TEX files are a type of LaTeX file. LaTeX is a high-quality typesetting system that includes elements like symbols, text, graphics and mathematical expressions. It’s often used to nicely express advanced mathematical formulas or fractions and in computer science or electrical engineering publications.
The TEX files themselves contain plain text as well as mark-up structures that define the format of a piece of writing.
Alternatively, the TEX file format can also be a texture file. In this case, these bitmap files contain surface information for 2D or 3D objects and are often used in video games and texture-mapping processes.
How can you open TEX files?
LaTeX TEX files are plain text and can, therefore, be opened with any text editor as well as dedicated LaTeX software.
Bitmap TEX files, on the other hand, can be opened with some image editors, but are primarily meant to be used with programs that reference textures and/or use texture-mapping.
What programs work with TEX files?
LaTeX files can be opened with text editors like Notepad ++, as well as programs like TeXworks, BaKoMa TeX, Texmaker, TeXShop, Skim, and other LaTeX programs.
Bitmap type TEX files may be able to work with some image editing programs, but will primarily work with programs like Hover or game development tools like Gibbed’s DeadRising2 Tools.
