XAML File Extension

XAML file icon

Windows Markup Format

What is a XAML file?

Windows Markup Format, identified by the XAML extension, is a Developer Files type and includes 1166 files.

The Windows Markup Format (XAML) was developed by Microsoft, which created file format and 242 programs to work with them.

XAML files are supported by Windows. To open a XAML file, you can choose from 4 programs such as Notepad++, Microsoft .NET Micro Framework SDK and CINEMA 4D File Converter.

How to open a XAML file?

If you cannot open a XAML 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.

The most popular programs for working with XAML files are Notepad++, Microsoft .NET Micro Framework SDK and CINEMA 4D File Converter. To install the latest version of Notepad++ on your computer, visit the Notepad++ Team website where you can download the version available for all operating systems.

After completing the installation, XAML files should be recognized by the system and linked to Notepad++.

Set Notepad++ as the default XAML application

Changing the default program in Windows

  1. Right click on your XAML file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
  2. From the options listed in the pop-up window, specifically choose Notepad++ as the application to handle your XAML file;
  3. Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK" to save your preference.

Change the default app that opens a file on Mac

  1. Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired XAML file to open a menu where you can choose from multiple actions;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. In the lower section of the window, you’ll find the "Enable" menu, with "Recommended Programs" pre-selected as the default option;
  4. Select "All Programs" in this menu, and then search for Notepad++. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.

Convert to and from XAML

If you have trouble working with a XAML file, try converting it to PDF or similar developer files.

Please note that after converting a XAML file, some functionality may differ from the original. However, in many cases, it can be converted back to its original format.

Convert XAML to other file formats

Troubleshooting guide for XAML file complications

While XAML files can sometimes present difficulties, most problems can be resolved quickly with minor software modifications. Check the tips below to help solve them.

How do I know if my XAML file is corrupted?

Corrupted XAML developer files may have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
  • Poor performance when editing a file in Notepad++;
  • Opening the file in Notepad++ or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
  • Unexpected expansion of the total size of the XAML file;
  • Error messages appear while working with the file;

Why does Notepad++ crash?

The likely cause of Notepad++ crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Notepad++ Team products.

Restarting your computer is a crucial troubleshooting measure that can alleviate numerous common problems. Therefore, it is advisable to restart your computer before modifying any settings related to the software.

How to repair a corrupted XAML file?

Open the corrupted XAML file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged developer files.

How to edit a XAML file?

To edit XAML files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify developer files. Online XAML editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Windows Markup Format.

List of Top XAML editors 2026

Taking the above factors into account, we have selected a list of XAML editors currently available.

XAML Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Notepad++Notepad++ TeamWindows4.6 out of 5 (37 reviews)