imhex
ImHex is an open-source hex editor for reverse engineers and programmers. Its pattern language lets you describe the structure of binary files and inspect them with color-coded fields, and it ships with a dark theme for long sessions.
github.com · Official website
- ✓ Official source (winget)
- ✓ SHA256 taken from the official repository
- ✓ Last checked: Nov. 4, 2026
- This is not a virus scan. Check on VirusTotal
- Version
- 1.38.1
- Release date
- Dec. 21, 2025
- License
- GPL-2.0
- Installer type
- wix
How do I use this?
Type Terminal in the Start menu and open it, paste the command (Ctrl+V or right-click) and press Enter. It uses winget, Windows' own package manager, to install the program from its official source.
winget install --id WerWolv.ImHex -eSHA256 (file verification)
f0be16446f546ade94e55c3626a67c831cc85c03965a9c12bacf0c076214851cWe couldn't find a macOS version of imhex in the official repositories; check the publisher's website.
We couldn't find a Linux version of imhex in the official repositories; check the publisher's website.
We couldn't find a Android version of imhex in the official repositories; check the publisher's website.
Highlights
- Hex editor that handles large files
- Pattern language for describing binary structures
- Data inspector showing selected bytes as different types
- Built-in disassembler and string search
- Bookmarks, file diffing and plugin support
Who is it for?
For reverse engineers, developers examining file formats, security researchers and CTF players.
Good to know before installing
- The interface has many panels and can feel heavy for simple hex editing.
- Learning the pattern language takes time.
How to install
Windows
- Click the official download button on this page.
- Run the installer and follow the steps.
- Or use the winget command shown on the page.
Alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Is ImHex free?
Yes. It is open source and free.
What is the pattern language for?
You describe a file format's structure in a C-like language, and ImHex names and colors the bytes according to it.
Is it suitable for beginners?
It works for simple byte editing, but most of its features assume knowledge of binary file structures.