BMP VS PDF
The ultimate comparison guide. Understanding the technical differences between Bitmap Image File and Portable Document Format.
BMP
bmpUncompressed raster graphics, high quality but large file size.
Pros
- Uncompressed quality
- Simple structure
- Fast processing
Cons
- Huge file sizes
- No compression
- No web usage
Standard for document exchange, preserving layout.
Pros
- Universal layout preservation
- Security features
- Vector text
Cons
- Difficult to edit
- Not responsive for mobile
When BMP wins
Stay with BMP when you need windows system files or legacy software. Its strengths center on uncompressed quality and a feature set native to Microsoft.
When PDF wins
Choose PDF when your workflow prioritizes contracts or manuals. It delivers universal layout preservation plus modern compression perks.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | BMP | |
|---|---|---|
| MIME Type | image/bmp | application/pdf |
| Developer | Microsoft | Adobe |
| Release Year | 1990 | 1993 |
| Best For | Windows system files, Legacy software | Contracts, Manuals, Forms, Printing |
Need to switch?
Where BMP still wins
Keep BMP when you need uncompressed quality and workflows depend on windows system files / legacy software. Link those teams directly to the converter above so they can ship PDF deliverables without leaving their browser.
- • Reference the .bmp glossary from this page.
- • Embed the conversion CTA in docs, wikis, and onboarding runbooks.
- • Use PDF for contracts while archiving originals as BMP.
Keep crawlers in the conversion hub
Link this comparison to the relevant tool, glossary, and documentation pages so every crawl discovers a monetizable route.