Let's break down your query into two parts: software recommendations for opening and editing ARW files, and the advantages of using the ARW format over JPEG.

Software for Opening and Editing ARW Files

Sony ARW files are RAW image files, and they require specific software to open and edit. Here are some reliable programs that you can use on a Windows PC:

1. Sony Imaging Edge (Free)

   • Description: Sony's official software for editing RAW files.
   • Features: Offers basic editing tools, batch processing, and remote shooting.
   • Download: Imaging Edge

2. Adobe Lightroom (Subscription-based)

   • Description: A comprehensive photo editing and management tool.
   • Features: Advanced editing tools, presets, and cloud storage options.
   • Download: Adobe Lightroom

3. Darktable (Free)

   • Description: An open-source photography workflow application and RAW developer.
   • Features: Non-destructive editing, tethered shooting, and a wide range of processing features.
   • Download: Darktable

4. RawTherapee (Free)

   • Description: A free, cross-platform RAW image processing program.
   • Features: High-quality image processing, multi-threading, and batch processing.
   • Download: RawTherapee

5. GIMP with UFRaw Plugin (Free)

   • Description: GIMP is a free and open-source image editor, and UFRaw is a plugin for reading and manipulating RAW images.
   • Features: Extensive editing tools, layers, and plugins.
   • Download: GIMP and UFRaw

Advantages of Using ARW Format Over JPEG

1. Higher Image Quality:

   • RAW files: Capture all the data from the camera sensor, providing higher dynamic range and better color accuracy. This allows for more flexibility in post-processing without losing image quality.
   • JPEG files: Are compressed and processed in-camera, which results in some loss of detail and less flexibility in editing.

2. Non-Destructive Editing:

   • RAW files: Allow for non-destructive editing, meaning the original data is preserved, and changes can be undone or re-edited multiple times without degrading the image quality.
   • JPEG files: Editing can degrade the image quality each time changes are made and saved.

3. Better White Balance Adjustment:

   • RAW files: Provide more precise control over white balance adjustments since the data is unprocessed.
   • JPEG files: Have the white balance baked into the file, making adjustments more challenging and less accurate.

4. Greater Flexibility in Post-Processing:

   • RAW files: Offer more control over exposure, shadows, highlights, and color grading, giving photographers more creative freedom.
   • JPEG files: Are limited in the extent to which they can be manipulated without introducing artifacts.

Summary

For optimal editing and flexibility, using ARW (RAW) files is beneficial, especially if you intend to perform significant post-processing. The recommended software on a Windows PC includes Sony Imaging Edge, Adobe Lightroom, Darktable, RawTherapee, and GIMP with the UFRaw plugin.