.DV file extension
To open .DV files on Windows, right-click the .DV file and select 'Open with'.
.DV files are digital video files that can be opened using compatible software on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Use specific applications designed to handle this format for best results.
Last updated: March 19, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker
Open on your device
Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.
How to open .DV files
Use these platform-specific instructions to open .DV files safely.
Windows
- Right-click the .DV file and select 'Open with'.
- Choose a video player or editing software like VLC Media Player or Adobe Premiere Pro.
Mac
- Control-click the .DV file and select 'Open With'.
- Choose QuickTime Player or iMovie to open the file.
Linux
- Right-click the .DV file and select 'Open With'.
- Choose VLC Media Player or Kdenlive for playback or editing.
iOS
- Open the Files app and locate the .DV file.
- Tap the Share button and select a compatible app like VLC for Mobile.
Android
- Navigate to the .DV file using a file manager app.
- Select the file and choose a compatible app like MX Player or VLC.
Security notes
- Only download and open .DV files from trusted sources.
- Use antivirus software to scan files before opening.
- Avoid executing any scripts or macros embedded in video files.
Recommended antivirus software
Scan files before opening them. These antivirus tools help protect against malware and viruses.
Avast offers free and premium antivirus software that protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing. Scan files before opening them to ensure safety.
NortonNorton 360 delivers comprehensive antivirus protection, VPN, and identity theft monitoring. Scan files for threats before opening to keep your device secure.
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Can't open this file?
These are the most common causes and fixes when .DV files fail to open.
Common reasons
- File does not open
- Playback issues
Fix steps
- Install or update a compatible video player or editing software.
- Check if the file is corrupted by trying to open it on another device.
OS-specific troubleshooting
Convert .DV to other formats
Use conversion tools to change .DV files into formats your software supports.
- .DV → .3G2
- .DV → .3GP
- .DV → .ASF
- .DV → .AVI
- .DV → .DAT
- .DV → .DAV
- .DV → .DIVX
- .DV → .DVRMS
- .DV → .F4V
- .DV → .FLV
- .DV → .M2T
- .DV → .M2TS
- .DV → .M4V
- .DV → .MKV
- .DV → .MOD
- .DV → .MOV
- .DV → .MP4
- .DV → .MPEG
- .DV → .MPG
- .DV → .MTS
- .DV → .MXF
- .DV → .OGV
- .DV → .RM
- .DV → .RMVB
- .DV → .SWF
- .DV → .TOD
- .DV → .TP
- .DV → .TRP
- .DV → .TS
- .DV → .VOB
- .DV → .VRO
- .DV → .WEBM
- .DV → .WMV
- .DV → .WTV
- .DV → .XVID
What is a .DV file?
.DV is a digital video format used primarily in video editing and production. It was developed for use with digital camcorders and is known for maintaining high video quality. The format is widely supported by video editing software.
Background
The .DV file format was introduced as a part of the Digital Video (DV) standard, which was developed by a consortium of companies including Sony, Panasonic, and JVC in the mid-1990s. It was designed to be a consumer-friendly format that maintained high video quality while being easy to edit. DV files are typically used in professional and amateur video production and are often associated with digital camcorders. They store video data in a compressed format that retains high quality, making them suitable for editing and playback. Over the years, the format has been widely adopted by video editing applications and remains popular in certain video production workflows, despite the emergence of newer formats.
Common MIME types: video/dv
Further reading
Authoritative resources for more details on the .DV format.
Common .DV issues
File does not open
The file might not open if the necessary application is not installed or if the file is corrupted.
- Install or update a compatible video player or editing software.
- Check if the file is corrupted by trying to open it on another device.
Playback issues
Video playback may be choppy or laggy due to insufficient system resources or outdated software.
- Ensure your device meets the software's system requirements.
- Update your video player or editing software to the latest version.
FAQ
Can I convert a file by renaming it to .DV?
No, renaming a file does not change its format. Use a video conversion tool instead.
Is .DV safe to open?
Yes, if the file is from a trusted source and opened with reputable software.
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