How to Convert ICO File to BMP – Top Methods

  author
Written By Kumar Raj
Anuraag Singh
Approved By Anuraag Singh
Published On May 8th, 2025
Reading Time 4 Minutes Reading

Understanding ICO and BMP Formats

ICO files are icon images that are mainly used on software applications, websites, and system icons. They have multiple sizes and color depths. On the other hand, BMP (Bitmap) files are raster files that do not get compressed, which makes them good for preserving image quality making them (unique for editing or even printing). To edit an image in a program that does not recognize ICO formats, icons may be saved in the BMP format. This will be possible because of the conversion.

Top Methods to Convert ICO to BMP

Despite the many ICO to bitmap converting methods, we have done the research and posted some of the best and the preferred methods for converting ICO file to BMP.

  • Online Converter
  • MS Paint
  • Command Line Tools
  • ICO to BMP Converter

Therefore, examine all these methods and reconsider all steps related to them individually.

Online Converting of ICO to Bitmap

Some of the online tools that do quick free icon file to BMP conversions are Online2Convert or zamzar that do not require software to be installed or other software installation related troubleshooting.

  1. To do a file conversion, browse to an online converter, such as Zamzar.com.
  2. Upload your ICO file.
  3. Choose “BMP” as an output format.
  4. Download the converted file.

Pros:

  • No installation required.
  • Accessible from any device.

Cons:

  • Privacy concerns and limited file size.

Save ICO Image as BMP Using Microsoft Paint

There is a software application called Windows’ built-in Paint that easily handles simple ICO to BMP conversions.

  1. Right-click the ICO file, select Open With, and then select Paint.
  2. Click “File” > “Save As” > “BMP”.
  3. Make a selection for the save point and validate.

Limitations:

  • May not be able to support all sizes of ICOs.
  • Manual process for multiple files.

Change ICO to Bitmap Using Command-Line Tools (Advanced Users)

Here are bulk constructors such as ImageMagick that can perform conversions through commands.

  1. Find ImageMagick at its official website and install it.
  2. Open Command Prompt and run: magick convert input.ico output.bmp

Best For: Developers or tech-savvy users.

Best way to Convert ICO to BMP (Recommended)

The SysTools Image Converter Software is an efficient tool for mass and reliable ICO to bitmap conversions. With its intuitive interface and powerful features, this one has earned favorites with individuals and companies alike.

Free Download Now Purchase Now

You can download the free version of the tool from above and start using it. This software comes free for demo and trial purposes.

Steps to Use ICO to BMP Converter:

  1. Download and install and run the tool on your system.
    run ico to bmp converter
  2. Click on the “Add Files” button to import ICO files.
    add files with ico and icon extension
  3. Preview the images in the same order and imported.
    preview ico orderwise
  4. Choose “BMP” as the target format.
    choose bmp as output format
  5. Click “Convert” for saving ICO file in BMP format.
    click on convert to start process
  6. Click “OK” once the conversion is completed successfully.
    conversion is successful/li>

Advantages of Professional Methods over Manual Ones?

  • Converts in batch multiple ICO files.
  • Original image quality is retained.
  • Works with Windows OS.
  • No restrictions on file size.
  • No need to send your files to an unknown server.
  • Everything works on your computer itself.
  • Also allows you to convert ICO to JPG and other image formats.

Frequently Asked Questions: Converting ICO to BMP

Q1: What is the difference between ICO and BMP?

An ICO file stores an icon in multiple sizes, while a BMP is an uncompressed image suitable for editing.

Q2: Are online conversion sites safe for ICO to BMP conversion?

Use such sites cautiously. Always use trusted sites and prefer offline tools like SysTools if the files are sensitive.

Q3: Can I convert several ICO files in one go?

Some online services may supports 5-10 files at once. A professional converter can convert files in bulk.

Q4: Why does my BMP file become pixelated?

Make sure the original ICO is in high resolution before the conversion.

In Conclusion

No matter if you use online services, Paint, or a dedicated software program such as the ICO to BMP Converter by SysTools, the conversion of ICO files into bitmap is a simple operation. For mass jobs and best quality, SysTools is the way to go. Start converting your icon files to BMP for productive working! Following these methods will enable you to perform ICO to BMP conversions in the fastest and safest manner.

  author

By Kumar Raj

A versatile writer with the vast knowledge of technology helps to reduce the gap between a user and technology. Provides easy and reliable ways to resolve multiple technical issues, which users encounter in their day-to-day life.

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