What is a CR2 file?
CR2 (Canon RAW 2) is a RAW image format used by Canon digital cameras. It stores minimally processed data directly from the camera's image sensor, preserving the maximum amount of detail, dynamic range, and color information captured at the time of shooting. CR2 is based on the TIFF-6 specification and replaced Canon's earlier CRW format.
Because CR2 files are unprocessed sensor data, they require decoding before they can be displayed. Our Online CR2 Viewer handles this automatically, letting you preview Canon RAW photos instantly in your browser without installing Canon Digital Photo Professional, Adobe Photoshop, or Lightroom.
How to View CR2 Files Online
Upload CR2 File
Drag and drop your .cr2 file onto the viewer, or click to browse and select it from your device.
Preview the RAW Image
The viewer decodes the Canon RAW sensor data and renders a full-quality preview of your photo.
Download or Convert
Save the rendered image to your device as a standard JPG or PNG file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Canon cameras produce CR2 files?
CR2 is used by a wide range of Canon DSLRs including the EOS 5D, 7D, 60D, 70D, 80D, Rebel series, and many others produced between roughly 2004 and 2018. Newer Canon cameras use the CR3 format.
What is the difference between CR2 and CR3?
CR2 is Canon's older RAW format based on TIFF-6, while CR3 is the newer format introduced with the EOS M50 in 2018, based on the ISO Base Media File Format (ISOBMFF). CR3 offers better compression and supports Canon's CRAW (compressed RAW) option.
Can I convert CR2 to JPG?
Yes. After opening your CR2 file in the viewer, you can download the rendered image as a high-quality JPG or PNG file.
Why are CR2 files so large?
CR2 files store raw, uncompressed sensor data with full bit depth (typically 14-bit per channel), which results in much larger file sizes than JPEGs. This extra data is what gives photographers flexibility in post-processing.
Is it safe to upload my CR2 photos?
Yes. All processing happens locally in your browser. Your photos are never uploaded to any server and remain completely private on your device.