What is a BMP file? [+ How to Open and Use]

What is a BMP file?

A BMP file (a Bitmap) is a type of raster graphics file format used to store bitmap digital images.

Originally developed as a part of Microsoft Windows, the Bitmap format is recognized by nearly every image program out there. Since it is uncompressed, the BMP file format offers high-quality images but also results in larger file sizes.

What are BMP files for?

Bitmap files are commonly used for digital images and graphics.

Whether you're designing a website or creating digital art, these BMP files provide top-quality images that aid in creating visually appealing projects. Because of the larger file size, BMP is not commonly used for transferring images across the web. But, you can find plenty of practical applications for BMP files in professional design settings where image quality is paramount.

How to Open BMP files?

Opening a BMP file couldn't be easier. Standard Microsoft programs like Paint and Windows Photo Viewer can open these files without any issue. However, many other programs like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, or Irfanview can also open and edit BMP files.

These powerful tools provide more extensive editing options and can help optimize your work with BMP files. Regardless of the software you use, the point is that BMP files are widely compatible with many image editing tools.

What other file types are related to BMP files?

There are several other file types that are related to BMP files, including:

• JPEG
• GIF
• PNG
• TIFF

These file formats, similar to BMP, offer different compression, transparency, and color support.

How to Convert JPG to BMP File

Converting a JPG (JPEG) file to a BMP (Bitmap Image File) might be necessary for applications that require BMP’s uncompressed format for high-quality images or specific compatibility reasons. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to convert a JPG file to a BMP:

1. Using Microsoft Paint (Windows):
2. • Open the JPG file in Microsoft Paint by right-clicking the file and selecting Open with > Paint.
   • Once the image is open in Paint, click on “File” in the menu bar, then hover over “Save as” to reveal the format options.
   • Select “BMP picture” from the list. A dialog box will appear prompting you to choose a save location and file name.
   • In the “Save as type” dropdown menu, make sure “24-bit Bitmap (*.bmp, *.dib)” or another BMP format option is selected, depending on your needs.
   • Click “Save.” Your JPG file will now be saved as a BMP file in the location you specified.
2. Using Preview (macOS):
3. • Locate the JPG file and open it with Preview by double-clicking the file.
   • In Preview, click on “File” in the menu bar, then select “Export.”
   • In the export dialog, click on the “Format” dropdown menu and select “BMP” from the list of available formats.
   • Optionally, you can rename the file and choose where to save it.
   • Click “Save,” and your JPG will be converted and saved as a BMP file.
3. Using Online Conversion Tools:
4. • If you prefer not to use software or if you are using a device without image editing capabilities, online conversion tools can be a convenient option. Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, and OnlineConvert.com offer free conversion services.
   • Visit one of these websites and follow their instructions to upload your JPG file.
   • Select BMP as the target format for the conversion.
   • Start the conversion process. Once it’s complete, you’ll typically be given a link to download the converted BMP file.
4. Using Image Editing Software:
5. • Open the JPG file in an image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, or another program that supports image format conversion.
   • Once the image is open, look for an option to “Save As” or “Export” the file. This option is usually found under the “File” menu.
   • In the save or export dialog, select BMP as the output format. You may also encounter options to choose the bit depth of the BMP file. Select the one that best suits your requirements.
   • Choose a location to save the new BMP file, give it a name, and click “Save” or “Export.”

How do I Change a BMP file to JPG

Converting a BMP file to a JPG (JPEG) is a common task, as JPG files are more suitable for web use, sharing, and storage due to their compressed size. Here’s how you can convert a BMP file to a JPG:

1. Using Microsoft Paint (Windows):
2. • Open the BMP file in Microsoft Paint.
   • Click on "File" in the menu bar, then select "Save as."
   • Choose "JPEG picture" from the list of file formats.
   • Choose your desired location, name your file, and click "Save."
2. Using Preview (macOS):
3. • Open the BMP file in Preview.
   • Click on "File" in the menu bar, then select "Export."
   • In the dialog box, choose "JPEG" from the format dropdown menu.
   • Adjust the quality slider as needed, choose your location, and click "Save."
3. Using Online Conversion Tools:
4. • There are numerous online services available for converting BMP files to JPG. These tools typically require you to upload your BMP file, select JPG as the target format, and then download the converted file. Some popular online converters include Zamzar, CloudConvert, and Convertio. Always ensure that the website is reputable to protect your data’s privacy and security.
4. Using Image Editing Software:
5. • Open the BMP file in your preferred image editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP.
   • Look for an option to "Save As" or "Export" the image.
   • Select "JPEG" as the output format, adjust the quality settings as desired, and save the file.

What to Do if You Can't Open a BMP File

First, check if you have the necessary software to open BMP files installed on your device.

For instance, Windows has built-in tools like Paint and Photos that can handle BMP files. If you're on a Mac, you can use Apple's Preview application. If you have the proper software but still can't open the file, it's possible your BMP file might be corrupted.

In this case, you may use online file repair services or programs designed to fix corrupted images. Some tools can recover data from damaged BMP files, allowing you to access the contents of the image.

Is BMP a Video File or a Vector File?

No, BMP is not a video file.

BMP, short for Bitmap, is a pixel-based file format used for storing two-dimensional images. It does not support any forms of motion, thereby eliminating the possibility of it being a video file.

Is BMP a Vector File?

No, BMP is not a vector file.

Vector files contain paths defined by a start and endpoint, along with other points, curves, and angles along the way.

In contrast, BMP files store detailed information about each pixel in the image, making it a raster or pixel-based format. While both formats can offer clear, crisp images, the difference lies in how they store and render the image data.