Legacy Windows application graphics
BMP is the native raster format on Windows and is used in legacy applications and system interfaces that require uncompressed images.
Format Encyclopedia
BMP File Format
BMP is a widely used image file format with broad support across tools and platforms.
Format authority
Image format reference
MIME type: image/bmp
Extension: .bmp
Category: image
Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Quick answer
What is BMP?
BMP — Bitmap image format that stores uncompressed raster graphics with lossless quality, primarily used on Windows for simple graphics.
BMP is an image file format. Bitmap image format that stores uncompressed raster graphics with lossless quality, primarily used on Windows for simple graphics. It is commonly used in workflows that require reliable image handling and is supported by a wide range of applications and online tools.
Use cases
Common uses of BMP
Uncompressed image editing
BMP stores pixel data without compression, making it suitable for workflows that need to avoid any quality change during editing or saving.
Intermediate format in image pipelines
BMP is sometimes used as an intermediate format between processing steps where lossless fidelity matters and file size is not a concern.
Printing and scanning workflows
BMP can be used in scanning and basic print workflows on Windows where compatibility with legacy drivers is required.
Simple system and desktop graphics
BMP is used for basic desktop wallpapers, system splash screens, and simple graphics in Windows environments.
Comparisons
BMP vs other formats
BMP vs PNG
PNG is lossless like BMP but uses efficient compression to produce files many times smaller, making PNG almost always the better choice for uncompressed-quality images.
BMP vs JPG
BMP stores uncompressed data with no quality loss, while JPG uses lossy compression to produce much smaller files suitable for sharing and web use.
BMP vs TIFF
Both BMP and TIFF can store lossless images, but TIFF supports richer metadata, CMYK color, multi-page documents, and compression options that BMP lacks.
Overview
Format summary
History
BMP has a long history as a practical file format in its category.
Specification
BMP is defined by an established file specification and is widely documented by the format community.
Developer
BMP is maintained through its standardization body and broad ecosystem support. Open formats are often improved by community contributors and software vendors.
Technical details
File format characteristics
Compression
Compression behavior varies by file content and encoder settings.
Encoding
Encoding depends on the format family and standard codec definitions.
Metadata
This format carries metadata in its standard container or file headers.
Performance
Smaller files open faster and are easier to transfer.
Best practices
How to use this format well
Keep originals
Save a copy of the original file before converting or editing.
Use compatible tools
Choose software that explicitly supports the format for best results.
Advantages
Why use this format
Wide support
BMP is supported by many applications and services.
Interoperability
The format is recognized across platforms and workflow tools.
Disadvantages
Format limitations
File size
Some formats can produce large files depending on quality settings.
Format complexity
Advanced features may not be supported by every tool.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
BMP is a file format used in image workflows.
Most modern applications in the category support this format.
Yes, it is designed for cross-platform use and broad compatibility.
Yes, many tools can convert it to other related file formats.
Use a compatible viewer or editor for the format.
Metadata handling depends on the format and the tool used.
Related formats
Related Format Guides
Related converters
Conversion tools for this format
Troubleshooting
Common problems and fixes
Check the extension
Confirm the file uses the correct extension and file header.
Try a different tool
Use another application if the current tool cannot open the file.
Reference