HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is Apple's modern image format used on iPhones and iPads running iOS 11 or later. It offers better compression than JPEG while maintaining higher image quality, allowing more photos to be stored in less space. However, this format isn't universally supported outside the Apple ecosystem, which is why our converter is essential for sharing and viewing these images.

Can HEIC be converted to JPG?

Yes, HEIC files can be easily converted to JPG format using our online converter which processes files directly in your browser for privacy. The conversion maintains excellent image quality while creating files that can be opened anywhere. Simply drag and drop your HEIC files, and our converter will quickly transform them into JPG format that works universally across all devices and platforms.

Why convert HEIC to JPG?

Converting HEIC to JPG ensures universal compatibility across all devices, platforms, and applications. While HEIC offers better compression, JPG is the standard format supported everywhere - from social media platforms to email services, Windows PCs to Android devices. Our browser-based converter provides the simplest way to transform your HEIC files into universally accessible JPG images without sacrificing quality.

Can HEIC files be opened on Windows?

Windows 10 and 11 can open HEIC files after installing additional components, but this approach has limitations and may require payment. The simplest solution is to convert HEIC files to JPG using our converter, which works on any device with a modern web browser without installing additional software. This creates standard JPG files that open perfectly on Windows and can be used with any application.

Are HEIC Files Smaller Than JPG? Size Comparison & Analysis

The Short Answer: Yes, HEIC Files Are Smaller Than JPG

Yes, HEIC files are significantly smaller than JPG files of equivalent quality. This is one of the primary advantages of the HEIC format and a key reason why Apple adopted it as the default image format for iOS 11 and newer devices.

Size Reduction: On average, HEIC files are 40-50% smaller than their JPG counterparts while maintaining the same or better image quality.

How Much Smaller Are HEIC Files Compared to JPG?

The exact size difference between HEIC and JPG files can vary depending on the image content, but generally:

A typical 3MB JPG photo might be only 1.5MB in HEIC format
A collection of 1,000 photos could take up 3GB as JPGs but only 1.5GB as HEIC files
For a 64GB iPhone, this could mean storing up to 20,000 more photos in HEIC format compared to JPG

This significant size reduction is achieved without a noticeable loss in image quality, which is what makes HEIC so impressive from a technical standpoint.

The Science Behind HEIC's Smaller File Size

HEIC's smaller file size is the result of more advanced and efficient compression algorithms compared to the older JPG format. Here's how HEIC achieves better compression:

1. More Efficient Encoding

HEIC uses the High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) compression standard, also known as H.265. This modern compression algorithm is more sophisticated than the DCT (Discrete Cosine Transform) method used by JPG, which was developed in the early 1990s.

2. Better Prediction Models

HEIC uses more advanced prediction models to analyze patterns in images. It can better predict pixel values based on surrounding pixels, which means it needs to store less redundant information.

3. Improved Block Partitioning

While JPG divides images into fixed 8×8 pixel blocks, HEIC uses variable block sizes that can adapt to the content of the image. This allows for more efficient compression of different types of image content.

HEIC vs JPG: Storage Comparison

Scenario	JPG Size	HEIC Size	Space Saved
Single photo	3 MB	1.5 MB	50%
100 photos	300 MB	150 MB	150 MB
1,000 photos	3 GB	1.5 GB	1.5 GB
10,000 photos	30 GB	15 GB	15 GB

Quality Comparison: Smaller Size Without Quality Loss

What makes HEIC truly impressive is that it achieves smaller file sizes without sacrificing image quality. In fact, at the same file size, HEIC generally provides better image quality than JPG.

This is because HEIC's more efficient compression allows it to preserve more details and color information even at higher compression ratios. JPG, on the other hand, tends to introduce more visible artifacts and color banding when compressed to smaller sizes.

Real-World Benefits of HEIC's Smaller Size

1. More Storage Space

The most obvious benefit is that you can store twice as many photos on your device. This is especially valuable for devices with limited storage capacity.

2. Faster Sharing

Smaller file sizes mean faster uploads and downloads when sharing photos. This can save time and mobile data when sharing photos via messaging apps or social media.

3. Lower Cloud Storage Costs

If you use cloud storage services that charge based on the amount of data stored, HEIC can potentially cut your storage costs in half.

The Compatibility Trade-off

Despite the significant size advantages, HEIC's limited compatibility outside the Apple ecosystem means that JPG is still often the more practical choice for sharing and universal compatibility.

Many users adopt a hybrid approach: keeping photos in HEIC format on their Apple devices to save space, and converting to JPG when sharing with others or uploading to services that don't support HEIC.

Converting Between HEIC and JPG

If you want to convert your HEIC files to JPG for better compatibility, or convert JPG to HEIC to save space, there are several options available:

Use our free online HEIC to JPG converter for quick, browser-based conversion
On Mac, you can use the Preview app to open HEIC files and export them as JPG
On iOS, you can set your device to automatically convert HEIC to JPG when sharing photos

Conclusion: HEIC's Size Advantage

HEIC files are indeed significantly smaller than JPG files—typically 40-50% smaller while maintaining the same or better image quality. This size advantage makes HEIC an excellent choice for storing photos on your devices, especially if storage space is limited.

However, JPG's universal compatibility means it's still often necessary to convert HEIC to JPG when sharing photos with others or uploading to services that don't support HEIC. Fortunately, this conversion process is simple with tools like our free online converter.