Compressed Hunks of Data (CHD) format is a lossless compression method originally developed for
Major emulators like , DuckStation , and Flycast fully support CHD, as do many retro handheld operating systems. PCSX2 primarily uses ISO disc image files but also supports multiple other formats, with CHD being highly recommended for saving space.
| Game Type | Original ISO Size | CHD Size (Approx.) | Space Saved | |-----------|-------------------|--------------------|--------------| | Standard PS2 Game | 4.0 GB | 1.6 - 2.8 GB | 30-60% | | Large RPG | 8.0 GB | 3.2 - 4.8 GB | 40-60% | ps2 chd roms exclusive
chdman createcd -i "gamename.cue" -o "gamename.chd"
The premier PS2 emulator features native, plug-and-play support for CHD files. No plugins required. Compressed Hunks of Data (CHD) format is a
While CHD is an exceptional format, a few best practices will ensure a seamless experience across your emulation devices.
There is no secret CHD format exclusive to PS2. The same CHD that works in MAME or Sega Saturn emulation works identically in PCSX2 (via its CHD reading support, added in 2022). So when someone claims a “PS2 CHD exclusive,” they are not referring to a unique file format. No plugins required
| Emulator / Device | CHD Support? | Notes | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | ✅ Yes (Native) | The gold standard. Drag and drop. | | AetherSX2 (Android) | ✅ Yes | Works perfectly on Steam Deck/Odin. | | RetroArch (LRPS2) | ✅ Yes | Requires the core to be up to date. | | XBSX2 (Xbox) | ✅ Yes | Runs like a dream on Series S/X. | | Original PS2 Hardware (OPL) | ❌ No | OPL does not read CHD. You must use ISO or ZSO. |
: Full support for CHD was added in version 1.7.0. If you are on the "Stable" 1.6.0 version, you must update to the Nightly builds to use CHD.
For mobile and handheld gaming (like the Odin 2 or Retroid Pocket series), CHD is mandatory to save precious MicroSD card space.
Instead of typing commands for every single game, you can automate the process using a simple text script. Create a new folder on your computer. Move chdman.exe into this new folder.