RawTherapee as a Linux alternative to Ashampoo Photo Commander
Updated
Our verdict
RawTherapee can replace Ashampoo Photo Commander for users who need robust raw processing and batch editing. It offers all the core functions Ashampoo provides—folder cataloging, thumbnail browsing, basic adjustments, and batch renaming—while adding advanced raw tools. Photographers who want more control over demosaicing and color management will find RawTherapee superior, but casual users may miss the integrated DAM and printing features of Ashampoo.
- License
- GPL-3.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 5.13 (July 26, 2026)
- Rating
- —

What works the same
- Folder‑based cataloging
- Thumbnail browsing and rating
- Basic crop/rotate/exposure/color adjustments
- Batch processing of edits and renaming
- Support for raw, JPEG, TIFF and PNG
What is different
- No built‑in digital asset management or printing workflow
- No direct integration with cloud services or social media
- No export presets for specific printing standards
- No bundled photo organizer UI for quick sorting
- Missing Ashampoo‑specific metadata handling
Opening your Ashampoo Photo Commander files
RawTherapee can open most raw and JPEG files that Ashampoo processes. It does not read Ashampoo’s proprietary project or catalog files, so users must re‑import images into a new folder structure. Exporting to standard image formats works the same as in Ashampoo, but any Ashampoo‑specific export presets will need to be recreated manually.
Switching from Ashampoo Photo Commander to RawTherapee, step by step
- 1. Export all images from Ashampoo as JPEG or RAW into a single folder.
- 2. Create a new folder structure on Linux to mirror your catalog.
- 3. Open the folder in RawTherapee and let it build thumbnails and metadata.
- 4. Apply batch edits or rename files using RawTherapee’s batch tool.
- 5. Export processed images to the desired format and location.
- 6. (Optional) Use a DAM like digiKam to rebuild a full catalog if needed.
Key features of RawTherapee
- Non‑destructive raw editing with real‑time preview
- Advanced demosaicing algorithms and colour management
- Batch processing with custom scripts
- Support for HDR DNG, JPEG, TIFF and PNG
- Extensive lens correction and noise reduction tools
- Customizable UI panels and keyboard shortcuts
- Built‑in histogram, waveform and vectorscope
How to install RawTherapee on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.rawtherapee.RawTherapeesudo apt install rawtherapeesudo apt install rawtherapeesudo dnf install rawtherapeesudo pacman -S rawtherapeesudo zypper install rawtherapeeFrequently asked questions
Does RawTherapee support batch processing of edits?
Yes, it has a dedicated batch mode that can apply the same set of adjustments to many files at once.
Can I use RawTherapee to organize photos by rating?
RawTherapee displays thumbnails and allows rating, but it lacks a full‑blown catalog manager; you can use a separate DAM for advanced organization.
Will RawTherapee handle Ashampoo’s export presets?
No, it cannot read Ashampoo’s preset files. You’ll need to recreate any custom presets manually in RawTherapee.