.