Modeling · Beginner

Vertex

A single point in 3D space; the corners every mesh is built on

Also called Vertices, Vert

What is a vertex in 3D?

A vertex is a single point in 3D space, stored as three numbers for its position. Vertices are the corners of a mesh: edges connect them and faces fill the gaps between them. Moving a vertex drags every edge and face attached to it along with it.

Think of it like this

A vertex is like a tent peg holding a corner of the fabric. Pull one peg and the fabric connected to it stretches with it.

Where it fits in a 3D project

  1. Create
  2. Surface
  3. Rig
  4. Animate
  5. Render
  6. Export

Create: Building the shape: modeling, sculpting, scanning or generating it.

Vertex
Vertices are the points, edges join them, and faces fill the gaps.

How a vertex works

  1. 01The software stores each vertex as an X, Y and Z position.
  2. 02Edges record which pairs of vertices are connected.
  3. 03Faces are filled in between connected vertices.
  4. 04Each vertex can also carry extra data, such as color, UV position or bone weights.

Vertex vs edge

PropertyVertexEdge
What it isA single pointA straight line between two vertices
SizeOnly a positionHas a length
Select it toNudge one exact spotCut, bevel or sharpen along it
PluralVerticesEdges

Grab vertices for fine shape tweaks, and switch to edges when you want to add loops, sharpen a crease or round off a corner.

Where a vertex is used

  • Fine-tuning a shape point by point
  • Storing color, UV and skin weight data for each point
  • Welding separate parts of a mesh together

Beginner tip

Overlapping vertices that look like one point are a common hidden problem. Run your app’s merge by distance command after joining parts to weld them.

Terms related to a vertex

Vertex FAQ

Is it vertex or vertices?
Both. Vertex is one point and vertices is the plural. You will also see verts used as shorthand in 3D apps and forums.
How do I merge vertices?
Select the vertices and use your app’s merge command. In Blender, press M in Edit Mode and pick an option, or use Merge by Distance to weld every pair that sits almost on top of each other.
What data does a vertex store?
At minimum, its position. Most also store a normal for lighting, and many hold UV coordinates, a color and weights that tie it to bones in a rig. That extra data is why vertex counts can matter as much as face counts.

Updated October 29, 2026 · Browse all 3D terms