Where Does CloudCompare Store Data?
CloudCompare saves 3D projects as .bin files you choose, with settings in per-OS config. Mirror cloud paths across machines.
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CloudCompare stores work as project files with the .bin extension. Point clouds stay where your dataset lives. App settings persist separately in per-OS config locations.
Treat .bin files as portable only with their clouds alongside. Paths can absolutize, so mirror layouts between machines. Copy projects plus data together for clean moves.
Where CloudCompare stores this, by platform
Projects wherever saved (.bin, settings in %APPDATA%)
Projects as .bin files wherever saved. Settings in per-OS config. Mirror cloud paths when moving machines.
Projects wherever saved (.bin, settings in ~/.config)
Same .bin workflow on every OS. Keep datasets beside projects.
Projects wherever saved (.bin, settings in ~/Library)
Same .bin workflow. Confirm prefs path in-app across versions.
Frequently asked questions
How do I move a CloudCompare project?
Copy your .bin project files plus source clouds to matching paths. Settings rebuild when missing. Keep plugin versions aligned between installs.
Edits vanished on reopen. Why?
Save the project explicitly before closing. Viewport tweaks alone do not persist. Keep .bin files beside their point clouds.
Notice an outdated path? Let us know.