Samsung Raw File (.srw)
TIFF-based StandardSamsung Raw File (SRW) is Samsung's proprietary RAW format captured by the Samsung NX mirrorless camera system, renowned for the technological achievements of the NX1 BSI APS-C sensor.
Convert SRW to JPG
Free in-browser SRW to JPG converter. Convert files instantly on your device.
Inspect & Metadata
Operating systems and file analyzers identify SRW files by inspecting the leading binary byte sequence:
Byte-Level Header Signature (Magic Bytes)
Operating systems and file analyzers identify SRW files by inspecting the leading binary byte sequence:
HEX SIGNATURE (OFFSET 0):
49 49 2A 00ASCII REPRESENTATION: II*\0
Standardization: TIFF-based proprietary format
Technical Specifications
| Container Architecture | TIFF container with Samsung NX Makernote and lens correction structures |
| Compression | Lossless Huffman-based compression (12-bit / 14-bit) |
| Byte Endianness | Little-Endian (Intel order) |
| Color Spaces | Samsung NX Color Profile RGB, sRGB, Adobe RGB |
| Channels & Structure | 1 channel Bayer mosaic (RGGB) |
| Max Dimensions | Up to 6480 x 4320 (28.2 MP Samsung NX1 / NX500 BSI CMOS) |
| Transparency | None |
| Streaming & Progressive | Non-streamable structured TIFF file |
Technical Comparison Matrix: SRW vs Competitors
| Technical Attribute | SRW (Current) | ARW | CR2 | NEF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Architecture | Back-Side Illuminated (BSI) CMOS | Front-illuminated CMOS | Front-illuminated CMOS | Front-illuminated CMOS |
| Max Resolution (APS-C) | 28.2 Megapixels | 24.2 Megapixels | 24.2 Megapixels | 20.9 Megapixels |
| Market Status | Discontinued (Collector / Cult Classic) | Active production | Active production | Active production |
| Burst Rate | 15 fps full raw | 10 - 11 fps | 7 - 10 fps | 8 - 10 fps |
Common Corruption Modes & Hex Recovery Guide
Image displays color artifacts or posterization in highlights.
Root Cause: Corrupted Samsung non-linear sensor quantization table.
Recovery: Convert file using Adobe DNG Converter or process in File2File Raw Converter.
Security Analysis & Parser Attack Vectors
SRW files contain extensive proprietary Samsung Makernote blocks that can trigger buffer over-reads in outdated raw decoders.
Known Attack Vectors
- Out-of-bounds read in Samsung Makernote lens distortion array.
- Buffer overflow during Huffman decompression of 14-bit BSI raw stream.
- Denial of service through malformed IFD directory chaining.
Defensive Best Practices: Decode SRW files in isolated, memory-safe client-side WebAssembly runtimes.
Historical Origins & Milestones
Key Advantages & Pros
- Pioneered Back-Side Illuminated (BSI) APS-C raw capture, delivering remarkable dynamic range and low-light performance.
- High resolution (28.2 MP) with excellent sharpness and clean shadow recovery.
- Embeds complete optical distortion and vignetting profiles for Samsung NX lenses.
Technical Limitations & Cons
- Orphaned format following Samsung's sudden exit from the digital camera industry in 2015.
- Proprietary raw software (Samsung DNG Converter / RAW Converter) is no longer maintained.
- Can require third-party tools to convert for seamless mobile editing.
Interesting Technical Trivia
- The Samsung NX1 which produced 28MP SRW files was years ahead of its time, shooting 15 fps full-resolution bursts in 2014.
- Samsung developed its own image sensors and DIGIECO image processors entirely in-house.
- Many cinematographers and photographers still actively use the Samsung NX1 today for its exceptional image quality.
Frequently Asked Technical Questions
What cameras shoot .SRW files?
Samsung NX-series mirrorless cameras including the NX1, NX500, NX300, NX20, and Galaxy NX.
How can I convert SRW to JPG on Windows or Mac?
You can convert SRW to high-quality JPG or PNG files directly in your web browser with File2File.app without installing software.
Why was the Samsung NX1 raw format so praised?
The NX1 introduced the world's first large APS-C BSI sensor, delivering exceptional high-ISO cleanliness and 14-bit dynamic range that rivaled full-frame sensors.