Convert anything, at global scale.
200+ formats and automation APIs that feels instant.
CONVERT
From
To
Drop files or choose a source
Upload multiple files at once, mix formats, and fine-tune every conversion with format-aware settings.
Max 2GB per file · Drag & drop ready · Mixed file types welcome
PFM Raw at a glance
PFM Raw
PFM persists from the era when HDR imaging, rendering research, and tone-mapping workflows needed straightforward file carriers for floating-point image data long before mainstream consumer HDR delivery formats matured.
ARW at a glance
ARW
As Sony expanded from consumer electronics into serious camera bodies and sensors, ARW became part of the broader shift that put Sony raw support on the critical path for many photo applications.
Format comparison
| Feature | PFM Raw | ARW |
|---|---|---|
| File type | Image | Image |
| Extensions |
|
|
| MIME type |
|
|
| Compression / quality | depends | raw |
| File size characteristics | medium | large |
| Compatibility | broad | limited |
| Editability | moderate | high |
| Created year | 1998 | 2006 |
| Inventor | PBRT / Paul Debevec community | Sony |
| Status | active | proprietary |
| Transparency | Not supported | Not supported |
| Animation | Not supported | Not supported |
| Primary use cases |
|
|
| Common software |
|
|
| Archival suitability | moderate | strong |
| Metadata handling | moderate | rich |
| Delivery profile | strong | limited |
| Workflow fit | delivery | source |
| Layer support | Not supported | Not supported |
| Vector scaling | Not supported | Not supported |
| Camera raw data | Not supported | Supported |
| HDR support | Supported | Not supported |
| Streaming ready | Not supported | Not supported |
When to use each format
When to use PFM Raw
- capture ingest
- editing
- web or print delivery
- Stores floating-point pixel data directly.
When to use ARW
- capture ingest
- editing
- web or print delivery
- Preserve capture-stage sensor information.
FAQs
Why convert PFM Raw to ARW?
Choose ARW as target when preserving Sony camera originals or returning processed material to a Sony raw workflow.
What changes when converting PFM Raw to ARW?
Convert to ARW when preserving Sony camera originals or returning processed material to a Sony raw workflow. It is useful for archival retention, high-latitude editing, and non-destructive photographic post-processing.
What should I review after converting PFM Raw to ARW?
After conversion, review these destination checks: Open converted output in vendor photo software and verify behavior on real samples; Compare output against the expected raw quality profile; Compatibility often depends on vendor or decoder support.
How can I keep quality stable in PFM Raw to ARW conversion?
Run representative samples, keep settings deterministic, and monitor these risks: They are source formats, not publication-ready outputs; Compatibility often depends on vendor or decoder support; Validate destination compatibility before large-batch conversion.