MK File

What are MK files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a MK file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your MK files.

What is a MK file?

A .MK file is a Make file.

Makefile files with the .mk extension are plain-text build scripts used by build automation tools like GNU Make. They describe how to compile and link source code, defining which files depend on which others and what commands ("recipes") must run when parts of the project are changed. .mk files help developers automate rebuilding only what's necessary when source files are edited rather than re-building everything.

These files are created by developers or build systems during software development. You may find .mk files in projects managed by Eclipse CDT or in projects using custom or "included" make rules. They are read by the make utility, which examines file modification times, dependency definitions, and recipe commands in the .mk (and/or Makefile) to determine what must be recompiled or regenerated.

Internally, .mk files follow makefile syntax: they consist of rules, each with a target, prerequisites, and command lines starting with a tab character. Variables are defined and referenced using forms like VAR = value and $(VAR), and comments begin with the # character. Conditional parts, include directives, pattern rules (using %) and implicit rules are also supported.

How to open MK files

We have identified one MK opener that is compatible with this specific type of MK file.

Programs that open Make files

Last updated: August 9, 2026

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of MK files. Remember, different programs may use MK files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about MK file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.