10 Best Raw Photo Apps For iPhone And iPad: Top Free & Paid
July 02, 2025
Want to turn your iPhone or iPad into a powerful editing studio? A top RAW photo app is the key!
Shooting in RAW format opens up a whole new world for photographers. You capture more detail, have greater control in post-processing, and can create truly stunning images. But to make the most of this format, you need the right tools—especially when editing on your iPhone or iPad.
If you’re searching for the best RAW picture app iPhone or a powerful iPad editor, this list will help you find exactly what you need. We’ve gathered the top 10 free and paid apps focusing on simplicity, power, and user experience.
1. Luminar for iPad
If you’re serious about RAW photography, Luminar for iPad should be your first stop. Luminar Mobile isn’t just another mobile photo editor —it’s a smart, AI-powered tool that actually makes editing easier without taking away your creative freedom.
The app includes Sky AI for sky replacement, SkinAI and BodyAI for portrait retouching, RelightAI for exposure correction, and more. It also has a ton of useful tools, like Object Removal, Cropping, Filters, and Curves, making it a really flexible editor.
This software handles unprocessed images effortlessly, so you can get pro-level results without spending forever on editing. You can now edit photos on iPhone with this professional tool right in your pocket, and it is currently available as a subscription.
Why it’s great:
Smoothly processes RAW files from any iPhone or DSLR
AI-based tools save time but still let you fine-tune
Clean, modern interface
Whether you’re shooting landscapes or portraits, Luminar makes editing on your iPad simple and fun. This is hands down the best RAW photo editor iPad users can rely on when quality matters.
Want to explore more? Here’s how RAW photo editing works with Luminar.
2. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom
Adobe Lightroom remains a favorite for many—and for good reason. Its mobile version is powerful, sleek, and packed with features. You can shoot in RAW directly from the app using its built-in camera, which is ideal if you want full control from capture to export.
The free version covers most needs, but a paid plan unlocks extra tools like selective editing and cloud storage.
What stands out:
Non-destructive editing
Syncs with desktop Lightroom
Built-in camera for RAW capture
Lightroom is a strong contender if you’re looking for a program for raw photos on iPhone that pros trust.
3. Snapseed
Snapseed is a favorite among mobile photographers. It supports uncompressed files and is completely free. Although its interface is slightly unconventional, it’s extremely versatile once you get the hang of it.
Why people love it:
100% free
Great filters and tools
Easy for beginners
This might be the best free RAW software for iOS if you’re on a budget but still want solid editing capabilities.
4. Darkroom
Darkroom is designed to be quick and efficient. It doesn’t force you to import photos—you can edit directly from your photo library. That’s a time-saver.
It supports RAW and ProRAW, has excellent color grading tools, and offers LUTs for more advanced users. While many features are free, a subscription is required to unlock the full toolset.
What’s good here:
Seamless editing from your photo library
Real-time previews
Works great for batch editing
Darkroom is an efficient photo editor that keeps things fast without compromising quality. You’ll appreciate its balance between speed and control.
5. VSCO
VSCO isn’t just about trendy filters. It also supports RAW editing and provides a beautiful, minimal interface for mobile use. While some tools are locked behind a subscription, you still get decent control for free.
The RAW support is simple—no over-the-top features—but it does the job well. And if you like film-style edits, this app’s presets will impress you.
Why it’s a top choice:
Clean interface
Film-style filters
Wondering how to edit RAW photos easily on your phone? VSCO offers a good introduction without overwhelming you.
6. Halide Mark II
Halide is a camera app first, but a very powerful one. If your goal is to shoot the highest-quality uncompressed images on your iPhone, Halide is built for that. It uses Apple’s ProRAW format and gives you manual controls over everything—ISO, shutter speed, white balance, and focus.
It offers a free trial, but full features require a subscription. While it’s not a full editor, Halide works well with other apps like Luminar or Lightroom. Think of it as your RAW photo capture tool.
Why you’ll want it:
Pro-level manual camera controls
Shoots in RAW and ProRAW
Gorgeous interface
If you care about quality from the very first shot, Halide is essential. It pairs perfectly with any software for RAW photo editing on iOS.
7. RAW Power
RAW Power lives up to its name. Designed by former Apple engineers, this app is great for people who want full control over their uncompressed files. You can tweak everything—curves, levels, color balance, and more.
It works great with Apple’s own Photos app, making it easy to integrate into your usual workflow. The app requires a one-time purchase.
Best features:
Deep RAW file control
Edits non-destructively
Works with iCloud
This tool is ideal for users interested in what is the best iPhone app to edit RAW pictures with fine-tuned precision.
8. Photomator
Photomator focuses on high-end editing with a simple layout. It supports RAW and ProRAW formats and uses machine learning to improve photos automatically. You also get tools like repair, crop, and color adjustments.
This tool is free but offers in-app purchases. It’s iPad-focused, but there’s also a version for iPhone.
You’ll like it for:
Smart ML Enhance feature
Great retouching tools
Simple UI with pro-level results
It is another top choice for those who like to edit RAW files on iPad with accuracy and ease.
9. ProCamera
ProCamera is a powerful camera app that also supports RAW shooting. It has many manual controls and even lets you tweak HDR settings. It’s not a full photo editor, but it’s great for taking high-quality images with professional precision.
If you already use an editing app like Luminar Mobile, ProCamera is a perfect companion. It is available for a one-time purchase.
Top highlights:
Pro-level camera features
Shoots in RAW, TIFF, and HEIF
Low-light support
This tool fills the gap between a camera app and a basic editor, offering solid software for raw photo editing on iOS when paired with others.
10. Afterlight
Afterlight is more than just a filter app. It supports RAW editing and offers tools like curves, selective hue adjustments, and gradients. It’s not as deep as Lightroom or Luminar, but it gets the job done, especially if you’re into creative edits. The free version has basic features, and the paid version unlocks additional tools and filters.
What’s unique:
Strong creative tools
Tons of filters
RAW support included
It’s an accessible choice if you want artistic freedom along with basic editing features. Also, check out this handy guide on how to combine two photos on iPhone if you like creative photo layouts.
What To Look for in a RAW Photo Editing App
When choosing a photo editing app, consider these key features:
Ease of use. Look for an intuitive interface, especially if you’re new to RAW editing.
Editing tools. Ensure it offers essential adjustments like exposure, white balance, and contrast.
RAW support. The app should fully support uncompressed files, not just JPEGs.
Non-destructive editing. Changes should be reversible without altering the original file.
Speed. Look for fast processing, especially for large RAW files.
Export options. Make sure you can save or share images in high-quality formats.
These features will help you find the best app for editing unprocessed photos on your device.
The Takeaway
RAW photography really brings out the best in your iPhone or iPad camera. But to get the most from it, you’ll need the right tools. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a pro, there’s an app on this list that’ll suit your needs perfectly.
From the AI-driven power of Luminar for iPad to simple, effective apps like Snapseed and VSCO, the tools are right at your fingertips. Want control? Go with RAW Power or Lightroom. Want creativity? Try Afterlight or Photomator. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but with these top 10 apps, you’re closer than ever to finding your ideal RAW workflow. Which one will you try first?
