XnView

XnView is a freeware image viewer and converter for Windows developed by Pierre-Emmanuel Gougelet. It allows users to view, browse, organize, and batch process images with ease.

Known for its lightweight nature and broad format compatibility, XnView Classic for PC is especially popular among users who require a quick yet capable alternative to bulkier photo management software.

Main Features

• Support for 500+ formats including JPEG, PNG, TIFF, RAW, PSD, and GIF
• Tabbed browsing for navigating multiple images simultaneously
• Batch processing for renaming, converting, and resizing images
• Basic editing photo tools like crop, resize, rotate, adjust colors, and apply filters
• Metadata support for IPTC, XMP, and EXIF editing
• Slide show creation with transition effects
• Duplicate file finder to identify and clean up image libraries
• Screenshot capture tool built-in
• Plugin support to expand features further

User Interface

XnView’s interface is functional, though somewhat dated in appearance. It offers a file explorer on the left, a thumbnail preview in the center, and a preview pane on the right.

The UI is highly customizable, with options to show or hide panels, change themes, and adjust toolbar layouts. While it may not win any modern design awards, it is intuitive and performance-oriented.

Installation and Setup

Installing XnView on Windows is simple. The installer is under 20 MB and takes less than a minute to set up.

Users can choose between XnView Classic (for personal use) or XnView MP (multi-platform, more modern, and advanced).

XnView MP is recommended for new users due to better performance and support for modern OS versions.

How to Use

• Launch the software and navigate to the desired image folder.
• Browse through thumbnails or open an image in full view.
• Use the toolbar or right-click menu to edit, convert, or batch process files.
• Switch to “Compare” mode to view images side-by-side.
• Access metadata or rename files using the batch processing feature.

FAQ

Is XnView free?
XnView is free for personal use. Commercial users need a license.

What's the difference between XnView Classic and MP?
XnView MP supports more features, is cross-platform, and is recommended for modern systems.

Can XnView convert images in batches?
Yes, it has a powerful batch conversion tool with format and size options.

Does it support RAW image formats?
Yes, it supports many RAW camera formats.

Can I edit EXIF data?
Yes, both viewing and editing of EXIF, IPTC, and XMP metadata are supported.

Alternatives

IrfanView – Lightweight viewer with fast performance and plugin support.

FastStone Image Viewer – Excellent balance of features and user-friendly interface.

ACDSee – More advanced features but comes at a cost.

Adobe Bridge – Professional-level management, but heavier and part of Adobe ecosystem.

Pricing

Free for personal use

Commercial license: starts around €26 per license

System Requirements

• OS: Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 (32-bit or 64-bit)
• RAM: 2 GB minimum
• Disk Space: ~100 MB free
• Processor: 1 GHz or faster

PROS

• Supports hundreds of image formats
• Fast and lightweight
• Powerful batch processing
• Metadata editing included
• Free for personal use

CONS

• Outdated user interface
• Limited advanced editing features
• Not ideal for large-scale professional photo editing

Conclusion

XnView is a hidden gem for anyone needing a fast, efficient image viewer and organizer on Windows. With support for a vast range of formats, helpful batch tools, and metadata capabilities, it serves as a robust all-in-one image management solution.

Also Available: Download XnView for Mac