raster format

What is a .RGB file?

RGB is Silicon Graphics' image format from SGI Unix workstations, storing uncompressed or RLE-compressed color used in early 3D and film work.

Full name
SGI RGB Image
Developed by
Silicon Graphics
Released
1988
Extension
.rgb
MIME type
image/rgb
Transparency
Varies

How to open a RGB file

RGB opens in GIMP, ImageMagick and SGI-era tools; convert to PNG/TIFF for modern editors.

What RGB 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
Large file sizes

Tools for this format

Convert, compress and edit — free, in your browser.

Need more than a conversion?

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

Frequently asked questions

RGB is Silicon Graphics' image format from SGI Unix workstations, storing uncompressed or RLE-compressed color used in early 3D and film work.

RGB opens in GIMP, ImageMagick and SGI-era tools; convert to PNG/TIFF for modern editors.

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

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

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