Overview

RawTherapee develops raw files from a broad range of digital cameras, including HDR DNG, and also processes JPEG, TIFF, and PNG. Its non-destructive, 32-bit floating-point engine lets photographers adjust images without altering the original files, a useful fit for iterative editing.

Founded in 2004, the project is libre software under the GNU General Public License version 3. It targets everyone from enthusiast newcomers to professional photographers, though its advanced development controls reward users willing to learn them. Professionals needing asset management, printing, or uploading will need other tools to complete their workflow.

Key features

Raw development control

Multiple demosaicing algorithms and extensive development controls give photographers meaningful influence over how raw data is rendered. Masking tools extend that control, but the lack of layer editing makes it less suited to workflows built around layered image composites.

Batch work and handoff

Batch processing and copying or pasting editing parameters across files help apply a consistent treatment to a set of images without repeating every adjustment. Command-line use is also available alongside the graphical interface, which gives users another way to incorporate processing into their work.

RawTherapee can open raw images from GIMP as a plugin and return the edited image to GIMP. It can also send processed images to GIMP or another editing tool in one click. This makes it a useful development stage in a broader editing workflow, rather than a replacement for every other photo application.

Pricing

Free: free. The plan includes raw development, batch processing, and the program's other features at no charge, under the GPLv3 license. There are no paid tiers to weigh against it. The price is compelling for individuals and professionals who need a focused developer, but the missing asset management, printing, and uploading features can mean relying on additional software.

Platforms

RawTherapee is desktop software for Linux, macOS, and Windows. The macOS 5.13 build requires macOS Tahoe 26.0 or newer on Apple Silicon, or macOS Monterey 12.0 or newer on Intel. On macOS it must be installed in /Applications; it will not start from another location. Those requirements are worth checking before choosing it for an older Mac or a nonstandard installation setup.

RawTherapee 5.13 was released on July 26, 2026. The project points users to RawPedia documentation and a community forum for help, useful resources for newcomers facing the program's deeper controls.

Who it's for

Choose RawTherapee if you want fine-grained raw development, batch tools, and a zero-cost desktop application, and are comfortable using a separate tool for organizing or outputting your library. It can serve both enthusiasts building processing skills and professionals who need a dedicated raw developer. Look elsewhere if layered editing or an integrated system for asset management, printing, and uploading is central to your work.

Pros and cons

Pros: Free under GPLv3, with no paid tier required to access its raw-development workflow.
Pros: Broad camera raw support, including HDR DNG, plus JPEG, TIFF, and PNG processing.
Pros: Multiple demosaicing algorithms, masking, and batch parameter copying support controlled, repeatable development.
Cons: No layer editing, limiting workflows that depend on layered compositions.
Cons: No digital asset management, printing, or uploading, so it cannot serve as a complete photo-library workflow on its own.
Cons: The macOS build has specific OS-version and installation-location requirements.

Alternatives

darktable is another free, open-source raw developer for Linux, macOS, and Windows; consider it if you want to compare two GPL photography workflow applications. Hasselblad Phocus is a free RAW-processing download for PC and Mac, an option for readers seeking another no-cost desktop processor.

Nikon NX Studio is free desktop software for macOS and Windows, and may suit readers whose camera and file formats are supported by Nikon's application. vkdt is a free, open-source photography workflow toolbox for Linux, macOS, and Windows, for those looking for a broader toolbox framing.

ON1 Portrait AI offers a free trial and paid options, a possible fit for readers considering a paid alternative. Darkroom has a free Starter plan and a 39.99 USD per year Yearly plan, and runs on macOS and iOS; its Starter plan allows trying premium tools but requires Darkroom+ for export.

RAW Power is a paid option for Android, iOS, and macOS, while Corel AfterShot Pro is a paid raw-photo alternative for Linux, macOS, and Windows.

You can also browse RAW Photo Processing Software, Photo Editing Software, and Batch Photo Processing Software for more options.

Verdict

RawTherapee is an easy recommendation for photographers who want extensive raw controls and batch processing without a fee. Choose it for focused, non-destructive development; look elsewhere or pair it with other software if your work depends on managing, printing, or uploading a photo library.

	GIMP	RawTherapee
Free plan		Yes
Paid from		Free
Platforms	Windows, macOS, Linux	Linux, macOS, Windows
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Platform	multi-platform	desktop
RAW photo support	No	Yes
Layer editing	Yes	No
Masking tools	Yes	Yes
Batch editing	Yes	Yes

GIMP vs RawTherapee

GIMP

RawTherapee