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What is WebGL? - Definition & Meaning

Learn what WebGL is, how to create hardware-accelerated 3D and 2D graphics in the browser, and where it is used.

WebGL (Web Graphics Library) is a JavaScript API that enables hardware-accelerated 2D and 3D graphics in the browser without plugins. It is based on OpenGL ES and runs on the GPU via the browser.

What is What is WebGL? - Definition & Meaning?

WebGL (Web Graphics Library) is a JavaScript API that enables hardware-accelerated 2D and 3D graphics in the browser without plugins. It is based on OpenGL ES and runs on the GPU via the browser.

How does What is WebGL? - Definition & Meaning work technically?

WebGL 1 and 2. Shaders: GLSL. Libraries: Three.js, Babylon.js, PixiJS. Used for games, visualisations, data viz and 3D product configurators.

How does MG Software apply What is WebGL? - Definition & Meaning in practice?

MG Software uses WebGL via Three.js for 3D visualisations and product configurators when clients need it. For simple 2D we use SVG or Canvas.

What are some examples of What is WebGL? - Definition & Meaning?

  • A 3D product configurator where customers choose colour and options.
  • A data visualisation with thousands of points in real-time.
  • An interactive 3D map or globe.

Related terms

reacttypescriptweb animation

Further reading

Knowledge BaseWhat is an API? - Definition & MeaningWhat is DevOps? - Definition & MeaningD3.js vs Chart.js: Data Visualization Library ComparisonSoftware Development in Amsterdam

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Frequently asked questions

Canvas 2D for simple 2D drawing. WebGL for 3D or heavy 2D (many objects, particle systems, shaders).
No. Three.js and Babylon.js abstract that. Only for very custom effects do you write GLSL.

WebGL or Canvas 2D?

Canvas 2D for simple 2D drawing. WebGL for 3D or heavy 2D (many objects, particle systems, shaders).

Do I have to write shaders myself?

No. Three.js and Babylon.js abstract that. Only for very custom effects do you write GLSL.

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