About the PEF file format
PEF is a camera RAW format used to retain image data for photographic development and conversion.
The guide and converter lists are generated from the live HEIC.now catalog, so every conversion shown here is an available workflow.
Why PEF files are used
PEF File Format files belong to the camera raw family and use the .pef extension.
The most practical format depends on the software, quality, compatibility and file-size requirements of the destination workflow.
What to know about PEF
File structure
PEF has format-specific rules for storing image, document or media data.
Quality
Conversion can change compression, colour, metadata, resolution or editability.
Compatibility
Support for PEF varies between browsers, operating systems and editing applications.
Original files
Keep the original PEF when future editing or maximum retained information matters.
How PEF conversion works
Converting PEF decodes or renders the source and then encodes the result in the selected destination format.
Review the converted file before replacing the source because format-specific features may not transfer.
heic.now accepts PEF as an input and converts it to supported outputs.
PEF compatibility and software support
Check that the receiving browser, app or service supports PEF before choosing it for delivery.
A JPG or PNG copy is often useful when broad image compatibility is the priority.
PEF and related formats
When should you use PEF?
- Sharing: Create a file the recipient can open without specialist software.
- Publishing: Prepare content for a website, app or content-management system.
- Editing: Move content into a format supported by the next editing application.
- Archiving: Keep the original and create practical access copies for everyday use.
Convert from PEF
Use PEF as the source.
PEF file format FAQ
What is a PEF file?
PEF is a camera RAW format used to retain image data for photographic development and conversion.
Can HEIC.now convert PEF files?
heic.now accepts PEF as an input and converts it to supported outputs.
What changes when PEF is converted?
Converting PEF decodes or renders the source and then encodes the result in the selected destination format.
Should I keep the original PEF file?
Review the converted file before replacing the source because format-specific features may not transfer.