What is MIME type "model/gltf-binary"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

model/gltf-binary signals a file that carries 3D scene data in a compact, binary form. It is part of the glTF (GL Transmission Format) family and is optimized for quick loading and efficient rendering.

The binary nature means all 3D geometry, animations, textures, and other scene elements are stored together. This minimizes the number of files to load and speeds up processing in real-time apps such as games and virtual reality.

Real-time 3D Rendering: Speeds up loading in interactive applications.
Efficient Data Transfer: Embeds all scene data in one file for smoother downloads.
Interoperability: Allows 3D models to be shared across different tools and platforms.

Files using this type include the binary format like GLB. In some contexts, the JSON-based version with a GLTF extension is also mentioned as part of the glTF family, even though it employs a different MIME type.

For detailed technical insights, check the glTF specification.

Associated file extensions

.glb, .gltf

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: model/gltf-binary

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="model/gltf-binary">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'model/gltf-binary');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.glb, .gltf

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.