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XCF Converter

Convert your files to and from XCF format easily and securely.

How it works

Three simple steps to your new file.

01

Upload

Drag and drop your files or click to select from your device to get started instantly.

02

Select

Choose your desired output format from our extensive list of supported file types.

03

Convert

Click convert and download your newly formatted file. Fast, free, and secure.

What is an XCF file?

XCF (eXperimental Computing Facility) is the native project file format for the GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP). It is a binary format designed to save all data associated with a GIMP editing session, including layers, channels, paths, transparency (alpha), and guides. The file structure relies on a pointer-based system to reference image tiles and uses simple Run-Length Encoding (RLE) for compressing pixel data. XCF is strictly a working format for image editing and is not intended for final image distribution or web rendering.

How to open an XCF file

The XCF format is proprietary to GIMP and should be opened using the GNU Image Manipulation Program on Windows, macOS, or Linux to preserve layer structure and editability. While some third-party viewers like IrfanView (with plugins), XnView, and Inkscape can import or view flattened versions of XCF files, they cannot write or edit the multilayered data natively. Operating systems do not provide native rendering support for XCF files.

  • Full Name:eXperimental Computing Facility
  • Developed By:The GIMP Team
  • Initial Release:1995
  • MIME Type:image/x-xcf
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