PEF File

What are PEF files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a PEF file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your PEF files.

What is a PEF file?

PEF files have multiple uses, and Pentax Raw Image is one of them. Read more about the other uses further down the page.

Pentax Raw Image File

PEF (Pentax Electronic File) is a raw image file format used by Pentax digital cameras. These files contain unprocessed data from the camera's image sensor, allowing for greater flexibility and control during post-processing. The format is similar to other raw formats such as CR2 (Canon) and NEF (Nikon).

PEF files offer several advantages over JPEGs and other processed image formats. For one, they retain more image information and can produce higher quality images with less noise. They also allow for greater control over things like white balance, exposure, and color.

How to open PEF files

We have identified six PEF openers that are compatible with this specific type of PEF file.

Programs that open Pentax Raw Image files

Last updated: April 25, 2024

All known file formats using extension .PEF

While Pentax Raw Image File is a popular type of PEF-file, we know of 2 different uses of the .PEF file extension. Different software may use files with the same extension for different types of data.

Portable Embosser Format

We know that one PEF format is Portable Embosser Format. We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested ten different PEF openers which you will find listed below.

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of PEF files. Remember, different programs may use PEF files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about PEF file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.