TGA is a popular image file format used for high-quality graphics in 3D modeling, CAD, and video game design. Unlike JPG or PNG files, TGA images are not supported by default on most web browsers or image viewers. Thankfully, there are several excellent online TGA viewers that make it easy to open and inspect TGA files right within your web browser.
In this post, we’ll highlight the top TGA viewers available online for fast, hassle-free viewing.
What is the TGA File Format?
Developed in the 1980s, the TGA (TARGA) format is a lossless raster graphics format designed for detailed high-color images used in 3D, CAD, and other technical applications.
Key features that make TGA files ideal for high-quality graphics include:
- Lossless RLE data compression to reduce file size
- Up to 32 bits per pixel, supporting a 16.7 million color palette
- 8, 16, 24, and 32-bit color depth options
- Alpha channel transparency for implementing backgrounds
- Limited color palettes, optimal for compressing texture maps and 3D model visuals
Because of its purpose-built design focused on rich graphics for engineering and imaging, TGA files can’t be displayed natively in web browsers like JPGs or PNGs. That’s where dedicated online TGA viewers come in handy.
Top 5 Online TGA Viewers
Here are the best online viewers for easily opening TGAs right inside your browser without any hassle:
1. FileInfo Online TGA Viewer
FileInfo offers an excellent instant online TGA viewer requiring no signup or download. Just drag and drop your TGA or use the file picker. Smooth image loading and built-in controls like pan, zoom, rotate, and fullscreen make inspecting details a breeze.
Handy features include automatically displaying image resolution, toggling background colors, and saving views. The straightforward interface works excellently for quickly checking TGA file contents uploaded from colleagues or previewing textures.
2. SearchFile Online TGA Viewer
For fast previews of TGA imagery, SearchFile’s online TGA viewer performs admirably. TGAs load rapidly after picking or dropping the file. Convenient keyboard shortcuts complement the expected panning and zooming capabilities.
Useful for reviewing 3D models, textures, or any high-resolution TGA graphics. Images display crisp and sharp. No required signup or software installation makes it easy to share and discuss TGAs.
3. TGA Viewer by FileLookup
FileLookup offers a streamlined online TGA viewer that loads images instantly. TGAs display clear and sharp. Inspection tools like pan, zoom, rotate, and fullscreen viewing are available. The “Original” toggle displays an unscaled image.
A handy TGA analysis tool shows image properties including resolution, bit-depth, color type, and more. Useful for examining technical 3D and CAD model visuals. Saves directly as JPG/PNG too.
4. Online TGA Viewer by TGAViewer.com
With zero clutter and no signup reqs, TGAViewer.com offers a super simple solution for previewing TGA graphics. Upload your file and it loads immediately. Intuitive controls like pan, zoom, rotate, magnify, and fullscreen allow easy analysis.
Handy for assessing game textures, 3D models, or technical imaging TGAs rapidly. Performs well for quick online previews and tackles large hi-res TGA files with ease.
5. TinyTGA
As its name suggests, TinyTGA is a compact online TGA viewer weighing only ~100 KB. It manages smooth loading and rendering of dense TGA graphics. In addition to typical view controls, it uniquely offers TGA editing features.
A simple paint menu allows drawing on and modifying loaded TGA files. Colors, shapes, zoom, redo, and save capabilities allow annotating and marking up TGAs. Requires Java applet. Ideal for collaborative reviews.
Conclusion
Online TGA viewers like FileInfo and TGAViewer.com provide effortless previews of TGA graphics files without needing to install software locally. Their speed, ease of use, and crisp image rendering make inspecting 3D visuals, game textures, and technical diagrams a breeze.
With the ability to quickly share and discuss TGAs remotely via web browsers, these online TGA viewers save designers, engineers, and digital artists time and hassle.
