Incbin
A single-header C/C++ library for embedding binary and text files directly into executables using compiler inline assembly.
What is Incbin?
incbin is a single-header C/C++ library that allows developers to embed binary files (like images, audio, or text) directly into their executables at compile time. It solves the problem of managing external asset dependencies by converting files into static arrays that are linked into the program, making deployment simpler and improving runtime performance by eliminating file I/O.
C/C++ developers working on embedded systems, game development, or applications where bundling assets with the executable is required, especially those targeting multiple compilers and platforms.
Developers choose incbin for its extreme portability across compilers, zero runtime overhead, and flexibility in symbol naming and alignment—all without external dependencies, unlike heavier asset management libraries.
Overview
Include binary files in C/C++
Use Cases
Best For
- Embedding icons, fonts, or images in GUI applications
- Including shader files or configuration data in game engines
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