5 Alternatives to JT2Go for Viewing CAD Files in the Browser

JT2Go is limited to Siemens JT format and requires a desktop install for serious use. Here are 5 browser-based alternatives for CAD file visualization.

JT2Go is Siemens' free viewer for the JT format — useful if your organization runs Siemens NX or Teamcenter. Outside that ecosystem, its limitations become blockers: the JT format is Siemens-proprietary, the web app only supports basic pan/zoom/rotate, and the desktop app is required for PMI, cross-sections, and product structure. Security vulnerabilities were also reported in 2024 (CISA advisory ICSA-24-228-03).

1. OmniView 3D — STEP native, browser-first

OmniView 3D imports STEP, IGES, GLB, FBX and OBJ without conversion. Exploded view, dimensions, iFrame embed — all in the browser. Ideal for sharing with subcontractors or clients outside the Siemens ecosystem.

2. Autodesk Viewer — STEP and DWG in the browser

viewer.autodesk.com opens STEP, DWG, RVT for free in the browser. Solid alternative for STEP files outside the Siemens ecosystem.

3. 3DViewerOnline — multi-format web viewer

3DViewerOnline supports STEP, IGES, STL, OBJ in the browser. $15/month for private sharing.

4. Teamcenter Visualization — for Siemens enterprise users

The paid version of JT2Go. Full features (PMI, cross-sections, BOM, collaborative annotations). Enterprise pricing, requires Teamcenter PLM.

5. FreeCAD — open-source multi-format

FreeCAD opens STEP, IGES, STL for free. Great for engineers who need local inspection. Not designed for sharing a viewer link.

FAQ

Can you open a JT file without JT2Go? JT files are Siemens-proprietary. To share the content with a non-Siemens partner, export as STEP from NX first, then share via OmniView 3D.