LAZ Model Viewer

About this format

LAZ is the lossless compressed variant of LAS, defined by Martin Isenburg in the laszip library. It typically reduces file size by 4-10x with no data loss, making it the preferred format for distributing large LiDAR datasets. GLBKit renders .laz files in the browser so you can inspect compressed LiDAR surveys without unpacking or uploading them.

What is a .laz file?

.laz is a lossless compressed LAS file. It uses the laszip library to compress the point records while preserving all of the LAS metadata, classification, and RGB fields.

LAZ is the standard distribution format for open LiDAR datasets, government surveys, and large forestry or corridor mapping projects.

• Lossless compressed LAS format
• Typically 4-10x smaller than uncompressed LAS
• Preserves all metadata, classification, and RGB
• Standard for open LiDAR datasets and large surveys

Common uses for LAZ files

LAZ is the format you download when you get a public LiDAR dataset. It is the standard for open data portals and large-scale survey distribution.

• Open LiDAR datasets (USGS, national mapping agencies, OpenTopography)
• Large airborne and terrestrial surveys
• Forestry, corridor, and infrastructure mapping
• Distribution format for compressed survey data

How GLBKit renders .laz files

GLBKit decompresses the .laz file in the browser and renders the point cloud with WebGL. The decompression is fast, and no data is uploaded.

• Drop a .laz file to start
• Orbit, pan, and zoom with mouse, touch, or pen
• Point coordinates and RGB color rendered
• No upload, no signup, fully local processing

GLBKit capabilities for .laz

GLBKit renders LAZ point clouds with the same fidelity as LAS. You can inspect point coordinates and RGB colour, but you cannot run classification or filtering in the viewer.

• Point cloud rendering with RGB color where the file provides it
• Efficient LAZ decompression in the browser
• Inspect compressed LiDAR surveys
• Process files locally in the browser

Who uses GLBKit for .laz files

If you download LiDAR from an open data portal, you are downloading LAZ. GLBKit is the fastest way to inspect it.

• Surveyors and geomatics engineers
• Foresters and ecologists
• GIS analysts working with open LiDAR data
• Researchers using public LiDAR datasets

How to Open LAZ Files Online

Learn how to open, view, and inspect LAZ (compressed LiDAR point cloud) files online using the GLBKit LAZ Model Viewer.

1. Upload your LAZ fileDrag and drop your .laz file into the GLBKit viewer or click the upload button to select a LAZ file from your device.
2. Load the LAZ dataGLBKit decompresses and loads supported LAZ point cloud data directly in your browser using WebGL.
3. Explore the 3D dataRotate, zoom, and pan around the compressed point cloud to inspect the data from different viewing angles.
4. Inspect LAZ attributesExamine supported LAZ attributes such as vertex positions, and per-point colors displayed by the viewer.
5. Preview your LAZ assetInspect compressed LiDAR point cloud data directly in your browser without installing dedicated 3D software.