Q
Can I create a KMZ model myself?
A
Yes. You can build a model in your favorite 3D modeling software, export it to a common 3D format, then package it together with location data to create a KMZ file.
KMZ Viewer
View KMZ 3D models online without installing Google Earth. Building models are extracted automatically from the archive and rendered smoothly in your browser.
Workspace
Drop files here
or click to browse, paste supported
About This Tool
KMZ is a compressed archive format commonly used by Google Earth to share 3D scenes such as buildings, terrain, and other geolocated landmarks. This tool opens KMZ files directly in your browser, automatically extracts the 3D model inside, and displays it smoothly with no software installation required. Because all processing happens locally, you can inspect architectural designs and geographic models while keeping your files private.
What is inside a KMZ file
A KMZ is a ZIP archive made for Google Earth. This viewer opens it and shows the 3D model inside.
- KMZ
- A compressed package holding a KML file and the files it uses.
- KML
- The map part: placemarks, paths and where the model sits on Earth.
- COLLADA (.dae)
- The usual 3D model format inside a KMZ, for example from SketchUp.
- Textures
- Image files that give the model its colors and surfaces.
About Configuration Options
Preview settings
| Option | What it does | Default / range |
|---|---|---|
Auto-rotate | Slowly rotate the model around the vertical axis after loading for a full view. Can be toggled anytime in the left panel.
| Off |
Animation
| Option | What it does | Default / range |
|---|---|---|
Clips | Number of animation clips stored in the file. | |
Bones | Number of skeleton bones used for rigging and skinning. |
Format Information
Input format
- Extension:
- kmz
- Full Name:
- Google Earth KMZ Archive
- Type:
- 3D Model
- Format:
- KMZ
- Open With:
- Blender、View in KMZ Viewer
- Description:
- KMZ is a compressed archive format for distributing 3D geographic data within the Google Earth ecosystem. It packages KML description files and associated models, textures, and image resources in a ZIP archive, making it easy to carry and share geographic annotations. KMZ's value is tied to the Google Earth ecosystem. When removed from its geographic context, the model resources are typically stored in COLLADA (DAE) format and must be extracted before use in other 3D tools. Geographic coordinates and annotation information are not retained in the pure mesh after conversion.
Notes:
- KMZ packages KML with optional models and images, but no base map
Supported Features:
- Real-time WebGL rendering
- Orbit controls with rotate/pan/zoom
- Wireframe and shaded display modes
- Animation playback (if supported by format)
If the KMZ does not show as expected
| Problem | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| The model is gray or white | Textures are missing from the package | Export the KMZ again with textures included. |
| Nothing appears | The KMZ holds only placemarks or paths, not a 3D model | Open it in Google Earth; this viewer only shows 3D models. |
| You need the model in other software | KMZ is mainly read by Google Earth | Use KMZ to GLB to get a common 3D file. |
Frequently Asked Questions
View all FAQsQ
Besides Google Earth, where are KMZ files used?
A
KMZ is primarily associated with Google Earth, but geolocated 3D models also appear in GIS and urban planning workflows. This viewer lets you inspect the model itself, independent of the map.
Q
Which programs create KMZ models?
A
Google Earth saves places as KMZ, and SketchUp can export a model as KMZ so it can be placed in Google Earth.
Q
Does the viewer show the model on a map?
A
No. It shows the 3D model by itself. To see it in its real location, open the same KMZ in Google Earth.
Q
Can I open a KMZ on my phone?
A
Yes. The viewer runs in a mobile browser, so you can check a KMZ you received without installing an app.