Apple ProRAW and Samsung Expert RAW are both ways to capture editable DNG files on a phone, combining raw sensor data with some of the phone’s computational processing. Choose ProRAW if you want a RAW option built into the iPhone Camera app, and choose Expert RAW if you want a dedicated app with manual controls on supported Galaxy phones. Confirm device support on each maker’s page.
What These Formats Are
A traditional RAW file holds minimal processing, which gives wide editing room but needs more work. Phone makers have built hybrids. ProRAW blends raw data with multi-frame processing such as Smart HDR and noise reduction. Expert RAW, from Samsung, is a separate app that captures a multi-frame DNG with similar goals and adds controls for exposure, focus and white balance.
Because they are DNG-based, both open in common editors such as Lightroom and Snapseed, as well as the phone’s own gallery tools.
Practical Differences
- Access: ProRAW lives in the standard Camera app via a format switch. Expert RAW is a separate app that you install and open.
- Controls: Expert RAW emphasizes manual settings. The iPhone Camera app is simpler, with third-party apps available for deeper control.
- File size: both are much larger than a JPEG or HEIC, so watch storage and backups.
- Editing latitude: both offer more room for highlights and shadows than standard files. Compare real files from your device in your editor.
- Speed: processing and saving can take a moment, especially in bursts.
A Simple Editing Workflow
- Shoot in RAW only when the scene needs it, such as contrasty light or a photo you plan to print.
- Import the DNG to your editing app or computer.
- Set white balance first, then exposure.
- Recover highlights and lift shadows gently. Large moves can show noise.
- Adjust color, then add selective edits and mild sharpening.
- Export a JPEG for sharing and keep the DNG for later.
Which Should You Use
| You are | Direction |
|---|---|
| An iPhone owner who likes simple capture | ProRAW in the Camera app |
| A Galaxy owner who likes manual control | Expert RAW |
| Shooting casual snaps | Normal format is probably enough |
| Editing for prints or clients | Use RAW on whichever phone you own |
The decision usually follows the phone you already own, so the real comparison is the editing result from your own files.
FAQ
Is RAW always better than JPEG?
No. RAW gives editing freedom but costs storage and time. For quick sharing, a standard file is often the sensible choice.
Can I open these files on a computer?
Yes. DNG is an open format that major editors support, though very new phone files can need a software update to open correctly.
The Short Version
ProRAW and Expert RAW solve the same problem on different platforms. Pick the one your phone supports, use it for scenes that deserve editing, and keep standard files for everyday snaps.
