File extension .BMP
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Windows Bitmap Image (also OS/2) | N/A | Raster Image Files |
The .BMP file extension is a raster graphics file type used to store bitmap digital images. Bitmap images are made up of individual pixels – each with its own specific colour value. These images are ideal for high-resolution graphical elements such as logos and line drawings because they can be scaled to any size without losing any of the image's visual fidelity. Due to the large file sizes, BMPs are best used for illustrations or web site graphics that are only displayed at a certain size.
A .BMP file is one of the oldest existing file types on computers, and the oldest graphical image file format. This original bitmap format was developed by Microsoft for Windows 3.0 and is still in wide use today. Generally speaking, this file type is now only used as an intermediate stage when saving information for a different format, such as JPEG. However, it is still used for basic design tasks such as coding simple icons into application software.
Similar File Types
The .BMP file type is associated with other related file extensions like .DIB, .RLE, .JPEG, .JFIF, and .PNG. Each extension carries a different set of features and applicability dependent on their purpose. For example, while JPEG is better suited to compressing photographic images, BMPs are usually better for design elements where precision is essential.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Adobe Photoshop 
Adobe Photoshop Elements 
Adobe Illustrator 
PaintShop Pro 
CorelDRAW 
ACDSee 
OmniPage Ultimate 
Creator NXT Pro 
Image viewer 
Adobe Fireworks 
Microsoft Expression Design 
Paint.NET 
IrfanView 
ACDSee Photo Manager 
FastPictureViewer Professional 
FastStone Image Viewer 
Windows Live Photo Gallery 
Ability Photopaint - PhotoOnWeb
- Artweaver
- Easy-PhotoPrint EX
XnView 
FormatFactory 
Axialis IconWorkshop - Janome Digitalizer Pro
- Illustrator Extreme
- AwardBIOS
Programs for MAC system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .BMP) 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 .BMP 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 .BMP 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 .BMP 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 .BMP extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .BMP file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .BMP 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 .BMP file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .BMP file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .BMP 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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