How to open .CR2 files on Windows
To open .CR2 files on Windows, right-click the .cr2 file and choose open with..
Step-by-step instructions
- Right-click the .CR2 file and choose Open with.
- Select a trusted Windows app that supports .CR2 files.
Recommended software
- Default Photos app
- Browser preview
- GIMP
Alternative methods
- Open .CR2 in a browser-based viewer if desktop apps fail.
- Try opening .CR2 on Windows with a secondary app to rule out app-specific issues.
- Convert .CR2 only with trusted tools when direct opening is not possible.
Common issues
.CR2 file does not open
This usually means the required app is missing or the .CR2 file is incomplete.
- Install or update a compatible application.
- Verify the file came from a trusted source and was fully downloaded.
- Try opening the file in an alternative app on another platform.
Security note
Only open .CR2 files from trusted senders.