RLE File

What are RLE files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a RLE 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 RLE files.

What is a RLE file?

RLE files have multiple uses, and Run Length Encoded Bitmap is one of them. Read more about the other uses further down the page.

Run Length Encoded Bitmap

Compression is key. RLE is a technique to reduce the size of bitmap images without any loss in quality. It works by replacing runs of consecutive data values with a single value and a count of how many times that value appears.

For example, in a logo or icon with large areas of uniform color, RLE replaces each pixel's unique value with one-shared one, plus a count of the repetition. This can significantly reduce the size of the file.

But RLE isn't suitable for photos or intricate images due to potential increase in file size. To achieve compression here takes more sophisticated algorithms.

How to open RLE files

We have identified two RLE openers that are compatible with this specific type of RLE file.

Programs that open Run Length Encoded Bitmap files

Last updated: January 22, 2025

All known file formats using extension .RLE

While Run Length Encoded Bitmap is a popular type of RLE-file, we know of 6 different uses of the .RLE file extension. Different software may use files with the same extension for different types of data.

Autodesk Screencast Video (intermediate Format)

We know that one RLE format is Autodesk Screencast Video (intermediate Format). We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested ten different RLE openers which you will find listed below.

CompuServe RLE Bitmap

We know that one RLE format is CompuServe RLE Bitmap. We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

Golly Extended RLE

We know that one RLE format is Golly Extended RLE. We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

Intergraph Raster Bitmap (Run-Length Encoded, 1-bit)

We know that one RLE format is Intergraph Raster Bitmap (Run-Length Encoded, 1-bit). We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

Utah Raster Toolkit Bitmap

We know that one RLE format is Utah Raster Toolkit Bitmap. We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of RLE files. Remember, different programs may use RLE 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 RLE file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.