What is a GIMP XCF file?
XCF is GIMP's native file format - the free, open-source alternative to Photoshop's PSD. It keeps layers, channels, paths, text and selections so you can continue editing later.
Like PSD, XCF is a working file rather than a sharing format: to post or send the design you need a flattened JPG or PNG.
How to open a GIMP XCF file
GIMP (free for Windows, Mac and Linux) opens XCF files. Some viewers such as XnView show a flattened preview. Converting gives you the finished image without installing GIMP.
- Extension
- .xcf
- Contains
- Layers, channels, paths, text
- Made by
- GIMP
- Best for
- Layered GIMP projects