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Online RAW Converter

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What is a RAW file?

RAW is a general term for a family of image file formats that store minimally processed data directly from a digital camera’s sensor. Each camera manufacturer typically has its own RAW format — such as CR2/CR3 (Canon), NEF (Nikon), ARW (Sony), and DNG (Adobe) — with different structures and metadata.

Unlike JPEG or PNG, RAW files retain all the original image information, including greater color depth and dynamic range. This makes them ideal for professional photographers who want full control over exposure, white balance, sharpness, and other post-processing adjustments.

How to open RAW files

Most RAW files require specialized software for viewing and editing, such as Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, Capture One, or open-source tools like RawTherapee and Darktable. Camera manufacturers also provide their own RAW converters tailored to their file formats.

You can convert many RAW files (including CR2, NEF, ARW, and others) to more accessible formats like JPG or PNG using AnyConv, enabling quick previews and easier sharing across platforms.

Key facts about RAW

  • Full name: Generic Unprocessed Image Format
  • Extension: .cr2, .nef, .arw, .dng, etc.
  • MIME type: image/x-raw
  • Developed by: Various
  • Initial release: ~1990s and onward

Useful links and resources

Convert from RAW

Quickly turn your RAW files into any format you need

🎯 Did You Know?

RAW isn’t really a single format
There’s no universal RAW standard — each camera brand, and sometimes even individual models, produce their own unique variation. That’s why a brand-new camera might not be supported by editing software until an update adds compatibility for its specific RAW flavor.
— Fact picked by

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about RAW
  • What is a RAW file and why should I convert it?
    RAW files are unprocessed images captured by digital cameras — they contain all the data from the camera sensor. Each brand has its own version (like CR2, CR3, ORF, KDC, NEF, PEF, ARW, etc.). These files offer maximum editing flexibility but aren’t widely supported. Converting to JPG, TIFF or PNG makes them easy to view, share, or print.
  • Can I convert several RAW files at once?
    Absolutely. Our tool supports batch conversion, so you can upload multiple RAW files — even with different extensions. It’s fast, simple, and saves time.
  • Which RAW file types are supported?
    We support a wide range of RAW formats from major camera brands, including .CR2, .CR3, .NEF, .ARW, .ORF, .RAF, .DNG, and more. You can mix different formats in a single batch — they’ll all be converted.
  • What if my RAW file isn’t recognized?
    Some rare or very new camera models may use less common RAW formats that aren’t widely supported yet. We're constantly adding support for new formats, so feel free to try again later!