How to Select Grouped Objects in Blender

Selecting grouped objects in Blender depends on how those objects are organized, as modern versions of Blender use Collections and Parent-Child hierarchies instead of traditional groups. This guide covers the fastest methods to select objects grouped by Collections, parent relationships, or shared properties using built-in keyboard shortcuts and Outliner tools.

Selecting Objects in the Same Collection

In Blender, Collections serve as the primary way to group objects.

  1. Using the Shortcut Menu:
    • Select one object that belongs to the group.
    • Press Shift + G to open the Select Grouped menu.
    • Choose Collection. If the object belongs to multiple collections, select the specific collection name from the pop-up list.
  2. Using the Outliner:
    • Locate the Collection in the Outliner panel (top-right by default).
    • Right-click the Collection folder.
    • Click Select Objects.

Selecting Parented Object Hierarchies

If your group is formed by parenting child objects to an empty or a main object:

  • Select All Children: Select the parent object, then press Shift + G and choose Children or Immediate Children. Alternatively, press the right bracket key (]) to select down the hierarchy.
  • Select the Entire Hierarchy: Select the parent object, right-click it in the 3D Viewport, and choose Select Hierarchy.
  • Select the Parent: Select a child object and press the left bracket key ([) or use Shift + G > Parent.

Selecting Objects by Shared Properties

The Select Grouped menu (Shift + G) also allows you to select objects that share specific traits across your scene:

  • Type: Selects all meshes, lights, cameras, or curves matching the active selection.
  • Material: Selects all objects sharing the same assigned material.
  • Color: Selects objects with the same viewport display color.