ARW File Extension
Sony Digital Camera Image
- File Type arw
- Developer Sony
- Popularity
- Application Adobe Photoshop
- Category Camera RAW Files
- Format Binary
What is a ARW file?
The ARW extension is related to Sony Digital Camera Image and is classified in the Camera RAW Files category, which contains 51 files.
With the creation of the Sony Digital Camera Image (ARW), Sony introduced file format along with 20 programs built for their use.
ARW files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. You can view a ARW file using one of 18 programs, for example Adobe Photoshop, ArcSoft PhotoStudio and XnView.
File Signature
HEX code: 05 00 00 00 41 57 31 2E. ASCII code: AW1..
Programs that support ARW files
Windows
How to open a ARW file?
The most common reason why a ARW file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
Adobe Photoshop, ArcSoft PhotoStudio and XnView are among the most widely used programs for handling ARW files. If you wish to install the latest release of Adobe Photoshop, visit the official Adobe portal and download the edition that works on any operating system.
After successful installation, your operating system should seamlessly handle ARW files via Adobe Photoshop.
Set Adobe Photoshop to open ARW by default
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired ARW file to access the file’s context menu;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- Go to the lower section of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. By default, it is set to "Recommended Programs";
- Select "All Programs" from this menu and proceed to search for Adobe Photoshop. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
Change default programs in Windows
- Start the process by right-clicking on your ARW file and selecting "Open With". From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Find the Adobe Photoshop application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
- Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening ARW files.
How to edit a ARW file?
To modify ARW files, it is necessary to install dedicated software that lets you open and edit camera raw files. Online ARW editors generally offer fewer tools compared to programs designed for Sony Digital Camera Image.
Best ARW Editor Software in 2026
With the mentioned criteria in mind, we have assembled a selection of ARW editors.
| ARW Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Photoshop | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.9 out of 5 (47 reviews) |
| ArcSoft PhotoStudio | ArcSoft | Windows | 4.5 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| HDR Darkroom | Everimaging | Windows | 4.2 out of 5 (41 review) |
| Adobe Lightroom | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.1 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| Picture Information Extractor | Picmeta Systems | Windows | 4.1 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
Convert files to and from ARW
If a ARW file is cumbersome, converting it to formats such as JPG, JPEG, NEF, DNG, CR2 or other supported types can make it easier to manage.
It is important to understand that converting a ARW file might limit certain functions, but this conversion is usually reversible.
With applications like Adobe Photoshop, HDR Darkroom and Adobe Lightroom, you can convert ARW files offline while keeping the original quality intact.
Convert ARW to other file formats
Converting Files to ARW Format
Easy ARW Troubleshooting
ARW files may present some challenges, but most can be easily addressed with minor software tweaks. See the troubleshooting tips below for guidance.
What are the possible solutions to recover a corrupt ARW file?
Start a recovery program, open the damaged ARW file and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair procedure. Wait for the recovery process to finish, allowing automatic repair of damaged camera raw files.
How can I confirm if my ARW file has been damaged?
The signs of corrupted ARW camera raw files can manifest as:
- The file shows slow performance when edited in Adobe Photoshop;
- The file stops responding or freezes in Adobe Photoshop or other programs;
- The file does not respond or shows errors when opening it;
- Unexplained ARW file size inflation;
- The file operation is accompanied by the display of error messages;
What are the possible causes of Adobe Photoshop crashing?
Lack of regular software updates can cause Adobe Photoshop to crash. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Adobe products.
Restarting your computer is often an effective solution to resolve various common problems. Therefore, it is recommended to do so before making any changes to the software configuration.