What is MIME type "application/x-cbr"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

application/x-cbr is a MIME type for digital comic book archives. It packages a series of images—often scanned pages—into a single, compressed file that reader software can display in sequence.

This format is designed for efficient storage and smooth page navigation during reading. It maintains the order of pages so comics appear as intended. The container often uses archive methods like RAR or ZIP to reduce file size and simplify distribution.

Sequential Viewing: Ensures pages appear in the correct order for a natural reading experience.
Efficient Compression: Bundles many images in one file, reducing overall size and easing download times.
Cross-Device Compatibility: Supported by many comic reader programs across PCs and mobile devices.

This MIME type is linked to file formats commonly used for digital comics, such as CBR, CBZ, CB7, CBT, and CBA.

For more details on MIME types and their use in multimedia file management, visit Wikipedia: MIME.

Associated file extensions

.cbr, .cbz, .cb7, .cbt, .cba

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: application/x-cbr

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/x-cbr">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'application/x-cbr');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.cbr, .cbz, .cb7, .cbt, .cba

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.