.BMP file extension

To open .BMP files on Windows, right-click the .BMP file and choose 'Open with'.

.BMP files are bitmap images. To open them, use image viewers or editors like Microsoft Photos on Windows or Preview on macOS.

Home Extension Index Images in index Images category page

Last updated: June 11, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker

What “reviewed” means on this page

Format fit: whether the “what is this file?” description matches common real-world use of the extension, including category, typical MIME types, and aliases.
Opening paths: whether Windows / macOS / Linux steps read plausibly for current OS dialogs and default apps; we remove fantasy menus and unsafe shortcuts.
Security framing: whether risk notes match the extension class (for example executables vs plain data) and whether affiliate wording does not contradict the security section.
Sources and further reading: whether external links point to vendors, standards bodies, or other primary references where possible; we avoid inventing details we cannot ground.
Limits: this is clarity and safety-messaging QA, not a guarantee that every statement is exhaustive or that every binary you download is harmless.

Full methodology in the Imprint — The Imprint also states where AI is used and what that does—and does not—replace.

Open on your device

Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.

How to open .BMP files

Use these platform-specific instructions to open .BMP files safely.

Windows

Right-click the .BMP file and choose 'Open with'.
Select 'Photos' or another image viewer installed on your system.

Full Windows guide

Mac

Control-click the .BMP file and choose 'Open With'.
Select 'Preview' or another compatible application.

Full Mac guide

Linux

Right-click the .BMP file and choose 'Open With'.
Select an image viewer like 'Eye of GNOME' or 'Shotwell'.

Full Linux guide

iOS

Open the .BMP file in the Files app and tap 'Share'.
Select a compatible app like 'Documents' to view the file.

Full iOS guide

Android

Open the .BMP file from the Files app.
Choose an app like 'Google Photos' or 'Photo Viewer' to open it.

Full Android guide

Security notes

Always download .BMP files from trusted sources.
Scan files with antivirus software before opening.
Be cautious of files from unknown senders to avoid potential malware.

Complex decoders and untrusted media

Image, audio, and video decoders are large software surfaces; issues are uncommon for everyday files but show up with crafted files from unknown sources. Keeping the OS and media apps updated matters most; scanning is reasonable extra caution for downloads you cannot vouch for.

Avast

Avast offers free and premium antivirus software that protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing. Scan files before opening them to ensure safety.

Norton

Norton 360 delivers comprehensive antivirus protection, VPN, and identity theft monitoring. Scan files for threats before opening to keep your device secure.

We may earn a commission when you use affiliate links. This supports our free file extension guides.

Can't open this file?

These are the most common causes and fixes when .BMP files fail to open.

Common reasons

File does not open
File opens slowly

Fix steps

Install or update a compatible image viewer.
Check the file integrity and ensure it is not corrupted.
Try opening the file on a different device.

OS-specific troubleshooting

What is a .BMP file?

.BMP, or Bitmap Image File, is a raster graphics image file format used to store bitmap digital images. It is widely supported by many applications due to its simplicity and historical significance in Windows environments.

Background

The BMP file format, short for Bitmap, was introduced by Microsoft to handle images in the Windows operating system. It is a raster graphics format that stores image data in a pixel-by-pixel manner, making it easy to render but often resulting in larger file sizes compared to formats like JPEG or PNG. BMP files do not support compression, which contributes to their larger size but also ensures that image quality is preserved. Historically, BMP was the default image format for Windows applications, though its use has declined with the advent of more efficient formats. Despite this, BMP remains relevant in certain applications where uncompressed image data is required, such as in some scientific and medical imaging fields. Additionally, BMP files are often used in software development and graphic design due to their straightforward structure.

Common MIME types: image/bmp

Common .BMP issues

File does not open

The file may not open if the necessary application is not installed or the file is corrupt.

Install or update a compatible image viewer.
Check the file integrity and ensure it is not corrupted.
Try opening the file on a different device.

File opens slowly

Large BMP files may take time to open due to their size.

Use a more powerful device or software optimized for large files.
Convert the file to a more efficient format like JPEG or PNG.

FAQ

Can I convert a BMP file to another format?

Yes, you can use image editing software or online converters to change BMP to other formats like JPEG or PNG.

Why is my BMP file so large?

BMP files are uncompressed, which preserves image quality but results in larger file sizes.

Similar file extensions

Compare related formats in the same category to find the right tool faster.