.PAINT File Extension

Microsoft Paint Project

Developer Microsoft
Popularity
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What is a PAINT file?

A PAINT file is a project created by Microsoft Paint, a basic graphics editing application included with Windows. It saves a drawing's working state in the proprietary Paint format, including layers and drawing elements, allowing Paint to preserve editable elements while a project is still in progress.

More Information

Screenshot of a .paint file in Microsoft Paint 11
PAINT file open in Microsoft Paint 11

Microsoft introduced the Paint project format in the Windows 11 version of Microsoft Paint released in late 2023, alongside updates such as support for layers and improved editing tools. The format is useful for users who want to pause work and return later without committing to a final image format, such as .JPEG or .PNG.

NOTE: PAINT files are mainly used by casual users, students, and hobbyists who rely on Microsoft Paint for basic drawing, annotation, or simple graphic design tasks.

How to open a PAINT file

You can open PAINT files with Microsoft Paint in Windows. To open a PAINT file with Paint, select File → Open.

How to convert a PAINT file

Microsoft Paint can convert PAINT files to various file types, including the following formats:

  • .JPG - JPEG Image
  • .PNG - Portable Network Graphic
  • .TIF - Tagged Image File Format
  • .GIF - Graphical Interchange Format
  • .BMP - Bitmap Image
  • .HEIC - High Efficiency Image Format
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Programs that open PAINT files

Windows
Included with OS

Verified by FileInfo.com

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