PREL File Extension
Premiere Elements Project Format
- File Type prel
- Developer Adobe Systems
- Popularity
- Application Adobe Premiere Elements
- Category Video Files
What is a PREL file?
The PREL file extension is linked to Premiere Elements Project Format and belongs to the Video Files category, which includes 445 files.
The Premiere Elements Project Format (PREL) was developed by Adobe, which created file format and 81 programs to work with them.
PREL files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS. To play a PREL file, you can choose from 2 programs such as Adobe Premiere Elements and Adobe Premiere Pro.
Programs that support PREL files
How to open a PREL file?
If you cannot open a PREL file, it is most often due to missing software. Select a program from the list according to your operating system. Then go to the official website of the program developer, download it, and install it on your device.
Adobe Premiere Elements and Adobe Premiere Pro are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with PREL files. To set up the newest version of Adobe Premiere Elements on your device, simply go to the official Adobe website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.
Once installed, Adobe Premiere Elements will be set as the default program, and PREL files will open automatically.
Set Adobe Premiere Elements to open PREL by default
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Right click on your PREL file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
- Find the Adobe Premiere Elements application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
- Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening PREL files.
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired PREL file to access the file’s context menu;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
- Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate Adobe Premiere Elements. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.
How to edit a PREL file?
Editing PREL files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit video files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Premiere Elements Project Format programs.
Best PREL editors in 2026
Considering the mentioned criteria, we have compiled a list of PREL editors that may suit your needs.
| PREL Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Premiere Elements | Adobe | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
Easy PREL Troubleshooting
Certain problems with PREL files can be conveniently fixed with small software tweaks. Here are some helpful tips to address them.
What are the steps to repair a damaged PREL file?
Open the corrupted PREL file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged video files.
How do I know if my PREL file is corrupted?
Corrupted PREL video files may show the following signs:
- Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
- Editing the archive in Adobe Premiere Elements is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
- The file causes Adobe Premiere Elements or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
- Unexplained increase in PREL file size;
- Error messages appear while working with the file;
What are the reasons behind Adobe Premiere Elements crash?
The likely cause of Adobe Premiere Elements crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Adobe products.
Restarting your computer is often an effective solution to resolve various common problems. Therefore, it is recommended to do so before making any changes to the software configuration.