RapidRAW

What RapidRAW is

RapidRAW is a non-destructive RAW image editor that processes image adjustments on the GPU for real-time feedback. It stores edits in sidecar files, leaving original images untouched. The editor includes an image library, presets, batch operations, tone curves, an HSL color mixer, detail enhancement, and effects. Built-in AI tools provide subject, sky, and foreground masking, automatic image tagging, and simple object removal. AI masks currently run on the CPU and may take a few seconds on a modern CPU. RapidRAW can connect to a user’s local ComfyUI server for generative edits using the user’s own hardware and models. Its desktop editing and local AI features run on the user’s computer, and the company says it does not receive photos or usage statistics from the desktop app. RapidRAW Cloud processes only a crop around a masked area, not the full RAW file; crops are handled in memory and discarded after the result returns. The free desktop editor includes standard RAW editing and local AI tools. Cloud costs $14 a month, tax included, for 200 cloud edits each month, without requiring a local dedicated GPU. The app is listed for Windows, macOS, and Linux, plus an experimental Android APK. Batch exports support JPEG, PNG, TIFF, WebP, JPEG XL, AVIF, and CUBE LUT.

Who it suits

RapidRAW suits photographers who want to edit RAW images with GPU-processed adjustments while keeping originals unchanged. Its free desktop editor and local AI tools suit users who can work on Windows, macOS, or Linux; the experimental Android APK is another option. Cloud users who want 200 remote edits each month can choose the paid plan.

Limits

The free desktop plan includes standard RAW editing and local AI tools. RapidRAW Cloud costs $14 a month, tax included, and includes 200 cloud edits each month; AI masks run on the CPU and may take a few seconds on a modern CPU.

Getting started

1. Visit the RapidRAW website.
2. Choose Windows, macOS, or Linux, or use the experimental Android APK.
3. Use the free desktop editor for standard RAW editing and local AI tools.
4. Connect to a local ComfyUI server if you want to use your own hardware and models for generative edits.
5. Choose RapidRAW Cloud at $14 a month, tax included, for 200 cloud edits each month if needed.

Verdict

Choose RapidRAW if you want a free desktop RAW editor with sidecar edits, GPU adjustments, and local AI tools. Look elsewhere if you need AI masking to run on the GPU, or if the 200 monthly Cloud edits do not meet your needs.