M|AR Term

Meshopt Compression

Also known as:Meshoptimizer compressionEXT_meshopt_compression

Meshopt compression encodes 3D buffer data compactly, with a design that supports fast decoding in real-time applications.

The scope can extend beyond triangle positions

The glTF EXT_meshopt_compression extension works on buffer views. It can cover vertex and index data, morph targets, animation data and other supported buffers. This is different from texture compression. A mesh optimizer may also offer simplification or reordering operations; those operations should not be confused with the compression step itself.

Two independent paths show geometry data going through Draco or Meshopt workflows, and image maps going through a texture-compression workflow.
Compression need not reduce triangle count. Simplification changes geometry.

The whole export pipeline determines the result

Quantization and filters can affect precision before or during encoding. Compression ratios and startup costs depend on the asset and its settings. A claim of fast decoding on one machine does not establish performance on every visitor’s phone. A compatible decoder and correct loader configuration remain necessary.

Check motion as well as a still image

For an animated figure emerging from a painting, compare the exported pose, joint movement and facial changes with a reference file. Listen for the narrated cue while observing the intended reveal. A file that is smaller and structurally valid still needs a playback check. Measure total loading and rendering behaviour before choosing Meshopt over another delivery option; the useful choice is the one supported by the actual experience.

Related concepts

Sources and further reading