Have you ever come across a file with a .vcf extension and wondered what it is or how to view VCF files in Windows 10, 8, 7 and 11? You’re not alone! Here in this post, we’ll explain what VCF files are, why they’re useful, and how you can easily open, view, and read them on a Windows computer. We’ll cover a few different methods, ranging from built-in Windows apps to automatic tool.
What is a VCF File?
VCF stands for Virtual Contact File. It’s most typically used for importing & exporting contacts between devices and platforms like:
- Email clients (e.g., Outlook, Thunderbird).
- Smartphones (Android, iPhone).
- Contact management systems.
- Messaging apps like WhatsApp.
A standard VCF file might look something like this when opened in a text editor:
BEGIN:VCARD
VERSION:3.0
FN:John Doe
TEL;TYPE=CELL:1234567890
EMAIL:john.doe@example.com
END:VCARD
Open and View VCF Files in Windows 10 – Manually
Let’s get to the good stuff — here are 5 different ways you can open and view vCard file in computer. Some require no extra software, while others offer additional features for managing contacts.
1: Use Windows Contacts (Built-In)
Windows 10 actually has a built-in feature called Windows Contacts that can open VCF files easily.
- Right-click the .vcf file.
- Select Open with > Choose another app.
- Choose Windows Contacts from the list.
- Click OK.
The contact information will open in a neat, user-friendly window where you can view details like name, phone number, email, and more.
Tip: If you do not show Windows Contacts,” press “More apps” and scroll down. Still not there? Try navigating to: C:\Users\YourUsername\Contacts.
Important Tips: To access additional features such as converting VCF files to CSV, Google CSV, Yahoo CSV, and more, you can upgrade to the VCF to CSV Converter Tool.
2: Open VCF file in PC using MS Outlook
If you have Outlook installed on your machine, you can easily transfer and view vCard files
- Open Outlook.
- Go to File tab and Open & Export > Import/Export.
- Choose Import a VCARD file (.vcf).
- Select VCF / vCard contacts you want to view.
- Click Open.
Outlook will move the contact data and you will be able to open or edit it in your Outlook contacts list.
3: View VCF Files with Text Editor (Notepad or Notepad++)
- Right-click the .vcf file.
- Choose Open with > Notepad or Notepad++
You’ll see raw vCard data like this:
BEGIN:VCARD
VERSION:3.0
N:Doe;John;;;
FN:John Doe
TEL;TYPE=CELL:1234567890
EMAIL:john@example.com
END:VCARD
This isn’t fancy, but it’s quick and useful if you’re just trying to grab an email or phone number.
4: Import to Google Contacts via Browser
If you are using Gmail or Google Contacts, you can transfer the VCF or vCard file into your Google account.
- Go to Google Contacts.
Click Import from the left sidebar.
- Upload your .vcf file.
- The contact file will appear in your list with all the details.
This is super helpful for syncing contacts across Android phones or accessing them anywhere online.
Pro tip: Any contact you import here will be accessible on all your devices logged into your Google account.
5: View VCF Files in Windows 10 and 11 Via Automatic Solution
vCard Viewer Software is a third-party application designed specifically to read and display the contents of VCF files in an organized and user-friendly manner. These tools are lightweight, fast, and provide enhanced features such as previewing all fields, searching for contacts, and exporting data to different formats. These tools are especially helpful when dealing with large VCF files or multiple contact cards in one file.
Step-by Step Guide to Open VCF File on PC with Attributes
- Download & start the vCard Reader Software on Windows.
- In the program, look for an option like “Add VCF File or Folder.
- Navigate to destination and select VCF or vCard Files or Folder.
- Once the file is uploaded, the tool will display a list of contacts found in the VCF file.
- Select the needed format & save the contact file to desired place.
Safety Tips When Handling VCF Files
VCF files are generally safe, but it’s always smart to be cautious, especially if you got one from someone you don’t know.
- Don’t open VCF files from unknown sources.
- Check the file in a text editor first to see what’s inside before importing it into your system.
- Use antivirus software to scan files if you’re unsure.
Final Thoughts
VCF files may seem technical at first, but they’re actually a super convenient way to view VCF Files in Windows 10, and 11 and below versions and also manage and move contact information. Whether you just want to open a contact’s email or import an entire address book into Outlook, Windows 10 offers multiple ways to work with these files — no need to panic or download shady apps.
