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How to convert PNG to PSD

by Casey Schmidt  |  October 7, 2019

2 min. read
Files converting to one another.

Sometimes the best way to change, edit or manipulate an image is to change its extension. In the case of PNG, a lot of times the editing process is best actualized when it’s transformed entirely. See why converting the PNG to PSD has immense value and learn how to do it.

What is a PNG?

The PNG image file or Portable Network Graphic is a file with lossless compression that maintains high quality graphics even when the file size is shrunk. PNG uses raster graphics that construct images using a pixel grid, which is why the PNG is high resolution.

What is a PSD?

The PSD image file is a Photoshop document that is a resulting file of Adobe Photoshop. It is a file that uses multiple layers of images that can be re-edited when opened. The PSD is typically used for high quality graphics.

The PSD image file icon.
The PSD is the standard Adobe Photoshop file format.

How to convert PNG to PSD

Because of the layers of PSD, it’s impractical to open a PNG inside Photoshop. The image wouldn’t show up correctly, thus making it impossible to manually convert a PNG to a PSD from inside the Photoshop program. However, there are alternative options.

In order to convert a PNG to a PSD, you’ll have to use a browser-based converter system. There are a plethora of possible options but the one I feel has the best features is Convertio. It has a very fast upload and download time, with a 100MB maximum file size. It’s also a simple-to-use system with a smooth interface.

Files moving paper from one to the other.
PNG doesn’t function well inside Photoshop.

Why convert?

The PNG cannot store multiple images in one file, whereas the PSD allows layered images. This allows for editing of multiple images in a single file. Also, for experienced Photoshop users, a good understanding of the different editing tools make working with a PSD image much easier. The PNG is similar to a lot of image file types in that it needs to be edited in order to be part of publications. This is because things like websites run slowly if bogged down by large image sizes.

When deciding whether to convert, evaluate different factors such as who’s going to use the file, what are their needs and what are their preferred software tools. These factors are the most important thing, as the image file only is convenient to someone if they’re able to use it. For example, if you send an image file to a client who uses strictly Photoshop, the process will run smoothly if the file is in PSD format.

Whether you’re catering to another user’s preference or bolstering editing capabilities, a PSD often makes the most sense to use. When a PNG falls short, consider the Photoshop-based alternative.