An open-source C library for reading and writing binary MATLAB MAT files without requiring MATLAB.
Matio is an open-source C library for reading and writing binary MATLAB MAT files. It solves the problem of accessing MATLAB data formats in environments where MATLAB is not installed or where reliance on MATLAB's shared libraries is undesirable. The library supports multiple MAT file versions, including compressed and HDF5-based formats.
Developers and researchers working with scientific data who need to read or write MATLAB MAT files from C/C++ applications, especially in embedded systems, cross-platform tools, or open-source projects that cannot depend on MATLAB.
Matio provides a lightweight, standalone alternative to MATLAB's proprietary I/O libraries, offering full compatibility with MAT files without licensing restrictions. Its optional support for zlib and HDF5 ensures flexibility, while its cross-platform build systems simplify integration into diverse toolchains.
MATLAB MAT File I/O Library with support for MATLAB Class Object System
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Reads and writes binary MATLAB MAT files across multiple versions, including compressed and HDF5-based formats, as outlined in the Key Features section.
Supports GNU autotools, CMake, and Visual Studio solutions, tested on Linux, Windows, and macOS, ensuring easy integration into diverse development environments.
Can be built without zlib or HDF5 for basic functionality, allowing lightweight deployments where full feature sets like compression or MAT v7.3 support aren't required.
Optionally enables extended sparse matrix data types beyond MATLAB's native double-precision, providing flexibility for specialized scientific computing needs.
Full functionality requires optional dependencies like zlib and HDF5, with specific versioning and configuration nuances (e.g., HDF5 API compatibility), making installation and build more involved.
Primarily a C library with no built-in support for higher-level languages like Python or Java, necessitating additional wrapping efforts for broader integration.
Relies on email contact and SourceForge forums for questions and bug reports, which may lead to slower resolution compared to active community platforms or comprehensive docs.