Image format
The PSD format
PSD is Photoshop’s layered working file. PSD has been Photoshop’s native file format since Photoshop 1.0 in 1990.
When to use PSD
Keep PSD as the editable master in Photoshop; export a flat copy for anything you share.
It is best for keeping an image editable, layer by layer, and it opens on Photoshop, and partially in Affinity Photo, GIMP, Photopea and macOS Preview.
How to open it: Photoshop opens everything; Affinity Photo, GIMP and Photopea open most PSDs; macOS Preview shows the flattened picture.
| Full name | Photoshop Document |
|---|---|
| Extensions | .psd, .psb |
| MIME type | image/vnd.adobe.photoshop |
| Introduced | 1990 |
| Compression | Lossless |
| Transparency | Yes |
| Animation | No |
| Support | Patchy support |
| Typical size | A layered design often runs to 50–500 MB |
Good at
- Keeps every layer, mask and adjustment
- Lossless
Not so good at
- Very large files
- Can’t be viewed or uploaded almost anywhere outside editors
The common mistake
Converting a PSD uses the flattened preview saved inside it. If the file was saved with “Maximize compatibility” turned off, that preview is blank and only Photoshop can rebuild it.
Questions
What is a PSD file?
PSD (Photoshop Document) is Photoshop’s layered working file. PSD has been Photoshop’s native file format since Photoshop 1.0 in 1990.
How do I open a PSD file?
Photoshop opens everything; Affinity Photo, GIMP and Photopea open most PSDs; macOS Preview shows the flattened picture.
How do I convert PSD to another format?
Pick the target on this page, or open the Image Converter, drop the PSD file and choose a format. It converts in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.