~DF File Extension
Delphi Form Backup
- File Type ~df
- Developer Embarcadero Technologies, Inc.
- Popularity
- Application Delphi
- Category Developer Files
What is a ~DF file?
Delphi Form Backup, identified by the ~DF extension, is a Developer Files type and includes 1166 files.
The Delphi Form Backup (~DF) was created by Embarcadero, a company that developed file format and produced 8 programs for their use.
~DF files are supported by Windows. If you need to open a ~DF file, you can use one of 2 programs, such as Delphi and C++ Builder.
How to open a ~DF file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a ~DF file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
The most popular programs for working with ~DF files are Delphi and C++ Builder. To get the latest version of Delphi, open the Embarcadero website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
After completing the installation, ~DF files should be recognized by the system and linked to Delphi.
Make Delphi the default ~DF viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Right-click your ~DF file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose Delphi as the application to associate with your ~DF file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired ~DF file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- In the lower section of the window, you’ll find the "Enable" menu, with "Recommended Programs" pre-selected as the default option;
- Select "All Programs" in this menu, and then search for Delphi. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.
How to edit a ~DF file?
To edit ~DF files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify developer files. Online ~DF editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Delphi Form Backup.
List of Top ~DF editors 2026
Taking the above factors into account, we have selected a list of ~DF editors currently available.
| ~DF Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delphi | Embarcadero | Windows | 4.4 out of 5 (34 reviews) |
| C++ Builder | Embarcadero | Windows | 4.1 out of 5 (33 reviews) |
Finding answers to ~DF file problems
While ~DF files can sometimes present difficulties, most problems can be resolved quickly with minor software modifications. Check the tips below to help solve them.
What are the telltale signs of a corrupt ~DF file?
Corrupted ~DF developer files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the ~DF file;
- Opening the file in Delphi or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- While working with the file, error messages appear;
- Poor performance when editing a file in Delphi;
Why does Delphi quit or crash unexpectedly?
Delphi crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Embarcadero products.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What methods can be used to repair a damaged ~DF file?
Open the damaged ~DF file using Delphi or C++ Builder, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged developer files.