What is MIME type "image/emf"?

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

image/emf is a MIME type for Enhanced Metafile images. This format stores vector graphics as a set of drawing instructions rather than pixel data.

Files in this format include the standard EMF and its compressed variant EMZ. The compressed form reduces file size while keeping the vector data intact.

Main purpose: Represent vector images that scale without quality loss.
Use cases: Frequently used by Windows applications for high-quality printing, embedding in office documents, and creating scalable graphics.
Key benefits: Unlike raster images, these files maintain clarity at multiple sizes, making them ideal for detailed diagrams and presentations.

For more details, see this resource.

Associated file extensions

.emz, .emf

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: image/emf

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="image/emf">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', 'image/emf');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.emz, .emf

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.