VTuber Model File Types & Export Guide

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VTuber Model File Types & Export Guide

Complete File Format Breakdown for PNGTuber, Live2D, and 3D VTuber Models

Understanding VTuber model file types and export formats is critical if you want your avatar to work smoothly across tracking software, OBS, and streaming platforms.
Many VTuber issues—broken tracking, unusable rigs, licensing disputes, or failed setup—come from incorrect file formats or incomplete exports, not bad art.

This guide explains every major VTuber model file type, what each file does, which software uses it, and what you should receive from an artist before accepting delivery.

Why VTuber Model File Types Matter More Than You Think

A VTuber model is not a single file—it’s a bundle of assets that must work together.

Incorrect file types can cause:

  • Mouth or eyes not moving

  • Model lag or crashes

  • Inability to edit or upgrade later

  • Lost commercial rights

  • Setup failures in OBS or tracking software

Knowing file formats protects you technically and legally.

Overview: VTuber Model Types & Their File Ecosystems

VTuber models fall into three main categories:

  • PNGTuber (static/reactive images)

  • Live2D VTuber (2D rigged models)

  • 3D VTuber (VRM / FBX avatars)

Each uses different file structures and export standards.

PNGTuber Model File Types (Simple but Strict)

Core PNGTuber Files

PNGTuber models rely on image state switching, not deformation.

Required files:

  • .png — idle (mouth closed)

  • .png — talking (mouth open)

Optional files:

  • Blink states

  • Emotion states (happy, angry, shocked)

  • Props or alternate outfits

Best Practices for PNGTuber Exports

  • Consistent resolution across all PNGs

  • Transparent background

  • Identical lighting and line thickness

  • Clear naming (e.g. idle.png, talk.png)

Common PNGTuber Export Mistakes

  • Mixed canvas sizes

  • Different lighting between states

  • Flattened emotions that “jump” visually

PNGTubers are simple—but sloppy exports still break immersion.

Live2D VTuber Model File Types (Most Misunderstood)

Live2D models are multi-layered assets + rigging data, not just images.

Essential Live2D Files You Should Receive

1. Layered PSD (Source File)

  • .psd

  • Fully separated layers (eyes, mouth, hair, body parts)

⚠️ Without this file, future edits are impossible.

2. Live2D Model Files

  • .cmo3 — Cubism project file (rigging workspace)

  • .moc3 — compiled model file

  • .json — model structure & parameters

3. Texture Files

  • .png texture atlases used by the model

4. Expression & Motion Files

  • Expression JSONs

  • Physics settings

  • Parameter definitions

Live2D Export Checklist

A professional export includes:

  • Rigged model compatible with tracking apps (e.g., VTube Studio)

  • Parameter list (what moves what)

  • Hotkey or expression map

  • Texture files (if licensed)

Critical Live2D Export Mistakes

  • PSD merged or flattened

  • Missing parameter documentation

  • No editable source provided

  • Export locked to one app only

3D VTuber Model File Types (VRM & FBX Explained)

3D VTuber models are used for motion capture, VRChat, and full-body tracking.

Primary 3D File Formats

VRM (Recommended for VTubers)

  • .vrm

  • Optimized for VTuber software

  • Includes humanoid rig + expressions

Best for:

  • VSeeFace

  • VTuber Studio

  • Streaming setups

FBX (Editing & Game Engine Use)

  • .fbx

  • Used for Blender, Unity, Unreal

Best for:

  • Advanced editing

  • VRChat avatars

  • Custom pipelines

Supporting 3D Files

  • Texture files (.png, .jpg)

  • Blendshape/expression lists

  • Unity project notes (if applicable)

3D Export Best Practices

  • Optimized polycount

  • Clean topology around face

  • Proper blendshape naming

  • Performance-optimized variant included

Which Software Uses Which File Types?

Tracking Software Compatibility

  • PNGTuber → OBS / reactive image tools

  • Live2D → VTube Studio (.moc3)

  • 3D → VSeeFace (.vrm)

OBS Integration

OBS does not use model files directly.
It captures:

  • Window output

  • Browser sources

  • Transparent feeds

Your model must already be working in its native app before OBS.

Export Rights, Ownership & What You’re Legally Entitled To

Always confirm:

  • Do you own the source files?

  • Are you allowed to edit or upgrade later?

  • Can you use the model for commercial content?

  • Are there redistribution restrictions?

File ownership matters as much as the art itself.

What a Professional Delivery Package Looks Like

PNGTuber Delivery

  • All PNG states

  • Naming guide

  • Usage rights document

Live2D Delivery

  • Rigged model files

  • Layered PSD (if purchased)

  • Parameter list

  • Setup guide

3D Delivery

  • VRM and/or FBX

  • Texture files

  • Expression list

  • Performance notes

If any of these are missing, pause before final payment.

Common VTuber File & Export Problems (And Causes)

  • Mouth not moving → missing parameters

  • Model lag → oversized textures

  • Can’t edit later → no source files

  • Setup fails → wrong export format

These issues are preventable with file awareness.

Final Thoughts: File Knowledge = Long-Term Control

A VTuber model isn’t “finished” until:

  • Files are correct

  • Exports are compatible

  • Rights are clearly defined

  • Performance is stable

Understanding VTuber model file types and export formats gives you control over your avatar—not just today, but for future upgrades, rebrands, and monetization.

If you’re commissioning a model, file clarity is not optional—it’s foundational

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