CR3 vs CR2: What Changed in Canon's RAW Format
If you shoot Canon, you've probably noticed your RAW files changed extension at some point — from .CR2 to .CR3. It's not just a rename. Canon introduced CR3 to modernise its RAW format, and the switch has real implications for file size, quality options, and software compatibility. Here's what actually changed and what it means for your photos.
The quick answer
CR2 is Canon's older RAW format, used from roughly 2004 to 2018. CR3 is the newer format that shipped with the EOS R system, the EOS RP, and recent M-series and DSLR bodies. CR3 is more efficient and adds a compressed RAW option, but it was slower to gain support in third-party software because Canon kept the format closed at first.
CR3 vs CR2 at a glance
CR2 (2004–2018)
Canon's long-standing RAW format. Widely supported by editors and operating systems after years on the market.
CR3 (2018–present)
Newer, more efficient format on EOS R, RP, and recent bodies. Adds C-RAW compressed RAW to save space.
C-RAW option
CR3 introduced a smaller compressed RAW that keeps most quality while roughly halving file size.
Why CR3 caused compatibility headaches
When CR3 launched, Canon didn't immediately publish the format details, so third-party editors and operating systems took time to add support. That's why some photographers found their brand-new camera's files wouldn't open in older software. Support is now broad, but if you're on an older version of an editor or operating system, CR3 files can still refuse to open.
Does CR3 look better than CR2?
Image quality comes from the sensor and processor, not the file extension. A CR3 file isn't inherently 'better' than a CR2 — it's a more efficient container with more options. The real-world quality difference between two cameras is about the hardware, not CR2 versus CR3.
How to open CR2 and CR3 files
Both convert to JPG, PNG, or TIFF the same way. If your software won't open a CR3 (common with newer cameras and older apps), converting to JPG sidesteps the problem entirely — it works regardless of how new the format is. Keep your original RAW files as your archive and use the JPG for sharing and uploading.
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CR3 replaced CR2 as Canon's RAW format around 2018, bringing better efficiency and a compressed RAW option. The main practical difference for most people is compatibility: CR3 took longer for software to support. Whichever you have, convert to JPG when you need to view or share, and keep the RAW as your master.
Convert your Canon RAW files
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