Format Comparison

HEIC vs JPG: Complete Comparison Guide (2024)

Detailed comparison of HEIC and JPG formats. Learn about file sizes, compatibility, quality differences, and when to use each format for your photos.

January 12, 20246 min read

Quick Comparison Summary

HEIC

Modern, efficient, Apple's choice

50% smaller files
Better quality
Limited compatibility

JPG

Universal, reliable, widely supported

Universal compatibility
Widely supported
Larger file sizes

Detailed Feature Comparison

FeatureHEICJPGWinner
File Size50% smallerLargerHEIC
Image QualitySuperiorGoodHEIC
CompatibilityiOS 11+, macOS 10.13+UniversalJPG
Color Depth16-bit8-bitHEIC
Transparency SupportYesNoHEIC
Multiple ImagesYes (Live Photos)NoHEIC
Web Browser SupportLimitedUniversalJPG
Social MediaAuto-convertedNative supportJPG

File Size Comparison: Real Numbers

Storage Space Savings

100 Photos

HEIC: ~200MB
JPG: ~400MB

Save 200MB

1,000 Photos

HEIC: ~2GB
JPG: ~4GB

Save 2GB

10,000 Photos

HEIC: ~20GB
JPG: ~40GB

Save 20GB

When to Choose Each Format

Choose HEIC When:

  • You're in the Apple ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, Mac)
  • Storage space is a priority
  • You want maximum image quality
  • Taking Live Photos or Portrait mode
  • Professional photography work

Choose JPG When:

  • Sharing with non-Apple devices
  • Uploading to websites or social media
  • Email attachments
  • Printing photos
  • Maximum compatibility is required

Common Compatibility Issues & Solutions

Problem: Can't Open HEIC on Windows

Windows doesn't natively support HEIC files in older versions.

Solutions:

  • • Install HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store (Windows 10 1903+)
  • • Convert HEIC to JPG using our online converter
  • • Use third-party software like CopyTrans HEIC

Problem: Website Won't Accept HEIC Upload

Many websites and services don't support HEIC format uploads.

Solution:

Convert your HEIC files to JPG before uploading. Our converter maintains quality while ensuring compatibility.

Problem: Email Attachments Not Opening

Recipients can't open HEIC attachments on non-Apple devices.

Solution:

Always convert HEIC to JPG before sending via email for maximum compatibility.

The Verdict: Which Format Should You Use?

For iPhone Users:

Keep HEIC as default for storage efficiency and quality. Convert to JPG only when sharing outside the Apple ecosystem.

  • • Save 50% storage space
  • • Better image quality
  • • Support for Live Photos

For Universal Compatibility:

Use JPG when you need to share photos across different platforms, devices, or upload to websites.

  • • Works everywhere
  • • No conversion needed
  • • Reliable for sharing

Need to Convert Between Formats?

Use our free online converter to switch between HEIC and JPG formats. Fast, secure, and maintains image quality.