HEIC vs JPG: which photo format should you use?
Verdict: HEIC wins on efficiency — roughly half the size of JPG at similar quality, which is why iPhones shoot it by default. JPG wins on compatibility — it opens everywhere with zero friction. Keep HEIC for personal storage; convert to JPG before sharing anywhere.
| Criterion | HEIC | JPG |
|---|---|---|
| File size at similar quality | Roughly half the size of JPG | The legacy baseline — larger |
| Compatibility | Apple-first; patchy on Windows and the web | Universal since 1992 — opens everywhere |
| Image quality | 16-bit color, less banding in skies and gradients | 8-bit with older compression |
| Default on | iPhone photos since iOS 11 | Every other camera, site, and app |
| Burst and live photos | Efficient sequences stored in one container | One file per frame |
| Best for | Personal storage in the Apple ecosystem | Sharing, uploading, printing, the web |
Use HEIC when
- Storing iPhone photos where space matters
- You live entirely in the Apple ecosystem
- Archiving originals at maximum quality per megabyte
- Keeping live photos and bursts efficiently
Use JPG when
- Sending photos to anyone, anywhere
- Uploading to websites, forms, or print services
- Sharing with Windows or Android users
- You want a file that just opens, no questions asked
Convert for free, privately
Every tool below runs entirely in your browser — your files never leave your device.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I open HEIC photos on Windows?
Windows 10/11 needs a paid HEVC extension for full HEIC support, and many apps ignore it. Converting to JPG removes the problem permanently.
Does converting HEIC to JPG lose quality?
Barely, at high quality settings — HEIC's efficiency headroom means the JPG still looks excellent. Keep the HEIC originals if you want a lossless archive path.
Why does the iPhone use HEIC instead of JPG?
Storage: HEIC holds roughly twice the quality per megabyte, plus live photos, bursts, and depth data in one container. Apple converts to JPG automatically when you share.
Can I convert HEIC to JPG for free without uploading?
Yes — the linked converters run entirely in your browser, so personal photos never leave your device.