Convert PEF Files on Mac

PEF (Pentax Electronic Format) is an image format using the .pef extension. Consul converts PEF files to 29 other formats. Rename a file's extension in Finder and Consul handles the conversion automatically.

What is PEF?

PEF (Pentax Electronic Format) is the raw image format produced by Pentax digital cameras. A PEF file records the unprocessed sensor data together with an embedded JPEG preview, preserving the full tonal range for editing rather than baking in the camera's in-body JPEG processing.

PEF uses lossless compression, so files shrink without losing any information and decode back to the original data exactly. Files can carry EXIF/MakerNote metadata.

PEF was developed by Pentax.

Opening PEF files on a Mac

Quick Look previews PEF files. Select one in Finder and press Space. Preview opens PEF files. For a one-off conversion, Preview can also export PEF to JPEG, PNG, TIFF and PDF.

macOS decodes raw photos through its camera-specific raw engine, so images from very new camera models may not display until Apple ships support in a macOS update.

Consul supports 29 conversions for PEF

Consul is the easiest way to convert PEF files on your Mac, or to turn other files into PEF. Rename file.pef to change its extension, and Consul converts it automatically.