Extremely disappointed by version 5: the results are either imperceptible or worse than the originals (test with Canon CR2, Fuji XT3 and XT5 files), in any case much lower than those of version 4. It is imperative to review the copy.
I am fortunate to have two identical BenQ monitors. Yesterday I looked at just three files simultaneously using PureRAW 5 and PureRAW 4. (According to DXO, using both versions simultaneously is a breach of the EULA since the installed PureRAW 5 upgrade license functionally replaces the PureRAW 4 license.)
The files were from a recently purchased Leica D-Lux 8 that I have been evaluating.
The files are; a night shot at a location I have used before, an evening shot of a building in the same city, and a “CA magnet” shot with small tree branches and pine needle clusters against an overcast sky, some distance from the camera.
I can guarantee that if you have used PureRAW in the past, you will need to spend some time comparing your older version with PureRAW 5. If you have years of photos that you might post-process again, it’s going to take some time – far more than DXO allows with the trial period.
One of the “problems” I’ve experienced is that as PureRAW has matured, sometimes it IS worth going back to some of your older photos. One picture I am fond of was shot in 2019 with a Fuji X100F. It was just prior to dawn and at the time, it was only acceptable in B&W. But when PureRAW came along, I was able to pull details out and make a nice color image – each upgrade to PureRAW has improved that photo.
I was really disappointed with the first files I ran through PureRAW 5 at default settings. Once I calmed down a bit, and read a few comments here, I started digging into the settings and getting a handle on what I needed to take advantage of PureRAW 5. But running 4 and 5 simultaneously has been key to making my first stabs equivalent settings. I’ll probably be fiddling around for months.
Some of this is DXO’s fault. I have long held that DXO is an exemplar when it comes to technical arrogance. Add to that my recent “appreciation” of their marketing arrogance. They seem focused on the hype for PureRAW 5, rather than the practical application of the software. There should have been a strong advisory on their web site and in the notification emails sent to those who pre-ordered an upgrade:
NOTE: DXO Labs strongly recommends that customers who are upgrading from earlier versions of PureRAW install the trial version first. This will allow you to become familiar with PureRAW 5 and enable you to adjust your current work flow to take advantage of the improvements in PureRAW 5. Once you register your PureRAW 5 License Key, your license to the earlier version of PureRAW is no longer in effect.