What is the primary disadvantage of BMP files compared to other image formats?

The primary disadvantage of BMP files compared to other image formats is their large file size. BMP, or Bitmap Image File, is an uncompressed format that retains image fidelity by storing pixel data in a straightforward manner without any compression. This results in high-quality images, but it also leads to large files that consume significant storage space.

In contrast, other image formats like JPEG or PNG use various compression techniques to reduce file size while maintaining an acceptable level of image quality. Consequently, BMP files can be impractical for scenarios where storage or bandwidth is a concern, such as web usage or mobile applications, where faster loading times and efficient storage are desired.

While color fidelity, compatibility, and loading times can also vary between formats, they do not encapsulate the defining disadvantage of BMP files as much as their large file size does. The significant storage requirements can hinder their usability in practical applications, making this aspect the most salient disadvantage among the choices provided.