RAWVSRAW
Adobe wants you to convert everything to DNG. Is it safer? Or just a trap? The debate settles here.
The Verdict
**DNG is safer for the long term.** Proprietery RAW files (CR2, NEF) might not be supported in 50 years. DNG is an open standard document. However, conversion takes time.
File Size
Winner: RAW
DNG files are often 10-20% smaller than their CR2/NEF counterparts because Adobe uses lossless compression efficiency.
Compatibility
Winner: RAW
Old versions of Lightroom can't open new camera RAW files, but they CAN open DNG. Conversion bridges the gap.
Metadata sidebar
Winner: RAW
DNG embeds the edits (XMP) inside the file. RAW requires a separate .xmp sidecar file. DNG is cleaner for file management.