Halide review
A focused iPhone camera and editor for RAW workflows, not a broad photo-editing suite.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Halide combines a manual camera with a photo editor for iPhone users who want control over capture and a RAW workflow. It supports RAW files in DNG, CR2, CR3, NEF, RAF, ARW and FFF formats, with controls for shutter speed, ISO and white balance. Focus peaking, a focus loupe and macro mode serve more deliberate shooting, while Photo Lab works with captured and imported images. This is a focused choice for photographers who want camera controls and film-inspired finishing on iPhone, rather than a general-purpose editing suite.
Its standout value is the connection between capture tools and editing. Photo Lab includes framing and color balance controls, film simulations, Photographic Looks and Tone Fusion adjustments. Framing guides cover grid, rule of thirds, golden ratio and rabatment; Technical Readout provides details about iPhone camera hardware. Process Zero is designed to produce natural-looking photos without AI processing. A 10-day in-app photography tutorial adds guidance, though the emphasis remains on camera technique and a defined set of editing adjustments rather than a wide range of retouching features.
Halide runs on iOS and is sold through annual membership, monthly membership or a One Time Purchase; all three list the Pro camera, editor and lessons, and the one-time option requires no subscription. The US App Store listing gives a 7-day free trial, with pricing that may vary by region. There is no free plan. Email, community and documentation are listed support channels. Choose Halide if RAW compatibility, manual capture and film looks matter more than platform choice or expansive editing tools. If you need desktop access or a broader editing feature set, a general photo editor is likely a better fit.
Halide pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Imports and edits RAW files in seven listed formats.
- Offers manual shutter speed, ISO and white balance controls.
- Photo Lab includes framing, color balance and film simulations.
- Where it doesn't
- Available only on iOS.
- No free plan; access requires a paid membership or one-time purchase.
- Editing is focused on camera workflows rather than broad photo editing.
Halide fact sheet, pricing and score →
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