ON1 Photo RAW (2026) review

ON1 Photo RAW 2026 is a photo editing software that offers a multi-platform experience, working seamlessly on both Windows and Mac computers. Unlike many other software packages, ON1 Photo RAW requires users to purchase the software outright, rather than subscribing to it. The software comes with a generous 30-day trial period, and a 30-day money back guarantee, demonstrating ON1's confidence in their product.

Upon first glance, the software's interface may seem cluttered due to the numerous sidebars available, but users can easily hide these sidebars to reveal more space for their photos. The interface has been thoughtfully designed, offering various tools for editing and sharing photographs. The left sidebar houses presets and layer work, while the right sidebar offers color correction tools. The far right sidebar provides options to share the finished work online or print it.

The editing tools in ON1 Photo RAW 2026 are easy to use, with many complex algorithms employed to enhance rather than replace the user's work. There are sliders for adjusting tone and color, and a 'Brilliance AI' feature that uses algorithms to automatically adjust images. Users can tweak these automatic changes if desired, using additional sliders and masking options to focus changes on specific sections of the image.

Filters can be added to an image with preset styles, and users are free to apply multiple filters to achieve their desired aesthetic. The 'Super Select AI' tool allows for precise masking, enabling users to modify specific areas of an image while leaving the rest untouched.

While the software's layering capabilities are extensive, similar to Photoshop, some experienced users may find the section a bit lacking in comparison. Overall, ON1 Photo RAW 2026 offers a comprehensive suite of tools for editing and sharing photographs, with a pricing model and interface that cater to a wide range of users.