raster format

What is a .CUT file?

CUT is the Dr. Halo paint program's image format from the DOS era, paired with a separate palette file — now a historical curiosity.

Full name
Dr. Halo Cut File
Developed by
Media Cybernetics
Released
1984
Extension
.cut
MIME type
image/cut
Transparency
Varies

How to open a CUT file

CUT opens in ImageMagick and legacy converters; convert to PNG/BMP to view today.

What CUT files are used for

Photos & web images

Share, post and embed pictures across sites and apps.

Editing & design

Work with the format in editors like Photoshop and GIMP.

Storage & archiving

Keep memories and assets in a widely-readable form.

Strengths & limitations

✔ Strengths✖ Limitations
Purpose-built for its nicheNo transparency support
Limited support — may need converting

Need more than a conversion?

Remove the background from CUT images, upscale to 4K, or generate new visuals with SharkFoto AI.

Frequently asked questions

CUT is the Dr. Halo paint program's image format from the DOS era, paired with a separate palette file — now a historical curiosity.

CUT opens in ImageMagick and legacy converters; convert to PNG/BMP to view today.

CUT is optimised for its specific use rather than strictly lossless storage.

Use SharkFoto's free tools — upload your CUT file and convert it to a more convenient format in seconds. It's free, processed securely and never stored.

No — CUT doesn't store transparency; convert to PNG or WEBP if you need it.