raster format

What is a .SID file?

SID (MrSID) is LizardTech's wavelet format for huge geospatial images like aerial and satellite maps, allowing fast zoom into massive files.

Full name
MrSID (LizardTech)
Developed by
LizardTech
Released
1996
Extension
.sid
MIME type
image/sid
Transparency
Varies

How to open a SID file

SID opens in GIS software like QGIS and ArcGIS; convert to GeoTIFF/JPG for general use.

What SID 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 SID images, upscale to 4K, or generate new visuals with SharkFoto AI.

Frequently asked questions

SID (MrSID) is LizardTech's wavelet format for huge geospatial images like aerial and satellite maps, allowing fast zoom into massive files.

SID opens in GIS software like QGIS and ArcGIS; convert to GeoTIFF/JPG for general use.

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

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

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