BIN vs ISO: What’s the Difference and Which Format Should You Use?

BIN and ISO are two of the most common disc image formats found in game backups, software archives and older CD/DVD distributions. Although they often contain the same data, the structure and compatibility of each format can differ significantly. This guide breaks down how BIN and ISO work and when each format is the better choice.

Comparison chart showing differences between BIN and ISO file formats
BIN and ISO store disc data differently — understanding their structure helps determine which format suits your needs.
Table of Contents

Quick Overview: BIN vs ISO

Both BIN and ISO contain complete disc data — but they store it differently:

  • BIN is a raw, sector-by-sector copy of a disc.
  • ISO is a standardized file system structure used by most modern systems.
  • CUE files describe track layout for BIN images.
  • ISO files do not require a separate descriptor file.

What Is a BIN File?

A BIN file is a raw binary image of a CD or DVD. It includes every sector exactly as it existed on the physical disc — data, audio tracks, subchannel information, and more.

Characteristics of BIN:

  • Raw representation of disc sectors
  • Often paired with a CUE file
  • Supports multi-track discs (common for PS1 games)
  • Can include audio + data tracks mixed together

Because it’s raw, BIN can capture complex disc layouts that ISO cannot always replicate perfectly.

What Is a CUE File?

A CUE file is a tiny text file that acts as a “map” for the BIN image. It tells software:

  • How many tracks the disc contains
  • Whether tracks are audio or data
  • Where each track begins
  • Which BIN file(s) belong to the disc
FILE "game.bin" BINARY
  TRACK 01 MODE1/2352
    INDEX 01 00:00:00

Without the CUE, many programs cannot properly interpret a BIN file.

What Is an ISO File?

An ISO file contains a structured filesystem (ISO9660, Joliet, UDF). Unlike BIN, ISO only stores the data portion — not raw sectors.

Characteristics of ISO:

  • Single-file format with no companion CUE sheet
  • Mountable natively on Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • Preferred by emulators and virtual drive software
  • Easier to copy, store and archive

Key Differences Between BIN and ISO

Feature BIN ISO
Data Structure Raw sector-by-sector image Standard file system (ISO9660/Joliet/UDF)
Companion File Needed? Yes — CUE sheet describes track layout No — self-contained single file
Multi-Track Support Full support (PS1 audio/data discs) Limited — not ideal for multi-track audio
Operating System Support Low — requires special tools High — mounts natively on Windows, macOS, Linux
Best For Disc preservation, legacy games, mixed audio/data Modern OS use, emulation, easy access
Ease of Use More complex (requires CUE and proper structure) Very simple — single file, mounts instantly

Which Format Should You Use?

For most users, ISO is the more practical format. It’s supported across operating systems and loads instantly in emulators and virtual drive software.

You should choose ISO if you want:

  • Simple mounting on Windows/macOS/Linux
  • Easy emulator compatibility
  • One-file convenience

BIN is better if you need:

  • Perfect disc preservation
  • Multi-track audio accuracy
  • Archival-level backups

Should You Convert BIN to ISO?

Yes — in most cases an ISO file is easier to work with. Conversion is lossless, meaning the disc data remains unchanged.

Typical reasons to convert:

  • Missing or broken CUE file
  • Emulators refusing BIN format
  • OS cannot mount BIN directly
  • You want a single portable file

BIN → ISO conversion simply repackages the existing disc image into a more widely compatible container.

FAQ

Is BIN the same as ISO?

No. BIN stores raw sectors while ISO stores a structured filesystem. They contain similar data but in different formats.

Can ISO contain audio tracks like BIN?

Usually no. ISO is mainly for data tracks. BIN is better for multi-track PS1-style audio discs.

Is BIN to ISO conversion safe?

Yes. Conversion does not modify data — it only changes the container.

Do I need a CUE file for ISO?

No. ISO files do not require a CUE descriptor.

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