File extension .ACT
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator Color Table | N/A | Audio Files |
The ACT (ADPCM Compressed Audio File) file extension is a compressed audio format used in Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Gamecube gaming systems. It uses Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation (ADPCM) algorithms to encode and compress audio data, and results in a much smaller file size than other audio formats, like WAV or AIFF. The ACT format is platform-independent, meaning that it can be played on virtually any computing or gaming system.
Similar File Extensions
ACT is part of a family of similar audio formats, including IMA4 and WCA files. Files referred to as ‘ADPCM’ are often interchangeable with ACT type files, though they refer to different versions of the compression algorithm. For instance, .IMA4, WCA and .WAV. files are all valid types of ADPCM files.
Benefits & Disadvantages
The main benefit of the ACT file format is its ability to compress audio data into a much smaller size than other types of audio formats. This makes it ideal for applications where space is a priority, such as mobile gaming or streaming video. However, the reduced size also means that more details in the audio will be lost, resulting in a less-than-optimal sound quality. In addition, ACT files cannot be opened by every media playback application.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .ACT) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .ACT extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .ACT file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .ACT extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .ACT extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .ACT file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .ACT file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .ACT file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .ACT file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .ACT file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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