All about CRW files

CRW is Canon's first RAW format for digital cameras. Technically, CRW is based on the Camera Image File Format (CIFF), the specifications for which were published by Canon in 1997. The format stores raw data from the camera sensor without compression or post-processing, essentially like a digital negative, making it ideal for professional post-processing.

CRW was used in Canon's early DSLRs, such as the D30, D60, EOS 10D and EOS 300D models. CRW was also used in higher-end compact cameras such as the PowerShot G series (G1 to G6) between 2000 and 2004.

CRW vs. CR2 vs. CR3

Canon's raw formats have been further developed several times. In 2004, CRW was replaced by CR2, which is based on the TIFF format. Since 2018, Canon has been using the CR3 format for new cameras, which is technically based on the QuickTime container.

The formats are not compatible with each other. Some software can open CR2 files, but not CRW files. Older Canon software such as ZoomBrowser is ideal for CRW, but current software such as Lightroom or RawTherapee still support CRW today.

Last updated on 11. March 2026 by Sören with the experience of more than 127,898,492 converted files since 2013.