How to View RAW Photos on Any Device: Complete 2025 Guide - ImagiTool
Discover the easiest ways to open and preview RAW photos from any camera on desktop, mobile, or online. Step-by-step tutorial with free tools and expert tips.
Alex Rodriguez
Photography workflow specialist with 10+ years optimizing image processing

How to View RAW Photos on Any Device: Complete 2025 Guide
Ever shot a killer photo in RAW, only to realize you can’t open it on your phone or laptop? You’re not alone. RAW files are the gold standard for photographers, but they’re notoriously tricky to preview outside pro editing software.
This guide is your shortcut to viewing RAW images anywhere - no installs, no headaches. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, a designer, or just want to check your camera’s work, I’ll show you the fastest ways to preview RAW files on desktop, mobile, or online.
Why Open RAW Photos?
Here’s why you’ll want to preview RAW files before editing:
- Check exposure & focus: Make sure you nailed the shot before you spend time editing.
- Pick your best images: Quickly sort and organize your photo sessions.
- Share previews: Send high-quality samples to clients or friends.
- Access anywhere: View RAW files on any device, even when you’re on the move.
What is a RAW Photo?
RAW files (.CR2, .NEF, .ARW, .DNG, and more) are like digital negatives - they capture every bit of data from your camera sensor. That means maximum editing flexibility and image quality, but you need the right tools to open and view them.
Fastest Way: Preview RAW Photos Online
If you want instant previews, ImagiTool's RAW Photo Viewer is a game-changer:
- Handles all major RAW formats (CR2, NEF, ARW, DNG, RAF, ORF, RW2, and more)
- No registration, no downloads - just upload and view
- Zoom, pan, and check metadata instantly
- Works on desktop, tablet, and mobile
- Secure uploads, auto-delete after 2 hours
How to View RAW Photos Online
Step 1: Upload Your RAW Files

- Go to ImagiTool's RAW Photo Viewer
- Drag in your RAW files or select them (CR2, NEF, ARW, DNG, etc.)
Step 2: Preview & Inspect

- Instantly see your photo in high resolution
- Zoom in, pan around, and check every detail
Step 3: View Metadata & Details

- Check camera model, exposure, ISO, and more
- Compare multiple RAW files side-by-side
Step 4: Download or Share Previews

- Download JPEG previews or share links for quick feedback
Other Ways to Open RAW Photos
Windows
- Photos App: Opens many RAW formats natively (install Microsoft RAW extension if needed).
- Adobe Lightroom/Photoshop: Full editing and preview power.
- FastStone Image Viewer: Free, lightweight, and RAW-friendly.
Mac
- Preview: Opens many RAW formats out of the box.
- Photos App: Import and view RAW files easily.
- Affinity Photo: Advanced RAW editing and preview.
Mobile
- iOS: Use Files or Photos app (limited support), or try Snapseed.
- Android: Google Photos or third-party RAW viewers do the trick.
Quality & Compatibility Tips
- Format support: Not every device handles every RAW format - online tools are your universal solution.
- Preview vs. edit: Online viewers show previews; for editing, stick with dedicated software.
- Batch viewing: ImagiTool lets you preview multiple RAW files at once.
Best Practices
- Backup originals: Always keep your RAW files safe.
- Check metadata: Use metadata to organize and pick your best shots.
- Privacy: Use secure tools that auto-delete uploads.
- Device compatibility: Online viewers work on any browser, any device.
Conclusion
Previewing RAW photos shouldn’t be a hassle. Try ImagiTool’s free RAW photo viewer and see your shots instantly - no installs, no compatibility drama.
Ready to check your RAW photos? Start now and make your workflow smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which RAW formats are supported?
ImagiTool supports CR2, NEF, ARW, DNG, RAF, ORF, RW2, and more.
Can I view RAW files on mobile?
Absolutely - just open the tool in your browser.
Is it safe to upload sensitive photos?
Yes, everything’s encrypted and deleted after 2 hours.
Can I edit RAW files online?
ImagiTool is for preview and metadata; for editing, use dedicated software.
How do I share RAW previews?
Download JPEG previews or share links directly from the viewer.
Do I need to install anything?
Nope - ImagiTool is 100% online.



