A designer sends you a .psd file, and your computer has no idea what to do with it. You do not need a Photoshop subscription to see what is inside. What you need depends on whether you want to look at the design, share it or change it.
Why PSD files are hard to open
PSD is Photoshop's working format. It stores every layer, mask, adjustment, text box and effect separately, so the file can be edited later. Other programs would have to recreate Photoshop's rendering to show all of that exactly.
There is a shortcut. When Maximize compatibility is turned on in Photoshop's file handling preferences, which is the default, the PSD also stores a flattened copy of the final image. Most viewers and converters show that copy.
To view or share: convert to JPG or PNG
The quickest way to look at a PSD or send it to someone who does not use Photoshop is to convert it:
- PSD to JPG gives a small file for email, chat or approval.
- PSD to PNG keeps transparency and sharp edges, which suits logos and interface mock-ups.
Both run in your browser, so client work is not uploaded anywhere. Very large files depend on your device's memory; for PSB files and huge PSDs a desktop browser is more reliable than a phone.
If the result is blank or does not match the design, the file was most likely saved without the flattened copy. Ask the designer to re-save it with Maximize compatibility on, or to export a PNG directly.
To view on a Mac
macOS Preview and Quick Look (press Space on the file in Finder) open PSD files using the same flattened copy. You can export a JPG or PNG from Preview.
To edit layers without Photoshop
When you need to change text or move layers, use an editor that reads PSD layers:
- Photopea is a free browser-based editor modelled on Photoshop that opens layered PSDs.
- GIMP is a free desktop editor that imports PSD layers, though effects and some text styling may not transfer.
- Affinity Photo is a paid one-time purchase that handles PSD files well.
Expect small differences: layer styles, smart objects and fonts that are not installed on your computer are the usual sources of mismatch.
Quick summary
| Goal | Easiest option |
|---|---|
| See what the design looks like | Convert PSD to JPG or open in Preview |
| Send for approval | PSD to JPG |
| Keep a transparent background | PSD to PNG |
| Change text or layers | Photopea, GIMP or Affinity Photo |