File Extension Database

Open PEF File

PEF files are raw image files captured by Pentax digital cameras. These files contain uncompressed image data, allowing photographers to have complete control over the post-processing of their images. PEF files, like other raw image formats, provide higher image quality and greater editing flexibility compared to JPEG or other compressed formats. In this article, we will explore the possible formats and ways to open and use PEF files, as well as any other potential uses for the PEF file extension.

Opening PEF Files with Image Editing Software

PEF files can be opened and processed with several popular image editing software packages. Some of these programs include Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, and Capture One. These software programs offer advanced editing tools and features for working with raw image files, which can help photographers achieve the best possible results from their images.

Free and Open-Source Software for PEF Files

If you prefer not to use commercial software, there are free and open-source alternatives available for working with PEF files. Programs such as darktable, RawTherapee, and digiKam are designed to handle raw image formats like PEF, and they offer a range of editing tools and features to help you enhance your images. While these programs may not have all the features found in their commercial counterparts, they can still provide a powerful and cost-effective solution for managing and editing PEF files.

Converting PEF Files to Other Formats

While PEF files offer excellent image quality and editing flexibility, they are not supported by all image editing programs or online platforms. To make your PEF files more accessible or share them more widely, you may need to convert them to a more widely supported format, like JPEG or TIFF. Many image editing programs, both commercial and open-source, offer built-in tools to convert PEF files to other formats. Additionally, there are standalone conversion tools, such as XnConvert and FastStone Image Viewer, which can handle PEF files and a wide range of other image formats.

PEF File Important Information

In conclusion, PEF files offer high-quality, uncompressed image data, giving photographers full control over their image processing. There are several commercial and open-source software options to open, edit, and manage PEF files, as well as tools to convert them to other formats when needed. By familiarizing yourself with the available tools and resources for working with PEF files, you can make the most of your raw images and ensure that your photography reaches its full potential.

Typical PEF application file locations:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Windows Live\Photo Gallery\WLXPhotoGallery.exe /LaunchPhotoViewer /v "%1"

Frequently used application names to open PEF files:

Windows Live

Frequently associated Windows objects:

WindowsLive.PhotoGallery.raw.14.0

How Can I Open PEF File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open PEF file is to find a PEF file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a PEF file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open PEF file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as PEF file opener then try to search online for "PEF viewer", "application to open PEF file" or "open PEF file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open PEF file

How Can I Open PEF File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a PEF file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a PEF file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with PEF file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as PEF file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open PEF file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open PEF file then try to search for "PEF viewer", "application to open PEF file" or "read PEF file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read PEF file

How Can I Open PEF File on Android

If you downloaded a PEF file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded PEF file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "PEF".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "PEF viewer", "PEF file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open PEF File on iPhone or iPad

To open PEF File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the PEF file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "PEF". This way you can find apps which can open PEF files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "PEF viewer" or "PEF file" online in your favorite search engine.

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