QM File Extension

QM file icon

Qt Compiled Translation Source Format

  • File Type qm
  • Developer Nokia
  • Popularity
    4.5 (35 votes)
  • Application Qt SDK
  • Category Data Files
  • Format Binary

What is a QM file?

Qt Compiled Translation Source Format, identified by the QM extension, is a Data Files type and includes 6196 files.

The Qt Compiled Translation Source Format (QM), created by Nokia, is one of file format they developed, and they also built 7 programs to support them.

QM file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. When working with QM files, you can rely on 3 programs, including Qt SDK, VirtualBox and Jabbim.

Programs that support QM files

How to open a QM file?

If you can’t open a QM file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.

When it comes to opening and working with QM files, Qt SDK, VirtualBox and Jabbim are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of Qt SDK, simply go to the Digia Oyj site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.

Once the process is complete, Qt SDK should take over as the default application for QM files.

Set Qt SDK as the default QM program

Changing Default Programs in Windows

  1. Right-click on your QM file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
  2. In the pop-up window, select the Qt SDK application;
  3. Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening QM files.

Change Default Program on Mac

  1. Right click or Control + left click on the desired QM file;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
  4. Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Qt SDK. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.

Solve problems with QM files

Rest assured, any issues with QM files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.

Why does Qt SDK stop responding or crash intermittently?

Qt SDK crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your Digia Oyj products up to date by installing the latest updates.

Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.

What are the best practices for repairing a QM file that has gone bad?

Use a data recovery program to open the damaged QM file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged data files.

What are the warning signs that my QM file may be corrupted?

Common indications of damaged QM data files are:

  • Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
  • Editing the archive in Qt SDK results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
  • Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
  • Unexpected expansion of the total size of the QM file;
  • Opening the file in Qt SDK or other programs causes them to hang or crash;

How to edit a QM file?

To edit QM files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the data files. Online QM editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Qt Compiled Translation Source Format.

List of Top QM editors 2026

Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of QM editors you can use.

QM Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Qt SDKDigia OyjWindows4.3 out of 5 (38 reviews)

Convert to and from QM

If obstacles arise while working with a QM file, you may convert it to formats like TS or other similar types for smoother handling.

Keep in mind that converting a QM file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.

Convert QM to other file formats