raster format

What is a .TGA file?

TGA (Targa) is an early raster format with alpha support, still used in game development and video production for textures and frames.

Full name
Truevision TGA
Developed by
Truevision
Released
1984
Extension
.tga
MIME type
image/x-tga
Transparency
Yes

How to open a TGA file

TGA opens in Photoshop, GIMP and most game/3D tooling.

What TGA 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
Supports transparencyLess common outside its niche

Tools for this format

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

Need more than a conversion?

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

Frequently asked questions

TGA (Targa) is an early raster format with alpha support, still used in game development and video production for textures and frames.

TGA opens in Photoshop, GIMP and most game/3D tooling.

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

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

Yes — TGA supports transparent backgrounds.